It’s no wonder that the region attracts some 15-20 million visitors a year! There are towering mountains like Clingmans Dome, and stunning North Carolina waterfalls such as Grotto Falls. The park constitutes over 800 square miles, with geological formations, creeks and streams, and forests galore. Historic buildings and sites from colonial settlers can be found throughout the park.Įven so, the biggest tourism draw to the Great Smoky Mountains is the area’s natural beauty. This vast wilderness is teeming with animals, including beautiful birds, herds of Elk, and a dense population of Black Bears. The southern boundary of GSMNP in North Carolina is the town of Cherokee in the Qualla Boundary (home of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Bryson City is also in the NC Smokies, and home to the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad.
Smoky Mountains Hotels provide a comfortable place to recharge for the next day’s adventures. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg TN, and Pigeon Forge TN are huge vacation destinations complete with theme parks, ski resorts, and other fun attractions.