• Approximately 1,500 black bears live in the national park.

    Great Smoky Mountains

    National Park NC,TN

Things To Know Before You Come

Traffic congestion in Cades Cove.
With over 9 million visitors each year, roads in the park can become congested, especially on weekends in summer and fall. But with careful planning, you can avoid the crowds and find some solitude.
 

Planning a vacation to Great Smoky Mountains National Park? Click on any of the links above or below for some things you will want to know before your visit to the area.

 
http://www.SmokiesInformation.org

Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park's official online store for other books, maps, and guides to the park. Operated by the nonprofit Great Smoky Mountains Association, proceeds generated by purchases at the store are donated to educational, scientific, and historical projects in the park.

  • Road and Facility Closures Road and Facility Closures

    Some roads and facilities are closed seasonally or may close temporarily in inclement weather. Read More

  • Regulations Concerning Pets Regulations Concerning Pets

    Leashed pets are allowed in developed areas and along roads, but are not allowed on park trails. Read More

  • Black Bears Black Bears

    An estimated 1,500 black bears live in the park. Read More

  • Fishing in the Park Fishing in the Park

    The park offers a wide variety of angling experiences for fishermen. Read More

Did You Know?

Barn at the Mountain Farm Museum at Oconaluftee Visitor Center.

The barn at the Mountain Farm Museum at Oconaluftee Visitor Center is over 50 feet wide and 60 feet long. A modern 2,500 square foot home would fit in the upstairs loft of the barn and over 16,000 hand-split wooden shingles are required to roof it.