Great Smoky Mountains National Park - Things To Know Before You Come (U.S. National Park Service)

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Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Things To Know Before You Come

things to know before you come includes:
Your Safety Lodging Weather Pets Accessibility		Camping Area Communities Goods & Services Emergency Information

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.

Trip Planning Guide
Maps
Driving Directions from nearby interstates to the park's 3 main entrances
Lodging and Camping Information
Seasonal Road and Facility Operating Schedules
Temporary Road and Facility Closures (weather and construction related)
Weather and Climate Information
Traffic and Travel Tips
Tips for Avoiding the Crowds
Pet Policies
Things to Do
Places to Go

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.

Download a Smokies Trip Planner
Information about favorite destinations, popular activities, and a park map
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Regulations Concerning Pets
Leashed pets are allowed in developed areas and along roads, but are not allowed on park trails.
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Click to access maps of the national park

Download Park Maps
Maps of trails and campgrounds as well as general park maps are available.
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Fishing in the Park
The park offers a wide variety of angling experiences for fishermen.
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			Did You Know? Seventy eight historic structures, including grist mills, churches, schools, barns, and the homes of early settlers, preserve Southern Appalachian mountain heritage in the park.

Last Updated: February 28, 2007 at 15:51 EST