Best Places to Explore in the Great Smoky Mountains

Can you imagine a place that houses beautiful mountains, lush forests, flowing streams, magical waterfalls, colorful wildflowers, and abundant wildlife? 

This article covers what you need to know and outlines the top places to go so you can make the most of your outdoor adventure in the Great Smoky Mountains. 

The Great Smoky Mountains

Deep Creek

The Deep Creek area is known for hiking and mountain biking. Several  loop trails lead to beautiful waterfalls. Deep Creek has a picnic area that is open year-round. 

Archaeological evidence shows humans inhabited Elkmont 5,000 to 8,000 years ago. Elkmont is an exciting study of how a place can change over time. 

Elkmont

Clingmans Dome

If you are willing to complete a steep half-mile trek, the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains has an observation tower with a rewarding view in all directions.  

Self-Guided Tours

Temperatures on Clingmans Dome are typically ten to twenty degrees  cooler than the valley below. The road to the dome trail is usually  closed from December to late March for safety reasons. 

Fontana Dam

The Fontana Dam, at 480 feet, is the tallest concrete dam east of the Rocky Mountains. It is near Fontana Village, North Carolina, on the Little Tennessee  River. 

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