Summer in the Smoky Mountains means warmer weather, blooming wildflowers, endless outdoor adventures, from waterfall hikes to spotting wildlife and enjoying scenic mountain views. The trees are in full bloom, school is out, and America’s most visited national park is right at your doorstep.
From exciting outdoor adventures to incredible mountain views, the Smoky Mountains in summer offer a once-in-a-lifetime chance to explore nature and create unforgettable memories with the ones you love.
Check out our list of the best things to do this summer in the Great Smoky Mountains.
Look for Summer Wildflowers on a Waterfall Hike
With more than 800 miles of hiking trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and over 100 waterfalls scattered throughout, you’re sure to find the perfect waterfall hike to suit your needs. From kid-friendly hikes such as Laurel Falls, considered to be one of the best waterfall hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains, to Abrams Falls, the most voluminous waterfall in the park, your choices are plentiful. Explore even more amazing waterfall hikes in the Smoky Mountains.
Whether you choose a quiet stroll or a day-long hike, keep an eye out for summer wildflowers that bloom in early summer, including rhododendron, mountain laurel, and flame azalea..
Insider tip: Stop at the Sugarlands Visitor Center for trail maps and up-to-date park information before heading out.
Discover Smoky Mountain History at Cades Cove
Cades Cove is a must-see within Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Home to a mix of scenery and a lesson in Smoky Mountain history, the cove is a great place to see via car, on foot or by bicycle.
Visitors will find cabins, barns, a working grist mill, churches, and other buildings constructed by early settlers. It’s also one of the best places in the park to see wildlife. Make sure to keep a safe distance and never disturb the animals. Discover more historic sites and landmarks in the Great Smoky Mountains.
Insider tip: Rent bikes at Cades Cove Campground store and ride the 11-mile loop on vehicle-free Wednesdays. The road is closed to motor traffic from May through September, making it one of the best family cycling experiences in the park.
Hike Kuwohi (Clingmans Dome) for Incredible Panoramic Views
Experience the view of a lifetime by climbing to the top of Kuwohi (formerly known as Clingmans Dome), the highest point in the park and in Tennessee. The observation tower sits at the end of a steep half-mile trail, where hikers are rewarded with panoramic 360-degree views of the Smokies on a clear day. Several trails also lead to Kuwohi, including the Appalachian Trail, one of the more popular places to hike in the park.
Insider tip: Pack a jacket. Summit temperatures run 10–20°F cooler.
Plan an Afternoon of Smoky Mountain Fishing
Looking for a more relaxing outdoor experience? The waters of East Tennessee offer some of the finest fishing in the country. Great Smoky Mountains National Park has an abundance of streams, and fishing is permitted year-round. Other outstanding fishing opportunities include the Little Pigeon River and Douglas Lake, located just a few miles northeast of Pigeon Forge.
Insider tip: Buy your Tennessee fishing license before you arrive at J&B Market (4250 Parkway) or online at https://gooutdoorstennessee.com/.
Go For a Scenic Drive on Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a 6-mile one-way loop road offering spectacular mountain views and scenery, as well as access to two of the area’s most popular waterfalls, Rainbow Falls and Grotto Falls. Stop and explore historic sites along the way, such as the Roaring Fork Cemetery. The motor trail is also a great place to see a variety of wildlife including birds, deer and black bears.
Insider tip: Drive Roaring Fork in the morning to beat the crowds.
Enjoy Amazing Mountain Views From Your Pigeon Forge Cabin
If spectacular mountain views are at the top of your vacation list, there’s no better place to stay in Pigeon Forge than in one of our cabins. From cozy chalets for two to large group cabins, choose from an extensive selection of Pigeon Forge cabins with amenities ranging from fully-equipped kitchens to game rooms and hot tubs.
Insider tip: Save with Pigeon Forge coupons and the Attractions Passport.
Whether you’re into fishing, hiking, or simply taking in the incredible mountain views, here’s everything you need to make the most of your summer in the Smoky Mountains.
Smoky Mountains Summer Tips
Before you explore the park, use these tips to make the most of your Smoky Mountain summer getaway.
Best time to Visit the Smoky Mountains in Summer
- Early to mid-June: Right before the school-out summer rush when humidity is reasonably lower, and the park is filled with lush landscapes and blooming wildflowers.
- Late August: Summer crowds start to thin out as kids return to school and temperatures begin to drop.
How to Avoid Crowds in the Smoky Mountains in Summer
- Start Early or Late: Arrive at popular spots like Cades Cove or Kuwohi (formerly Clingmans Dome) before 8:00 am or after 5:00 pm.
- Plan Weekday Visits: Explore the Smokies Sunday through Thursday to avoid weekend tourists.
- Skip Popular Areas: Explore alternate spots like Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail or the western side of the park.
- Explore on Vehicle-Free Days: Check the Cades Cove Vehicle-Free Access schedule to hike and bike Cades Cove Loop Road with no motorized traffic.
What to Bring on a Summer Hike in the Smokies
- Sun protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
- Hydration & nutrition: Water, water bottle, electrolyte packets, and light snacks
- Clothing: Breathable trail shoes, moisture-wicking layers, a light fleece, and a rain jacket.
- Bug & tick protection: Bug spray with DEET or picaridin
- Trail Safety: Trail map and first-aid kit
Ready to plan your summer trip to the Smoky Mountains? Browse Pigeon Forge cabins, check the events calendar, and grab your coupons before you go.
