Welcome to the Smoky Mountains
COVID-19 RESPONSE
Consistent with CDC guidance regarding areas of substantial or high transmission, visitors to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, regardless of vaccination status, are currently required to wear a mask inside all park buildings.
For current transmission levels in local counties, please view the CDC Coronavirus Tracker.
Before visiting, check the park website to determine its operating status and recreate responsibly.
PARKING FEES AND PASSES
Beginning March 1, 2023, parking tags will be required for parking anywhere within the boundaries of the National Park. Learn more about parking fees and passes.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park was established on June 15, 1934 after overcoming numerous economic, cultural, and political issues. Today the park is the largest protected land area east of the Rocky Mountains and has become the most visited national park in the American Park System. The main entrances are located along US Highway 441.
The history of the Appalachian Mountains is a precious thing and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park preserves this story. These mountains have been around for thousands of years from the prehistoric Paleo Indians to the 18th century European settlements and loggers and Civilian Conservation Corps in the 20th century. The protection of history, wildlife, and nature are very important to the park. There are many great attractions to see while visiting the park. The most popular attraction is Cades Cove. Others include: Roaring Fork, Cataloochee, Elkmont, Mountain Farm museum and Mingus Mill at Oconaluftee. Don’t forget to watch out for Clingmans Dome, the highest point in Tennessee and the Smokies.
Be sure to view the park map and check the weather forecast prior to your Smoky Mountain exploration.
For more information about the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, call 1-800-365-2267 or visit the National Park Service.
ROAD CLOSURE ALERT
Great Smoky Mountains has several ongoing road and trail construction or repair projects occurring which may cause delays or prevent access. Please check out our temporary closures & alerts page for updates, click here.
Foothills Parkway Closure
The Foothills Parkway will be closed from the Flats Road intersection near Look Rock to the Highway 321 intersection near Walland, TN beginning Monday, June 20 through Wednesday, August 31 for a paving project.
The roadway is fully closed to all pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists. Look Rock Picnic Area, Look Rock Observation Tower, trail, and parking area are open and accessible during the closure.