FAQs
Answers to all your important Great Smoky Mountains National Park vacation questions about wildlife viewing, pets in the park, plus winter and backcountry routes.
Can I Bring My Pet to Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
Pets are not allowed on any trails in Great Smoky, except for two - the Gatlinburg Trail and Oconaluftee River Trail.
Entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park is Free
Skip the entrance fee for this national park - it's free to enter! Campsites, lodging, and some tours still have a fee.
How Close Can I Get to Bears in Great Smoky Mountains Park?
The general rule is to stay 50 yards away from bears. Never feed wild animals because it may cause them to lose their fear of humans. Watch this video
Water Safety in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Water is everywhere in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Although the waterfalls and streams are beautiful, these waters can also be dangerous.
What to Pack for a Great Smoky Mountains Park Vacation
How do you pack for the nation’s most visited park? Here are the top 14 items to bring to the park.
Where is Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
Great Smoky is in the eastern part of the United States on the Tennessee-North Carolina border. Gatlinburg, TN is the most popular gateway town.
