When you come to the Smoky Mountains, you want to get out in the national park and explore! There are so many fun things you can do, from hiking to driving, along with incredible sights you won't find anywhere else. There are endless great places to visit that are well worth your time. Want to know about the must-stop spots? We want to share some with you! Here are the top 5 things to do in the Smoky Mountains you should experience:
1. Drive Around Cades Cove
One of the most popular things to do in the Smoky Mountains is to drive around Cades Cove. Millions of visitors from around the world come to this spot in the Smokies to see wildlife, enjoy the beautiful mountain views, and learn more about the history of the area. You drive around on an 11-mile paved loop road through a valley surrounded by mountains. There are a ton of places where you can stop and stretch your legs and walk through historic buildings. It’s a popular place to see wildlife and explore.
2. Hike to Laurel Falls
There are more than 100 waterfalls in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. One of the most popular ones is Laurel Falls. This waterfall is 80 feet tall and split into an upper section and a lower section. Water gushes over the rocks at an impressive rate, even when it hasn’t recently rained. You can walk across the waterfall on a footbridge to take pictures in front of the water. The roundtrip length to the top is 2.6 miles, and the path is paved, making it easy to hike.
NOTE: Laurel Falls is temporarily closed for a rehabilitation project and expected to reopen in summer 2026.
3. Go On Alum Cave Trail
Another great hiking trail is Alum Cave Trail. This hiking trail is 5 miles roundtrip if you stop at the Alum Bluffs, but you can continue past the bluffs to hike to the summit of Mt. LeConte. There are all kinds of cool features along this trail. Friends of the Smokies made the trail safer by creating stone stairs to hike easily. You’ll go past rock formations, old forest growth, and more. When you reach the bluffs, you’ll be blown away by their size and the incredible view of the mountains.
4. Climb to Kuwohi
Visiting Kuwohi is another of the top things to do in the Smoky Mountains. The roundtrip length to the tower and back is 1 mile, but the trail to get to the top is steep. The walk is definitely worth it though. On the clearest days, you may be able to see over 100 miles away from the observation tower. This area is the highest point in Tennessee, and it’s where you can find snow and fall colors changing first. It’s a great place for families to explore!
5. Drive the Roaring Fork Motor Trail
Scenic drives are one of the top things to do in the Smoky Mountains and Roaring Fork Motor Trail is one of the best. This is a one-way scenic road where you will drive alongside a creek and through the woods. You will probably spot wild animals, wildflowers, and more along your drive. You can even get out and see old homesteads. There are a few hiking trails off this main road, too.
Things to Do in the Smoky Mountains for Free
There are so many things to do in the Smoky Mountains that you should experience when you visit. Did you know that when you stay in one of our cabins, you automatically receive free or discounted tickets to some of the best attractions in the area? Learn more about our complimentary Perks Pass for all the details!
