Kristina Plaas 107 Park Headquarters Road Gatlinburg, TN 37738 Great Smoky Mountains National Park straddles the borders of the states of Tennessee and North Carolina. The three main entrances to the park are in Gatlinburg, TN; Townsend, TN; and Cherokee, NC. Elevations in the park range from approximately 875 feet (267 meters) to 6,643 feet (2,025 meters) and the topography can drastically affect local weather. Temperatures can vary by 10-20 degrees Fahrenheit from mountain base to top, and clear skies lower down do not guarantee equally pleasant weather at higher elevations. Parking tags are required for all vehicles parking for longer than 15 minutes. Three tag durations are available for purchase for all vehicle sizes and types:
Great Smoky Mountains National Park does not charge an entrance fee. Entrance Fee-free This site is fee-free year-round. No entrance fee or pass is required. Parking/Transportation Parking, shuttle, or other transportation-related fees may apply. Sugarlands Visitor CenterNear Gatlinburg, TN, Sugarlands Visitor Center is an excellent starting point as you enter the park's North District. Learn about the park's plants and animals with natural history exhibits. Enjoy ranger-led programs conducted seasonally. Peruse the park bookstore and shop. Access public restrooms and drink vending machines. The Backcountry Permit Office is here, too. Oconaluftee Visitor CenterNear Cherokee, North Carolina, the Oconaluftee Visitor Center is an ideal starting point as you enter the park's South District. Explore cultural history exhibits. Enjoy ranger-led programs conducted seasonally. Peruse the park bookstore and shop. Find public restrooms and drink vending machines. Cades Cove Visitor CenterRoughly half-way through the Cades Cove Loop Road, pause to speak with park staff and visit various exhibits. Learn about Southern Mountain life and culture, and see a gristmill (operates spring through fall), the Becky Cable house, and other historic structures. Enjoy seasonal ranger-led activities and peruse the park bookstore and shop. Public restrooms available. Kuwohi Visitor CenterKuwohi (formerly Clingmans Dome) is the tallest peak in the Smokies. Enjoy sweeping views of the Smokies—weather permitting—and get your park questions answered. Peruse a small bookstore and shop. Public restrooms are available. Public WiFi is not available.
Cell phone service is unavailable in many park locations, including Cades Cove and in Cataloochee. It is generally available in the communities surrounding the national park. Plan ahead! What will you do in an emergency if you don't have cell phone service? Carry essentials with you such as a first aid kit, prescription medications, drinking water, and clothing suitable for the weather conditions. 
Closures & Alerts
Know the status of the park's roads, facilities, and trails before you go. 
Explore with Pets
Review pet-friendly park activities for a great visit. 
Plan Your Visit
Learn about the many areas of the park and plan ahead for an enjoyable trip. 
Places to Go
Scenic vistas, historic buildings, rushing waterfalls, and expansive forests await. 
Park Maps
Download maps to navigate the park's roads, trails, campgrounds, and more. 
Camping in the Smokies
You can choose from 10 developed campgrounds or head into the backcountry. Your adventure awaits! 
Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park's official online store for other books, maps, and guides to the park. Operated by the nonprofit Great Smoky Mountains Association, proceeds generated by purchases at the store are donated to educational, scientific, and historical projects in the park. |
Last updated: February 25, 2025