Location Information Operating Hours News Programs/Activities Reservations Visitation Trails/Roads Food/Concessions Accessibility Other Attractions Additional Info. Lodging Info. Local Weather

Visitation

Visitor Impacts

The most visited national park in the National Park System, with nine million visitors a year. The peak months are June to August and October during spectacular autumn color. Lowest visitation occurs in winter months, November to February, and early spring.

In winter during hazardous weather conditions the two main roads will close. Do not leave valuables in your car. Adhere to Park rules and regulations.

Visitor Center

Sugarlands Visitor Center, near Gatlinburg, TN, is open year-round and offers an orientation program and natural history exhibits. Oconaluftee Visitor Center, near Cherokee, NC, is also open year-round and its exhibits focus on mountain life of the late 1800s. Adjacent to the visitor center is the Mountain Farm Museum, a collection of historic farm buildings. Cades Cove Visitor Center, near Townsend, TN, (closed in winter), sits among preserved historic buildings representing isolated farming communities of the 1800's.

Basic Visits

Plan your visit to the park by stopping at one of the visitor centers or writing ahead to obtain information. Also be sure to acquire safety information/tips pertaining to your planned activity, especially if you are not familiar with the area.

Climate

Spring often brings unpredictable weather, particularly in higher elevations.