The Great Smoky Mountains National Park stands as the most visited national park in the United States, epitomizing the splendor of the Appalachians.
Established during the Great Depression through the collaboration of local communities, philanthropists like John D. Rockefeller Jr., and the U.S. government, this pristine sanctuary was safeguarded from extensive logging and development, now serving as a premier outdoor haven cherished by all Americans.
If you are planning to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the first thing that you must do is book your accommodation by visiting the website of Smoky Mountains by owner. You will get a very good deal and accommodation from here.
The following are a few locations that you must never miss if you are planning to visit this place for vacation.
1. Laurel Falls
Laurel Falls, the first among our recommended waterfalls, cascades magnificently at 80 feet, framed by mountain laurel shrubs. The moderate 2.6-mile trail winds through the lush forest, partly paved but with occasional steep and slippery sections.
Optimal for mid to late spring excursions, mild weather and blooming mountain laurels enhance the experience. Due to its popularity, early arrival is advisable, considering limited parking availability.
Plan accordingly for weather conditions and the season to ensure a safe and enjoyable hike along this picturesque trail.
2. Ben Morton Overlook
For those seeking stunning park vistas without hiking, the Ben Morton Overlook offers unparalleled views. Situated along Newfound Gap Road, it is ideal for sunset, providing expansive vistas of mountains and valleys.
A favored spot for picnics year-round, it shines particularly in October, showcasing the park’s vibrant fall foliage. Don’t miss this prime destination for breathtaking scenery and memorable moments.
3. Grotto Falls
Grotto Falls, a captivating waterfall in the park, is accessed via the Trillium Gap Trail, a scenic 3-mile trek through lush hemlock forest. The trail culminates in a majestic waterfall where hikers can walk behind the cascading water.
Caution is advised due to rocky and potentially slippery sections, necessitating sturdy footwear. Amidst the journey, keep watch for salamanders in the cool, moist surroundings, enhancing the enchanting hiking experience.
4. Rainbow Falls
Adjacent to Grotto Falls lies the beloved Rainbow Falls, accessible via the Rainbow Falls Trail, spanning approximately 5.4 miles round trip. This trail unveils another striking 80-foot waterfall in the park, renowned for its mist-induced rainbows.
In winter, under favorable weather, the falls may exhibit stunning ice formations. As with nearby trails, rocky segments can pose slip hazards, emphasizing the need for caution to prevent injury and ensure a safe and enjoyable hiking experience.
5. Clingmans Dome
No visit to Great Smoky Mountains National Park is complete without ascending to its pinnacle—Clingmans Dome! Whether embarking on the moderate 0.5-mile hike or reveling in the park’s splendor from the observation tower, offering a panoramic 360° view of the surrounding mountains, visitors are treated to unparalleled vistas.
Though clear days afford glimpses of up to 100 miles, air pollution can restrict views to approximately 20 miles. With road closures from early December to late March and high traffic during open periods, early planning and arrival are advised for an optimal experience.
Tips to get the best deal on accommodation
While booking homes for rent in Smoky Mountains, the following few tips can be quite handy for you.
- Ask
Request a higher discount. If all else fails to come to mind, this is the most important piece of advice.
- Timing is everything
For the best deals, make reservations during the “off season”. Your best bets are in January, February, and early March. In general, weekdays are less expensive than weekends.
- Read between the lines
Make an effort to read between the lines. For instance, asking an either/or question allows the reservationist to assist you without directly stating anything unfavorable.
- Use the competition
Competition among vacation rental companies is fierce, with an abundance of options available to consumers.
Off-season periods often present prime opportunities to secure exceptional deals. However, competition can intensify significantly during peak times.
To leverage the best bargains, sharing information about sales or coupons between rental companies can be advantageous, as it encourages them to offer competitive rates and promotions to attract customers.
- Be nice
Recognize that every person you speak with is a human being who is attempting to support themselves. You normally get what you want when you are pleasant to other people, so try not to be harsh, huffy, or whine a lot. Making a scene and displaying impatience will have the opposite effect.
- Consider newly opened places
Newly opened hotels, cabins, and resorts often provide discounts to attract guests and generate excitement. As one of the initial visitors, you may encounter minor organizational issues or unclear policies.
However, management is typically eager to ensure a positive experience, offering discounts and extra accommodations to establish a strong reputation from the outset.
- Know the cancellation policy
For ease of reference, it is best to have things in writing. Cancellation policies can differ significantly between locations and evolve over time.
- Ask for breakfast
The cost you will pay can vary significantly depending on whether you have to purchase breakfast, not to mention convenience.
- Early check-in/late check-outs
It is not guaranteed that you will be able to check in early or check out late.
- Know that you can also be blacklisted
As a precaution, most locations will need to see a valid credit card in order to process a refundable damage deposit. You should not have any issues as long as you treat the property with respect and report any damages or missing things as soon as you discover them.
- Use a credit card
Sending money to someone by wire transfer, check, or cash is never, ever a good idea. By using a credit card, you can avoid being charged fraudulently.
While we have highlighted five must-see spots in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, there is a wealth of other treasures to discover. Allocate ample time for exploration and consult the official website for ongoing events.
