The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is known for its hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks. It’s a great place to enjoy the outdoors, but there’s more to do than just hit the trails. The surrounding areas offer peaceful drives, local attractions, and quiet spots that don’t always make it into the guidebooks.
Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, there’s something nearby for every type of traveler. You can spend the morning on a nature walk, grab lunch in a mountain town, and finish the day with a drive through the hills. The park is the centerpiece, but the full experience includes what’s around it too.
If you’re looking for a mix of activity and downtime, the Smokies deliver that balance. Let’s take a look at some of the top things to do just outside the park that make any visit feel complete.
Take a Scenic Drive Outside the Crowds
One of the easiest ways to enjoy the Smoky Mountains is from your car. A scenic drive lets you take in wide views and stop at overlooks without having to hike. If you want open roads and fewer crowds, try Foothills Parkway. This road offers some of the best views in the region, and it’s not as busy as Newfound Gap Road. The clear views of Mount Le Conte are stunning, especially in the early morning or near sunset. The drive itself is calm and smooth, with less traffic than other main roads through the park. You’ll find plenty of pull-off spots for photos or a quick break. It’s a solid choice if you want to see the Smokies without the lines.
Whether you’re wrapping up a day of hiking or looking for a relaxed start to your trip, Foothills Parkway is a smart way to soak in the scenery.
Visit Cades Cove for Wildlife and History
Cades Cove is one of the most visited places near the park, and it’s easy to see why. This open valley is surrounded by mountains and filled with wildlife, old churches, and cabins from the early 1800s. The loop road that runs through the area is 11 miles long and can be driven or biked. Along the way, you’ll see deer, wild turkeys, and sometimes even black bears.
There are pull-offs where you can stop and explore on foot. Short trails lead to historic buildings, and one of the longer hikes—Abrams Falls Trail—starts from here. It’s a five-mile round trip and ends at a wide, powerful waterfall.
Mornings and late afternoons are the best times to visit. Not only is it cooler, but animals are also more active. If you want less traffic, go on a weekday or during the off-season. Cades Cove gives you a little bit of everything—views, history, and wildlife—all in one place.
Explore Local Towns Near the Park
When you’re ready for a break from the trails, head into one of the nearby towns. Gatlinburg is right at the park entrance and full of things to do. You’ll find restaurants, local shops, and attractions that work for both families and couples. The SkyBridge at Gatlinburg SkyPark offers a high-up view of the mountains and is a great spot for photos.
A little farther down the road, Pigeon Forge gives you more options. It’s known for fun spots like Dollywood, dinner shows, and shopping. If you’re traveling with kids or want something lively after a quiet day in nature, this is a good stop.
Both towns are easy to reach from the park and give you a lot of choices when it comes to food, entertainment, and places to walk around. You can enjoy the outdoors during the day and relax in town in the evening.
Go River Rafting or Tubing
If you’re visiting during the warmer months and want something active, try river rafting or tubing. The Pigeon River, which runs near the national park, is a popular spot. Several local companies offer guided rafting trips for different experience levels. Some sections of the river are calm and perfect for beginners, while others have more challenging rapids for those looking for a thrill.
Tubing is a slower option, but still a fun way to spend part of the day. You float at your own pace and can take in the scenery from the water. It’s a great way to cool off and relax while staying close to nature.
Whether you choose rafting or tubing, it’s a nice way to see the area from a different angle. It also gives you a break from walking while still enjoying the outdoors.
Walk the Trails Less Traveled
While the national park has popular trails that many visitors know, like Grotto Falls or Kuwohi, there are plenty of quieter paths near the edges of the park. These less crowded trails offer a chance to explore without bumping into large groups.
Porters Creek Trail in Greenbrier is a good example. It’s not far from Gatlinburg but feels calm and remote. Along the way, you’ll pass old stone walls, a small footbridge, and a few waterfalls. In spring, the trail is lined with wildflowers.
Middle Prong Trail in Tremont is another great pick. It follows an old railroad bed and features several waterfalls and stream crossings. The area is peaceful, and the trail is wide enough for a comfortable walk.
These trails are good for people who want a quieter experience without giving up the beauty of the Smokies. They’re also great options for returning visitors who want to explore new areas outside the usual hot spots.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers more than hiking and overlooks. There’s plenty to do just beyond the park lines. From scenic drives like Foothills Parkway and peaceful walks through Cades Cove to rafting, tubing, and exploring local towns—you can shape the trip around what you enjoy most. The mix of nature, history, and small-town charm makes the Smokies a place where every day feels a little different. Whether you visit once or come back often, there’s always more to discover just around the corner.
