“Wildflower National Park” is one of the nicknames for the Smokies. The reason is that the park has more than 1,500 different flowering plants that bloom during the spring months. In fact, it has more than any other national park in North America.
Summer is a popular time for biking, horseback riding, fishing, boating, zip-lining, and whitewater rafting in the Smokies.
Biking and hiking to waterfalls and taking scenic drives to see the fall colors are two of the best things to do in the Smokies during the autumn months. Cades Cove Loop Road (an 11-mile, one-way loop) is a fantastic place to do either of those things.
The cold temperatures offer unique opportunities as well. For instance, you can hike or drive to see frozen waterfalls. Also, you can get better views of the waterfalls and mountains since the leaves have fallen off the trees. Some excellent winter hikes include Laurel Falls Trail and Mt. Cammerer Lookout Tower.
On top of these activities and attractions, there’s nothing like spending the holidays in the Great Smoky Mountains. You might say that it’s the best time to visit Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge because the towns decorate everything in Christmas lights and host a variety of holiday events.