As a proud Floridian, I often crave a change of scenery from the familiar flat terrain and endless palm trees. And that’s where the Great Smoky Mountains come in – spanning over 800 square miles, this natural wonderland boasts breathtaking vistas and diverse ecosystems that will leave any nature lover spellbound. I always wondered why the Smoky Mountains are so popular with Floridians?
For those of us Floridians seeking an escape from the crowds and chaos of our state’s more popular destinations, the Smoky Mountains offer a refreshing opportunity to embark on a different kind of adventure. With its many outdoor activities and scenic drives, this majestic destination truly has something for everyone.
So whether you’re looking to hike through its stunning landscapes, camp under the stars, or soak in the tranquility of its natural beauty, this guide will take you through all the various activities, accommodations, and transportation options that Floridians need to know to make the most of their Smoky Mountain vacation.
Natural Scenery
When you visit the Smoky Mountains, you experience many natural environments, from lush forests to serene meadows. This diverse landscape is home to various plant and animal life, making it a one-of-a-kind destination for nature enthusiasts.
As you explore the mountains, you’re likely to come across some of the local wildlife, such as black bears, elk, white-tailed deer, and smaller creatures like squirrels and chipmunks. And there’s no better way to see them than by hiking along one of the many trails in the area, including the iconic Appalachian Trail. This trail stretches over 70 miles through the park, providing awe-inspiring views of the surrounding mountains and an up-close look at the creatures that call it home.
Most Notable Smoky Mountain Hiking Trails
- Clingmans Dome Trail: This trail leads to the highest point in the park, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- Alum Cave Trail: This trail takes you through beautiful forests and alongside rushing streams before opening up to stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
- Rainbow Falls Trail: This trail leads to a stunning 80-foot waterfall that cascades over colorful rock formations. The trail also offers amazing views of the surrounding areas.
- Charlies Bunion Trail: This trail offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, including a panoramic view of the iconic Mount LeConte.
Outdoor Activities
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, the Great Smoky Mountains should be at the top of your list for an adventure-packed vacation. There’s no shortage of exciting activities, from hiking to kayaking and everything in between.
The park’s numerous streams and rivers offer the perfect setting for fishing, with plenty of opportunities to reel in various fish species like trout and bass. And when the sun is shining bright, you can take a refreshing dip in the calm waters or try your hand at kayaking.
Whether you’re an experienced angler or just starting, the Smoky Mountains provide a natural playground to challenge and inspire you with its diverse landscapes and thrilling outdoor activities.
Spring and Summer Activities In The Smoky Mountains
During the warmer months, the Smoky Mountains are a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure. With Ober Gatlinburg offering winter activities, there’s something to do year-round. The park boasts a range of activities, including horseback riding on the trails, scenic drives through Cades Cove, and guided tours that showcase the native animals in their natural habitat, such as the black bears and elk.
If water-based activities are more your style, then you’re in luck. The park has numerous rivers and streams, perfect for fishing or kayaking, with trout and bass being common catches. Visitors can also opt for a thrilling white-water rafting experience on the Pigeon River or a refreshing swim in one of the park’s many swimming holes or waterfalls. With so much to do, the Smoky Mountains are the ideal destination for those seeking outdoor adventure.
Fall and Winter Activities In The Smoky Mountains
The Smoky Mountains are a year-round destination, and the fall and winter months are no exception. The autumn season brings an explosion of colors as the leaves on the trees to change into a stunning display of reds, oranges, and yellows. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a top destination for leaf peepers, with some of the most vibrant fall colors in the country.
As the snow starts to fall, the mountains become a winter wonderland. The snow-capped peaks and cozy cabins offer a serene and magical experience. Visitors can take a scenic drive through the mountains or hike the snow-filled trails, soaking in the peacefulness of nature. For those seeking more excitement, Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort offers a range of winter activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating. I wrote a post about my experience at Ober Gatlinburg that you can view here.
During the holiday season, the town of Gatlinburg turns into a festive wonderland with twinkling lights and colorful decorations. The Gatlinburg Winter Magic Trolley Ride of Lights is a guided tour of the town’s dazzling light displays, and it’s a must-see for visitors. The nearby Dollywood theme park (you can read our review here!) also gets into the holiday spirit with its Smoky Mountain Christmas festival, featuring holiday shows and attractions.
How to Get From Florida To The Smoky Mountain National Park?
Getting to the Smoky Mountains is relatively easy from Florida, making it an attractive vacation destination. Here are a few ways to get there:
Driving
Several transportation options are available if you’re planning a trip to the Smoky Mountains. Many Floridians prefer to drive, which can be a fun and scenic road trip. The drive can take anywhere from 6 to 12 hours, depending on where you start in Florida. Just keep in mind that some of the roads in the mountains can be narrow and winding, so it’s important to drive carefully.
Flying
If you prefer to fly, several airports near the Smoky Mountains offer direct flights. The closest airport is McGhee Tyson Airport in Knoxville, about an hour’s drive from the park. Other nearby airports include Asheville Regional Airport in North Carolina and Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport in Tennessee. You can rent a car from these airports or take a shuttle to the park.
Amtrak
For those who prefer to take a train, there are options as well. While no Amtrak stations in Florida go directly to the Smoky Mountains, several cities in Florida (including Jacksonville, Orlando, Tampa, and Miami) have Amtrak stations that connect to the Crescent route. The Crescent route travels from New York City to New Orleans and stops in Atlanta, about a 3-hour drive from the park. You can rent a car from Atlanta or take a shuttle to the park.
Greyhound
Several Greyhound bus stations throughout Florida serve cities near the Smoky Mountains. For example, you can take a Greyhound bus from Miami to Atlanta, Georgia, about a 3-hour drive from the park. You can rent a car from Atlanta or take a shuttle to the park.
Alternatively, you can take a Greyhound bus to Knoxville, Tennessee, about an hour’s drive from the Smoky Mountains. You can rent a car from Knoxville or take a shuttle to the park.
Remember that Greyhound schedules and availability may vary, so it’s best to check their website or call customer service for more information on specific routes and travel times.
Smoky Mountains National Park is Budget-Friendly
Many Floridians flock to the Smoky Mountains for vacation because it can be a more affordable alternative to popular tourist destinations like Miami, Orlando, or Tampa. Compared to other popular vacation spots in Florida, the cost of living in the Smoky Mountains is relatively lower, which results in lower prices for hotels, restaurants, and attractions.
I did some sleuthing for a trip for 2 people during June 11-17 to see how Smoky Mountain ranks among the popular Florida vacation destinations. Please, keep this in mind; for this scenario, the starting point is Winter Haven, Florida (central Florida). The hotel of choice is Best Western. Attractions are all using a 3 attraction pass that each area offers. As I typically budget, food costs $100 per person, and gas is from the starting point (central Florida).
While it seems the Smoky Mountains are right up there with the other Florida destinations, it technically isn’t. Why, might you ask? The attractions here are based in Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg. When post tourist flock to the Smoky Mountain area, they are here for the hiking trails and the views. If that is why you are coming to the Smoky Mountains, you can subtract the attraction list and only pay $15 for a parking permit for the week that you’ll be there.
Please Note: The table above is done uniformly. The price will change with where you stay, how many attractions you choose, how you plan on getting to the destination, and your food budget.
Time To Plan Your Next Trip To The Smoky Mountains
The Smoky Mountains offer a refreshing and unique vacation destination for Floridians seeking a break from the heat and crowds of their home state. With its stunning natural beauty, outdoor activities, and easy accessibility, the Smoky Mountains are an excellent option for a summer getaway.
The Smoky Mountains provide affordable accommodations, attractions, and dining options than popular Florida destinations like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa. In addition, the cooler temperatures and picturesque scenery offer a welcome change of pace from Florida’s beaches and theme parks.
When planning your trip to the Smoky Mountains, explore all the region offers, including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Dollywood, and the charming Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge mountain towns.
Check out our ultimate travel guide for more information and travel tips on Southern Tennessee. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, this guide contains helpful information and recommendations to help you plan the perfect trip to this beautiful part of the country.
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