Articles by author Mikaela Ruland

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She lives in her beautiful home state of Colorado with her husband and loves writing about the outdoors, travel and the environment. Her passion is to introduce people to the outdoors so that they fall in love and help protect the wild places she loves to play in.</p> <p>She spends most of her free time outside hiking, skiing, mountain biking, doing yoga – you name it. When she’s not outside, you can find her researching cheap flights, exploring hipster coffee shops or on the hunt for Denver’s best mac n’ cheese. You can follow her adventures on Instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/themillennialoutside/?hl=en">@themillennialoutside</a>.</p> <p>Mikaela’s favorite adventure in Great Smoky Mountains is biking Cades Cove on Wednesdays in the summer when the road closes to vehicle traffic…closely followed by getting post-biking barbeque.</p> </p> </div> </hgroup> <div class="c-hero__meta o-post-meta u-spacing"> <p class="o-kicker u-color--gray--dark">Find me on</p> <hr bp="2--max" class="u-center-block"> <div class="c-utility-links"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/themillennialoutside/?hl=en" target="_blank" class="c-utility-links__link o-icon o-icon--instagram u-icon--m"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512"><title>Instagram Icon</title><path d="M256,49.47c67.27,0,75.23.26,101.8,1.47,24.56,1.12,37.9,5.22,46.78,8.67a78.05,78.05,0,0,1,29,18.84,78.05,78.05,0,0,1,18.84,29c3.45,8.88,7.55,22.22,8.67,46.78,1.21,26.56,1.47,34.53,1.47,101.8s-.26,75.23-1.47,101.8c-1.12,24.56-5.22,37.9-8.67,46.78a83.43,83.43,0,0,1-47.81,47.81c-8.88,3.45-22.22,7.55-46.78,8.67-26.56,1.21-34.53,1.47-101.8,1.47s-75.24-.26-101.8-1.47c-24.56-1.12-37.9-5.22-46.78-8.67a78.05,78.05,0,0,1-29-18.84,78.05,78.05,0,0,1-18.84-29c-3.45-8.88-7.55-22.22-8.67-46.78-1.21-26.56-1.47-34.53-1.47-101.8s.26-75.23,1.47-101.8c1.12-24.56,5.22-37.9,8.67-46.78a78.05,78.05,0,0,1,18.84-29,78.05,78.05,0,0,1,29-18.84c8.88-3.45,22.22-7.55,46.78-8.67,26.56-1.21,34.53-1.47,101.8-1.47m0-45.39c-68.42,0-77,.29-103.87,1.52S107,11.08,91,17.31A123.49,123.49,0,0,0,46.36,46.36,123.49,123.49,0,0,0,17.31,91C11.08,107,6.82,125.32,5.6,152.13S4.08,187.58,4.08,256s.29,77,1.52,103.87S11.08,405,17.31,421a123.49,123.49,0,0,0,29.06,44.62A123.49,123.49,0,0,0,91,494.7c16,6.23,34.34,10.49,61.15,11.71s35.45,1.52,103.87,1.52,77-.29,103.87-1.52S405,500.92,421,494.7A128.82,128.82,0,0,0,494.7,421c6.23-16,10.49-34.34,11.71-61.15s1.52-35.45,1.52-103.87-.29-77-1.52-103.87S500.92,107,494.7,91a123.49,123.49,0,0,0-29.06-44.62A123.49,123.49,0,0,0,421,17.31C405,11.08,386.68,6.82,359.87,5.6S324.42,4.08,256,4.08Z"/><path d="M256,126.64A129.36,129.36,0,1,0,385.36,256,129.36,129.36,0,0,0,256,126.64ZM256,340a84,84,0,1,1,84-84A84,84,0,0,1,256,340Z"/><circle cx="390.48" cy="121.52" r="30.23"/></svg> </a> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </header> </div> <div class="l-wrap "> <div bp="container" class="u-spacing--triple"> <div class="u-align--center"> <div class="o-ad o-ad--initial-leaderboard u-center-block"> <div class="js-ad js-scroll-load" data-child-zone="initial-leaderboard-msmp" data-size='[[320,50],[320,100],[970,90],[970,250],[728,90],[300,50],[300,100]]' data-size-map='[[[1040,0],[[970,250],[970,90]]],[[790,0],[[728,90]]],[[0,0],[[320,100],[300,100],[320,50],[300,50]]]]'></div> </div> </div> <section class="c-featured-articles o-section u-spacing--triple u-breakout"> <h2 class="o-section__heading u-align--center">My Stories</h2> <div class="l-columns"> <div class="l-columns--lg u-spacing--quad"> <div class="o-block-list u-breakout"> <div class="u-spacing--triple"> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - Should I Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park Right Now?" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/news/should-i-visit-smokies/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/news/should-i-visit-smokies/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Should I Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park Right Now?"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="An elk standing in a creek in the Smoky Mountains" data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Elk-SM-OconalufteeRiver_Tam21ChristianWayne_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Elk-SM-OconalufteeRiver_Tam21ChristianWayne_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Elk-SM-OconalufteeRiver_Tam21ChristianWayne_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/news/" class="o-kicker">News</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/news/should-i-visit-smokies/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/news/should-i-visit-smokies/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Should I Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park Right Now?"}}'> Should I Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park Right Now? </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>Communities are beginning to re-open following storm damage and flooding from Hurricane Helene. Their answer? A resounding yes. </p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2024-10-22T00:00:00-06:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Updated <time datetime="2024-10-31T11:33:45-06:00">Oct 31, 2024</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - Is Great Smoky Mountains National Park Open?" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/news/great-smoky-mountains-status-hurricane-helene/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/news/great-smoky-mountains-status-hurricane-helene/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Is Great Smoky Mountains National Park Open?"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="Flooding from Hurricane Helene seen on closed road in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, September 27, 2024." data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/SM-Hurricane-Helene-Road-Floods_GSMNP-FB_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/SM-Hurricane-Helene-Road-Floods_GSMNP-FB_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/SM-Hurricane-Helene-Road-Floods_GSMNP-FB_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/news/" class="o-kicker">News</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/news/great-smoky-mountains-status-hurricane-helene/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/news/great-smoky-mountains-status-hurricane-helene/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Is Great Smoky Mountains National Park Open?"}}'> Is Great Smoky Mountains National Park Open? </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>Following historic flooding from Hurricane Helene in late September 2024, the park is open and many communities in TN and NC are welcoming visitors.</p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2024-09-30T00:00:00-06:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Updated <time datetime="2024-11-07T06:45:49-07:00">Nov 7, 2024</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - 5 Best Rafting Trips Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/outdoor-recreation/best-rafting-trips-near-great-smoky/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/outdoor-recreation/best-rafting-trips-near-great-smoky/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "5 Best Rafting Trips Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="" data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/GS-Rafting_agasfer-Flickr_courtesy_1500.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/GS-Rafting_agasfer-Flickr_courtesy_1500.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/GS-Rafting_agasfer-Flickr_courtesy_1500.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/outdoor-recreation/" class="o-kicker">Outdoor Recreation</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/outdoor-recreation/best-rafting-trips-near-great-smoky/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/outdoor-recreation/best-rafting-trips-near-great-smoky/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "5 Best Rafting Trips Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park"}}'> 5 Best Rafting Trips Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>From peaceful float trips to challenging whitewater, the Smokies’ rivers have it all. </p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2024-08-12T00:00:00-06:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Updated <time datetime="2024-09-16T08:26:13-06:00">Sep 16, 2024</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - Spend a Perfect Day in Burnsville, North Carolina Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/burnsville-north-carolina/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/burnsville-north-carolina/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Spend a Perfect Day in Burnsville, North Carolina Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="" data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Burnsville_Explore-Burnsville_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Burnsville_Explore-Burnsville_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Burnsville_Explore-Burnsville_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/" class="o-kicker">Stops on the Way</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/burnsville-north-carolina/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/burnsville-north-carolina/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Spend a Perfect Day in Burnsville, North Carolina Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park"}}'> Spend a Perfect Day in Burnsville, North Carolina Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>From a mountain summit to incredible barbeque, these are the best things to do in Burnsville.</p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2024-07-29T00:00:00-06:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Updated <time datetime="2024-08-02T04:57:42-06:00">Aug 2, 2024</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <div class="u-align--center"> <div class="o-ad o-ad--in-content-leaderboard u-center-block"> <div class="js-ad js-scroll-load" data-child-zone="in-content-leaderboard-msmp" data-size='["fluid",[728,90],[468,60],[320,100],[320,50],[300,250],[300,100],[300,50],[336,280],[1,1]]' data-size-map='[[[1100, 0],["fluid",[728, 90],[468, 60],[1,1]]],[[970, 0],["fluid",[728, 90],[468, 60],[1,1]]],[[728, 0],["fluid",[468, 60],[1,1]]],[[0, 0],["fluid",[300, 250],[320, 100],[300, 100],[320, 50],[300, 50],[336,280],[1,1]]]]'></div> </div> </div> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - Experience the North Carolina Mountains All Year Long in Sylva, Dillsboro and Cashiers" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/gateway-towns/jackson-county-nc/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/gateway-towns/jackson-county-nc/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Experience the North Carolina Mountains All Year Long in Sylva, Dillsboro and Cashiers"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="A hiker smiles in a hammock overlooking the mountains" data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Jackson-County-Waterrock-Knob_Steve-Yocom_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Jackson-County-Waterrock-Knob_Steve-Yocom_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Jackson-County-Waterrock-Knob_Steve-Yocom_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/gateway-towns/" class="o-kicker">Gateway Towns</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/gateway-towns/jackson-county-nc/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/gateway-towns/jackson-county-nc/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Experience the North Carolina Mountains All Year Long in Sylva, Dillsboro and Cashiers"}}'> Experience the North Carolina Mountains All Year Long in Sylva, Dillsboro and Cashiers </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway, you’ll find amazing outdoor recreation, small town charm and the perfect basecamp in these Jackson County towns. </p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2024-07-29T00:00:00-06:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Updated <time datetime="2024-10-16T07:54:08-06:00">Oct 16, 2024</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - Touch the Sky at Skyland Resort in Shenandoah National Park" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/hotels-and-cabins/skyland-resort/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/hotels-and-cabins/skyland-resort/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Touch the Sky at Skyland Resort in Shenandoah National Park"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="Skyland Resort patio" data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Skyland-Resort-exterior_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Skyland-Resort-exterior_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Skyland-Resort-exterior_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/hotels-and-cabins/" class="o-kicker">Hotels and Cabins</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/hotels-and-cabins/skyland-resort/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/hotels-and-cabins/skyland-resort/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Touch the Sky at Skyland Resort in Shenandoah National Park"}}'> Touch the Sky at Skyland Resort in Shenandoah National Park </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>Stay at the highest point on Skyline Drive in a lodge room, suite or cabin for a relaxing stay immersed in nature with stunning views. </p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2024-07-03T00:00:00-06:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Published <time datetime="2024-07-03T00:00:00-06:00">Jul 3, 2024</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - Stay at the Historic Big Meadows Lodge for the Classic Shenandoah National Park Experience" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/hotels-and-cabins/big-meadows-lodge/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/hotels-and-cabins/big-meadows-lodge/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Stay at the Historic Big Meadows Lodge for the Classic Shenandoah National Park Experience"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="" data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Big-Meadows-Architecture-Patio_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Big-Meadows-Architecture-Patio_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Big-Meadows-Architecture-Patio_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/hotels-and-cabins/" class="o-kicker">Hotels and Cabins</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/hotels-and-cabins/big-meadows-lodge/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/hotels-and-cabins/big-meadows-lodge/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Stay at the Historic Big Meadows Lodge for the Classic Shenandoah National Park Experience"}}'> Stay at the Historic Big Meadows Lodge for the Classic Shenandoah National Park Experience </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>From stargazing to basket weaving classes to a pet friendly menu, this lodge offers so much more than just a relaxing stay. </p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2024-07-03T00:00:00-06:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Published <time datetime="2024-07-03T00:00:00-06:00">Jul 3, 2024</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - Murphy and Andrews, North Carolina Are Your Smoky Mountain Basecamp" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/murphy-nc/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/murphy-nc/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Murphy and Andrews, North Carolina Are Your Smoky Mountain Basecamp"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="" data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Cherokee-County-Smoky-Mountains_Casey-Kerr_Cherokee-County_courtesy_1500.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Cherokee-County-Smoky-Mountains_Casey-Kerr_Cherokee-County_courtesy_1500.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Cherokee-County-Smoky-Mountains_Casey-Kerr_Cherokee-County_courtesy_1500.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/" class="o-kicker">Stops on the Way</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/murphy-nc/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/murphy-nc/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Murphy and Andrews, North Carolina Are Your Smoky Mountain Basecamp"}}'> Murphy and Andrews, North Carolina Are Your Smoky Mountain Basecamp </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>Stay in the heart of incredible outdoor recreation, arts and culture in Cherokee County.</p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2024-07-01T00:00:00-06:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Published <time datetime="2024-07-01T00:00:00-06:00">Jul 1, 2024</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - Everything You Need to Know to Visit Congaree National Park" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/congaree-national-park/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/congaree-national-park/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Everything You Need to Know to Visit Congaree National Park"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="A woman hangs in a hammock above the water in Congaree National Park" data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Congaree-hangingout_Tam20ThomasMoors.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Congaree-hangingout_Tam20ThomasMoors.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Congaree-hangingout_Tam20ThomasMoors.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/" class="o-kicker">Stops on the Way</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/congaree-national-park/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/congaree-national-park/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Everything You Need to Know to Visit Congaree National Park"}}'> Everything You Need to Know to Visit Congaree National Park </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>From hiking past cypress trees to firefly watching and paddling past gators, this is your complete guide to this South Carolina gem. </p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2024-05-17T00:00:00-06:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Updated <time datetime="2024-05-22T23:37:29-06:00">May 22, 2024</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - 9 Tips to Visit America’s Most Popular National Park on a Budget" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/park/faqs/great-smoky-budget/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/park/faqs/great-smoky-budget/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "9 Tips to Visit America’s Most Popular National Park on a Budget"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="Autumn at the Smoky Mountain national Park stone bridge" data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/GS-BRP-Tunnel_Getty_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/GS-BRP-Tunnel_Getty_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/GS-BRP-Tunnel_Getty_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/park/faqs/" class="o-kicker">FAQs</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/park/faqs/great-smoky-budget/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/park/faqs/great-smoky-budget/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "9 Tips to Visit America’s Most Popular National Park on a Budget"}}'> 9 Tips to Visit America’s Most Popular National Park on a Budget </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>Plan a fun and amazing vacation to the Smokies without spending a ton of money.</p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2024-05-08T00:00:00-06:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Updated <time datetime="2024-11-11T11:37:53-07:00">Nov 11, 2024</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - For an Easy Hike with Epic Views, Hit the Andrews Bald Trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/outdoor-recreation/andrews-bald-trail/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/outdoor-recreation/andrews-bald-trail/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "For an Easy Hike with Epic Views, Hit the Andrews Bald Trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="Landscape view of the Smoky Mountains from Andrew Balds Trail" data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Andrews-Bald-View_Mikaela-Ruland-scaled.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Andrews-Bald-View_Mikaela-Ruland-scaled.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Andrews-Bald-View_Mikaela-Ruland-scaled.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/outdoor-recreation/" class="o-kicker">Outdoor Recreation</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/outdoor-recreation/andrews-bald-trail/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/outdoor-recreation/andrews-bald-trail/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "For an Easy Hike with Epic Views, Hit the Andrews Bald Trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park"}}'> For an Easy Hike with Epic Views, Hit the Andrews Bald Trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>See rhododendrons and azaleas, pick berries and more on this family friendly hike.</p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2024-04-04T00:00:00-06:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Updated <time datetime="2024-09-24T06:29:42-06:00">Sep 24, 2024</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - Find Authentic Charm Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Sevierville" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/gateway-towns/sevierville-tn/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/gateway-towns/sevierville-tn/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Find Authentic Charm Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Sevierville"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="Downtown Sevierville, Tennessee" data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/VisitSevierville-downtown-mural_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/VisitSevierville-downtown-mural_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/VisitSevierville-downtown-mural_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/gateway-towns/" class="o-kicker">Gateway Towns</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/gateway-towns/sevierville-tn/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/gateway-towns/sevierville-tn/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Find Authentic Charm Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Sevierville"}}'> Find Authentic Charm Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Sevierville </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>From farm-to-table dining to theme parks the kids will love, this Tennessee town is your perfect basecamp. </p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2024-01-26T00:00:00-07:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Published <time datetime="2024-01-26T00:00:00-07:00">Jan 26, 2024</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - Atlanta to Great Smoky Mountains Loop Road Trip" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-itineraries/atlanta-to-great-smoky-mountains-road-trip/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-itineraries/atlanta-to-great-smoky-mountains-road-trip/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Atlanta to Great Smoky Mountains Loop Road Trip"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="" data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/SM-TailOfTheDragon-road-aerial-_Getty_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/SM-TailOfTheDragon-road-aerial-_Getty_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/SM-TailOfTheDragon-road-aerial-_Getty_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-itineraries/" class="o-kicker">5 Best Road Trips</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-itineraries/atlanta-to-great-smoky-mountains-road-trip/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-itineraries/atlanta-to-great-smoky-mountains-road-trip/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Atlanta to Great Smoky Mountains Loop Road Trip"}}'> Atlanta to Great Smoky Mountains Loop Road Trip </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>From big-city attractions to America's favorite national park and all the fascinating stops on the way.</p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2023-12-04T00:00:00-07:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Updated <time datetime="2024-09-24T06:29:59-06:00">Sep 24, 2024</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - Hidden Gems in Franklin, North Carolina" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/franklin-north-carolina/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/franklin-north-carolina/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Hidden Gems in Franklin, North Carolina"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="Sunset shot of Wesser Bald" data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/NC-WesserBald_FranklinNC-EricHaggart_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/NC-WesserBald_FranklinNC-EricHaggart_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/NC-WesserBald_FranklinNC-EricHaggart_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/" class="o-kicker">Stops on the Way</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/franklin-north-carolina/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/franklin-north-carolina/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Hidden Gems in Franklin, North Carolina"}}'> Hidden Gems in Franklin, North Carolina </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>From rubies and sapphires buried underground to stunning waterfalls and fascinating museums, don’t miss Franklin on your way to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.</p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2023-12-01T00:00:00-07:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Published <time datetime="2023-12-01T00:00:00-07:00">Dec 1, 2023</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - Discover Appalachian Arts and Music Along the Blue Ridge Parkway" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/attractions/blue-ridge-national-heritage-area/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/attractions/blue-ridge-national-heritage-area/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Discover Appalachian Arts and Music Along the Blue Ridge Parkway"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="Blue Ridge Music Center Amphitheater" data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Blue-RidgeMusicCenter-Amphitheater_TwoRiversPhotography_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Blue-RidgeMusicCenter-Amphitheater_TwoRiversPhotography_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Blue-RidgeMusicCenter-Amphitheater_TwoRiversPhotography_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/attractions/" class="o-kicker">Attractions</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/attractions/blue-ridge-national-heritage-area/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/attractions/blue-ridge-national-heritage-area/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Discover Appalachian Arts and Music Along the Blue Ridge Parkway"}}'> Discover Appalachian Arts and Music Along the Blue Ridge Parkway </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>Experience the unique heritage of the Blue Ridge Mountains with six stops in North Carolina where you’ll find bluegrass and mountain music, traditional dance and gorgeous crafts ranging from pottery to woodworking. </p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2023-11-30T00:00:00-07:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Updated <time datetime="2024-07-15T09:12:41-06:00">Jul 15, 2024</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - Experience the Best of the Blue Ridge Parkway in McDowell County, North Carolina" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/gateway-towns/blue-ridge-mountains-mcdowell-county/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/gateway-towns/blue-ridge-mountains-mcdowell-county/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Experience the Best of the Blue Ridge Parkway in McDowell County, North Carolina"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="Waterfalls in the Blue Ridge Mountains" data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/McDowell-County-falls_McDowellCounty_Courtesy_2400-1-scaled.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/McDowell-County-falls_McDowellCounty_Courtesy_2400-1-scaled.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/McDowell-County-falls_McDowellCounty_Courtesy_2400-1-scaled.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/gateway-towns/" class="o-kicker">Gateway Towns</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/gateway-towns/blue-ridge-mountains-mcdowell-county/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/gateway-towns/blue-ridge-mountains-mcdowell-county/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Experience the Best of the Blue Ridge Parkway in McDowell County, North Carolina"}}'> Experience the Best of the Blue Ridge Parkway in McDowell County, North Carolina </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>From breathtaking waterfalls to world-famous trout and cute mountain towns, you won’t want to miss the communities of Little Switzerland, Old Fort and Marion, North Carolina along the Blue Ridge Parkway. </p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2023-11-14T00:00:00-07:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Updated <time datetime="2023-12-15T09:58:18-07:00">Dec 15, 2023</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - Hike the Appalachian Trail to Charlies Bunion for Breathtaking Panoramic Views" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/outdoor-recreation/appalachian-trail-to-charlies-bunion/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/outdoor-recreation/appalachian-trail-to-charlies-bunion/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Hike the Appalachian Trail to Charlies Bunion for Breathtaking Panoramic Views"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="Sunrise at Charlies Bunion on the Appalachian Trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park" data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/SM-sunrise-CharlesBunion_Tam19AnthonyToribio_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/SM-sunrise-CharlesBunion_Tam19AnthonyToribio_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/SM-sunrise-CharlesBunion_Tam19AnthonyToribio_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/outdoor-recreation/" class="o-kicker">Outdoor Recreation</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/outdoor-recreation/appalachian-trail-to-charlies-bunion/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/outdoor-recreation/appalachian-trail-to-charlies-bunion/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Hike the Appalachian Trail to Charlies Bunion for Breathtaking Panoramic Views"}}'> Hike the Appalachian Trail to Charlies Bunion for Breathtaking Panoramic Views </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>Get a taste of Appalachian Trail life on this day hike and be rewarded with exceptional views into two states.</p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2023-10-10T00:00:00-06:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Updated <time datetime="2024-09-24T06:30:31-06:00">Sep 24, 2024</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - Charmingly Modern Fairfield Inn & Suites Gatlinburg Downtown" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/hotels-and-cabins/fairfield-inn-gatlinburg/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/hotels-and-cabins/fairfield-inn-gatlinburg/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Charmingly Modern Fairfield Inn & Suites Gatlinburg Downtown"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="Fire Pit at Fairfield Inn & Suites Gatlinburg Downtown" data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/FairfieldInnGatlinburg-FirePit_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/FairfieldInnGatlinburg-FirePit_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/FairfieldInnGatlinburg-FirePit_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/hotels-and-cabins/" class="o-kicker">Hotels and Cabins</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/hotels-and-cabins/fairfield-inn-gatlinburg/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/hotels-and-cabins/fairfield-inn-gatlinburg/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Charmingly Modern Fairfield Inn & Suites Gatlinburg Downtown"}}'> Charmingly Modern Fairfield Inn & Suites Gatlinburg Downtown </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>Away from the noise, but in the center of everything.</p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2023-10-02T00:00:00-06:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Published <time datetime="2023-10-02T00:00:00-06:00">Oct 2, 2023</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - Make Memories Last with Xplorer Maps" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/park/national-park-maps/xplorer-maps/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/park/national-park-maps/xplorer-maps/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Make Memories Last with Xplorer Maps"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="Xplorer Maps Great Smoky Blanket" data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/XplorerMaps-SM-blanket_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/XplorerMaps-SM-blanket_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/XplorerMaps-SM-blanket_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/park/national-park-maps/" class="o-kicker">National Park Maps</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/park/national-park-maps/xplorer-maps/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/park/national-park-maps/xplorer-maps/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Make Memories Last with Xplorer Maps"}}'> Make Memories Last with Xplorer Maps </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>Commemorate your favorite national park vacation with beautiful hand-illustrated maps of locations like Yellowstone, Glacier and Great Smoky Mountains.</p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2023-09-14T00:00:00-06:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Updated <time datetime="2024-08-23T08:25:24-06:00">Aug 23, 2024</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - 6 Ways to See the North Carolina Smokies" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/park-itineraries/visit-north-carolina-smokies/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/park-itineraries/visit-north-carolina-smokies/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "6 Ways to See the North Carolina Smokies"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="For some of the most stunning views of the Smokies, book a trail ride at Cataloochee Ranch" data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/VisitNCSmokies-CataloocheeRanch-Horseback-two_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/VisitNCSmokies-CataloocheeRanch-Horseback-two_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/VisitNCSmokies-CataloocheeRanch-Horseback-two_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/park-itineraries/" class="o-kicker">Park Itineraries</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/park-itineraries/visit-north-carolina-smokies/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/park-itineraries/visit-north-carolina-smokies/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "6 Ways to See the North Carolina Smokies"}}'> 6 Ways to See the North Carolina Smokies </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>Bike, paddle, tube or ride your way across the gorgeous landscape just outside Great Smoky Mountains National Park.</p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2023-09-06T00:00:00-06:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Updated <time datetime="2023-09-07T12:27:13-06:00">Sep 7, 2023</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip From Shenandoah to Great Smoky" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-itineraries/blue-ridge-parkway-road-trip/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-itineraries/blue-ridge-parkway-road-trip/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip From Shenandoah to Great Smoky"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="Linn Cove Viaduct on the Blue Ridge Parkway" data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/BlueRidgeParkway-LinnCoveViaduct_iStock_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/BlueRidgeParkway-LinnCoveViaduct_iStock_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/BlueRidgeParkway-LinnCoveViaduct_iStock_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-itineraries/" class="o-kicker">5 Best Road Trips</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-itineraries/blue-ridge-parkway-road-trip/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-itineraries/blue-ridge-parkway-road-trip/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip From Shenandoah to Great Smoky"}}'> Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip From Shenandoah to Great Smoky </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>Take a cruise on America’s favorite drive through these 3 national park sites linked together.</p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2023-09-06T00:00:00-06:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Updated <time datetime="2024-10-11T12:18:15-06:00">Oct 11, 2024</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - Experience Small Town Tennessee on a Drive from Dandridge to Jefferson City" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/jefferson-county-tennessee/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/jefferson-county-tennessee/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Experience Small Town Tennessee on a Drive from Dandridge to Jefferson City"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="Pontoon boat on Douglas Lake with Mt. LeConte in the background" data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/JeffersonCtyTN-PontoonBoat-Douglas-MtLeConte_UpNAdamAdventures_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/JeffersonCtyTN-PontoonBoat-Douglas-MtLeConte_UpNAdamAdventures_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/JeffersonCtyTN-PontoonBoat-Douglas-MtLeConte_UpNAdamAdventures_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/" class="o-kicker">Stops on the Way</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/jefferson-county-tennessee/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/jefferson-county-tennessee/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Experience Small Town Tennessee on a Drive from Dandridge to Jefferson City"}}'> Experience Small Town Tennessee on a Drive from Dandridge to Jefferson City </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>Get out on the water, go to an old-school soda fountain or stroll a historic district dating back to the 1780s in Jefferson County, Tennessee. </p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2023-08-08T00:00:00-06:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Updated <time datetime="2023-08-14T12:55:53-06:00">Aug 14, 2023</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - Learn About the Smokies’ Original Residents in Cherokee, North Carolina" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/gateway-towns/cherokee-north-carolina/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/gateway-towns/cherokee-north-carolina/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Learn About the Smokies’ Original Residents in Cherokee, North Carolina"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="Aerial view of Cherokee, North Carolina next to Great Smoky Mountains National Park" data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/NC-Cherokee-Aerial-1352152780_GettyImages_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/NC-Cherokee-Aerial-1352152780_GettyImages_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/NC-Cherokee-Aerial-1352152780_GettyImages_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/gateway-towns/" class="o-kicker">Gateway Towns</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/gateway-towns/cherokee-north-carolina/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/gateway-towns/cherokee-north-carolina/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Learn About the Smokies’ Original Residents in Cherokee, North Carolina"}}'> Learn About the Smokies’ Original Residents in Cherokee, North Carolina </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>Get to know Cherokee history and modern-day culture at the gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. </p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2023-07-18T00:00:00-06:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Updated <time datetime="2024-07-24T05:40:54-06:00">Jul 24, 2024</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - Get Out on the Water on Fontana Lake Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/outdoor-recreation/fontana-lake/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/outdoor-recreation/fontana-lake/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Get Out on the Water on Fontana Lake Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="Fontana Lake bordering Great Smoky Mountains National Park" data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/FontanaLake-scenic-545253132_GettyImages_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/FontanaLake-scenic-545253132_GettyImages_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/FontanaLake-scenic-545253132_GettyImages_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/outdoor-recreation/" class="o-kicker">Outdoor Recreation</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/outdoor-recreation/fontana-lake/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/outdoor-recreation/fontana-lake/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Get Out on the Water on Fontana Lake Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park"}}'> Get Out on the Water on Fontana Lake Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>This huge lake is home to watersports galore, excellent trails and a fascinating and dark history. </p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2023-06-29T00:00:00-06:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Updated <time datetime="2023-07-03T10:43:23-06:00">Jul 3, 2023</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - 7 Things to Do in Athens, Tennessee" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/gateway-towns/athens-tn/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/gateway-towns/athens-tn/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "7 Things to Do in Athens, Tennessee"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="Athens, Tennessee's Eureka Trail in Autumn" data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/CityOfAthensTN-EurekaTrail-autumn_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/CityOfAthensTN-EurekaTrail-autumn_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/CityOfAthensTN-EurekaTrail-autumn_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/gateway-towns/" class="o-kicker">Gateway Towns</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/gateway-towns/athens-tn/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/gateway-towns/athens-tn/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "7 Things to Do in Athens, Tennessee"}}'> 7 Things to Do in Athens, Tennessee </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>Between Chattanooga and Knoxville, spend some time in the historic town of Athens on your way to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.</p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2023-06-22T00:00:00-06:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Updated <time datetime="2024-07-25T09:58:35-06:00">Jul 25, 2024</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - Explore Great Smoky’s Best Kept Secret at the Hampton Inn Gatlinburg Historic Nature Trail" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/hotels-and-cabins/hampton-inn-gatlinburg/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/hotels-and-cabins/hampton-inn-gatlinburg/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Explore Great Smoky’s Best Kept Secret at the Hampton Inn Gatlinburg Historic Nature Trail"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="Hampton Inn Gatlinburg" data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/HamptonInnGatlinburg-BuildingBackWithCreek_TimAllinson_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/HamptonInnGatlinburg-BuildingBackWithCreek_TimAllinson_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/HamptonInnGatlinburg-BuildingBackWithCreek_TimAllinson_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/hotels-and-cabins/" class="o-kicker">Hotels and Cabins</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/hotels-and-cabins/hampton-inn-gatlinburg/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/hotels-and-cabins/hampton-inn-gatlinburg/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Explore Great Smoky’s Best Kept Secret at the Hampton Inn Gatlinburg Historic Nature Trail"}}'> Explore Great Smoky’s Best Kept Secret at the Hampton Inn Gatlinburg Historic Nature Trail </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>Stay minutes from the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail at this beautiful property in Gatlinburg.</p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2023-06-20T00:00:00-06:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Updated <time datetime="2024-09-24T06:31:51-06:00">Sep 24, 2024</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - Nashville to Knoxville to Great Smoky Mountains Road Trip" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-itineraries/nashville-knoxville-smoky-road-trip/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-itineraries/nashville-knoxville-smoky-road-trip/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Nashville to Knoxville to Great Smoky Mountains Road Trip"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="Downtown Gatlinburg, Tennessee" data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/TN-Gatlinburg-downtown_DP_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/TN-Gatlinburg-downtown_DP_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/TN-Gatlinburg-downtown_DP_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-itineraries/" class="o-kicker">5 Best Road Trips</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-itineraries/nashville-knoxville-smoky-road-trip/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-itineraries/nashville-knoxville-smoky-road-trip/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Nashville to Knoxville to Great Smoky Mountains Road Trip"}}'> Nashville to Knoxville to Great Smoky Mountains Road Trip </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>Hum along on this country road trip.</p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2023-06-17T00:00:00-06:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Updated <time datetime="2024-09-24T06:32:22-06:00">Sep 24, 2024</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - Bryson City’s Portal to Deep Creek in the Smokies" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/gateway-towns/bryson-city-nc/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/gateway-towns/bryson-city-nc/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Bryson City’s Portal to Deep Creek in the Smokies"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="Take a Raft-and-Rail excursion - half scenic rail excursion, half rafting trip on the Nantahala River." data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/NC-Nantahala-River-Raft-and-Rail_WaterwaterAdventures_BrysonSwain_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/NC-Nantahala-River-Raft-and-Rail_WaterwaterAdventures_BrysonSwain_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/NC-Nantahala-River-Raft-and-Rail_WaterwaterAdventures_BrysonSwain_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/gateway-towns/" class="o-kicker">Gateway Towns</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/gateway-towns/bryson-city-nc/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/gateway-towns/bryson-city-nc/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Bryson City’s Portal to Deep Creek in the Smokies"}}'> Bryson City’s Portal to Deep Creek in the Smokies </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p> Bryson City, North Carolina is a quiet town filled with outdoor activities on the water and a historic train next door to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.</p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2023-04-25T00:00:00-06:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Published <time datetime="2023-04-25T00:00:00-06:00">Apr 25, 2023</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - Stop at the Bush’s Visitor Center in the Smokies to Taste, Shop and Learn About Beans" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/attractions/bushs-visitor-center/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/attractions/bushs-visitor-center/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Stop at the Bush’s Visitor Center in the Smokies to Taste, Shop and Learn About Beans"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="Old blue 1940 Ford truck in front of the historic A.J. Bush General Store" data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/BushsVisitorCenter-BlueTruck-HistoricStore_JohnBlack_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/BushsVisitorCenter-BlueTruck-HistoricStore_JohnBlack_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/BushsVisitorCenter-BlueTruck-HistoricStore_JohnBlack_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/attractions/" class="o-kicker">Attractions</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/attractions/bushs-visitor-center/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/attractions/bushs-visitor-center/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Stop at the Bush’s Visitor Center in the Smokies to Taste, Shop and Learn About Beans"}}'> Stop at the Bush’s Visitor Center in the Smokies to Taste, Shop and Learn About Beans </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>Get ready to say, ‘bean there, done that.’ </p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2023-04-17T00:00:00-06:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Updated <time datetime="2024-08-06T11:04:06-06:00">Aug 6, 2024</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - 7 Amazing Things to Do in Gorgeous Ocoee Country, Tennessee" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/ocoee-country-polk-county/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/ocoee-country-polk-county/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "7 Amazing Things to Do in Gorgeous Ocoee Country, Tennessee"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="Hiwassee River in Tennessee" data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/TN-HiwasseeRiver-ApalachiaPowerHouse-1424931411_GettyImages_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/TN-HiwasseeRiver-ApalachiaPowerHouse-1424931411_GettyImages_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/TN-HiwasseeRiver-ApalachiaPowerHouse-1424931411_GettyImages_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/" class="o-kicker">Stops on the Way</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/ocoee-country-polk-county/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/ocoee-country-polk-county/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "7 Amazing Things to Do in Gorgeous Ocoee Country, Tennessee"}}'> 7 Amazing Things to Do in Gorgeous Ocoee Country, Tennessee </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>On the way to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, hike, raft and eat your way through this beautiful corner of the South. </p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2023-03-27T00:00:00-06:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Updated <time datetime="2024-05-17T06:45:22-06:00">May 17, 2024</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - Great Smoky Mountains Essentials: 12 Basic Things You Need to Know" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/park/faqs/great-smoky-mountains-basic-information/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/park/faqs/great-smoky-mountains-basic-information/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Great Smoky Mountains Essentials: 12 Basic Things You Need to Know"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="Cascading stream in Cades Cove in Great Smoky Mountains National Park" data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/SM-CadesCove-CascadingStream-1296222357_GettyImages_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/SM-CadesCove-CascadingStream-1296222357_GettyImages_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/SM-CadesCove-CascadingStream-1296222357_GettyImages_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/park/faqs/" class="o-kicker">FAQs</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/park/faqs/great-smoky-mountains-basic-information/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/park/faqs/great-smoky-mountains-basic-information/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Great Smoky Mountains Essentials: 12 Basic Things You Need to Know"}}'> Great Smoky Mountains Essentials: 12 Basic Things You Need to Know </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>Read this before you plan your visit to the park.</p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2023-03-21T00:00:00-06:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Updated <time datetime="2024-09-24T06:33:07-06:00">Sep 24, 2024</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - Camp at a Vineyard, Brewery or Working Farm with Harvest Hosts" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/camping-rv-parks/harvest-hosts/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/camping-rv-parks/harvest-hosts/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Camp at a Vineyard, Brewery or Working Farm with Harvest Hosts"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="RV Camping at North 40 Alpacas with Harvest Hosts" data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/HarvestHosts-North40Alpacas_mid_FredEversen_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/HarvestHosts-North40Alpacas_mid_FredEversen_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/HarvestHosts-North40Alpacas_mid_FredEversen_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/camping-rv-parks/" class="o-kicker">Camping, Glamping and RV Parks</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/camping-rv-parks/harvest-hosts/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/camping-rv-parks/harvest-hosts/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Camp at a Vineyard, Brewery or Working Farm with Harvest Hosts"}}'> Camp at a Vineyard, Brewery or Working Farm with Harvest Hosts </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>Upgrade your next national park road trip by booking a stay with Harvest Hosts at unique local producers nationwide.</p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2023-03-07T00:00:00-07:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Updated <time datetime="2024-02-21T06:41:48-07:00">Feb 21, 2024</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - When is the Best Season to Visit the Smokies?" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/park/weather-seasons/best-season/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/park/weather-seasons/best-season/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "When is the Best Season to Visit the Smokies?"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="Autumn leaves drop in Lynn Prong Creek in Great Smoky Mountains National Park" data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/SM-LynnProngCreek-autumn_Tam22NormanLathrop_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/SM-LynnProngCreek-autumn_Tam22NormanLathrop_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/SM-LynnProngCreek-autumn_Tam22NormanLathrop_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/park/weather-seasons/" class="o-kicker">Weather and Seasons</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/park/weather-seasons/best-season/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/park/weather-seasons/best-season/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "When is the Best Season to Visit the Smokies?"}}'> When is the Best Season to Visit the Smokies? </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>Pros and cons to visiting this mountainous park in every season.</p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2023-03-02T00:00:00-07:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Updated <time datetime="2024-11-11T11:39:59-07:00">Nov 11, 2024</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - Find Family Fun Under Pigeon Forge’s Sparkling Lights" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/gateway-towns/pigeon-forge-tn/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/gateway-towns/pigeon-forge-tn/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Find Family Fun Under Pigeon Forge’s Sparkling Lights"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="The Island in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee" data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/PigeonForgeDeptTourism-TheIsland-FerrisWheel_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/PigeonForgeDeptTourism-TheIsland-FerrisWheel_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/PigeonForgeDeptTourism-TheIsland-FerrisWheel_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/gateway-towns/" class="o-kicker">Gateway Towns</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/gateway-towns/pigeon-forge-tn/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/gateway-towns/pigeon-forge-tn/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Find Family Fun Under Pigeon Forge’s Sparkling Lights"}}'> Find Family Fun Under Pigeon Forge’s Sparkling Lights </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>Stay 20 minutes from Great Smoky Mountains National Park in this city with no shortage of things to do.</p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2023-02-24T00:00:00-07:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Updated <time datetime="2023-06-13T15:02:23-06:00">Jun 13, 2023</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - 5 Best Adventures in Great Smoky Mountains National Park" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/park-itineraries/great-smoky-adventures/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/park-itineraries/great-smoky-adventures/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "5 Best Adventures in Great Smoky Mountains National Park"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="Biking Cades Cove in Great Smoky Mountains National Park" data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/SM-bikes-CadesCove_Tam19RuthAckermann_1600.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/SM-bikes-CadesCove_Tam19RuthAckermann_1600.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/SM-bikes-CadesCove_Tam19RuthAckermann_1600.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/park-itineraries/" class="o-kicker">Park Itineraries</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/park-itineraries/great-smoky-adventures/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/park-itineraries/great-smoky-adventures/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "5 Best Adventures in Great Smoky Mountains National Park"}}'> 5 Best Adventures in Great Smoky Mountains National Park </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>Backpack the trails, paddle a canoe, ski or bike through some of the park’s most incredible scenery while testing your endurance.</p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2023-02-21T00:00:00-07:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Updated <time datetime="2024-09-24T06:35:18-06:00">Sep 24, 2024</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - Smoky Mountain Beer & Spirits Trail near National Park" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/restaurants/haywood-beer-and-spirits-trail/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/restaurants/haywood-beer-and-spirits-trail/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Smoky Mountain Beer & Spirits Trail near National Park"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="BearWaters Brewery in Canton, NC, in Haywood County" data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/NC-BearWatersBrewery-Canton-PigeonRiver_FlickrAnoldent_1600.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/NC-BearWatersBrewery-Canton-PigeonRiver_FlickrAnoldent_1600.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/NC-BearWatersBrewery-Canton-PigeonRiver_FlickrAnoldent_1600.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/restaurants/" class="o-kicker">Restaurants, Breweries and Wineries</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/restaurants/haywood-beer-and-spirits-trail/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/restaurants/haywood-beer-and-spirits-trail/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Smoky Mountain Beer & Spirits Trail near National Park"}}'> Smoky Mountain Beer & Spirits Trail near National Park </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>From Canton to Waynesville to Maggie Valley, experience North Carolina’s craft beer and spirits scene in Haywood County.</p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2023-02-14T00:00:00-07:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Published <time datetime="2023-02-14T00:00:00-07:00">Feb 14, 2023</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - Nature and American History Collide in Greeneville, Tennessee" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/greeneville-tn/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/greeneville-tn/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Nature and American History Collide in Greeneville, Tennessee"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="Bible Covered Bridge in Tennessee" data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GreeneCountyPartnership-BibleCoveredBridge_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GreeneCountyPartnership-BibleCoveredBridge_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GreeneCountyPartnership-BibleCoveredBridge_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/" class="o-kicker">Stops on the Way</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/greeneville-tn/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/greeneville-tn/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Nature and American History Collide in Greeneville, Tennessee"}}'> Nature and American History Collide in Greeneville, Tennessee </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>Go hiking with llamas, relax next to a peaceful river or stay in a historic inn near Great Smoky Mountains National Park. </p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2023-02-02T00:00:00-07:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Updated <time datetime="2023-02-03T07:45:56-07:00">Feb 3, 2023</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - Best of Carter County, Tennessee" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/carter-county/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/carter-county/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Best of Carter County, Tennessee"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="Blue Hole Falls near Elizabethton, Tenn." data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/CarterTourism-BlueHoleFalls_JohnsonCirtyAerialPhotography_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/CarterTourism-BlueHoleFalls_JohnsonCirtyAerialPhotography_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/CarterTourism-BlueHoleFalls_JohnsonCirtyAerialPhotography_courtesy_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/" class="o-kicker">Stops on the Way</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/carter-county/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/carter-county/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "Best of Carter County, Tennessee"}}'> Best of Carter County, Tennessee </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>Spend the weekend in beautiful Carter County, Tennessee, north of Great Smoky Mountains National Park for amazing outdoor recreation and small town charm.</p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2022-10-31T00:00:00-06:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Updated <time datetime="2023-01-30T16:02:12-07:00">Jan 30, 2023</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - LeConte Lodge inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/hotels-and-cabins/leconte-lodge/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/hotels-and-cabins/leconte-lodge/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "LeConte Lodge inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="LeConte Lodge on Mt. Le Conte in Great Smoky Mountains National Park." data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/SM-LeConteLodge-cabins-532980710_GettyImages_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/SM-LeConteLodge-cabins-532980710_GettyImages_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/SM-LeConteLodge-cabins-532980710_GettyImages_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/hotels-and-cabins/" class="o-kicker">Hotels and Cabins</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/hotels-and-cabins/leconte-lodge/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/hotels-and-cabins/leconte-lodge/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "LeConte Lodge inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park"}}'> LeConte Lodge inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>Hike to the only lodging in Great Smoky Mountains National Park</p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2022-10-10T00:00:00-06:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Updated <time datetime="2023-10-10T17:33:44-06:00">Oct 10, 2023</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article class="c-block c-block-standard c-block--post u-align--center c-block--inline"> <div class="c-block__media u-position--relative "> <a aria-label="Read more - 5 Best Places to See Fall Colors in North Carolina’s Smoky Mountains" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/park/weather-seasons/north-carolina-fall-colors-great-smoky/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/park/weather-seasons/north-carolina-fall-colors-great-smoky/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "5 Best Places to See Fall Colors in North Carolina’s Smoky Mountains"}}'> <picture class="lazy u-ratio-sq" data-alt="A scenic view from Waterrock Knob on the Blue Ridge Parkway in early October at peak fall color." data-iesrc="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/BlueRidgePkwy-WaterrockKnob-road-autumn-183427206_GettyImages_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/BlueRidgePkwy-WaterrockKnob-road-autumn-183427206_GettyImages_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=250&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 700px)" width="700" height="500"> <source srcset="https://cdn.mysmokymountainpark.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/BlueRidgePkwy-WaterrockKnob-road-autumn-183427206_GettyImages_2400.jpg?crop=1:1&width=130&enable=upscale" media="(min-width: 0)" width="300" height="300"> </picture> </a> </div> <div class="c-block__content u-position--relative u-padding--top "> <div class="c-block__kicker u-corner-accent o-kicker-container "> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/park/weather-seasons/" class="o-kicker">Weather and Seasons</a> </div> <div class="c-block__inner u-spacing--half u-flex u-flex-directon--column"> <h3 class="c-block__title"> <a class="o-heading-link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/park/weather-seasons/north-carolina-fall-colors-great-smoky/" data-analytics-event="click" data-analytics-data='{"name": "Post Clicked", "props": {"domain": "<<analytics_vars.domain>>", "path": "https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/park/weather-seasons/north-carolina-fall-colors-great-smoky/", "listing_type": "author-archive", "location": "list", "title": "5 Best Places to See Fall Colors in North Carolina’s Smoky Mountains"}}'> 5 Best Places to See Fall Colors in North Carolina’s Smoky Mountains </a> </h3> <div class="c-block__dek"> <p>Find gorgeous fall colors on these perfect hikes, viewpoints and scenic drives near Waynesville and Maggie Valley, N.C.</p> </div> <div class="o-post-meta"> <div class="o-post-meta__author-item"> <a rel="author" class="o-byline o-post-meta__link" href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/"> <strong>Mikaela Ruland</strong> </a> </div> <time class="c-block__date" datetime="2022-09-02T00:00:00-06:00"> <span class="o-timestamp"> Updated <time datetime="2023-01-30T16:00:45-07:00">Jan 30, 2023</time> </span> </time> </div> </div> </div> </article> </div> </div> <div class="c-pagination u-align--center"> <ul class="u-flex c-pagination__list"> <li class="c-pagination__list-item"> <span class="page-number page-numbers current">1</span> </li> <li class="c-pagination__list-item"> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/page/2/?scope=anon" class="page-number page-numbers">2</a> </li> </ul> <a href="https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/byline/mikaela-ruland/page/2/?scope=anon" class="c-pagination__link c-pagination__link--next "><span class="o-icon u-icon--s u-path-fill--primary"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 30 30"><polygon points="7.89 -0.01 6.6 1.24 20.86 15.02 6.59 28.81 7.9 29.99 23.4 15.02 7.89 -0.01"/></svg> </span><span 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