Great Smoky Mountains is the most-visited national park in the US, with misty ridgelines, waterfalls, wildlife and fall color. Asheville adds breweries, art and the Biltmore Estate nearby.
Good to know
- Parking permits are required in the national park; buy at entry points or online.
- Fall color peaks mid-to-late October at elevation and early November lower.
- Black bears are active; store food properly and keep your distance.
Eat this
Places the planner can use
Mark places as a must or something to skip. The itinerary is built only from this list; ★ marks the destination’s highlights.
America's favorite scenic drive with waterfalls and overlooks.
America's largest home, with a winery and gardens.
Working artists' studios and galleries in converted factories.
More breweries per capita than almost any US city.
Bluegrass and old-time music in venues across town.
11-mile scenic loop with historic cabins and deer, turkeys and bears.
Highest point in the park with a spiral observation tower and cool air.
Strenuous hike with a cliff-hugging section and high views.
Short paved trail to a 80-foot waterfall, popular and crowded.
Kitschy resort town with an aerial tram and moonshine tastings.
Dolly Parton's theme park with coasters, bluegrass shows and craft demos.