smoky mountains tour from nashville

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Nashville & the Smoky Mountains Holiday

About this tour.

Take in the sights and sounds of the holidays in Nashville, Gatlinburg and Asheville. Enjoy reserved seats at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville. Tour historic RCA Studio B and see where country legends recorded hit songs. Experience a magical holiday dinner and show at the Opryland Resort. Delight in a choice of a horse-drawn carriage ride or a Grand Ole Opry Resort’s Delta River cruise and marvel at all the holiday lights and décor. A visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame is sure to have you hummin’ and strummin’ long after you leave Nashville. Marvel at the spectacular light displays and shows celebrating the spirit of the holidays at Dollywood. Explore the natural wonders of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Then, travel to Asheville, North Carolina, and enjoy the city’s historic architecture, engaging neighborhoods and robust arts districts. Tour the Biltmore Estate, George Vanderbilt’s "little mountain escape” in the Blue Ridge Mountains, elaborately adorned for the holidays. When you leave, you’ll have the warmth and charm of the south still in your heart.

Your Tour Includes

• 3 Handpicked Accommodations
• 2 Choice on Tour Options

Included Highlights

• Grand Ole Opry Show
• Historic RCA Studio B
• Country Music Hall of Fame
• Gaylord Opryland Resort Dinner & Holiday Show

Your Tour at a Glance

7 Breakfasts

2 - Moderate

Travel Style

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

Travel styles, highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

Enjoy a Smoky Mountain Christmas at Dollywood.

• Marvel at Asheville's Biltmore Estate during the holiday season.

Explore the grandeur of nature at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Cultural Experiences:

• Experience the Gaylord Opryland Resort’s magical holiday displays with over 2 million lights and unique Music City-inspired décor.

Enjoy reserved seats at the Grand Ole Opry, the “home of American music.”

Culinary Inclusions:

Delight in a festive holiday dinner and show at the Gaylord Opryland Hotel.

Taste some Smoky Mountain Moonshine at “the Holler.”

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Biltmore Estate

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* With Insurance Purchased

• *No Hassle Refunds
• Traveling Well Safety
• No booking fee, *no change fees
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Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour, upgrade your room.

Hotel Upgrade

• Choice On Tour

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Room Upgrade

Hotel-gaylord opryland resort.

During your stay in Nashville, you may choose to enjoy views of one of the Gaylord Opryland Resort's beautiful atria by upgrading your accomodations to a superior room. Please inquire about this upgrade at time of booking.

*Total for all passengers

Enhance Your Trip

In Nashville, you have the choice between two activities. Your first option is to enjoy a leisurely flat boat ride on the indoor river in the Opryland Resort's Delta atrium. Take in the sites and sounds of holidays at the Gaylord while enjoying the light displays. Your second option is to bundle up and take an outdoor horsedrawn carriage at night to see the hotel grounds strong with holiday lights including the beautiful southern magnolias.

Marvel at Asheville's Biltmore Estate during the holiday season.

Experience the Gaylord Opryland Resort’s magical holiday displays with over 2 million lights and unique Music City-inspired décor.

Accommodations

Gaylord opryland resort, hilton garden inn gatlinburg, cambria hotel downtown asheville, need more information.

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31 Best Smoky Mountain Tours for Unforgettable Experiences

There are so many fantastic things to do in the Smoky Mountains region that Smoky Mountain tours are a great place to start!

East Tennessee has so many renowned, must-see destinations — the Great Smoky Mountains National Park , Dollywood, the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park with the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America, and Anakeesta where you can ride a mountain coaster and zip line through the treetops.

Also, there are plenty of popular Appalachian activities, including off-roading in an ATV or Jeep, fishing , horseback riding , zip lining , hiking , whitewater rafting , and so much more!

To get the most out of your Smokies vacation, take a tour (or two, or three). There’s an abundance of Smoky Mountain tours available, many of which include all of the aforementioned activities and destinations so that you can have an unforgettable time in the Appalachians!

Jayell Ranch

1131 Jayell Rd, Sevierville, TN 37862

Jayell Ranch offers several kinds of adventurous tours, including horseback rides, ATV and UTV rides, and zip line tours. The mudslinging, off-road ATV tour is 12 miles long and features views of the Smokies.

Then, zip down one of the longest zip lines of all the Smoky Mountain tours — a 2-mile route through the canopy. And, the 4-mile tour on horseback leads through scenic areas with views of Shields Mountain Fort, Mount Le Conte, and more.

Foxfire Mountain Adventure Park

3757 Thomas Ln, Sevierville, TN 37876

Foxfire Mountain offers a variety of guided and self-guided Smoky Mountain tours.

The Waterfall Canopy Zipline Tour features two sky bridges, seven zip lines, and aerial views of the creek and lost mine waterfall. The Goliath Zipline Tour is not for the faint of heart because it’s one of the fastest in the United States and reaches speeds of up to 60 mph!

Other tours include the ATV tour, which follows rugged and winding off-road trails, as well as self-guided tours along hiking paths and a swinging bridge.

Pink Jeep Tours

2611 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

Tour through the heart of the Smoky Mountains in an open-air pink Jeep Wrangler. These adventurous Smoky Mountain tours are led by certified guides and will not only provide gorgeous sights, but you’ll also learn about the history of the area and see hidden gems!

There are several Pink Jeep Tours of various locations, some of which are seasonal. Choose from the Pigeon Forge Christmas Lights Tour, Foothills Parkway Smoky Mountains Tour, and more.

Smoky Mountain Adventure Tours

4663 Hooper Hwy, Cosby, TN 37722

Enjoy four-wheeling in the Smokies on these about two-hour, guided UTV tours on the outskirts of Gatlinburg. You’ll see sweeping mountain vistas, forested hills, woodlands, and more as you tour the area from the seat of a Polaris UTV.

The Smoky Mountain Angler

469 Brookside Village Way, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

If you’re new to fishing, one of Smoky Mountain Angler’s guided fishing trips will teach you a lot and provide a great experience. These trips offer guided half and full-day float trips and wade trips.

The half-day trips last about four hours, while the full-day trips are nearly eight hours. Get ready to take home a good amount of trout and bass!

Smoky Mountain Guides

Sevierville, TN

Smoky Mountain Guides is one of the most popular Smoky Mountain tour services in the area. It offers a wide array of tours, including:

• Guided day hikes
• Guided backpacking trips
• Small group day tours
• Guided fly fishing
• Flatwater kayak tours
• Synchronized lightning bug experiences

The day-hike trips are some of the best. Hike in gorgeous scenery with incredible vistas in areas like Clingmans Dome, Grotto Falls, and the Appalachian Waterfalls.

Fontana Village Resort & Marina

300 Woods Rd, Fontana Dam, NC 28733

Tour Fontana Lake by taking a relaxing cruise on the water via a pontoon boat. Both afternoon and sunset lake cruises meander along the scenic Hazel Creek and Eagle waterways. Watching the sunset under the mountains is a beautiful experience.

The resort also offers guided hikes just outside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park!

Big Rock Dude Ranch

909 Little Cove Rd, Pigeon Forge , TN 37863

These Smoky Mountain tours on horseback will take you up into the mountains surrounding Pigeon Forge! Experience the hills and valleys like the settlers did as they first explored the Smokies.

When your horseback tour is over, the Ranch also has family-friendly outdoor activities, including gem mining, fishing, a petting zoo, a picnic area, and a General Store.

Smoky Mountains Jeep Tours

2826 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

Wander through the Smokies either through the treetops or from the back of a Jeep!

The family and group-friendly Jeep tours in a custom vehicle are held in several scenic destinations, including Foothills Parkway, Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, and Newfound Gap. It has a seasonal Winterfest Scenic Evening Tour of holiday lights too.

And, the Wahoo Ziplines feature a couple of miles of cables that glide you through forests at varying heights — 40 to 250 feet above the ground.

Tennessee Mountain Tours

Pigeon Forge, TN

Tennessee Mountain Tours provides scenic, educational, and unique Smoky Mountain tours for unforgettable experiences. One of its most popular is the Moonshine and Wine Tour, during which you enjoy tastings at four wineries, three moonshine distilleries, and a cider mill.

Other tours include the seasonal holiday Tour of Lights, Vittles and Views, Sights of the Smokies, Cades Cove , and the Trees of Many Colors Tour.

A Walk in the Woods

4413 E Scenic Dr, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

This locally owned and operated company has been providing visitors with Smoky Mountain tours for over 20 years. It offers a large array of tours, including:

• Guided walking tours and hikes
• Automobile tours
• Step-on tours (if you have your own bus to use)
• Shuttles driven by experienced drivers

All tours are led by expert guides with knowledge of the Smokies’ wildlife, botany, history, culture, and geology, leaving you with a well-rounded experience.

River Rat Whitewater Rafting

3630 Hartford Rd, Hartford, TN 37753

205 Wears Valley Rd, Townsend, TN 37882

Adventurous families and groups can enjoy thrilling, guided whitewater rafting trips that run between the Cherokee National Forest and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park . Rafting trips can also include swimming, rock jumping, surfing, and sliding too!

This Smoky Mountain tour company is open seasonally from March through Labor Day each year.

Rip Roaring Adventures

3555 Wheat Way, Hartford, TN 37753

This family-owned and operated company leads whitewater rafting trips in the Cherokee State Forest and the Smokies for groups of all challenge levels — ages 3 and up!

Trips down the Pigeon River are thrilling yet safe and informative, led by excellent and experienced tour guides. One of the most popular rafting tours available is the Scenic Family Float.

Rip Roaring Adventures in 2021 was voted the #1 Family-Friendly Experience in the World by Travelers’ Choice.

Gratitude Hikes

9275 Tremont Rd, Townsend, TN 37882

Experience the Smokies on a private hiking tour led by experienced guide Scott Colby. Group hiking tours meet at the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont and continue on from there to explore the beautiful nature leading up to a waterfall.

These hiking tours are “unplugged,” helping participants stay present in the moment while they wander through the Smokies. The three-hour guided hike is suitable for all levels of hikers.

Smoky Mountain Helicopters

Multiple locations

Tour the Smokies by helicopter! Since 1964, this long-running company has been providing scenic helicopter tours of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and surrounding areas. Various helicopter tour packages are available, and private tours can be arranged.

This Smoky Mountain tour company has three convenient locations to choose from — two in Sevierville Tennessee and one in Cherokee North Carolina.

Scenic Helicopter Tours

See the Great Smoky Mountains from above with Scenic Helicopter Tours. This Smoky Mountain tour company is family-run, has experienced and professional staff, and offers both FAA and National Park Service-approved flights.

You’re bound to have a great experience because the company has hundreds of five-star Tripadvisor and Google reviews. In 2022, it was named in the top 10% of attractions worldwide by Travelers’ Choice.

On top of that, the company offers private, on-demand helicopter charters for those requesting transportation within 200 nautical miles of Knoxville Tennessee.

Scenic Helicopter Tours has two locations — a ticket office in Pigeon Forge with a heliport in Sevierville and another location in Fletcher North Carolina.

Rocky Top Wine Trail

Sip and tour through five of the top local wineries in Pigeon Forge Tennessee! The Rocky Top Wine Trail has more than 75 fabulous wines that you can sample.

Just stop by one of the participating wineries, pick up a “passport,” and have your passport stamped at each winery. After visiting at least three locations, you’ll receive a complimentary souvenir wine glass!

In addition, VIP wine shuttle tours are available and transport you to Mountain Valley Winery, Hillside Winery, and Mill Bridge Winery.

Smoky Mountain Llama Treks

640 Padgett Mill Rd, Cosby, TN 37722

Did you know that you could hike with llamas through the Smokies!? Explore forested mountains and woodland trails on these guided hikes with your own personal trail buddy — an adorable, trained llama.

These treks are great for visitors of all ages! Have fun walking a llama through the woods while you connect with the animals and the fantastic nature that the Smoky Mountains region provides.

After your tour, head back to the llama farm to enjoy spending quality time with the animals, feeding them, and more.

The Redneck Comedy Bus Tour

2530 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

This unique Smoky Mountain tour will have you laughing your way through the Smokies.

Take a bus ride with some “redneck” comedians who will tell you all about mullets, camouflage, moonshine, and whether you could make it as a hillbilly — all while touring the mountains and woodlands. The Pigeon Forge Redneck Tour meets at Lumberjack Square (Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud).

The Redneck Comedy Bus Tour also has a seasonal Smoky Mountain Christmas Light Ride. You can even book private Smoky Mountain tours for your group!

Gatlinburg Comedy Tours

651 Parkway #107, Gatlinburg, TN 337738

In need of some more laughs? You’ll love these comedy walking tours that begin in downtown Gatlinburg. There are a couple of tours available, including Family-Friendly Tours, 21+ Comedy Tours, and private group tours.

The Family-Friendly Tours highlight popular Gatlinburg destinations, hidden gems, and interesting facts. You’ll get to try local hot sauce, discover a great doughnut shop, and more! The 21+ Comedy Tours feature all of the above with an emphasis on destinations that cater to adults.

My Bigfoot Adventure

You can’t go to the Smokies without hunting for Bigfoot! These unique Smoky Mountain tours provide fantastic scenery and education about local history — including the legendary sasquatch, of course. The tours can accommodate private groups of up to 14 people on the shuttle bus.

Also, the company offers seasonal and special tours, such as The Santa Bus during the holiday season and Valentine Wine and Shine tours.

Wildwater Adventures

Wildwater Adventures is a one-stop tour destination! It offers a variety of tours that are perfect for thrill-seekers, including Jeep tours — even one that starts with a train ride to get to your Jeep — zip line canopy tours, whitewater rafting, and even cabin and yurt lodging for extended trips.

Wildwater Adventure has four locations around the Smokies — Ducktown and Hartford Tennessee and Asheville and Bryson City North Carolina.

Wildwater was the first outfitter to begin commercial rafting down the Chattooga River!

Rocky Top Tours

2828 Parkway # 20, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

This Smoky Mountain tour company will provide comfortable, guided tours from its mini-coach buses. The tours are suitable for visitors of all ages.

And, the guides stop by top local destinations, show you fantastic scenery and vistas, and educate you on the local region’s flora and fauna, history, and more. You may even see wildlife, like turkeys, deer, bears, raccoons, and more!

There are several tour options available, including Historical Cades Cove, Dolly’s Rags to Riches, the Smoky Mountains Special Tour, and Foothills Parkway.

Gatlinburg Haunts

115 Historic Nature Trail, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

Meet the ghosts of the Great Smoky Mountains ! This eerie tour will take you to eight destinations that each have a uniquely dark past. The locations are on the Gatlinburg Strip, which is known for frequent reports of paranormal activity.

Learn about the haunting history and mysteries of the area — tales of witchcraft, feuds, ancient Celtic traditions, and even cannibals. This spooky tour starts at The Gatlinburg Space Needle.

Tours by Stella

Gatlinburg, TN

These guided hikes, walking tours, and motor coach step-on guided tours are led by Stella, who has more than 20 years of experience in both travel and tourism.

Enjoy an unplugged respite in nature away from the stresses of daily life as you hike for a couple of miles while connecting with the beauty and wonder of the Smokies.

There are 2.5-hour and 3.5-hour hiking tours available, both at fairly easy difficulty levels. Stella’s step-on tours are perfect for private bus groups who want to learn more about the history of the region.

Smoky Mountain Tour Connection

2539 McGill St, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

Smoky Mountain Tour Connection has been a well-known, reputable, and professional Smokies motor coach and step-on tour company since 1977.

It offers multiple tours with varying lengths of three to eight hours. Travel through the picturesque Newfound Gap. See the historic churches in Sevier County. Take a trip to Laurel Falls, Clingmans Dome, Cades Cove, the “Secret City,” and more.

Other special tours include the seasonal Winterfest Lights, Mountain Music and Storytelling, One-Way Cherokee Adventure, and One-Way America’s First Frontier tours.

Smoky Mountain Ebike Adventures

8205 TN-73 Unit #2, Townsend, TN 37882

849 Glades Rd Suite 2B1, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

Tour the heart of the Smoky Mountains from the seat of an e-bike! The Little River electric bike ride tour lasts about two hours and begins at the Townsend location, where bikers of all levels will receive training prior to the tour.

Participants are then shuttled to Coulter Bridge in Walland to begin the easy and comfortable e-bike ride down scenic backcountry roads along the river. You will even get ice cream or coffee along the way!

Smoky Mountain Touring

Nashville, TN

Hit the open road for a long journey on a motorcycle on a one or three-day tour.

You’ll travel on lesser-known byways and some well-known scenic routes as you circle from Nashville through Tennessee to Georgia, up along the borders of North and South Carolina toward Virginia, west through Kentucky, and eventually, back to where your journey began.

Some stops along the way on this Smoky Mountain tour include the historic Jack Daniel’s Distillery, the idyllic Blue Ridge Parkway, mountain tunnels, waterfalls, and more.

Smoky Mountain Ziplines

509 Mill Creek Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

Smoky Mountain Ziplines offers zip line and canopy tours on more than 4,200 feet of combined cable! It’s the longest, continuously operating canopy tour company within Pigeon Forge and the surrounding area.

Professionally trained guides will lead you through the sky at up to 25 mph on your choice of seven cable tracks. Expect to fly across lengths of 800 feet at over 150 feet above the ground!

Guides will remain with you throughout the entirety of the experience and help you, making it a great choice for those who are new to zip lining.

Wildland Trekking

Wildland Trekking offers guided trips in many worldwide destinations. Its Smoky Mountain tours include guided day hikes, backpacking trips, kayaking tours (“paddle and hike” tours), multi-day hiking tours with inn stays, women’s adventure trips, portered treks, and family-friendly guided trips.

You don’t want to miss the Smokies fall foliage tours, during which you’ll see how beautiful the Smokies are in autumn. Usually, the tours begin from several locations in Asheville North Carolina depending on your chosen adventure.

FAQs About Smoky Mountain Tours

Do you need to reserve a smoky mountain tour in advance.

Many Smoky Mountain tour services require an advance reservation, but two that don’t require reservations are Jayell Ranch and Big Rock Dude Ranch.

What if I’d rather take a self-guided tour of the Smokies?

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has a comprehensive list of beautiful areas and scenic roads within the park for driving tours , including Cades Cove Loop Road, Cataloochee Valley, Foothills Parkway, Newfound Gap Road, and more!

Detailed auto tour booklets are available to purchase at park visitor centers and online.

Are Smoky Mountain tours family friendly?

Many of the tours of the Smokies are family friendly. But, it depends on the type of tour and the age of your family members.

Some tour experiences — like zip lining, backpacking, and horseback rides — may not be suitable for young children.

Choose Your Smoky Mountains Tours & Adventures

Taking these Smoky Mountain tours will only enhance your trip as expert guides lead you through the heart of Appalachia!

Whether you zip line through the canopy, go off-roading on an ATV, hike through the woodlands, catch bass at Fontana Lake, or laugh on a comedy tour through the Smokies, you’re bound to have a fun and memorable experience on these Smoky Mountain tours.

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Nashville to the Great Smoky Mountains road trip

• Post last modified: March 10, 2024

The dream of the wilderness is real on this Nashville to the Great Smoky Mountains road trip. In the Smokies , the denser forests, clearer rivers and quieter valleys take you back to a different time. As you leave civilization behind, remarkable outdoor adventures begin.

Disclosure: All listings are independently selected. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more ›

Route from Nashville to the Smokies

• Start: Nashville
• Burgess Falls
• Pigeon Forge
• Finish: Nashville
• Total distance:  459 mi / 739 km
• Total driving time:  9 h

1. Nashville, TN

The main attraction on your Nashville to the Great Smoky Mountains road trip is, of course, the Smokies. But for some contrasting fun before the drive takes off the best things to do in Nashville are there for the taking.

Sing along on Honky Tonk Highway

Nashville is often referred to as Music City. If you’re not sure why, just visit Honky Tonk Highway on Lower Broadway in Downtown Nashville.

Day or night its high-spirited bars, also known as honky-tonks, make Downtown Nashville a fun place to be. Like living notes lined up next to each other the honky-tonks pour music onto the streets.

The honky-tonks provide free top-class entertainment 365 days a year. It’s plain good old fun ahead of the drive from Nashville to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Catch the Grand Ole Opry

The Grand Ole Opry started as a radio broadcast in 1925. Over the years its success has made the Grand Ole Opry recognized as the show that made country music famous.

Today the Grand Ole Opry’s unique live music experiences are world famous. Every week a mix of country music artists, from established superstars to rising stars, perform on the Grand Ole Opry scene.

It’s not only the number one show in Nashville. The Grand Ole Opry is also the most prestigous stage in country music.

2. Burgess Falls, TN

• Driving distance:  80 mi / 129 km
• Driving time:  1.5 h

The Great Smoky Mountains is far from the only natural Tennessee gem. On the way from Nashville to the Smokies, you pass by Burgess Falls, one of the most scenic waterfalls in Tennessee.

Route info: Burgess Falls is a detour that in total adds roughly 30 minutes to the itinerary, compared to if you just stick to the highway.

Have a picnic by waterfalls

Burgess Falls State Park protects the environment of the Falling Water River. It’s a natural area home to gurgling river nature, including several stunning waterfalls.

From the parking lot the River Trail elegantly traces the Falling Water River and its falls. It’s a stretch of waterfalls that gets better and better with every step.

After 0.8 miles (1.3 km) the experience culminates at the main falls. There the Falling Water River without hesitation crashes more than 130 feet (40 m) down into the pool below.

Want to make this stop even better?

Then pack your favorite picnic food before you leave Nashville. The gorgeous Burgess Falls State Park is equipped with appreciated picnic tables.

Additional stop: Tennessee is a state full of waterfalls. Another such, which is an easy addition to the itinerary, is Cummins Falls . It plunges less than 20 miles (32 km) from Burgess Falls.

3. Pigeon Forge, TN

• Driving distance:  145 mi / 233 km
• Driving time:  2.5 h

Pigeon Forge offers a unique experience at the foothills of the mighty Great Smoky Mountains. So near the untamed Great Smoky Mountains National Park you find an abundance of manmade attractions, including an American theme park favorite.

Celebrate life at Dollywood

Year after year millions of visitors enter the gates of Dollywood in Pigeon Forge. It’s the biggest ticketed attraction not only in the Smoky Mountains area but in the entire state of Tennessee.

Dollywood, surrounded by the Smoky Mountains, features everything from fun slides and thrilling rides to diverse shops and memorable shows.

As an extra dimension Dollywood is a park that treasures its past. Many of its themed areas and attractions pay attention to the history and culture of the southern Appalachian region.

Embark the Titanic

Pigeon Forge is just filled with opportunities for your Nashville to Great Smoky Mountains National Park road trip. Another highlight, but of different character, is the Titanic Museum .

In two stories and shaped like the Titanic itself the museum takes you back to the year of 1912. As you embark the ship replica, the experience lets you feel like being a maiden voyage passenger.

4. Gatlinburg, TN

• Driving distance:  8 mi / 13 km
• Driving time:  0.5 h

Well done, you made it from Nashville to America’s most visited national park. Gatlinburg serves as the eastern gateway to the endless amount of things to do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park .

Covering 522,419 acres the Tennessee and North Carolina park is named after the natural fog that often appears within its borders. No matter if it’s your first or tenth visit, there’s a certain mystique about the Smokies.

Drive the Roaring Fork Motor Trail

The Roaring Fork is a stream that begins high up in the mountains. Many days the watercourse might seem quiet, but it only takes mild rain for the Roaring Fork to, just like its name suggests, start roaring.

Along this volatile mountain stream the one-way Roaring Fork Motor Trail extends. It’s 6 miles (10 km) long showcasing all the ingredients that you associate with the Smokies.

Highlights along the Roaring Fork Motor Trail include jaw-dropping vistas, historic cabins and the hike to the crashing Grotto Falls.

But you in fact don’t even need to enter the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail to find points of interest. At its start the preserved Noah Ogle Place and the trailhead for the awe-inspiring Rainbow Falls lure you in.

Climb Clingmans Dome

Clingmans Dome is the spot for unobstructed views. It’s at 6,643 feet (2,025 m) the tallest point of the Great Smoky Mountains and the third most elevated mountain east of Mississippi River.

The 7 miles (11 km) long Clingmans Dome Road treats you with scenic vistas as the road climb towards the summit. From the Clingmans Dome parking lot a paved 0.5 mile (805 m) trail takes you the final stretch up.

At the summit an observation tower provides panoramic views of the Smokies. A clear day you can see more than 100 miles (160 km) in any direction. But even hazy days Clingmans Dome is spectacular.

• Where to stay in the Smokies

Deciding where to stay in Great Smoky Mountains can seem a little tricky. However, in Gatlinburg you’re in the front row for both park fun and attractions off the park.

• Margaritaville Resort – Enjoy resort amenities.
• Marshall’s Creek Motel – Cozy in the town’s heart.

Route info: Great Smoky Mountains National Park is open year round, but several secondary park roads are closed from late November to early April. Therefore it’s wise to check the Great Smoky Mountains seasonal road schedule if you plan a drive during the colder months of the year.

5. Townsend, TN

• Driving distance:  25 mi / 40 km
• Driving time:  1 h

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a park with two distinctive sides. The eastern side, where you find Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, is the busier one. In contrast the western part is known as the peaceful side.

Although sleepy, Townsend is conveniently positioned for exploring the western side of the Smokies. From its park border location it’s just 20 minutes to the beginning of the timeless Cades Cove.

Take Cades Cove Loop Road

Cades Cove, the most famous valley in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is widely known for its natural beauty. The 11 miles (18 km) long Cades Cove Loop Road shows you exactly why.

As you tour Cades Cove Loop Road, the enchanting meadows and rising mountains are breathtaking. For scenery or just to disconnect it’s a remarkable spot on the itinerary.

But along the drive human history also calls for your attention.

Once a home to settlers Cades Cove presents a variety of preserved buildings from the 19th and early 20th centuries. Its churches, cabins, barns and even a mill tell fascinating stories of its early inhabitants.

View black bears in Cades Cove

Members of the animal kingdom love Cades Cove at least as much as its human visitors. Because of that the opportunities for wildlife viewing are superb in the isolated Tennessee valley.

White-tailed deer, elk, raccoon and turkeys are some of the animals that frequent Cades Cove.

Then there of course are the iconic black bears of the Smoky Mountains. A large, irresistible population of black bears calls Cades Cove their home.

Seeing black bears in Cades Cove is exciting. It’s also a memory for life to bring with you home from your Great Smoky Mountains National Park visit.

6. Nashville, TN

• Driving distance:  201 mi / 323 km
• Driving time:  3.5 h

After a spectacular drive it’s time to head back to civlization. The final 201 miles (323 km) on the road takes you back to where the itinerary started, Nashville.

Nashville to Great Smoky Mountains road trip FAQ

This ultimate Nashville to Great Smoky Mountains road trip loop is 459 miles (739 km) long. Driving it takes roughly 9 hours, not including any stops along the way.

The main stops on the Nashville to Great Smoky Mountains road trip are Nashville, Burgess Falls, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg and Townsend. From the gateway towns Gatlinburg and Townsend you effortlessly day trip into the depths of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. A nice additional stop is Cummins Falls, positioned less than 20 miles (32 km) from Burgess Falls.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park alone requires at least three full days. Then you need to add time for any side attractions, such as Dollywood, and the time it takes to get to and from the Smokies. Therefore, the absolute minimum for the Nashville to Great Smoky Mountains loop is 5 days. But for the best experience it’s a road trip that demands a week or more of your time.

More Southern guides

• What to do in the Smokies
• Ultimate Tennessee road trip

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Your Tour at a Glance

Tour Activity Level

The activity level for this tour:

You’re a leisurely traveler. You typically take it easy and discover the energy of a new place by people-watching or soaking in the atmosphere at a local café. You can climb at least one flight of stairs, board a coach, and walk unassisted at a relaxed pace for up to 60 minutes without difficulty. You can easily handle altitudes up to 5,000 feet.

You like a balanced approach to travel. Walking two to three miles over the course of a day is no problem for you. You can partake in a two-hour leisurely walking tour, covering up to two miles (with included breaks). You can handle a variety of terrains, from cobblestone streets to moderate hills with relative ease and without assistance. You can climb two flights of stairs with ease. There may be 1 to 2 days on this tour when walking tours can cover 3 to 4 miles over uneven terrain. You can handle altitudes up to 6,000 feet.

You’re an on-the-go traveler. You don’t want to miss a thing, so walking and standing for longer periods of time (2-3 hours) isn’t a big deal. A moderately paced two-and-a-half-hour walking tour, covering several miles, hills, and uneven surfaces, is no problem for you. Walking four miles over the course of a day is very doable, as is climbing into and out of various modes of transportation (tuk-tuk, cable car, zodiac, etc.). You can climb three flights of stairs easily and handle altitudes between 6,000 and 9,000 feet. Expect some longer days balanced with free time to recharge or set out on your own adventure. This level is not a fit for travelers who require mobility assistance devices.

You’re ready to seize the day, whatever it may bring. You lead an active life at home (walking, biking, and half or full day hikes are things you may enjoy) and 10,000 steps a day is normal for you. You can handle longer walking tours (more than 3 hours covering 3+ miles at a steady clip) and activities that involve traversing uneven terrain, steep slopes, standing for periods of time, and varying altitudes and temperatures. You don’t mind being on the go with some early starts, late-nights, and full days. You can handle altitudes of 9,000 feet or higher with little to no issue. This level is not appropriate for travelers who use wheelchairs, walkers, and other mobility assistance devices.

Nashville & the Smoky Mountains Holiday featuring Gatlinburg & Asheville

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Super nice trip to area of us we've not traveled before., good paced trip with great guides and driver., my memorable trip., great tour and tour guide, wonderful trip, loved the itinerary, not rushed. tour director wesley & driver tim, superb, excellent trip, i wwould certainly use collette again, hopefully in spring 2020 for washin.

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35 Best Stops Between Nashville and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

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How long is the drive from Nashville to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

The direct drive from Nashville to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is 242 mi (389 km) , and should have a drive time of 4 hrs 28 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Nashville to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Gatlinburg , Pigeon Forge , Knoxville , Sevierville , and Townsend , as well as top places to visit like The Lost Sea Adventure and Charles Hall Museum, or the ever-popular Sweetwater Flea Market.

Top cities between Nashville and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

• Sevierville
• Pigeon Forge

Best stops along Nashville to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park drive

Sweetwater flea market.

The Lost Sea Adventure

Charles hall museum, turkey creek, citico creek wilderness.

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World's Fair Park

Market square, tennessee theatre.

Zoo Knoxville

Ijams nature center, great smokies flea market, tennessee smokies stadium, smoky mountain alpine coaster, titanic museum attraction, the island in pigeon forge.

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Ole Smoky Distillery "The Holler"

Sugarlands Distilling Company

Ripley's aquarium of the smokies, panther creek state park, clingmans dome, forbidden caverns, mingus mill, oconaluftee visitor center, briarwood ranch safari park.

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Smoky Mountain Outdoors (SMO) Rafting

Rafting in the smokies, smoky mountain river rat whitewater rafting, raft outdoor adventures, big bear whitewater rafting, other popular road trips from nashville, explore nearby places.

• the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Bryson City
• the Wears Valley
• Nantahala Township
• Fontana Dam
• the Maggie Valley
• Robbinsville
• Lake Santeetlah
• Chestnut Hill

All related maps of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

• Map of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Map of Gatlinburg
• Map of Tremont
• Map of Bryson City
• Map of Cherokee
• Map of Whittier
• Map of the Wears Valley
• Map of Almond
• Map of Pigeon Forge
• Map of Townsend
• Map of Nantahala Township
• Map of Dillsboro
• Map of Fontana Dam
• Map of Sylva
• Map of Sevierville
• Map of Walland
• Map of Cosby
• Map of the Maggie Valley
• Map of Robbinsville
• Map of Cullowhee
• Map of Balsam
• Map of Topton
• Map of Lake Santeetlah
• Map of Hartford
• Map of Chestnut Hill
• Map of Seymour
• Map of Franklin
• Map of Kodak
• Map of Tuckasegee
• Map of Maryville

the Great Smoky Mountains National Park throughout the year

• the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in January
• the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in February
• the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in March
• the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in April
• the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in May
• the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in June
• the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in July
• the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in August
• the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in September
• the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in October
• the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in November
• the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

Get inspired for your trip to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Itinerary
• 2-Day the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Itinerary
• 3-Day the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Itinerary
• 4-Day the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Itinerary
• 5-Day the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from nashville to the great smoky mountains national park.

Yes! You can drive from Nashville to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

How far is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park from Nashville by car?

The drive from Nashville to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is 242 miles (389 km).

How long does it take to drive from Nashville to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

Driving from Nashville to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park should take you 4 hrs 28 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Nashville to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

Gas from Nashville to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park would cost around $21 to $49 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Nashville to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

You could check out The Lost Sea Adventure and Charles Hall Museum, or the always popular Sweetwater Flea Market!

What are the best cities to visit between Nashville and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

People love visiting Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Knoxville, among others.

What's the weather like in Nashville?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Nashville in January
• Weather in Nashville in February
• Weather in Nashville in March
• Weather in Nashville in April
• Weather in Nashville in May
• Weather in Nashville in June
• Weather in Nashville in July
• Weather in Nashville in August
• Weather in Nashville in September
• Weather in Nashville in October
• Weather in Nashville in November
• Weather in Nashville in December

What are some other road trips from Nashville?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Nashville.

• Nashville to New York City drive
• Nashville to Orlando drive
• Nashville to Chicago drive
• Nashville to Washington DC drive
• Nashville to Atlanta drive
• Nashville to New Orleans drive
• Nashville to Pigeon Forge drive
• Nashville to Memphis drive
• Nashville to Chattanooga drive
• Nashville to Louisville drive
• Nashville to Las Vegas drive
• Nashville to Toronto drive
• Nashville to Saint Louis drive
• Nashville to Branson drive
• Nashville to Savannah drive
• Nashville to Niagara Falls drive
• Nashville to Boston drive
• Nashville to St. Augustine drive
• Nashville to Charleston drive
• Nashville to Philadelphia drive
• Nashville to San Antonio drive
• Nashville to Cincinnati drive
• Nashville to Montreal drive
• Nashville to Baltimore drive
• Nashville to Miami Beach drive
• Nashville to Cleveland drive
• Nashville to Indianapolis drive
• Nashville to Gatlinburg drive
• Nashville to Mexico City drive
• Nashville to Myrtle Beach drive

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2033 Hemlock Dr.

Spring Hill, TN 37174

1-800-533-3993

Local: 865-774-6574

Mon - Fri: 9:00 - 4:00

Central time

Your Friends in Tennessee!

We have the best step on tour guides in tennessee.

It is easy to find a tour guide with book knowledge, our guides have EXPERIENCE KNOWLEDGE!  In the Smoky Mountains we have guides that grew up near Dolly, retired park rangers, retired teachers and story tellers.

In Nashville, some of our guides can take you on a music tour, dress you up like Elvis, take you on an African-American History Tour, University Tour, and get you through the complicated and changing traffic patterns of Nashville.

Do you have a CUA for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

Our most popular tours:

Smoky Mountains   

$80 per hour, 3 hour minimum

• Smoky Mountain Special – Standard 3 hour tour of the Smoky Mountains Your local guide will meet you and board the coach for a three-hour Smoky Mountain Tour. Your adventure takes place in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most biologically diverse place on planet earth. You’ll travel to the Smokies’ high country and along the way see some spectacular views and hear some amazing stories about these mountains and its people. You may even catch a glimpse of a black bear, the symbol of the Smokies, or other wildlife abundant in the national park.
• Foothills of the Smokies East Side – 3 hours Join a local guide and begin your informative tour in Sevierville, the 8 th oldest town in Tennessee, where you will visit the Dolly Parton statue at the historic Sevier County Courthouse and learn of its unique history.  Then travel to nearby Chestnut Hill, TN to visit Bush’s Beans Visitor Center which is housed in the family’s original General Store which dates back to 1897. Enjoy a delicious southern-style lunch at Bush’s Family Café before departing for Gatlinburg and a drive along the scenic Foothills Parkway East. Once in Gatlinburg, you’ll take a spirited tour of Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery, complete with samples to taste.
• Foothills of the Smokies West Side – 4 hours Join a local guide and begin your tour down the West side of the Great Smoky Mountains on the newest section of the Foothills Parkway.  Ride through beautiful Wears Valley through to Townsend, Tennessee for a quick stop, then ride through Walland and hit the Foothills Parkway.  Along the route, there are the most incredible views of the valley below and the trip features some incredible picturesque scenes.  A short ride from the Parkway will bring you right back into Pigeon Forge.
• Cherokee, North Carolina – 6 hours Your local guide will meet you and board the coach for a six-hour Smoky Mountain Tour. Your adventure begins in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most biologically diverse place on planet earth. You’ll travel to the Smokies’ high country and along the way see some spectacular views and hear some amazing stories about these mountains and its people. From the highlands, it’s on to the quaint town of Cherokee where shopping and souvenirs are prominent. You may want to try your luck at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino. On the return trip over the mountain, you’ll make a stop at GSMNP’s Oconaluftee Visitor Center and visit the pioneer farmstead. Here, you may even spot some of the Smokies’ beautiful elk.
• Mountains of Faith Tour – 3 hours – This is a premium tour – Cost $300 Your tour guide will meet you at your hotel today for a three-hour Mountains of Faith Tour.  Join us as we travel through the beautiful back roads of the Smokies en route to several of the “old country churches” of our area.  Inside the churches, you will hear some old-time “camp meeting” songs, sing the familiar church hymns you knew as a child, and learn of the preachin’ and practices of the mountain people’s faith.  Coupled with this strong faith was their God-given skill in handcrafts, such as basket making, wood carving, and pottery to provide for their family.  Our last stop will be at America’s largest Arts and Crafts Community to browse and buy in their unique shops.
• Good Golly Miss Dolly Tour – 4 hours – This is a premium tour – Cost $400 Your local guide will board your coach today and take you back in time so you may see where country music’s sweetheart, Dolly Parton, started out.  You will begin your tour in Dolly’s hometown of Sevierville, TN at the Sevier County Courthouse where a special statue of Dolly was erected in her honor.  You will see where Dolly was born and lived as a normal child before she became a Nashville Celebrity. Our guide will tell stories about her childhood, you’ll see the home of the Doctor who delivered her and the Elementary School she attended.  It’s an inspirational story of a young mountain girl from a humble home who grew up and became a beloved movie and recording star.
• Mountain Moonshine Tour – 3 hours – This is a premium tour – Cost $300 Your tour guide will meet you today for a three-hour Moonshine & Mountain Tour. Head into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with your “country cuzin” who will share history, mountain lore, and if you’re lucky – moonshine still locations! Then we’ll head back down the mountains to visit our friends at Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery in Gatlinburg for a taste test of some authentic White Lightin’.
• Music City Special  – Standard 3 hour tour Your friendly and knowledgeable local guide will escort your group on a sightseeing tour of Music City USA. From Greek temples to Greek-Revival mansions to its strong musical heritage, the state capitol of Tennessee wears its history proud. Your tour will take you past some or all of the following: Ryman Auditorium, Tennessee State Capital Building, the Parthenon, Bicentennial Park, Honky-Tonk Row, Music Row with its many recording studios and publishing companies, Country Music Hall of Fame, Vanderbilt and Belmont Universities, Fort Nashborough and more
• Jack Daniels Tour  – 6 hours – Tour down to Lynchburg, TN Good whiskey and a good story go well together. And your group will enjoy both as you walk through the Jack Daniel’s Hollow guided by one of their seasoned storytellers. Learn the story of the 150 year old whiskey that made Lynchburg, Tennessee famous – Old No. 7 – Jack Daniels’s signature charcoal-mellowed whiskey. A trip to the distillery wouldn’t be complete without a stop by the Lynchburg Hardware and General Store for a memento of your visit.  (per person admission fees apply at the distillery)
• Black Heritage Tour  –  3 hours –  This is a premium tour – Cost $300 The African-American history of Nashville begins with the founding of Nashville, twenty years prior to the State of Tennessee being formed. You will see a replica of Fort Nashborough, the settlers built against Native American attacks. Learn about Black Bob, an enslaved person who was a friend of the future president Andrew Jackson. See buildings from the Civil War era, sites that are part of the African-American history. You will be shown the state capitol building built primarily with enslaved persons. Visit the campus of the African-American university, Fisk University, the oldest university of Nashville. Learn about the medical school which has graduated the most African American doctors in the US. See the sites of the 1960 sit-in demonstrations. Learn about the suffrage movement and the adoption of the 19th Amendment to the Constitution and how an African-American woman played a major role. See the sites and sound of Country Music which has a strong history from Negro Spirituals.
• Civil War Tour of Franklin  –  4 hours –  This is a premium tour – Cost $400 The Battles of Franklin and Nashville are considered the last major battles of the Civil War. You begin in Franklin where in about five hours over 10,000 lives were lost. See the site of the battle, the locations of union and confederate headquarters. See the building from 1825 used as an observation post. Visit two homes, the owners of them witnessed hand-to-hand combat in their front yard. Then travel to Nashville for lunch on your own. Thereafter see the sites that were most important to the Battle of Nashville, buildings from 1850s still in use today. Explore Fort Negley the largest western most Union fort. See mansions used as headquarters of Union and Confederate Generals.

Email us at  [email protected]  or call us at  1-800-533-3993  to book your next guide service!

Tours that do not start and end in the same location will require guide transfer charges. We do not offer tour greeter/on site package management only for groups that we did not organize

Tennessee Express Tours, LLC 2033 Hemlock Dr Spring Hill, TN  37174

Copyright 2024 – Tennessee Express Tours

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Chicago to Nashville and Great Smoky Mountains Road Trip

Stop at a shiny bean, an underground corridor, a racetrack and a music mecca on your way to the national park..

Get ready for an incredible journey into the South’s top attractions and best-kept secrets in this road trip that begins in Chicago and leads you to the nation’s most visited national park, Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Start: Chicago, Illinois

Rent an RV with Outdoorsy Do this road trip in an RV to stay close to nature. Or check out Destination Delivery: Have an RV delivered directly to a campground or parking site to camp in style without having to get behind the wheel. www.outdoorsy.com

What makes Chicago one of the best cities to visit is that it has a cosmopolitan feel with none of the attitude of similar-sized cities on the coasts. Its bustling energy is countered by the friendliness of the people, which can catch you off-guard if you are not from the Midwest.

Where’s the best place to start exploring this city that sits on the turquoise shores of Lake Michigan? Take an architectural boat tour to get a strong sense of the city’s past and present. The docents are super entertaining and informative. There’s few better ways to enjoy a hot summer day than to be on the water. Having said that, if the humidity is predicted to be really high, plan your boat trip for the morning before the sun gets too high in the sky.

Then head to the city’s celebrated Millennium Park downtown. A showcase of who’s who in architecture, this interactive park is an adult playground. As you wander around, be sure to see these three architectural attractions.

You’ll spot Cloud Gate, a kidney-bean-shaped sculpture that’s 66 feet long and 33 feet high, from a distance as its metal gleams in the sunlight. If you’ve ever seen a Tiffany’s bean necklace, this sculpture bears a striking resemblance. Made with polished stainless steel, the sculpture features an arch that enables you to walk under it and see your contorted reflection in the steel walls. It’s the first public outdoor work of British artist Anish Kapoor to appear in the United States.

If you are a music lover, head to a show at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion. Designed by architect Frank Gehry, this outdoor concert venue has 4,000 fixed seats and room for an additional 7,000 people on the Great Lawn. Bring a blanket to sit on and enjoy the tunes (and the excellent people watching).

Next, stop by the mesmerizing Crown Fountain, which features the faces of 1,000 Chicago residents on two 250-foot glass towers, each one at the opposite end of a shallow reflecting pool. Designed by Spanish artist Jaume Plensa, the towers feature water flowing out of an outlet, which gives the illusion that water is pouring out of the mouths of the faces appearing on each tower.

Louisville, Kentucky

Head south 4 hours and 45 minutes to Louisville, Ky. Long known for its legendary Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby and the longest continually running sporting event in the country. Churchill Downs officially opened in 1875, but the sport of horse racing can be traced back to 1789 in Kentucky.

An important thing to know is the city’s name is actually pronounced “Luhlville” by the locals and everyone else in Kentucky. To avoid being snickered at by locals, resist the natural impulse to pronounce the name as it appears [Loueyville]. It’s Luhville to you.

There are certain things you must do like experience the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs, if you happen to be in town April 29-May 5, 2017. You can also catch up on equestrian history at the the Kentucky Derby Museum.

But to truly experience Louisville, you need to go underground. Really. At Louisville Mega Cavern, you’ll have an adventure like none other, exploring some of the 17 miles of corridors beneath the city. Entertaining guides bring you deep into the cave for an up to 2.5-hour tour, explaining the geology and history of the cavern. There’s also six underground zip lines that make up the world’s only fully underground zip line course. The cavern is actually man-made and offers experiences for the whole family.

Nashville, Tennessee

After coming up for air, hit the road and point your wheels toward Nashville. Just two and a half hours southwest of Louisville lies Nashville, the country western capital of the country. A trip to Nashville is not complete without immersing yourself in its vibrant music scene. After all, the city boasts “free music all the time.”

See if you can catch a show at the legendary Grand Ole Opry where pop artists and country singers perform or head to a smaller venue like The Bluebird Cafe to see incredible live music in a really intimate space. Then, stretch your legs, head to the Music City Walk of Fame on Nashville’s Music Mile to see the names of accomplished artists with a Nashville connection of all musical genres.

It turns out you don’t have to head to Athens, Greece, to see the Parthenon, which was completed in 432 B.C. to honor the goddess of Athena. Nashville has its own replica of the Parthenon at the 132-acre Centennial Park and Gardens, which is located within walking distance from Vanderbilt University. If you saw the 1975 movie Nashville, you’ll recognize this iconic structure.

While in the park, see videos of different Nashville music artists talking about trees, how to take care of them and why they are important. The series is called “If Trees Could Sing,” and it’s the result of a Metro Parks and The Nature Conservancy partnership. Look for the tree signs around the park with QR codes and web addresses. Then use your smartphone to view the Nashville artists sharing tree stories.

Other attractions include The Johnny Cash Museum, National Corvette Museum and the Nashville Flea Market (held the fourth weekend of every month).

Knoxville, Tennessee

Three hours east of Nashville, clocking in at 180 miles, make a pit stop in Knoxville. The city’s Market Square is a fantastic place to spend some time as the restaurants and shops lining the area are great.

Pigeon Forge / Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, Tennessee, are the busiest gateways to Great Smoky Mountains National Park with no shortage of things to do. Chock-full of shops, craft stores, restaurants, and over-the-top attractions (think Ripley’s Believe it or Not! and Dollywood ), the bustling towns feel something between a family friendly Las Vegas and another planet. Here you’ll find plenty of hotels, grocery stores, and gear shops, plus quick, easy access to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Want to get the most out of your national park experience? In Pigeon Forge, pick up a tour with Pink Adventure Tours . When you board one of their signature pink Jeep Wranglers, you’ll soak up more information than you thought possible about the history, wildlife and ecosystem of the Smoky Mountains.

You can also get away from it all at a unique lodging option with Under Canvas. Glamping, short for “glamorous camping,” is a luxury experience in tents equipped with the creature comforts of home. And you can now go glamping near Gatlinburg, Tenn. Here are five reasons why you should .

Great Smoky Mountains Sugarlands Entrance

The Gatlinburg entrance to the national park takes you down Newfound Gap Road which bisects the park north to south.

Start by cruising the Roaring Forks Motor Nature Trail past remnants of old homesteads, picnic areas and trailheads. Then head south to Newfound Gap Overlook and Clingmans Dome . If time permits, continue south to Mingus Mill and the Mountain Farm Museum before turning back to Pigeon Forge for the night.

Blount County, Tennessee

From Pigeon Forge, head southwest to the the towns of Townsend, Maryville, Alcoa, Friendsville, Louisville and Rockford in Blount County. Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, these towns offer travelers a ton of things to do from regional dance and theater performances at the Clayton Center for the Arts in Maryville to in-depth history of the Smoky Mountains at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center in Townsend. And history buffs will feel right at home with these historic treasures .

For an incredible scenic drive just outside of the national park, take the two-lane Foothills Parkway located off Hwy. 321 just west of Townsend 18 miles up Chilhowee Mountain. Started in the 1960s, this parkway is still a work in progress with only sections of the 72 miles stretch completed.

Nonetheless, it offers a panoramic view of the park and is less visited than other roads in the area. Follow signs along the parkway for a picnic area, campground and Look Rock . Stretch your legs on the .5-mile observation trail that is 9.6 miles from the start of the parkway. It’s rated easy and offers visitors great scenery without having to exert themselves too much.

End: Great Smoky Mountains Townsend Entrance

The park entrance at Townsend is closer to Cades Cove , a preserved pioneer community, than the Gatlinburg entrance (7.3 vs. 27 miles). Cades Cove is the most popular destination in the national park due to its plentiful wildlife and many historic buildings you can explore.

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Showboat Branson Belle, Branson MO

Graceland mansion, mempis tennessee, nashville, tennessee, backstage tour at grand ole opry, nashville, tennessee, pigeon river dam, dolly parton childhood home, dollywood, great smoky mountains national park, the mark twain boyhood home & museum, hannibal mo. photo credit: the mark twain boyhood home & museum, group photo october 2019, nashville, branson & the smoky mountains, includes dollywood.

DEPARTURE: Day 1:  Edmonton 7:00 am | Red Deer 9:00 am | Calgary 12:00 pm | Fort Macleod 2:00 pm | Lethbridge 2:30 pm | Medicine Hat 4:45 pm Day 2:  Swift Current 8:00 am | Moose Jaw 10:15 am | Regina 10:45 am | Weyburn 12:45 pm | Estevan 2:00 pm

A special tour for Country Music lovers that journeys through the musical heartland of America.   Features include Reserved Seating at The Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, three of the best live shows in Branson, a drive through Great Smoky Mountains National Park displaying its beautiful fall foliage, Dollywood Theme Park and a visit to Graceland in Memphis. Upgraded accommodations feature: three nights in Nashville at the unique Gaylord Opryland Resort located close to the Grand Ole Opry, two nights in Memphis at The Guest House at Graceland , steps away from the iconic Graceland Mansion.

• Saskatchewan:

Edmonton to Calgary to Swift Current

Wednesday.  Your Music Cities Tour begins as you are welcomed aboard your deluxe coach in Edmonton.  Travel south via Red Deer, Calgary to Lethbridge meeting additional travel companions enroute.    A stop is made in Medicine Hat before crossing the Alberta/Saskatchewan border and arriving in Swift Current, Saskatchewan for overnight.  Upon arrival join your fellow travellers at an informal WELCOME MEET and GREET.

Swift Current to Minot

Thursday. Saskatchewan passengers join the tour as you travel through Moose Jaw, Regina, Weyburn and Estevan before crossing the Canadian/American border.  Continue south through North Dakota to Minot. 

Minot to Watertown

Friday. Travel to Fargo, enter South Dakota and overnight in Watertown.  Enjoy an included PIZZA PARTY with your travel companions at the hotel.

Watertown to Kansas City

Saturday. Follow the picturesque Missouri River along the western border of Iowa to Kansas City, Missouri.

Kansas City to Branson

(2 nights) Sunday. Today you are on your way to America’s hottest destination for fabulous live music shows.  Enroute take an interesting jeep-drawn tram tour through the FANTASTIC CAVERNS.  Arrive Branson, Missouri for a two-night stay. Tonight, enjoy CLAY COOPER’S COUNTRY EXPRESS.  Clay and his cast of 24 incredible entertainers guarantee a family friendly show.  Their singing, dancing, and hysterical comedy will keep you entertained from start to finish! 

Monday. This morning is free should you wish to take in an attraction or music show.  Visit BRANSON LANDING where you will find many options for your lunch.  Located adjacent to historic downtown, Branson Landing has a one-mile lakefront Boardwalk featuring galleries, shops, specialty retailers and a spectacular fountain in the Town Square.  In the afternoon you will take a trip back to the good ‘ole days and enjoy the nostalgia and charm of the HOT ROD AND HIGH HEELS show at the Clay Cooper Theater, followed with an included DINNER at McFarlain’s Restaurant. For your last night in Branson, we offer PRESLEYS’ COUNTRY JUBILEE – the very first music show to open on the now world-famous 76 Country Boulevard!

Branson to Memphis

(2 nights) Tuesday . Continue to Memphis, Tennessee home of Beale Street with its many jazz and blues clubs, and Graceland, home of Elvis Presley.  Whether or not you are an Elvis fan, everyone wants to make a pilgrimage there – and you will stay mere steps away at The Guest House at Graceland .

Wednesday . Enjoy a GUIDED CITY TOUR that includes downtown Memphis, the Mississippi River, Cotton Row, Sun Studio, the Lorraine Motel and a stroll along Beale Street, famous for the Blues. The highlight of this day is the GRACELAND ELVIS EXPERIENCE TOUR, including Graceland Mansion with audio guide.

Memphis to Nashville

(3 nights) Thursday. Today’s destination is Nashville, “Music City USA”. Your home for three nights will be the unique 2,881-room Gaylord Opryland Resort located close to the Grand Ole Opry and the General Jackson Showboat. 

Friday.   Highlights this morning include a GUIDED TOUR of RYMAN AUDITORIUM, where the Grand Ole Opry originated, and a visit to the COUNTRY MUSIC HALL OF FAME – a museum dedicated to entertainers, composers and leaders of the country music industry.  After lunch enjoy an OPRY BACKSTAGE TOUR .  You will visit the dressing rooms and the Circle Room premium lounge with a once-in-a-lifetime chance to stand on the legendary stage of the Grand Ole Opry!  Your evening is at your leisure.

Saturday .  This morning enjoy a GUIDED SIGHTSEEING TOUR of historic downtown Nashville and drive by some of the homes of country music stars.  Enjoy a free afternoon to explore downtown on your own or return to the hotel and get acquainted with your home away from home.  Then sit back and enjoy your RESERVED SEATING tonight at the GRAND OLE OPRY, the heart and soul of any Nashville visit.  Celebrating its 99 th birthday this year, this live radio broadcast is enjoyed by thousands each weekend and will be performed before your very eyes. 

Nashville to Pigeon Forge

(3 nights) Sunday.   Travel through Knoxville, arriving in Pigeon Forge near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park – named for the blue smoke-like haze that almost always hangs over the peaks of the Smoky Mountains.  This evening enjoy a fabulous feast and galloping good time at the DOLLY PARTON’S STAMPEDE!  Be entertained as you watch a show with live animals, dramatic lighting, sound and pyrotechnics.

Pigeon Forge

Monday . A LOCAL GUIDE will join us this morning for an introduction to the GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK.  Stops will be made at Sugarlands Visitor Center, The Chimney Tops Viewpoint and at Newfound Gap, where you can straddle the border of Tennessee and North Carolina and see down into deep valleys.  After the tour, you will have time for lunch and shopping in GATLINBURG.  The afternoon is at your leisure back in Pigeon Forge.  Perhaps take a trolley and check out the miles of bargains in over 150 factory outlet stores with a wide variety of crafts and specialty shops.    Some may wish to choose a show for this evening.

Tuesday. Today visit DOLLYWOOD, the entertainment capital of the Smokys! Watch master craftsmen at work, marvel at the winged residents of the Eagle Sanctuary, enjoy some great entertainment and relax as you ride the 100-ton steam train through the mountain scenery. Visit the DOLLY PARTON STORY MUSEUM, which takes you on a never‑to‑be-forgotten tour of Dolly’s “rags-to-riches” life.

Pigeon Forge to Corydon

Wednesday.  Welcome to the Bluegrass State of Kentucky, where the finest thoroughbreds in the world are raised.  In Lexington visit the home of the 2010 World Equestrian Games Competition, the KENTUCKY HORSE PARK for a farm tour.  Continue to Corydon for overnight.

Corydon to St. Louis

  Thursday. Travel to St. Louis, Missouri and enjoy a visit to the GATEWAY ARCH.  Ride a tram to the top of the arch for a spectacular view from 630 feet above the banks of the Mississippi River.  

St. Louis to Waterloo

Friday .  Follow the Mississippi River north to Hannibal, hometown of Samuel Clemens, better known as Mark Twain.  Visit the fascinating MARK TWAIN BOYHOOD HOME AND MUSEUM, introducing you to the famous writer’s life and childhood friends on whom so many of his characters were based.  Continue north across the corn fields of Iowa to Waterloo for overnight.

 Waterloo to St. Cloud

Saturday .  Start your day with a visit to the JOHN DEERE TRACTOR AND ENGINE MUSEUM, dedicated to the history of the John Deere Company and located at its first factory location.  Travel north to enter the Land of 10,000 Lakes, Minnesota and then through Rochester, home to the famous Mayo Clinic and the twin cities of St. Paul/Minneapolis to overnight in St. Cloud.

St. Cloud to Minot

Sunday.  Today continue east on the interstate crossing the Red River back into North Dakota.  This afternoon our travels follow the original Northern Pacific mainline through Devil’s Lake to end our day in Minot, North Dakota.  Share tour memories tonight with your fellow travellers at a HOSTED FAREWELL DINNER.  

Minot to Swift Current

Monday.  Make a stop at the duty free store and then re-enter Canada. Bid farewell to your fellow travellers from Saskatchewan.  Overnight in Swift Current on your last evening. 

Swift Current to Calgary to Edmonton

Tuesday. Today is “Going Home” day with many vivid memories of your music cities tour.

Included in Your Holiday

• First class transportation on an air-conditioned, washroom-equipped motorcoach
• Quality accommodation and tax
• Services of an experienced Tour Director and Driver
• Baggage handling, one average piece per person
• Traveller’s Handbook
• Admission to attractions and sightseeing as outlined in the itinerary
• Welcome Meet and Greet
• Pizza Party
• Fantastic Caverns
• Three live music shows in Branson. Performance schedules may be subject to change
• Branson Landing
• McFarlain’s Dinner
• Guided Memphis Tour
• Graceland Elvis Experience Tour
• Guided Tour of Ryman Auditorium
• Country Music Hall of Fame
• Opry Backstage Tour
• Guided Nashville Tour
• Reserved Seating at Grand Ole Opry
• Dolly Parton’s Stampede and Dinner
• Guided Area Tour of Smoky Mountains National Park
• Dolly Parton Story Museum
• Kentucky Horse Park
• Gateway Arch
• Mark Twain home and museum
• John Deere Museum
• Farewell Dinner
• Meals Include: Alberta 15 Breakfasts, Saskatchewan 13 Breakfasts, 4 Dinners.

2024 Alberta Pricing

Cost per person | Prices in Canadian Dollars

GST: $18.89

GST: $21.98

GST: $30.55

Early Booking Discount

twin sharing per person.

2024 Saskatchewan Pricing

May 15 – 21, 2024

Smoky mountain quilt trail, pigeon forge.

Biltmore Estate

This Tour Includes

Tapestry series.

Small groups, big experiences, independent spirit.

Hotel accommodations, including baggage handling

6 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners

Guided sightseeing, visits, and admissions as outlined in the day-by-day itinerary.

Departure Transfer

Return transportation to Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CHT)

Tour Manager

Full time throughout the trip

Hand-Selected Hotels

Top-rated highlights.

• Kick-off Welcome Meeting
• Nashville Panoramic City Tour
• Belle Meade Plantation Tour & Wine Tasting
• Country Music Hall of Fame
• Cherry Pit Quilt Shop
• Dollywood Theme Park Admission
• Dolly Parton’s Stampede Dinner & Show
• Smoky Mountains National Park Scenic Drive
• Historic Downtown Asheville
• Asheville Folk Art Center
• Biltmore Estate Admission & Tour
• Blue Ridge Parkway Scenic Drive
• 5 Little Monkeys Quilt & Sew
• Billy Graham Library
• Customary Farewell Dinner

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Tour Begins: Nashville, Tennessee

Tour ends: charlotte, north carolina.

Embrace the excitement of Southern hospitality as your long-awaited adventure begins in historic Nashville, Tennessee . Your hotel, situated in the heart of downtown, is just steps from the electrifying honky-tonks and live entertainment that make Music City famous. At the evening Welcome Meeting , meet your fellow spirited travelers and friendly Tour Manager. Rest up for the days ahead, where excitement and adventure await.

Dive into Music City’s dynamic atmosphere on a panoramic city tour , tracing the footsteps of country music legends like Dolly Parton. Next, journey to Belle Meade Plantation for a mouthwatering lunch and local wine tasting. Afterward, delve into the captivating Old South with a private tour of the plantation and grounds. In the afternoon, explore the vast Country Music Hall of Fame’s 2 million-item collection before browsing unique souvenirs in the bustling gift shop. Tonight, unwind at the hotel’s rooftop pool or savor the flavors of local barbecue on your own. You’ll never forget the lively spirit of Nashville.

Set off for Pigeon Forge in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains . Along the way, stop at the Cherry Pit Quilt Shop for some much-needed retail therapy. After checking in at the luxurious Dollywood DreamMore Resort , take time to explore this elegant mountain sanctuary. Following dinner on your own, relax in a rocking chair or gather around the fire pit for homemade s’mores, embracing the enchanting night. Get ready for an action-packed day tomorrow

Venture next door to Dolly Parton’s Dollywood theme park , where you’ll discover her tribute to the mountain heritage, spirit, and history of the Great Smoky Mountains. The theme park’s world-class craftsmen, dining, boutiques, and thrilling rides make this a top-rated experience in the Smokies. Later, immerse yourself in dinner and a show at the famous Dolly Parton’s Stampede , where your meal is paired with unforgettable entertainment crafted by this country music icon. Sleep well tonight, knowing you’ve experienced the best of Pigeon Forge.

Today, embark on a journey into the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina to the bohemian town of Asheville . Visit the historic Grove Arcade as you explore the vibrant downtown. Later, traverse the stunning Blue Ridge Parkway to the Folk Art Center , home to the prestigious Southern Highland Craft Guild . After settling in at our Biltmore Estate hotel , your evening at leisure provides an opportunity to stroll the Estate’s Antler Village, a vibrant hub with dining, shopping, a Winery, a Farmyard, and a delicious creamery serving ice cream. Dream of the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains as you rest up for tomorrow’s adventures

In the morning, visit the area’s most-beloved quilt shop, 5 Little Monkeys Quilt & Sew , where they’ve stocked their shelves to the max with Moda, Tula Pink, notions and patterns, tools, and so much more. Later, after browsing rows of high-quality quilting cottons, spend your afternoon marveling at the opulence of America’s largest home on a self-guided tour of the 250-room Biltmore Estate . Explore the meticulously designed formal and informal gardens by acclaimed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted. Tonight, celebrate your journey at our customary Farewell Dinner . Toast to the unforgettable memories you’ve made together.

Travel to Charlotte and visit the inspiring Billy Graham Library , near the family home of America’s renowned pastor. Share memories and exchange addresses with your newfound travel friends before transferring to the airport for your journey home. As you say your goodbyes, remember the incredible experiences and friendships forged on this ultimate dream vacation.

Per Person/Double Occupancy

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Space for this tour is limited. Please contact us to discuss accommodation options and availability.

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Distillery Tours

6th & Peabody

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GATLINBURG, TN

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• Short Tours

Extended Tours

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GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS W/  NASHVILLE, 

MEMPHIS & BRANSON

Oct 7-17, 2024 BOOK NOW

11-Day Tour | $ 3,495 ppd

Our trip to the south is full of entertainment and adventure as we travel through the pristine and majestic Smoky Mountains, to Nashville, Music City USA and the always entertaining Branson. From learning the legends of the blue "Smokies" and visiting the World Famous Grand Ole Opry, to the incredible singing and dancing in Branson, you will enjoy every minute of our trip. We will also be stopping at the incredible Creation Museum and Ark Encounter.

This escorted tour includes deluxe motorcoach travel, luggage handling, 10 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners and 10 nights accommodations.

Tour highlights include: • Creation Museum • Ark Encounter • Great Smoky Mountain Tour • Cherokee, NC • Dollywood • Lunch @ Wild Horse Saloon • Grand Ole Opry • Studio B Tour • Country Music Hall of Fame • Nashville City Tour/Rhyman Tour • General Jackson Dinner Cruise • Graceland • Branson, MO • 3 Shows in Branson • 10 Breakfasts/1 Lunch/3 Dinners

October 7 - 17, 2024

Great smoky mountains, alaskan inside passage, canadian rockies.

Nashville and the Smoky Mountains Holiday

Dates:  December 3–10, 2025 Registration: Open ( How to Book Your Trip )

Registration deadline: June 3, 2025 (to receive discount)

Take in the sights and sounds of the holidays in Nashville, Gatlinburg, and Asheville. Enjoy reserved seats at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville. Tour historic RCA Studio B and see where country legends recorded hit songs. Experience a magical holiday dinner and show at the Opryland Resort. Delight in a choice of a horse-drawn carriage ride or a Grand Ole Opry Resort Delta River cruise and marvel at all the holiday lights and décor. A visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame is sure to have you hummin’ and strummin’ long after you leave Nashville. Marvel at the spectacular light displays and shows celebrating the spirit of the holidays at Dollywood. Explore the natural wonders of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Then, travel to Asheville, North Carolina, and enjoy the city’s historic architecture, engaging neighborhoods, and robust arts districts. Tour the Biltmore Estate, George Vanderbilt’s “little mountain escape” in the Blue Ridge Mountains, elaborately adorned for the holidays. When you leave, you’ll have the warmth and charm of the south still in your heart.

8 days, 11 meals, including 7 breakfasts and 4 dinners

The overall activity level of this tour is a level 2. This means you like a balanced approach to travel. Walking two to three miles over the course of a day is no problem for you. You can partake in a two-hour leisurely walking tour, covering up to two miles (with included breaks). You can handle a variety of terrains, from cobblestone streets to moderate hills, with relative ease and without assistance. You can climb two flights of stairs with ease. There may be 1 to 2 days on this tour when walking tours can cover 3 to 4 miles over uneven terrain. Expect some full days balanced with free time to recharge or set out on your own adventure. You can handle altitudes up to 6,000 feet. While this level is appropriate for travelers that require mobility assistance devices, there could be times when you may have to sit out on some of the included activities.

Highlights include: Grand Ole Opry show, historic RCA Studio B, Country Music Hall of Fame, Gaylord Opryland Resort dinner and holiday show, Dollywood, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Asheville, and the Biltmore Estate.

• Days 1–4: Nashville, TN 
• Days 5, 6: Gatlinburg, TN 
• Days 7, 8: Ashville, NC

Visit Collette Travel’s website for the detailed itinerary

Cost per person

Book Now* and save $100 per person:

• Double  $4,499 ($4,399)
• Single  $5,399 ($5,299)
• Triple  $4,449 ($4,349)

Included in cost: Round-trip air from Harrisburg International Airport, air taxes and fees/surcharges, hotel transfers

Not included in cost: Cancellation waiver and insurance of $379 per person

*Book Now rates valid until June 3, 2025, on air-inclusive packages only. For bookings made after June 3, 2025, call for rates.

How to Book Your Trip with Collette Travel

• To book your trip by phone, please call 1-800-581-8942 and refer to booking #1227684.
• To book your trip online, please visit Collette Travel’s website .
• A deposit of $698 per person is due upon reservation. Reservations are made on a first come, first served basis. Reservations made after the deposit due date of May 27, 2025, are based upon availability. Deposits are refundable up until June 3, 2025 .
• Final payment due by October 4, 2025.

All rates are subject to change.

Overnight trip to the Smokies? Go old-school camping or check out these glamping options

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a bucket list for many, as evidenced by the 13.3 million visitors to the park in 2023.

Those who live nearby get to visit more often, of course. But if you want to make more than a day trip out of your time in the Smokies, it's easy to fall prey to the tried and true when it comes to your accommodations.

Knox News has compiled a handy list of places to stay in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge ranked by budget and pet-friendliness and frequently highlights new hotels or inns of special distinction .

But if you want to commune a little more with nature when you're visiting one of the top parks in the United States, there are a variety of camping and glamping options for you to try. Check out these picks from Afar travel website to get you started.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park campers can choose from multitude of sites

• Cades Cove: Everyone knows that Cades Cove is a top place to see wildlife in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which means the 11-mile loop can be gridlock all summer long. Instead of sitting and stewing in your car, why not camp?  Cades Cove  campground offers 161 total sites, RV and trailer parking, and modern conveniences like flush toilets and potable water (no hookups or showers, though). A site at Cades Cove, which is open year-round, can be reserved  online  for $30 per site per night.
• Elkmont : Elkmont , the largest and busiest campground in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, was first settled in the 1840s, then became a destination for wealthy travelers a century later. Restored structures are open for tours and 200 mixed tent and RV campsites are available. A site can be reserved  online  for a $30 fee per site per night.
• Deep Creek : On the North Carolina side of park near Bryson City,   Deep Creek  campground is home to its fair share of water features, from trickling streams to flowing waterfalls and a creek that welcomes anglers. The campground’s 92 sites are open seasonally for tents and RVs and include flush toilets and potable water. Year-round, visitors can enjoy mountain biking, fishing and waterfall chasing.

Glamping means enjoying nature in style

• Nestled just nine miles from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park’s northern Sugarlands entrance,  Under Canvas  is ideal for luxury travelers, Afar's website says. Inside safari-style tents, you'll find bathrooms, king beds, West Elm furnishings and wood-burning stoves. Let the lodge’s on-staff concierge book adventures like zip-lining and whitewater rafting during the day, then finish out your night with complimentary campfire s’mores .
• You have your choice of tent sites, yurts and actual cabins at Roamstead , as well as a vintage Airstream. Roamstead is nestled between the Cosby and Greenbrier entrances of the park and boasts a heated saltwater pool and spa-like bathhouse.
• Little Arrow Outdoor Resort  in Townsend also offers a range of accommodations that include glamping tents, tiny homes and Airstreams. Outdoor amenities include a dog park, playground and shared fire pits.
• Smoky Hollow Outdoor Resort i s a glampgound in Townsend that features Sioux-style tipis with plush king-sized beds, heating and air conditioning, as well as a Keurig, mini fridge and microwave. You can also try sleeping settler-style in their Conestoga covered wagons.
• How about glamping in a geodesic dome? Check out GLAMP X Stay Minty , with eight unique domes outside Cosby. Each has full kitchens, dishwashers, large refrigerators, mini-split air conditioners, private bathrooms and cozy beds. 

Liz Kellar is a Tennessee Connect reporter. Email  [email protected] .  

Support strong local journalism by subscribing at  knoxnews.com/subscribe .