A Magical Place to Explore

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Reconnect with nature in the four-season wonderland of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Explore this great American wilderness with its shimmering waterfalls, long-range mountain views, and lush green forests. With four entrances to the Park near Bryson City, visitors have easy access to backpacking, hiking, camping, viewing historical structures, fishing, tubing, and other outdoor adventure. The highest peak in the Park — Clingmans Dome — offers spectacular 360° views of the Smokies and beyond.

Oconaluftee

Located at the Cherokee, NC entrance to the Park, features include a pioneer village, riverside trail, and historic artifacts. It is very common to be able to view the elk in the fields during the dawn and dusk hours. The historic Mingus Mill is just 1⁄2 mile further north by car.

Road To Nowhere

A unique part of local history, the Road to Nowhere is a six-mile scenic drive or strenuous bike ride into the Park that dead ends at a tunnel for hiking. This is a popular area for hiking and exploration, including the 33.5 mile Lakeshore Trail. From Bryson City, take Everett Street/Fontana Road three miles north to Lakeview Drive.

Deep Creek

Just five minutes north of downtown Bryson City, Deep Creek is a popular area for tubing, hiking, biking, waterfalls, and fishing, with numerous tube rental outfitters at the Park entrance. It also includes a section along the creek with tables and grills for picnics.

North Shore

Forney Creek, Eagle Creek and Hazel Creek are three isolated north shore areas accessible only by boat or foot. These remote creeks are wildly popular fishing destinations and are also popular among backcountry hikers and campers. Local outfitters and guides can assist you in accessing this area.