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GUIDE TO GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS IN HAYWOOD COUNTY, NC

EXPLORE THE UNTAMED BEAUTY OF THE GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK

As of 10/3/24: Cataloochee Valley and Balsam Mountain remain closed due to damages from Tropical Storm Helene. Check the Park website for additional updates or call (865) 436-1200 and follow the automated prompts for road conditions. 

Venture into the hidden gems of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where trails are unparalleled, views are unlimited, and nature remains unspoiled. This vast park, straddling the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, is renowned for its rich biodiversity, stunning ancient mountains, and well-preserved Southern Appalachian culture. With over half a million acres of protected land, it stands as one of the largest and most diverse natural areas in the Eastern United States.

Explore the park’s most remote and captivating sections, such as the tranquil Cataloochee Valley. Here, you can immerse yourself in pristine wilderness and witness the thriving elk population in a historic setting. For a refreshing experience, make your way to Midnight Hole, a hidden swimming spot with crystal-clear waters nestled in a lush forest.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers endless opportunities for adventure, whether you’re hiking, wildlife watching, or simply soaking in the breathtaking scenery. After a day of exploration, extend your adventure by staying in nearby mountain towns like Maggie Valley and Waynesville. These charming towns provide cozy accommodations and local dining options, perfect for unwinding after a day in the park.

Whether you’re hiking, wildlife watching, or simply soaking in the natural splendor, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park provides endless opportunities for adventure and exploration.

New GSMNP Park Parking Tag

We are NOW selling Great Smoky Mountains National Park Parking Passes at the Haywood County Visitor Center located at 91 N Lakeshore Drive, Lake Junaluska, NC 28745.
 
Stop by to purchase an annual parking pass or make us your first stop on your way to the park, for a weekly or daily pass.

*If you are disabled and have a handicap parking tag you do not have to purchase a GSMNP parking tag*

Attention: Weather and road conditions can vary greatly in different elevations. Click here or visit twitter.com/smokiesroadsnps for the latest road and facility closures.

Discover Cataloochee Valley

Nestled in Haywood County, Cataloochee Valley was once a populous settlement and mountain community and is perhaps now best known for elk, which were reintroduced in the valley in 2001 after disappearing from North Carolina in the late 1700s as a result of over-hunting and loss of habitat.

Cataloochee Valley is rich in history, with original homesteads still standing. Visitors can tour a school, churches, a barn, and several homes to learn what life was like for early settlers of the area. There’s also plenty of outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and fishing to be had here, so make sure a trip to Cataloochee Valley is on your itinerary while visiting Haywood County.

Explore Cataloochee Valley

Be Elk Smart

Little Cataloochee Church Hike

LENGTH: 8 MILES
RATING: MODERATE
DOGS: NOT ALLOWED

Boogerman Trail

LENGTH: 4 MILES
RATING: MODERATE
DOGS: NOT ALLOWED

Balsam Mountain Nature Trail

LENGTH: 1.2 MILES
RATING: EASY
DOGS: NOT ALLOWED

Appalachian Trail Sections

DISTANCE: 95.7 MILES
DIFFICULTY: EASY-CHALLENGING