Filter Tours
23 Available Tour Excursions in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Designed for curious kids and families, Exploring Nature with Children turns the forest into a living classroom. This hands-on guided nature walk helps children slow down, look closely, ask questions, and connect with the natural world in a meaningful way through nature games, stories and fun activities. Depending on the season and trail conditions, children may explore streams, plants, salamanders, animal signs, textures, forest sounds, leaves, insects, and small wonders along the trail. The goal is not to rush or cover big miles, but to help kids build confidence, curiosity, and a deeper connection to the outdoors. Caution: Side effects may include dirty knees, happy faces, deep curiosity, and stories they’ll still be telling at dinner. Best for: Families with children, homeschool groups, young explorers, first-time hikers, and kids who enjoy hands-on discovery.
Price: $55.00
Duration: 2 hours
Spend a full day exploring the Smokies your way. Best of the Smokies: Full-Day Private Guided Adventure is customized around your group’s interests, pace, and sense of adventure, making it one of the most flexible ways to experience Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Your day may include waterfalls, mountain views, historic sites, scenic drives, quiet trails, wildflowers, wildlife stories, old-growth forest, or a custom mix of the park’s best experiences. Because this is a private tour, your guide can adapt the day to your group and help you make the most of your time in the Smokies. Transportation and lunches are included. Best for: Private groups, families, couples, photographers, first-time visitors, mixed-interest groups, and guests who want a full-day custom Smoky Mountain experience. Duration: 7-8 Hours | Difficulty: Your Choice | Ages: Your Choice Meeting Location: Sugarlands Visitors Center or Pick-up from Downtown Gatlinburg Location
Price: $325.00
Duration: 8 hours
Rent a Polaris Slingshot with the comfort and security of renting from an official Polaris Outfitter! Explore the Blue Ridge Parkway, Great Smoky Mountains National Park or many more incredible routes in this beautiful part of the country. We can help plan the perfect itinerary depending on your time and ability. Explore in style with Appalachian Adventure Rentals!
Price: $349.99
Duration: 3-8 hours
Take your hike up Clingmans Dome to the next level with this self-guided walking tour. As you make the ascent to the famous observation deck, you’ll discover fascinating facts about this area’s history, geology, and scenery. And once you reach the top, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains and the lush landscape beyond. This self-guided walking tour of Clingmans Dome serves as an audio companion on this half-mile hike, with plenty of stories to keep you company along the way. After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point. New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want. This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.
Price: $8.49
Duration: 1-2 hours
Rent a brand-new Polaris Slingshot from the areas only Polaris Outfitter and enjoy the thrill as you drive one of Americas most famous roads. Twists, turns, and thick woods, this drive isn’t about scenic overlooks or nature. The Tail of the Dragon is about you, the pavement, and two white knuckles grasping the steering wheel. Considered one of the most exciting roads in America, with 318 curves in 11 miles you will figure out why. Come see why it’s world renowned, and why the locals call it “that damn road to Tennessee”. Make sure to see the Fontana Dam, the largest dam east of the Rockies!
Price: $349.99
Duration: 4-8 hours
Slow down beside one of the Smokies’ biggest and among the most beautiful mountain rivers. River Magic is an easy guided walk designed for guests who want the peace of moving water, forest shade, deep pools, sparkling cascades, wildflowers, and stories of the landscape without a demanding climb and without the crowds. This gentle riverside experience blends natural beauty with interpretation from an expert guide. You’ll learn about the plants, wildlife, stream life, and human history connected to these mountain valleys while enjoying one of the most approachable ways to experience Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Best for: Families, beginners, seniors, first-time visitors, nature lovers, and anyone who wants an easy guided river walk near Gatlinburg. Duration: 3.5 Hours | Difficulty: Easy | Mileage: 4.2 Miles | Elevation Change: 300’ | Ages: All Meeting Location: Sugarlands Visitors Center
Price: $109.00
Duration: 3 hours
We have the best location on the Nantahala River being located right at the takeout. This means you'll only ride the bus once and you'll finish at your car. After the river, enjoy one of our two restaurants by the river.
Price: $65.40
Duration: 3 hours
Follow the sound of rushing water into one of the Smokies’ most refreshing guided hikes. Chasing Waterfalls is perfect for those chasing cascades, waterfalls, streams, mossy rocks, cool forest trails, and classic Smoky Mountain water scenery. With an experienced naturalist guide, you’ll explore a lush mountain landscape shaped by water. Along the way, your guide may point out wildflowers, old-growth pockets, stream ecology, salamanders, forest plants, and the hidden details most visitors walk past. This tour is a strong choice for families, first-time visitors, photographers, summer guests, and anyone who wants a memorable waterfall hike without committing to a strenuous full-day adventure. Best for: Waterfall lovers, families, photographers, summer visitors, first-time Smokies guests, and guests who want a water-filled guided hike. Duration: 3 Hours | Difficulty: Moderate | Mileage: 2.5 | Elevation Change: 900' | Ages: 8+ Meeting Location: Sugarlands Visitors Center
Price: $95.00
Duration: 3 hours
Your trip begins at Sugarlands Visitor Center, where you’ll meet your naturalist guide from A Walk in the Woods. From there, we’ll travel up into Great Smoky Mountains, stopping along the way for sweeping mountain views, photo opportunities, and stories that bring the Smokies to life. This guided driving tour includes several beautiful overlooks where you can take in the famous “sea of mountains,” learn about the natural and human history of the park, and visit the Rockefeller Memorial at Newfound Gap, located on the Tennessee and North Carolina border. After enjoying the views from Newfound Gap, we’ll stretch our legs with a short walk on the famous Appalachian Trail. Depending on the day and group, your guide may also lead you on a gentle history walk near a clear mountain stream, and perhaps even taste a seasonal wild mountain treat. Duration: 2.5 Hours | Difficulty: Easy | Ages: All Meeting Location: Sugarlands Visitors Center or Downtown Gatlinburg
Price: $150.00
Duration: 2 hours
Don't miss a thing as GuideAlong's Great Smoky Mountains Audio Driving Tour takes you on an incredible journey through the most visited US national park. Along the way you'll be guided to all of the park's famous highlights as well as lessor known gems including the lowest drivable pass, historic Cades Cove buildings and the park's highest point. Download discover more on your Smokies road trip with fascinating behind-the-scenes stories, local tips and directions that plays automatically along the drive. With GyPSy Guide you have the freedom to explore offline at your own pace so you can spend more time at places that interest you, bypass any that don’t. ✅ Stories, tips and directions play automatically based on your location ✅ Travel at your own pace ✅ Tours work offline using GPS, no cell service or WiFi needed ✅ Suggested itineraries & tips for half, full or multi day use ✅ Buy once, use forever! No expiry, includes free updates ✅ Like having a tour guide along for the drive
Price: $19.99
Duration: 8-24 hours
Autumn color in the Smokies changes by elevation, weather, and timing. Fall Color Quest is designed to follow the best color of the day, whether that means glowing streamside forests, colorful hardwood coves, quiet trails, or higher-elevation views. With an experienced guide, guests can enjoy fall foliage without guessing where to go or fighting only the most crowded roadside stops. This seasonal guided hike blends autumn scenery with natural history, forest ecology, and local insight into one of the most beautiful times of year in the Smokies. Transportation is included with this tour. Pick up from a downtown Gatlinburg hotel or the Sugarlands Visitors Center Best for: Fall visitors, photographers, couples, families, leaf peepers, and guests who want help finding peak Smoky Mountain color. Duration: 3-4 Hours | Difficulty: Easy to Moderate | Mileage: Variable | Elevation Change: Variable | Ages: 6+ Meeting Location: Gatlinburg Hotel Pick up or Sugarlands Visitors Center
Price: $175.00
Duration: 4 hours
Purchase only one tour per vehicle, not per person. Everyone listens together! Get the full Smoky Mountain experience with this ultimate bundle tour! Explore these picturesque mountains, uncover the rich history of the Cherokee and early settlers, and find out why this is the most-visited national park in the entire country. You’ll discover beautiful overlooks, hiking trails, and waterfalls on one tour, then dive into the pioneer and Civil War history of Cades Cove with the next! If you don’t want to miss a thing, this is the deal for you. After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point. New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want. This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.
Price: $22.49
Duration: 4-5 hours
Welcome to Great Smoky Mountains National Park Tour! Come journey with us as we travel through stunning mountain scenery and explore the historical homes of days gone by. The Great Smoky Mountains are the most visited national park in the country, often receiving over 14 million visitors every year! We've broken it down with the top things to do, including 14 stops in and around the park! What you'll get: Expert Narration: Learn about the park's heritage, ecology, and wildlife. User-Friendly App: Access the tour easily on your smartphone. Capture the Moment: Discover ideal photo spots for stunning panoramas and wildlife shots. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains with our audio tour. Book now and embark on a journey you'll cherish for years to come! The remaining hours in the tour details are allotted for the travel time. *Download the Shaka Guide app to access your purchased tours.*
Price: $13.59
Duration: 14-15 hours
Purchase only one tour per vehicle, not per person. Everyone listens together! Discover gorgeous natural scenery and rich history at Cades Cove, one of the most popular destinations in the Smoky Mountains. This scenic loop packs a ton of sights into a small space. Check out sparkling waterfalls, lush hiking trails, and historic churches all in one place! Plus, learn the fascinating history behind this cove, including how the Civil War once threatened to tear it apart. After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point. New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want. This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.
Price: $13.49
Duration: 1-2 hours
General admission includes: Main Exhibit: We are a museum in transition! Take a step behind the scenes as we consider how to update our 27-year-old main exhibit to authentically share Cherokee history, culture, and stories from a Cherokee perspective. sov·er·eign·ty: Expressions in Sovereignty of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians illuminates the complexities of tribal sovereignty and the EBCI’s continuing legacy of resilience. ᏗᏓᏂᏏᏍᎩ ᎦᏓᏆᏟ Didanisisgi Gadagwatli: A Showcase of Pottery from the Mud Dauber Community Workshop: Enjoy an exhibition of work by students in the Museum’s annual community learning pottery workshop. Charles George Beloved Veterans Hall: Meet heroes of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Established in 1948, the Museum of the Cherokee People shares the history, culture, and stories of the Cherokee people through its exhibitions, collections, and programs.
Price: $15.00
Duration: 24 hours
Recommended: Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone listens together! Explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park and discover why it’s the most visited National Park in the country! Tour these famous mountains while learning about Cherokee history and legends, Appalachian life, and much more. There’s no better way to see Clingman’s Dome, Cades Cove, or Rainbow Falls. Plus, enjoy a free bonus tour of Roaring Forks Motor Trail! After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point. New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want. This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.
Price: $15.29
Duration: 2-3 hours
Explore America’s most visited national park at your own pace with this self-guided scenic drive through the Great Smoky Mountains. Journey along Newfound Gap Road from Gatlinburg's lush valleys to the stunning ridges along the Tennessee–North Carolina border. Includes optional side trips to Kuwohi, Cades Cove, and Roaring Fork, where you can expand the adventure for big views, wildlife sightings, and historic cabins. Listen to captivating audio stories about the park's history, from ancient mountain formations to the impact of settlers and conservationists. Whether seeking vibrant fall colors or breathtaking mountain views, this tour unveils the natural and cultural heritage of this biodiverse region. — Self-guided audio tour for flexible exploration — Drive along Newfound Gap Road with scenic detours — Learn about the Smokies' rich history and ecology — Perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike
Price: $14.99
Duration: 2-3 hours
Bookable on Sundays, other days and times may be accommodated upon request. Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on a guided hiking tour. Learn about the park's history, wildlife, and medicinal plants as you hike to waterfalls, historical structures, and vistas. You may also customize your trip to suit your interests, walking ability, and desired duration.
Price: $80.00
Duration: 3 hours
Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: USD
- Languages: English, Spanish
- Climate: Humid Continental
- Timezone: America/New_York
- Population: The Great Smoky Mountains National Park does not have a permanent population, as it is a national park. However, it attracts millions of visitors annually.
- Best Time to Visit: times to visit are during spring and fall.
- Visa Requirements Generally, visitors from visa-free countries like the US, EU, and UK do not need a visa to enter the United States. However, they must comply with the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) or obtain a non-immigrant visa if required. For other countries, specific visa requirements apply, and it is advisable to check with the U.S. Department of State for the most current information.
About Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and diverse wildlife. Located along the Tennessee-North Carolina border, it offers stunning mountain vistas, lush forests, and vibrant wildflowers. The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with over 800 miles of hiking trails, including a section of the Appalachian Trail. Visitors can explore historic log cabins, grist mills, and churches, reflecting the region's Appalachian history. The park's unique biodiversity supports a wide range of flora and fauna, making it a fascinating destination for nature lovers.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of Tennessee
- Duration Range: Custom Durations
- Group Size: Flexible group sizes
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Recommended For: The best times to visit are during spring and fall. Visitors should pack layers for variable weather and comfortable shoes for hiking. It is advisable to bring cash for local purchases, as not all businesses accept credit cards. Be mindful of wildlife and follow park rules to ensure safety.
Average Tour Price: $95
Lowest Price Tour: $50
Highest Price Tour: $220
1. Choose Your Tour
Browse our curated selection of tours and select your perfect adventure.
2. Check Details
Review tour inclusions, duration, and meeting points carefully.
3. Book Online
Complete your booking securely with instant confirmation.
4. Enjoy Your Experience
Join the tour and create unforgettable memories in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Top Attractions
1. **Clingmans Dome**: The highest point in the park offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. 2. **Cades Cove**: A historic valley with preserved log cabins and churches, providing insight into early Appalachian life. 3. **Laurel Falls**: A picturesque 80-foot waterfall accessible via a short hike. 4. **Alum Cave Trail**: Known for its unique rock formations and scenic views. 5. **Oconaluftee Visitor Center**: Offers insights into Cherokee Indian history and culture.
Popular Activities
Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers a variety of activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can explore the park's rich cultural heritage by visiting historic sites like Cades Cove. The park also hosts festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating its natural and cultural significance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
The local cuisine in the Great Smoky Mountains area is characterized by traditional Appalachian dishes such as biscuits and gravy, fried chicken, and sweet potato pie. Visitors can enjoy these specialties at local restaurants and cafes. The region is also known for its moonshine and craft beers, reflecting its rich cultural heritage.
Getting Around
To get to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, visitors can fly into nearby airports like Knoxville's McGhee Tyson Airport or Asheville Regional Airport. Local transportation options include renting a car or using the park's shuttle services during peak seasons. Driving is the most convenient way to explore the park, with scenic routes like the Cades Cove Loop Road.
Travel Tips
The best times to visit are during spring and fall. Visitors should pack layers for variable weather and comfortable shoes for hiking. It is advisable to bring cash for local purchases, as not all businesses accept credit cards. Be mindful of wildlife and follow park rules to ensure safety.
Culture & Customs
The Great Smoky Mountains region is steeped in Appalachian culture, with a strong emphasis on community and tradition. Visitors can experience this through local festivals and historical sites. It is important to respect the park's natural environment and cultural heritage by following park rules and being considerate of local customs.
About The Author
Calvin has loved travel and adventure since first visiting Los Angeles with a suitcase in 1992 at the age of 20. He ditched the suitcase and got a backpack pretty fast.
He hates leaving after any trip and has to console himself by writing and sharing articles on it. You can find and connect with him on linked in here.
Likes
Travel, Gaming, Scuba Diving, Skiing and anything to do with water.
Dislikes
Exact luggage sizing police and being tired in an airport and many more..