Journal category

Family

Short walks and visits with clear notes on access and effort.

11 stories

Open meadow bordered by wooded mountains in Cades Cove

Photo: NPS Photo / Warren Bielenberg. Original · Public domain in the United States; U.S. National Park Service photograph · Resized for this site; some views are cropped.

Taking your time on the Cades Cove loop

Give Cades Cove a full morning: our approach to the 11-mile loop leaves room for its meadows, old buildings and a walk along the way.

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Water cascading over two rocky tiers at Laurel Falls

Photo: Kaldari. Original · Public domain; released by the photographer · Resized for this site; some views are cropped.

Laurel Falls trail closure and planning another walk

We’re keeping Laurel Falls for a future visit while its trail is closed. Check the rehabilitation notice before choosing a waterfall walk.

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Black bear walking through a grassy clearing in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Photo: NPS Photo / Warren Bielenberg. Original · Public domain in the United States; U.S. National Park Service photograph · Resized for this site; some views are cropped.

Sharing the Smokies with black bears

Wildlife is part of what draws us to the Smokies. Give bears space, secure food and check the park’s rules before heading onto a trail.

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