Smoky Mountain Adventure - 5 Days Itinerary

Begin your day with a visit to Cades Cove, an 11-mile loop road that offers some of the best opportunities for wildlife viewing in the park. You can see white-tailed deer, black bears, turkeys, and more. Enjoy breakfast at Cades Cove Campground Store, where you can grab a quick bite before exploring.

After exploring Cades Cove, head to Abrams Falls Trail for another beautiful hike. This trail is more challenging but rewards hikers with a stunning waterfall at the end. Pack a picnic lunch from Whole Earth Grocery & Cafe in Gatlinburg before you go so you can enjoy it by the falls.

Return to Gatlinburg for an evening of relaxation. Consider visiting Anakeesta, an outdoor family theme park with zip lines, treetop walks, and stunning views of Mt. LeConte. Have dinner at Cherokee Grill, which offers Southern cuisine in an upscale mountain lodge setting.

Start your morning with a visit to Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, a one-way loop road that provides access to several beautiful hiking trails and historic buildings. It's less crowded than other areas but equally scenic. Enjoy breakfast at Crockett's Breakfast Camp, famous for its hearty mountain breakfasts.

In the afternoon, explore more waterfalls by hiking to Grotto Falls via Trillium Gap Trail (not listed but highly recommended). This trail allows you to walk behind Grotto Falls—a unique experience! For lunch, stop by The Park Grill in Gatlinburg for some delicious Southern comfort food.

Conclude your day with an evening visit to Ober Gatlinburg Ski Area & Amusement Park (not listed but worth visiting). Take the aerial tramway up to Ober Gatlinburg for ice skating or simply enjoy breathtaking views from above. Have dinner at their restaurant called Seasons of Ober Restaurant which provides great food along with stunning vistas.

Begin your day with a visit to Alum Cave Trail, one of the most popular trails in the Smokies. This moderate hike offers stunning views, interesting geological features, and a rich history. The trail leads to Alum Cave Bluffs, a large overhanging bluff that provides a great spot for photos and a rest. For breakfast, stop by Log Cabin Pancake House in Gatlinburg for some delicious pancakes and traditional breakfast fare.

After exploring Alum Cave Trail, head to Mount LeConte, one of the highest peaks in the Smokies. You can reach it via several trails, but the Alum Cave Trail is one of the most scenic routes. Enjoy a packed lunch from The Donut Friar, known for its fresh pastries and coffee, before continuing your hike to the summit where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

In the evening, return to Gatlinburg and unwind with a visit to Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies (not listed but highly recommended). This world-class aquarium features interactive exhibits and a wide variety of marine life. For dinner, dine at Calhoun's, which offers delicious BBQ and Southern cuisine in a cozy setting.

Start your final day with a visit to Newfound Gap, which offers stunning views of both Tennessee and North Carolina from an elevation of 5,046 feet. It's also where President Franklin D. Roosevelt dedicated the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in 1940. Enjoy breakfast at The Village Cafe & Creamery in Gatlinburg for some delightful pastries and coffee.

After taking in the views at Newfound Gap, drive along The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail once more for any missed spots or new discoveries. This scenic drive is perfect for capturing last-minute photos or enjoying a peaceful picnic lunch from Ole Red, known for its Southern-inspired dishes.

Conclude your trip with an evening visit to The Island in Pigeon Forge (not listed but worth visiting). This entertainment complex offers shopping, dining, live music, and attractions like The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel. Have dinner at Paula Deen's Family Kitchen, where you can enjoy hearty Southern comfort food served family-style.