Planning a week in the Great Smoky Mountains?
With scenic drives, waterfalls, charming mountain towns, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly attractions, seven days gives you plenty of time to experience the best the Smokies have to offer.
Follow this 7-day itinerary to make the most of your Smoky Mountains vacation.
The Great Smoky Mountains
Begin your vacation by settling into your cabin or hotel before exploring downtown Gatlinburg. Browse unique shops, sample homemade fudge, and visit local attractions. Ride the Gatlinburg SkyPark for breathtaking mountain views, stroll across the SkyBridge, and enjoy dinner at one of the town's many restaurants before calling it a night.
“National parks are the best idea we ever had. Absolutely American, absolutely democratic, they reflect us at our best rather than our worst.” ― Wallace Stegner
Spend your second day exploring America's most visited national park. Drive the scenic Newfound Gap Road, stopping at overlooks and trailheads along the way. Hike to Laurel Falls, one of the park's most popular waterfalls, or choose a longer trail if you're feeling adventurous. Keep an eye out for black bears, elk, and other wildlife throughout the park.
Start early and head to Cades Cove, an 11-mile scenic loop surrounded by mountains. Along the drive, you'll find historic cabins, churches, grist mills, and abundant wildlife. Rent bikes if you want to explore at a slower pace or enjoy one of the area's hiking trails before returning for a relaxing evening.
Spend the day enjoying the attractions of Pigeon Forge. Visit Dollywood for thrilling rides, live entertainment, and Southern cuisine, or explore The Island in Pigeon Forge with its shops, restaurants, and the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel. End the evening with one of the area's popular dinner shows.
Dedicate the day to discovering some of the Smokies' most beautiful waterfalls. Hike to Grotto Falls, Abrams Falls, or Rainbow Falls, depending on your fitness level. If you prefer driving, take the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, a scenic route featuring historic buildings, streams, and stunning mountain scenery.
Mix adventure with relaxation by starting your day with ziplining, whitewater rafting, horseback riding, or mountain coaster rides. In the afternoon, unwind at your cabin with a soak in the hot tub, enjoy a picnic with mountain views, or simply relax on the porch while taking in the peaceful surroundings.
Adventure and Relaxation
Before leaving, visit the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community, an eight-mile loop featuring local artisans, galleries, pottery studios, and handmade gifts. Pick up a few souvenirs before enjoying one last Southern breakfast and beginning your journey home.
A week in the Smoky Mountains offers the perfect balance of outdoor adventure, family fun, scenic beauty, and small-town charm. If you're hiking through the national park, riding roller coasters in Pigeon Forge, exploring Gatlinburg, or relaxing in a cozy mountain cabin, every day brings something new to discover. With this 7-day itinerary, you'll experience many of the region's most iconic attractions while creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Make the most out of your stay by getting a vacation rental in the Smoky Mountains.