Smoky Mountain Guides
Our family's guide to the Smokies, from the porch outward
Everything our family has learned exploring these mountains with two curious little boys, a camera and a car full of snacks. Each guide has the best time to go, a packing list you can check off, and how far it is from our front door.
- Entrance about 8 min Great Smoky Mountains National Park Free entry, parking tags, bears and the Junior Ranger badge.
- About 8 min Metcalf Bottoms Our closest park picnic spot, with creek wading.
- About 5 min Foothills Parkway Ridge-top views five minutes from our porch.
- About 15 min Townsend The peaceful side of the Smokies, river and all.
- 50 to 60 min Cades Cove Sunrise mist, deer in the meadows and 1800s cabins.
- 65 to 75 min Kuwohi (Clingmans Dome) The highest point in Tennessee, above the clouds.
- 25 to 35 min Dollywood Coasters, cinnamon bread and a whole lot of Dolly.
- 30 to 45 min Anakeesta Treetop bridges and mountain views above Gatlinburg.
- Starts 5 min away Fall Foliage Map & Timing When and where the leaves peak, by elevation.
- 25 to 45 min Holidays in the Smokies Christmas lights, Fourth of July and New Year’s Eve.
- Everywhere nearby Salamanders of the Smokies Why the Smokies are the salamander capital of the world.
- You are here Tennessee for First-Timers Time zones, road-trip times from Texas and Florida, and fun facts.
Stay close to all of it
Smoky Signature sits on a level lot in Wears Valley, 8 minutes from the national park, with a heated indoor pool, an open-air hot tub and room for 12. Book direct and skip the Airbnb fees.
Check AvailabilityDrive times are from our house and run longer on weekends, holidays and in leaf season. Always check official websites for hours and closures.