SMARTSTAY HOSPITALITY / THE LOCAL GUIDE

Go where the
day takes you.

Slow mornings. Scenic detours. Days worth getting outside for.
Make a little room for adventure on your next cabin getaway.

FRESH AIR. WIDE-OPEN POSSIBILITIES.

The best days start with a little exploring.

Follow a winding mountain road, trade the pavement for a forest trail, or linger by the water. Here are a few ways to find your own pace in the Smokies.

Mountain valley and open fields at Cades Cove

01 / THE SCENIC ROUTE

Take the long way through Cades Cove.

Roll through a broad mountain valley on the 11-mile, one-way loop. Historic buildings, open meadows, and wildlife viewing make this a day to slow down.

Make time for: 2–4 hours, longer if you stop to explore. Check vehicle-free days before setting out.

Water cascading over rocks at Laurel Falls; check NPS for trail reopening

02 / CHASE A LITTLE WONDER

Find your waterfall moment.

There’s something about the sound of falling water. Explore the park’s waterfall guide to choose a route that fits your group’s energy, experience, and time.

Plan your walk: Distances and terrain vary. Bring water, wear sturdy shoes, and stay off slippery rocks.

Laurel Falls pictured. NPS currently lists this trail as closed for rehabilitation; check for reopening.
A log footbridge crossing a stream in the forest

03 / UNDER THE CANOPY

Step into the quiet.

With more than 800 miles of trails, the Smokies offer plenty of room to wander. Look for shaded creekside paths or choose a longer climb for a bigger adventure.

Choose your pace: Check mileage, elevation gain, and trail conditions before you go.

Mountain views in the Kuwohi and Newfound Gap area

04 / ABOVE IT ALL

Go where the views open up.

Head toward Newfound Gap and Kuwohi for layers of mountain scenery. Pull over at an overlook, breathe in the cool air, and leave a little time to take it all in.

Bring a layer: Higher elevations can feel much cooler. Check road access and weather first.

A CHANGE OF PACE

More of a lake-day person?

Make room for Douglas Lake. Boating, fishing, or a simple picnic by the water offers a different kind of Smoky Mountain day.

Water levels and access vary, so check conditions before planning your outing.

A FEW GOOD THINGS TO KNOW

A little planning goes a long way.

Park & explore

A parking tag is required when parking in the national park for more than 15 minutes. Check the current options before your visit.

Check before you go

Mountain weather, road access, and trail closures can change your plans. The park’s conditions page is your best last-minute check.

Leave room to linger

Build in time for overlooks and unplanned stops. Download your route before heading out, pack water, and keep a respectful distance from wildlife.

YOUR CABIN IS JUST THE BEGINNING

Let’s make it a memorable stay.

Choose your next mountain escape with SmartStay Vacation Rentals, then use our local guides to make the most of every day.

Photography: Joshua Burdick, Joshua Woods, and Hannah Cole / Unsplash; National Park Service / W. Bielenberg and NPS.