Smoky Mountains National Park

Smoky Mountains National Park is just a hop, skip and a jump away from Knoxville. It has a variety of paths, trails and scenic overlooks for any fitness level to enjoy. This is a great part to visit in any season of the year, but when the leaves change in the Fall, it’s exceptionally beautiful. 

Smoky Mountains National Park Overview

Location: Tennessee

Established: June 15, 1934

Size: 521,495 acres

Annual visitors: 12.5 million

Entrance fee: Free

Distance from Knoxville: 45 miles

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Trees

Colorful trees during Fall attract many visitors. Over 130 different types of trees occupy the area. One of the tallest trees, a white pine, stands at 186 feet tall. The oldest tree, a blackgum, is 562 years old. Oak and tulip trees dominate the area. There are 12 species of oak trees that are important for wildlife sustainability. Colorful trees during Fall attract many visitors.

Animals

Common wildlife includes black bears, bats, bobcats, elk, fireflies, and white-tail deer. Black bears and white-tailed deer are most commonly spotted; Cades Cove is a popular sighting place.