Hiking

Hiking is one of the best ways to get away from the crowds that throng to this park—more than nine million each year—and with 850 miles of trails, it shouldn't be hard to lose the madding crowd.

Grotto Falls: A 2.4-mile round-trip hike through a hemlock forest to a waterfalls that you can walk behind. Reach the trailhead from the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.

Ramsay Cascades: The park's highest falls is an eight-mile round-trip hike from the Greenbriar area.

Henwallow Falls: This a 4.4-mile round-trip from near the Cosby Campground may be less crowded than other falls.

Alum Cave Trail: a wonderfully scenic five-mile climb to the backcountry LeConte Lodge, with cabins and rooms, not accessible by car.

Be sure to check out the balds of the southern mountains—open areas on some summits with splendid views. For easy access, head for the Appalachian Trail via Newfound Gap Road, where you can easily hike along the ridges. Hikers with energy and experience can try the steep trail to Andrews Bald, 1.8 miles from Clingmans Dome Road.

Getting Wet

Popular swimming areas are at the Big Creek and Abrams Creek campgrounds. Keep in mind that no areas in the park have lifeguards, and that the water can be cold.

In Bryson City, check out the acclaimed Nantahala Outdoor Center (800-232-7238) for rafting and float trips at all levels, canoeing and kayaking lessons, as well as mountain bike rentals and tours. Day care is available for younger children.

More on Swimming Great Smoky Mountains NP

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