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Three-Day Adventure in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Viewed by 75 travelers

Day 1: Nature Introduction

Gatlinburg, Tennessee, USA on June 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Crockett's Breakfast Camp

Enjoy a hearty Southern breakfast in a rustic, wilderness-themed setting to fuel up for your day exploring the Smokies.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Visitor Centre

Stop by the Sugarlands Visitor Centre to get maps, learn about the park's ecosystem, and plan hikes with helpful park rangers.
Free, 1h

10:45am

Hiking Laurel Falls Trail

Take an easy 2.6-mile round trip hike to the stunning 80-foot tall Laurel Falls, one of the park’s most popular and accessible waterfalls.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at The Peddler Steakhouse

Dine riverside with hearty American steakhouse fare, great for refuelling after morning hikes.
USD30, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Ober Gatlinburg Tramway

Take the aerial tramway for spectacular views and access to an amusement park and wildlife encounter area.
USD20, 2h

5:00pm

Explore Downtown Gatlinburg

Browse quaint shops, art galleries, and enjoy the lively street atmosphere.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Cherokees Restaurant

Indulge in traditional Southern comfort food with fantastic breakfast served all day if you prefer a casual dinner setting.
USD25, 1.5h
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Day 2: Mountain Summit

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina border on June 25, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Log Cabin Pancake House

Start the day with a wide selection of pancakes and breakfast classics in Gatlinburg.
USD12, 1h

9:00am

Drive to Clingmans Dome

Drive to the highest point in the park and Tennessee, enjoy the walk up the observation tower for breathtaking panoramic views.
Free, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Newfound Gap Picnic Area

Enjoy a picnic in a scenic mountain gap; bring packed lunch or grab snacks from local vendors beforehand.
Variable, 1h

2:00pm

Hiking the Alum Cave Trail

A moderate 5-mile round trip hike featuring unique geological features and mountain vistas, perfect for adventure enthusiasts.
Free, 3h

6:00pm

Return to Gatlinburg and Dinner at The Park Grill

A rustic mountain lodge offering delicious Appalachian cuisine in a cosy setting.
USD35, 1.5h
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Day 3: Wildlife and Scenic Drive

Cades Cove, Tennessee, USA on June 26, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry, Gatlinburg

Famous for its variety of pancakes, it's a perfect start before a long day outdoors.
USD14, 1h

8:30am

Cades Cove Loop Road

Drive or cycle this 11-mile one-way loop for excellent views of wildlife like deer and black bears as well as historic cabins and churches.
Free, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Apple Valley Grill

Situated near Cades Cove, this spot serves hearty meals with local ingredients in a warm atmosphere.
USD25, 1h

1:30pm

Visit the Cades Cove Nature Trail and Church

Walk a gentle trail to see remnants of the area's early settlers and enjoy peaceful nature views.
Free, 1h

3:00pm

Return to Gatlinburg

Relax and enjoy the scenic drive back to Gatlinburg with optional stops for photos.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Calhoun’s Gatlinburg

Wrap up your trip with award-winning ribs and barbecue dishes in a friendly, lively setting downtown.
USD30, 1.5h
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