Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee and North Carolina

The Great Smoky Mountains extend from Tennessee and North Carolina. They are most visited in fall for the beautiful fall colors in late October till early November. The highest point is Clingmans Dome at 6643 ft. The drive from Gatlinburg to Clingmans Dome has the best vista points of the mountain range. Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg are two small towns near smokies that has small town vibe. 

The wonders of flight, Alpine costers, The Island are some of the fun places to visit in Pigeon Forge. 

Gatlinburg offers fun activities like Sky Lift, Ripley's museums, shopping and lots of activities. But beware of tourist traps and choose activities wisely as they can break the bank very soon.

Dollywood resort offers stay and play packages for adults to relax while kids enjoy the rides.

Clingman's Dome, Forneys Creek, NC

Clingman's Dome is a highly visited spot in Smoky Mountains. At around 6000 feet, this place offers spectacular mountaintop views.  Clingman's dome is around an hour drive from Gatlinburg through scenic roadways. Fall is the best time to visit Clingman's dome. With spectacular fall covers, the mountain range is painted with hues of orange, red and yellow. 

The Welcome center and restrooms are located at the starting of the trail. The trail leads to concrete ramp and climb the ramp to get to the tower top. Though, the hike it self is tedious, the views are well worth the hike and on a clear day, you can catch endless views of mountain range. Due to any reason, if you are unable to hike, do not sweat it. the parking lot it self has equally spectacular views.

Tips: 

1. Expect half a mile hike through steep paved road before you reach the bottom of the ramp for the tower.

2. Wear good walking shoes.

3. Carry water bottles with you as the hike is strenuous and no shops / vending machines are available at the top.

4. Avoid strollers if you can. Pushing the stroller can be very tedious. Baby wearing is the best choice.

5. Parking is very limited. Expect to walk around 1/4th mile after parking before the actual hike.

The Island, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

A trip to Smoky Mountains is never complete without visiting Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. The Island is a 'do it all' kind of place to eat, shop, stay and play. Free parking is available at a walkable distance from The Island. If walking is not your thing, hop on a free tram from parking lot to the main center. 

The island Rope course, with two zip lines and 30 different course is challenging fun for adults and kids. It also has a Wheel that boasts of views. But we skipped it since The Wonders of Fight (Hot air balloon ride) gives a better views of Pigeon Forge.

From restaurants, to candy shops, The Island offers variety of food choices and shopping places.