best picnic spots in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Many visitors struggle to find the best picnic spots in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This park has over 800 miles of hiking trails and many scenic locations for outdoor dining.
In this blog, you will discover nature spots perfect for family gatherings, wildlife viewing, and relaxation areas with beautiful views. Keep reading to spot your new favorite picnic place!
Key Takeaways
- The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has over 800 miles of hiking trails and many picnic spots like Cades Cove, Metcalf Bottoms, Deep Creek, and Townsend Wye.
- Cades Cove is famous for mountain views and easy wildlife sightings such as deer, black bears, and wild turkeys.
- Metcalf Bottoms offers riverside picnicking with spacious tables, restrooms, and close access to hiking trails.
- Deep Creek features water activities, fishing areas, wildlife observation opportunities, and nature photography chances for families.
- Always check the official park website for updates or closures before visiting; some areas like Chimney Tops can be temporarily closed.
Top Picnic Areas in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers scenic picnic spots that everyone will love. Each area provides unique views and activities for visitors to enjoy.
Cades Cove
Cades Cove stands out as one of the best picnic spots in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This beautiful valley offers scenic views and rich wildlife viewing opportunities. You can often spot deer, black bears, and wild turkeys roaming freely.
Families enjoy gathering at the picnic areas surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes.
Explore nearby hiking trails that lead to waterfalls and historic structures. These outdoor activities enhance your picnic experience while you appreciate nature’s beauty. Picnic tables provide comfort for dining al fresco, making it easy to unwind with loved ones in this picturesque setting.
Cades Cove is a treasure trove of natural beauty.
Metcalf Bottoms
Cades Cove leads you to Metcalf Bottoms, another excellent picnic spot in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This area offers a beautiful setting along the Little River, perfect for families and groups.
Visitors can enjoy outdoor dining while taking in scenic views of the surrounding nature reserves.
Picnickers love Metcalf Bottoms for its spacious tables and convenient access to hiking trails. You can also spot wildlife nearby, making it ideal for wildlife observation and photography.
The park amenities provide restrooms and trash disposal, ensuring a clean environment. Grab your picnic blanket and pack plenty of food; this spot welcomes relaxation and enjoyment in the great outdoors.
Deep Creek
After enjoying Metcalf Bottoms, explore Deep Creek. This area offers stunning scenic views and a tranquil atmosphere. Families enjoy this picnic spot for its easy access to hiking trails and water activities.
The creek provides a perfect backdrop for relaxation areas or nature photography.
Wildlife observation is common here. You might see deer or an array of birds while you eat. Deep Creek also features fishing spots, making it ideal for those who love outdoor dining by the water.
Pack your favorite foods and bask in the surrounding beauty at this family-friendly location in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Chimney Tops (temporarily closed)
Chimney Tops is a well-loved picnic spot in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Visitors enjoy scenic views and the fresh mountain air. However, this area is currently closed for maintenance.
The park ensures safety and preservation before reopening these outdoor dining spots.
During its open times, Chimney Tops attracts many hikers and families seeking nature reserves and relaxation areas. It features nearby hiking trails that lead to stunning vistas. Wildlife observing adds to the experience since various animals inhabit the region.
Keep an eye out for updates regarding its reopening on the official park website.
The Townsend Wye
The Townsend Wye offers a perfect picnic spot for families. This area sits at the junction of the Little River and Tuckaleechee Creek. You can enjoy scenic views while having your meal.
The sound of flowing water creates a peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for relaxation.
Children love playing by the riverbanks, where they can splash around. Nature lovers will appreciate birdwatching and seeing various wildlife nearby. This location also features easy access to hiking trails, perfect for those who want to explore after their picnic.
Pack ample food and drinks for a great outdoor dining experience in this fantastic setting.
What Makes These Picnic Spots Great?
Cades Cove thrills visitors with its stunning views and rich wildlife. This area offers open fields where families can spread picnic blankets while enjoying the sight of deer grazing nearby.
Metcalf Bottoms provides easy access to the Little River, making it perfect for water activities after a meal. Enjoy relaxing sounds of nature amid well-maintained facilities.
Deep Creek stands out due to its scenic beauty and ample space for group gatherings. The charming creek adds a calming backdrop, attracting those who love wildlife observation and fishing spots.
Families appreciate these locations because they blend outdoor dining with adventure trails that lead into beautiful surroundings. Each spot enhances the experience by combining fun, relaxation, and nature exploration.
Tips for a Successful Picnic in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
To enjoy your picnic, check for any closures or updates before you go. Bring enough food and drinks to keep everyone energized throughout the day.
Check for availability and closures
Before heading to the picnic spots in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, check for availability and closures. Some areas may close due to weather conditions or maintenance work. The park’s official website updates information regularly.
Look there before making plans.
Planning your day trip includes ensuring you have access to your chosen picnic area. Cades Cove, Metcalf Bottoms, and Deep Creek often see high visitor numbers but still make great family-friendly locations.
Checking ahead can save time and ensure a more enjoyable experience in scenic surroundings with opportunities for wildlife observation and relaxation.
Pack plenty of food and drinks
Packing plenty of food and drinks makes your picnic memorable. Choose items that travel well, like sandwiches, fruits, and snacks. Bring enough beverages to keep everyone refreshed during the day.
Water is essential for staying hydrated, especially if you hike before picnicking. Consider packing a cooler with ice packs if you bring perishable items.
Including variety will cater to everyone’s tastes and needs at family gatherings or group outings. Don’t forget utensils, napkins, and trash bags for cleanup afterward. The right preparation ensures that you can relax and enjoy scenic views while dining outdoors in nature spots like Cades Cove or Metcalf Bottoms.
This leads us to what makes these picnic spots great.
Bring a picnic blanket
A picnic blanket provides comfort during outdoor dining. Choose a soft, large blanket to fit your family or group gatherings easily. It creates a cozy area for everyone at scenic locations in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
The perfect spot enhances relaxation and enjoyment of nature. A colorful blanket also adds fun to wildlife observation moments.
Ensure the blanket is easy to clean after your picnic. Spills can happen while enjoying food and drinks, so select materials that handle messes well. Some blankets even fold up for convenient carrying on hiking trails or water activities nearby.
Enjoy the fresh air with an inviting space under the trees or by riverside fishing spots.
Consider avoiding peak season
Visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park during peak season can lead to crowded picnic spots. Many families and tourists flock to popular areas like Cades Cove and Deep Creek between June and July.
This influx of visitors often makes it difficult to find a quiet place for outdoor dining or relaxation.
Choosing off-peak times improves your experience. You can enjoy scenic views while having more space for group gatherings. Wildlife observation becomes easier when fewer people are around.
Plan your trip in late spring or early fall for better access to nature reserves, hiking trails, and quieter fishing spots.
Conclusion
Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers amazing picnic spots. Cades Cove and Metcalf Bottoms stand out for their beauty and accessibility. Families can enjoy wildlife watching at Deep Creek or relax at The Townsend Wye.
These areas provide stunning views and fun activities. Pack your favorite snacks and head to these scenic locations for a perfect outdoor dining experience.
FAQs
1. Where are the best picnic spots in Great Smoky Mountains National Park for families?
Families often choose Metcalf Bottoms or Chimneys Picnic Area. These family-friendly locations offer outdoor dining, restrooms, and easy access to nature spots.
2. Which picnic areas provide scenic views and hiking trails nearby?
Cades Cove and Greenbrier serve as top choices for scenic locations. Both have hiking trails close by, allowing visitors to enjoy recreation areas before or after their meal.
3. Are there any group gathering sites with water activities in the park?
Big Creek Picnic Area is popular for group gatherings and water activities like fishing. It also has relaxation areas near streams where people can unwind together.
4. Can I watch wildlife while enjoying a picnic in the park?
Yes, Cades Cove is known for wildlife viewing such as deer and wild turkeys during picnics. Wildlife observation adds excitement to outdoor dining at these nature reserves.
5. Do campgrounds within the park have good picnic facilities?
Many campgrounds like Elkmont feature designated picnic tables next to camping areas. They offer convenient options for day trips, family gatherings, and nature exploration all in one place.
