Why is the great smoky mountains so popular?

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States, attracting over 12 million visitors in 2021. With its stunning natural beauty and diverse ecosystems, the park offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Some of the reasons why the Great Smoky Mountains are so popular include:

* Breathtaking scenery: The park is home to some of the most stunning mountain scenery in the eastern United States. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the mountains from numerous overlooks, including Clingmans Dome, the highest point in Tennessee.

* Diverse wildlife: The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including black bears, white-tailed deer, elk, and bobcats. Visitors can also see a variety of birds, reptiles, and amphibians.

* Waterfalls: The park is home to over 2,000 waterfalls, ranging from small cascades to towering falls like Rainbow Falls. Visitors can hike to many of the waterfalls, or they can take a guided waterfall tour.

* Old-growth forests: The park contains some of the last remaining old-growth forests in the eastern United States. These forests are home to a variety of plant and animal species, and they provide a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the region.

* Outdoor activities: The park offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking, camping, fishing, and horseback riding. There are also several visitor centers and museums that provide information about the park's history and natural resources.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a truly special place, and it's no wonder that it's so popular with visitors from all over the world.