The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the few national parks with no entrance fee, making it one of the best free destinations in America. Beyond the park, the region offers plenty of no-cost activities that rival any paid attraction. Here are the best ways to enjoy the Smokies without spending a dime.
In This Guide
- The Escape Game Pigeon Forge
- The Wedding Chapel In The Glades
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- Clingmans Dome / Kuwohi
- Newfound Gap
- Mount LeConte via Alum Cave Trail
- Grotto Falls - Walk BEHIND the Waterfall!
- Gatlinburg New Year's Eve Ball Drop & Fireworks
- Mingo Falls - 120 Feet Tall!
- Charlies Bunion via Appalachian Trail
The Escape Game Pigeon Forge
Movie-quality puzzles for groups
Where to Stay: Bear Creek Crossing, Starr Crest Resort
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The Wedding Chapel In The Glades
Intimate, budget-friendly chapel
Where to Stay: Chalet Village, Ski Mountain
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Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Sprawling scenic park with trails and vistas
Where to Stay: Chalet Village, Ski Mountain
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Clingmans Dome / Kuwohi
High elevation park with scenic views
Where to Stay: Bear Creek Crossing, Chalet Village
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Newfound Gap
Panoramic mountain crossing point
Where to Stay: Bear Creek Crossing, Chalet Village
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Mount LeConte via Alum Cave Trail
Tough 10.2-mile to highest peak
Where to Stay: Bear Creek Crossing, Chalet Village
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Grotto Falls - Walk BEHIND the Waterfall!
Hike behind a beautiful waterfall
Where to Stay: Bear Creek Crossing, Chalet Village
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Gatlinburg New Year's Eve Ball Drop & Fireworks
Downtown New Year's Eve celebration with ball drop and fireworks. Free outdoor event.
Where to Stay: Chalet Village, Ski Mountain
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Mingo Falls - 120 Feet Tall!
Spectacular 120-ft waterfall hike
Where to Stay: Bear Creek Crossing, Chalet Village
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Charlies Bunion via Appalachian Trail
8-mile challenging Appalachian hike
Where to Stay: Bear Creek Crossing, Chalet Village
View Full Guide →While the park itself is free, you will need a parking tag for trailhead parking (available at recreation.gov). Many of the free activities on this list require nothing more than gas money and a sense of adventure.