f there’s one thing I tell every guest who stays at Cougar’s Cabin, it’s this: don’t underestimate the park. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is right outside your door, it’s free to enter, and it’s honestly one of the most spectacular places in the country. Whether your group includes little ones, teens, grandparents, or a mix of all three, there’s something here for everyone.
Here are my personal picks for making the most of your visit.
1. Start at Sugarlands Visitor Center This is your best first stop — pick up a trail map, watch the short park film, and get your bearings. It’s right at the Gatlinburg entrance and connects to several easy walks including the Gatlinburg Trail and a short hike to Cataract Falls. Perfect for easing the group into the park on your first morning.
2. Drive the Cades Cove Loop This 11-mile scenic loop is one of the most popular things to do in the park — and for good reason. You’ll likely spot white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and black bears, along with beautifully preserved 19th-century homesteads. Go early in the morning or close to sunset for the best wildlife sightings. Plan for at least two hours.
3. Hike to Laurel Falls This is the most popular waterfall hike in the park, and it earns that title. The paved, 2.6-mile round-trip trail leads to a stunning 80-foot waterfall and is manageable for most ages and fitness levels. Go early to beat the crowds and grab parking.
4. Walk Behind Grotto Falls Here’s a fun one — Grotto Falls is the only waterfall in the park where you can actually walk behind the cascade. The 2.6-mile round-trip hike winds through a beautiful hemlock forest and is a favorite with kids. Look out for salamanders in the water at the base.
5. Drive Newfound Gap Road For those who want to experience the park without a strenuous hike, this is your answer. The drive from Gatlinburg to Newfound Gap climbs over 3,000 feet and offers some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery you’ll ever see. Stop at the overlooks — you won’t regret it.
6. Hike to Clingmans Dome At 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the park. The half-mile trail to the summit is steep but short, and the 360-degree views from the observation tower on a clear day are simply unforgettable. Your whole group will be talking about this one.
7. Explore Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail This narrow, winding one-way road takes you through old-growth forest past rushing streams, historic cabins, and several beautiful waterfalls. It’s a hidden gem that many visitors miss. Closed in winter, but perfect for summer visits.
8. Wildlife Watching in Cataloochee Valley If elk are on your group’s bucket list, head to Cataloochee Valley in the North Carolina side of the park. Elk were reintroduced here in 2001 and the herd has thrived — early morning and dusk are your best bet for sightings. It’s a bit of a drive but absolutely worth it.
9. Let the Kids Play in the Streams This one doesn’t show up on any official list, but it might be the one your kids remember most. The park is full of cold, clear mountain streams perfect for wading, splashing, and exploring. Bring water shoes, find a quiet spot along one of the many roadside pull-offs, and let them go.
The best part about all of this? Cougar’s Cabin puts you minutes from the park entrance, so you can head out early, beat the crowds, and be back at the hot tub by afternoon. That’s the Smoky Mountain sweet spot right there.
