hiking

With the Great Smoky Mountains National Park as our neighbor, you have over 800 miles of trails to choose from. Two of the closest trails are Deep Creek in Bryson City and the River Trail in Cherokee.

With three sparkling waterfalls and easy walking trails, Deep Creek is a great way to introduce yourself to the Park. After your walk, you might decide to cool off with an inner tube ride down the fast-moving water.

The River Trail is located at the Oconaluftee Visitor’s Center at the entrance to the Park. Start at the Mountain Farm Museum and take a quiet, easy walk along the Oconaluftee River.

  
guided hikes

We are happy to work with American Hikes to present 4 unique, guided hikes in the National Park. All hikes are led by experienced local guides, who are knowledgeable about our local wildlife, history and culture.

Ghosts and Legends
Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours
Why Go: What a great way to end your day. Take your family on a mysterious walk through the dark forest. A little spooky, a bit campy, and certainly entertaining. You’ll still be telling your friends about the experience years from now. This tour brings out the kid in all of us.
Cost: $36 for each adult. $22 for each child (10 years of age and younger).
Need to Know: Offered Monday-Sunday, 8 pm. All ages are welcome. No experience necessary. Reservations are required.
More info

Stargazing
Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours
Why Go: With little light pollution affecting the park, a clear night offers extraordinary stargazing opportunities. Find the constellations that dot the dark night sky and discover their meanings, origins, and myths associated with them.
Cost: $34 for each adult. $19 for each child (10 years of age and younger).
Need to Know: Offered Monday-Sunday, 8 pm. All ages are welcome. No experience necessary. Reservations are required.
More info

Sunset Walk
Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours
Why Go: There is nothing like the sight of an Appalachian sunset from one of the park’s many ridges. Not to mention the temperature drops and the wind lies down as dusk approaches. If you're looking to beat the heat and add a little romance to your vacation this is the tour for you. The guides focus on the wildlife and encourage each group to relax and have a great time.
Cost: $34 for each adult. $19 for each child (10 years of age and younger).
Need to Know: Offered Monday-Sunday, 8 pm. All ages are welcome. No experience necessary. Reservations are required.
More info