1. Pack Your Walking Shoes
Comfortable footwear makes a lot of difference if you visit a place like Gatlinburg, with so many outdoor activities waiting to be explored. Whether to enjoy the scenic hike along the Appalachian Trail or stroll along the downtown busy streets, you cannot go wrong about footwear.
Whether it is a pair of comfortable sneakers, sandals, or hiking boots, durable walking shoes are a must-pack accessory for your Gatlinburg trip. Because if the walking shoes are ready and your feet are all right, you can enjoy everything Gatlinburg has to offer.
2. Book A Suitable Cabin In Gatlinburg
You should not start your trip until you have found a suitable cabin to stay in Gatlinburg, especially if you are traveling with kids. Gatlinburg downtown is a good location to find cabins as it offers plenty of shopping and dining options within walking distance.
Downtown also allows you to enjoy the scenic beauty of the mountains right from your accommodation. Plus, this area of the town is very pedestrian-friendly and lets you explore many nearby places on foot.
Cabins are better for people traveling with pets and families as they are often more spacious than hotel rooms. Additionally, you can find all the necessary amenities in cabins, including kitchens, sitting areas, hot tubs, pool tables, theater rooms, etc., based on your budget.
Search for suitable and affordable downtown Gatlinburg cabins and get ready for an unforgettable trip to the Smoky Mountains.
3. Keep A Cooler In The Car
When you have been enjoying your time in the park all day and are starting your travel back to your lodging, you will wish you had a cooler in the car for water and drinks.
Keep at least one bottle of water for each member of your company. Top it up with snacks like trail mix, granola bars, peanut butter crackers, and dried nuts for post-adventure hunger. This will not only prevent you from making frequent stops but will also keep you hydrated and energized on the way back to your cabin.
4. Choose The Time Of Your Travel Wisely
When visiting Gatlinburg, the time of the year and season matters a lot. There is spring, which is neither cold nor hot. You will be amazed by the fresh air from the mountains, blossoming wildflowers, and luxurious greenery.
Summer offers the chance to engage in many outdoor activities because of pleasant weather; therefore, summer in Gatlinburg is also very busy.
Then there is fall, which is probably the most loved season for visiting Gatlinburg; the foliage transforms into mesmerizing tapestry of orange, crimson, and gold. Fall is also the perfect time to capture breathtaking scenes of the famous fall flora of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with your camera.
Finally, you have winter, which brings its charm and beauty. Plus, there are winter decorations everywhere, so you can easily have the best time of your life.
5. Be Ready For Changes In The Weather
Mountains are often unpredictable regarding weather changes, and the same goes for the Smoky Mountains, where weather can suddenly change due to changes in elevation.
Even during summer, some spots at a higher elevation might be unexpectedly cooler, while the rest of the city is still hot, so it is essential to pack clothing for the trip accordingly. Ensure you have the right clothing for you and your kids when the weather is colder or hotter than usual.
In addition, carry proper gear for rain, such as an umbrella or raincoat, as evening rain showers are common in Gatlinburg.
6. Plan Your Visit To The Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The best thing about Gatlinburg is its location at the foot of the National Park, which means visiting the park is inevitable during your Gatlinburg vacation. However, you should properly plan your visit to the National Park.
The park has numerous trails, from easy ones perfect for strolls to more challenging and stimulating backcountry treks. Before visiting the city, research various trails and options for adventure in the park and decide about the tracks you can visit.
If you are visiting with kids, you must be more particular about the safety and security of the trails and the outdoor activities. So, depending on your situation and preference, select the suitable tracks you will visit beforehand, and if you can find one, bring a map too.
7. Be Prepared For Crowds
Among everything else, Gatlinburg is popular for its closeness to the Smoky Mountains National Park, which makes the city very crowded. It is especially true for peak season. If you choose these months for your trip, be ready to experience crowds everywhere you go. High demand also makes it difficult to find the right accommodation, dining options, etc.
For a peaceful and enjoyable vacation, plan and choose the time of the year when the city is not overly crowded. However, when visiting the city in the peak season, try to arrive at the outdoor attractions early, as often these spots are less crowded in the morning.
Also, use the shuttle service to avoid traffic and parking hassles when visiting the park. Above all, be patient and prepared for the traffic lines to move slowly at the popular spots.
Another idea is to explore spots not part of the popular destinations, such as the Arts and Crafts Community or the calmer hiking trails in the nearby mountains.
Conclusion
Gatlinburg is the perfect destination to visit alone or with your family. However, to make the most of your trip, you must be ready for weather changes, embrace the local culture, and be patient in crowded places. Furthermore, you can ensure a relaxing and exciting hike if you have the right footwear and know about the trails you visit.
