The Best Small Towns in The Smoky Mountains

Situated on the border of Tennessee and North Carolina–travelers will find the Great Smoky Mountains. This mountain range is a subrange of the Appalachian Mountains and is lovingly nicknamed The Smokies. The crest of the Smokies consists of an unbroken chain of peaks that stretches for more than 36 miles and features peaks as high as 5,000 feet. While impressive, the largest mountain in this range, Clingmans Dome, sits a little taller at a whopping 6,643 feet. The entire mountain range runs from Knoxville, Tennessee to Ashville, North Carolina, and passes through a wide range of charming small towns along the way. So if you’re looking to see the magnificent Smoky Mountains, consider taking a weekend trip to one of the small towns.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Gatlinburg, Tennessee has strong Indigenous roots and a history of logging that dates back to the late 1800s. However, the town is best known for its role in creating the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Many residents relocated to Gatlinburg when their property was transformed into park grounds. Today, Gatlinburg, like many towns on this list, is a great jumping-off point for visitors who wish to explore the popular national park.

Additionally, the town is a hot spot for amusement parks and scenic lookout points. Those searching for a thrill during their visit should head to Anakeesta. Here, visitors can enjoy rides including the Rail Runner mountain coaster, the Dueling Zipline tour, the Treetop Skywalk, and so much more. Other exciting spots to check out include the Gatlinburg Space Needle, the Ober Mountain Aerial Tramway, the Gatlinburg SkyPark, and the Moonshine Mountain Coaster. Those who prefer more laid-back activities can enjoy hiking through the national park, admiring marine life at Ripley’s Aquarium, or gawking at famous cars at the Hollywood Stars Car Museum. Whatever your preference is, there is always something fun to see or do in Gatlinburg.

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Less than 7 miles from the bustling town of Gatlinburg, travelers will find Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. This picturesque mountain town is an ideal vacation spot for families, as there’s a little something for everyone to enjoy here. Perhaps most notably, Pigeon Forge is home to Dollywood, Dolly Parton’s beloved theme park. Other notable attractions and amusement parks in town include the Titanic Museum, The Island In Pigeon Forge, and the Alcatraz East Crime Museum, just to name a few.

Those looking for something thrilling and unique will want to head to the Outdoor Gravity Park where they can participate in a New Zealand-invented activity called “zorbing.” Finally, take a peaceful stroll through Patriot Park where visitors will find a ½ mile walking path, plenty of picnic spots, and occasional events.

Townsend, Tennessee

Townsend is a peaceful small town with a population of just 601. A perfect vacation spot for outdoor lovers, Townsend is often referred to as the “Gateway to Cades Cove.” Cades Cove is a stunning, sprawling valley located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Hiking enthusiasts will want to spend some time exploring this valley, which is surrounded on all sides by towering mountains and excellent hiking trails. After a few hours in the park, head to the Tuckaleechee Caverns of Townsend. Here, visitors can explore an underground wonderland carved inside the earth’s oldest mountain chain. Those who want to spend some time on and around the water can book a tubing excursion with Smoky Mountain River Rat or venture out to the Dark Island Swing Bridge.

Cherokee, North Carolina

Just across the border in North Carolina, travelers will find the culturally rich town of Cherokee. Home to a large population of indigenous Cherokee people, the town is a great spot for history buffs and nature lovers. In addition to the town's proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cherokee offers visitors plenty of fun things to see and do. Start the trip off with a visit to Oconaluftee Islands Park. Here, visitors can cool off from a hot summer day by swimming or tubing in the river. The park is also a great spot for picnicking, fishing, and feeding the local ducks.

Next, get a better idea of life in Cherokee at the wonderful Oconaluftee Indian Village. Those looking to take home something special from their trip will also want to check out the Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual. Other worthwhile stops in town include the Museum of the Cherokee People and Santa’s Land Fun Park & Zoo. Travelers who don’t mind taking a short drive can also hop aboard the nearby Great Smoky Mountains Railroad for a relaxing train ride through the mountains. 

Lake Junaluska, North Carolina

Lake Junaluska, North Carolina is the perfect small town for a relaxing lakeside retreat. Located at the base of the Great Smoky Mountains, the town offers a range of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Lake Junaluska is also located less than 30 miles from Asheville, North Carolina–perfect for those who only want to spend a few hours in the city before turning back to the peace and quiet Lake Junaluska offers.

While in town, visitors can explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park or keep things low-key with a visit to Junaluska Dam Park. Plant lovers will be interested in touring the beautiful Corneille Bryan Native Garden which features a wide selection of seasonal flora, walking paths, bridges, and benches. Anyone hoping to spend a night or two in town will surely want to check into the Lake Junaluska Conference And Retreat Center where sparkling lake views, walking trails, and wildlife linger just outside the windows. 

Maggie Valley, North Carolina

Less than 10 miles from Lake Junaluska lies the exciting mountain town of Maggie Valley, North Carolina. Home to scenic mountain views, rushing waterfalls, and family-friendly activities, Maggie Valley is an ideal year-round destination. In the summer months, visitors can hike to the nearby Soco Falls–a gorgeous double waterfall located between Maggie Valley and Cherokee. Maggie Valley’s Fantasy Golf and Game Room is also a great summer outing and offers a little fun for the whole family. In the winter, a visit to the Cataloochee Ski Area, the state's first ski area, is a must. Here, visitors can hit the slopes, enjoy the dining hall, and explore Tube World–a tubing park located nearby.

Waynesville, North Carolina

Last, but not least–Waynesville, North Carolina is a rather large town situated between the Smokies and the Blue Ridge Mountains. Thifters and antique lovers will be pleased to find a handful of great shops in town including Antique Antics, Sutton & Sons Antique Mall, and the Balsam Antique Mall. The Haywood Historic Farmers Market is also a fun place to shop for local goodies and handmade crafts while visiting Waynesville. Animal lovers can head to Winchester Creek Farm where they can enjoy fun and educational farm tours. During a tour expect to see a wide range of animals including alpacas, llamas, horses, cows, donkeys, goats, sheep, and pigs. Before wrapping up a Waynesville visit, be sure to take in a show at the popular Hart Theatre.

In Conclusion

From the rush of roller coasters and theme parks in Tennessee towns like Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, to the peaceful mountain views and lakeside activities in Lake Junaluska, North Carolina–these Smoky Mountain Towns truly have something for everyone. And the best part? Most towns on this list are less than 3 miles from the beloved Great Smoky Mountains National Park. So whichever town you choose for your next day trip or weekend getaway, know that the mountains will never be too far away.