The Great Smoky Mountains is a must-see destination and has long been a favorite among visitors both domestic and international. While visitors used to be able to enjoy the park's breathtaking natural beauty free of charge, a parking tag is now required to park within the park's boundaries. It's worth noting that visitors passing through the park or parking for less than 15 minute do not need to purchase a parking tag. For those planning to spend more time in the park, there are several options available for purchasing a parking tag.
Cades Cove Visitor Center | https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/visitorcenters.htm
For visitors to the Cades Cove area of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Cades Cove Visitor Center is the perfect starting point and an easy stop to pick up your parking tag. Conveniently located midway along the Cades Cove Loop Road, this center provides easy access to a number of historical structures and a working grist mill. Inside the center, visitors will find an array of exhibits and ranger-led programs that change throughout the year. Additionally, the center offers a bookstore and gift shop, as well as public restrooms and vending machines for added convenience. Whether you're embarking on a hike or exploring the local history, the Cades Cove Visitor Center is an ideal place to begin your journey.
Sugarlands Visitors Center | https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/visitorcenters.htm
The Sugarlands Visitors Center is a top destination for visitors to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering convenient access to parking tags for the park. Situated in the North District, this center showcases fascinating exhibits on the diverse flora and fauna of the park, as well as a variety of ranger-led programs that change with the seasons. In addition, visitors can peruse the bookstore and gift shop, and take advantage of the public restrooms and vending machines. Before embarking on one of the many nearby hiking trails, make sure to swing by the Sugarlands Visitors Center for a truly memorable experience.
Clingmans Dome Visitor Center | https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/visitorcenters.htm
For those seeking the breathtaking views from Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Clingmans Dome Visitor Center is the perfect starting point. Visitors can purchase their parking tags at the center before exploring the small yet charming bookstore and gift shop. Additionally, the center provides restroom facilities and vending machines for drinks and snacks. Visitors can also take the opportunity to learn about the Smoky Mountains' history and geology before embarking on the climb up to the Clingmans Dome Observation Tower. The panoramic views from the tower are truly unforgettable, making the Clingmans Dome Visitor Center a must-visit destination for any trip to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Oconaluftee Visitor Center | https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/visitorcenters.htm
The Oconaluftee Visitor Center is a fantastic starting point for anyone entering the South District of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Cherokee, North Carolina. Adjacent to the center is the fascinating Mountain Farm Museum, which boasts a variety of special log structures including a barn, smokehouse, farmhouse, applehouse, corn crib, and more. Visitors to the center can participate in a range of seasonal ranger-led programs or explore the well-stocked bookstore and gift shop. Additionally, the center offers public restrooms and vending machines for added convenience. Before heading out on a hike to the nearby Mingus Mill, be sure to stop by the Oconaluftee Visitor Center for a truly memorable experience.
Parking Tag Kiosks:
If you prefer to skip the visitor centers altogether, you can purchase your parking tag for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park at one of several automated kiosks located throughout the park. These kiosks can be are open 24/7 to purchase both daily and weekly tags. However, please note that annual tags must be purchased either at a visitor center or online. By utilizing these convenient kiosks, visitors can quickly and easily obtain their parking passes and get on with their adventure in the park.
Online | https://www.recreation.gov/activitypass/AP2510
For ultimate convenience, visitors to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park can purchase their parking tags from the comfort of their own home. Annual parking passes can be easily purchased online through the Great Smoky Mountains Association, while daily and weekly tags can be obtained through the recreation.gov website. By purchasing your parking tag ahead of time, you can avoid the hassle of waiting in lines and focus on enjoying your time in the park. With these convenient options available, planning your next visit to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is easier than ever before.
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