The Same

The Family visited the North Carolina Smoky Mountain region mainly to explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park. We drove along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, stopped at overlooks for family photos, and spent time in Cherokee learning about Native American history and culture.

The DINKs, on the other hand, have visited several times and ventured farther into the small mountain towns—discovering local breweries in Bryson City, strolling through the shops of Waynesville, and hiking less-traveled trails near Maggie Valley. Each trip revealed a different side of the Smokies, from family-friendly adventures to quiet escapes filled with local flavor and mountain charm.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park was an unforgettable experience. The rolling mountains, misty mornings, and winding trails felt like stepping into another world. We spotted waterfalls, saw deer and elk, and even caught a glimpse of a black bear from a safe distance.

Every turn on the Blue Ridge Parkway offered a new, beautiful view. Whether hiking to Clingmans Dome or walking through the Mountain Farm Museum, there was something for everyone. It’s the kind of place that makes you slow down and just breathe.

Want to see how both our Family and DINKs explored the Smokies? Read the full blog to plan your own mountain adventure!

https://doubletaketravel.com/discovering-the-great-smoky-mountains-national-park-a-complete-travel-guide

Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the eastern United States, stretching 469 miles from Virginia to North Carolina. The section through the NC Smoky Mountain region offers breathtaking mountain vistas, cascading waterfalls, and easy access to charming towns like Waynesville, Maggie Valley, and Cherokee. This part of the parkway is perfect for leaf-peeping in the fall, hiking trails in the summer, and scenic overlooks any time of year.

• Society of the Cincinnati Overlook (near Waynesville): Panoramic mountain views and photo opportunities.
• Mingus Mill (near Cherokee): Historic water-powered gristmill with interpretive exhibits and nearby hiking trails.
• Craggy Gardens: Famous for rhododendron blooms in June and accessible short hikes.
• Waterrock Knob: Highest peak accessible by the parkway in this region, offering a visitor center and spectacular 360-degree views.
• Blue Ridge Music Center (near Galax, VA, but en route if continuing north): Showcases Appalachian music heritage (optional for longer drives).
• Numerous Waterfalls & Trailheads: Including Deep Creek trails near Bryson City, Soco Falls near Maggie Valley, and other roadside waterfall pull-offs.
• Scenic Drives & Overlooks: From Maggie Valley to Cherokee, multiple overlooks offer iconic Smoky Mountain vistas, especially for sunrise or sunset photography.

Cherokee

Located on the southern border of the park, this town is home to the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and offers cultural experiences and access to the park’s southwestern entrance.

Home to the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, Cherokee offers a fascinating glimpse into Native American history and culture. Visitors can explore the Museum of the Cherokee Indian, visit the Oconaluftee Indian Village, or try their luck at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort.

Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort:

For those seeking excitement and nightlife, Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort delivers nonstop entertainment in the heart of the Smoky Mountains. The resort features a massive gaming floor with everything from slot machines to live table games, plus a sportsbook for sports enthusiasts. Beyond gaming, guests can indulge in fine dining, unwind at the luxurious Mandara Spa, or enjoy headliner performances at the on-site event center. Whether you’re staying overnight or visiting for an evening out, it’s a destination that combines luxury, leisure, and lively energy.

• Live entertainment, concerts, & comedy shows at the Harrah’s Event Center.
• Diverse dining options ranging from Ruth’s Chris Steak House to casual.

Museum of the Cherokee Indian:

Step into the story of one of America’s most enduring cultures at the Museum of the Cherokee Indian. Through immersive exhibits, life-size dioramas, and authentic artifacts, the museum chronicles the Cherokee people’s 13,000-year history—from their ancestral beginnings through modern-day achievements. Interactive displays and multimedia presentations bring history to life, making it an enriching experience for all ages.

• Engaging exhibits detailing the Trail of Tears and Cherokee daily life.
• Educational programs and guided tours that deepen understanding of Cherokee heritage.
• Gift shop featuring authentic Cherokee crafts, books, and art.

Oconaluftee Indian Village:

Travel back in time at the Oconaluftee Indian Village, a living history museum that recreates life in an 18th-century Cherokee settlement. Visitors can watch artisans demonstrate traditional crafts like beadwork, pottery, and weapon-making while learning about the Cherokee’s agricultural practices, community structure, and spiritual traditions. Cultural performances, including storytelling and dance, make this an immersive cultural experience.
Highlights:

• Live demonstrations of traditional Cherokee arts and daily life.
• Guided tours by Cherokee interpreters sharing authentic stories & customs.
• Seasonal events and cultural programs that connect the past to the present.

Unto These Hills:

Experience one of the longest-running outdoor dramas in the U.S. with Unto These Hills, performed in the Mountainside Theatre in Cherokee. This powerful production tells the story of the Cherokee people—from their thriving society before European contact through their forced removal along the Trail of Tears and beyond. The open-air setting, stirring performances, and emotional storytelling create an unforgettable evening under the stars.

• Historical Narrative: A deeply moving portrayal of Cherokee endurance and survival.
• Outdoor Setting: Performed in an open-air amphitheater surrounded by forested mountains.
• Seasonal Performance: Shows typically run from late May through mid-August.

Deep Creek Loop Trail (3 Waterfalls)

Located just outside Cherokee near Bryson City, the Deep Creek Loop Trail offers a scenic and family-friendly hike that includes three beautiful waterfalls: Indian Creek Falls, Tom Branch Falls, and Juney Whank Falls. The loop winds through lush forest and along babbling creeks, providing a tranquil escape into nature. It’s a moderate 2.4-mile loop, perfect for combining exercise with breathtaking views of cascading water.

• Tom Branch Falls: A picturesque cascade easily visible from the trailhead.
• Indian Creek Falls: A 25-foot waterfall reached via a gentle climb through the woods.
• Juney Whank Falls: A 90-foot multi-tiered waterfall accessible via a short side trail.

Mingo Falls:

Located on the Qualla Boundary just outside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Mingo Falls is one of the tallest and most striking waterfalls in the southern Appalachians, cascading 120 feet down a mossy rock face. The short but steep climb up 160 steps rewards visitors with spectacular views and photo opportunities.

• A 0.4-mile trail through lush forest leads to the viewing bridge.
• One of the most photographed waterfalls in western North Carolina.

The Dinks

We’ve lived in North Carolina for more than 20 years, and the mountains have always felt like my home away from home. Every year, I make it a point to head west, whether it’s for the fiery colors of fall, a cozy winter getaway, or a summer escape filled with waterfalls and hiking trails. From the sweeping views along the Blue Ridge Parkway to the peaceful charm of small towns like Bryson City or Murphy, there’s something grounding about being in the mountains. No matter how many times I visit, the Smokies always find a way to surprise me with their beauty and serenity.

Murphy, NC

Historic small town near the Georgia border with a charming downtown square. Attractions include the Cherokee County Historical Museum and Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino. Surrounded by lakes and rivers for boating and fishing.

Murphy’s walkable downtown blends small-town charm with Appalachian culture. Brick-lined streets are filled with local shops, antique stores, and cozy cafés. Historic buildings showcase the town’s 19th-century roots, while murals and public art celebrate its mountain heritage.

• Murphy Art Walk: Monthly event with local artists, live music, and food vendors.
• Shopping & Dining: Boutique shops, bakeries, and restaurants like Red Brick Deli and The Parson’s Pub.
• Historic Courthouse: The restored Cherokee County Courthouse anchors the town square.

Murphy River Walk

The Murphy River Walk is one of the town’s most peaceful and scenic attractions, offering an easy way to explore nature without leaving downtown. This 3-mile greenway follows the Hiawassee and Valley Rivers, winding through wetlands, forests, and open meadows. It’s a favorite for walkers, joggers, and dog owners alike.

• Scenic Views: Gentle riverside paths and wooden bridges connecting multiple loops.
• Wildlife Watching: Spot herons, ducks, turtles, and other native species.
• Pet-friendly and ideal for all fitness levels, with benches and picnic spots along the way.

Trail of Tears National Historic Trail

Murphy holds a solemn place in American history as a stop along the Trail of Tears, where thousands of Cherokee were forced to march westward in the 1830s. Visitors can reflect on this chapter of the past at Murphy’s Trail of Tears Commemorative Park, located near the old train depot.

• Historic Marker & Interpretive Signs: Learn about the Cherokee people’s journey and resilience.
• Cherokee County Historical Museum: Displays artifacts and tells local Cherokee stories.
• The Murphy River Walk links to parts of the historic route for quiet reflection.

Buck Bald Brewing

For a taste of local flavor, Buck Bald Brewing is Murphy’s go-to spot for craft beer and community vibes. Set in a converted downtown building, this laid-back brewery serves small-batch brews with mountain character and often hosts food trucks and live music.

• Try “Mile High Blonde” or “Copperhill Ale,” both local favorites.
• Trivia nights, acoustic sets, and community gatherings throughout the week.
• Outdoor seating welcomes dogs and offers mountain views.

Fields of the Wood Bible Park

Located just a few miles from Murphy, Fields of the Wood is a unique outdoor attraction known for its massive Ten Commandments display built into a mountainside. Visitors can climb to the top for sweeping views and explore multiple monuments throughout the park.

• Features large stone tablets, prayer mountain, and baptismal pools.
• Climb 300 steps to the summit for breathtaking Smoky Mountain vistas.
• Open daily and maintained by the Church of God of Prophecy.

Bryson City, NC

Gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Home to the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, offering scenic train rides through the mountains. Often used as a base for rafting and kayaking on the Nantahala River.

Bryson City’s walkable downtown is full of mountain charm, with boutique shops, galleries, and local restaurants lining Everett Street. The relaxed atmosphere makes it a perfect stop before or after exploring the nearby national park

• Local Dining: Favorites include The Everett Hotel Bistro, Nate and Nick’s Pizza, and The High Test Deli.
• Shopping: Browse local crafts, outdoor gear, and Smoky Mountain souvenirs.
• Small-Town Charm: Benches, murals, and flower-lined sidewalks create a welcoming, old-fashioned feel

Great Smoky Mountains RailroaD

The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad is Bryson City’s signature attraction, offering scenic train excursions through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Western North Carolina. From relaxing river rides to themed journeys like the Polar Express, this experience is a must for visitors of all ages.

• Choose from routes along the Tuckasegee River or the Nantahala Gorge, featuring stunning mountain and river views.Enjoy seasonal events like the Polar Express in winter or the Uncorked Wine Train for adults.
• The train departs from the restored Bryson City Depot, home to the Smoky Mountain Trains Museum, featuring hundreds of model trains and railroad memorabilia.

Swain County Heritage Museum & Visitor Center

Located inside the beautifully restored historic courthouse, the Swain County Heritage Museum tells the story of Bryson City and the surrounding region. The building also doubles as the Bryson City Visitor Center, where guests can pick up local maps, guides, and walking tours of downtown. We did the walking tour with our pup on a nice cool fall day.

• Bryson City Depot (226 Everett St) — Historic train station of Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, a key local landmark.
• Swain County Courthouse (Main & Fry Sts) — The 1908 Classical Revival-style building now housing the Swain County Heritage Museum.
• Bryson Island Park — A small island park in the Tuckasegee River near downtown: nice for a short detour and river views.
• Bryson City Bakery (Everett St) — A favorite local stop for pastries and coffee while touring downtown.
• Island Park Footbridge (over the Tuckasegee River) — The pedestrian bridge leading to Island Park; scenic and photo-worthy.
• Tuckasegee River Bridge (Everett Street crossing) — A vantage point for river and mountain views right in the downtown area.

Sylva, NC

Nestled in the heart of Jackson County, Sylva is a charming mountain town that blends small-town warmth with a vibrant arts and dining scene. Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, it’s known for its picturesque downtown, historic courthouse perched atop a dramatic hill, and easy access to waterfalls, hiking trails, and scenic drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Sylva is also a favorite filming location for several movies, adding to its cinematic allure.

• Jackson County Ale Trail: A self-guided beer trail connecting Sylva’s breweries with nearby Dillsboro and Cashiers.
• Historic Jackson County Courthouse: Iconic 1914 courthouse overlooking Main Street, now home to the Jackson County Public Library and a favorite photo spot.
• Downtown Main Street: Walkable area lined with boutiques, cafés, breweries, and local restaurants showcasing Appalachian flavor.
• Bridge Park & Pavilion: Outdoor gathering space hosting farmers markets, concerts, and festivals year-round.
• Lucea & Pinnacle Park Trails: Great local hikes with mountain views, wildflowers, and peaceful forest scenery.
• Hooker Falls & Waterfalls Near Sylva: Within a short drive, visitors can reach waterfalls like Schoolhouse Falls or High Falls in the surrounding Nantahala and Pisgah forests.
• Movie Locations: Sylva was featured in films like Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri and The Fugitive.

Cullowhee, NC

Tucked along the Tuckasegee River in Jackson County, Cullowhee is a scenic and vibrant college town, home to Western Carolina University (WCU). Surrounded by rolling hills and mountain vistas, it offers a perfect mix of outdoor adventure, cultural enrichment, and small-town Southern charm. While quieter than nearby Sylva, Cullowhee draws visitors for its river recreation, campus events, and proximity to the Blue Ridge Parkway and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

• Western Carolina University (WCU): A beautiful mountain campus featuring the Bardo Fine and Performing Arts Center, Mountain Heritage Center, and a calendar full of concerts, plays, and athletic events.
• Tuckasegee River: Popular for kayaking, tubing, and fishing, with calm sections ideal for families and beginners.
• East LaPorte River Access Park: A peaceful riverside park offering swimming, picnicking, and tubing spots just minutes from campus.
• Cullowhee Creek & Trails: Walking and biking paths around the WCU campus and nearby natural areas with scenic mountain views.
• Nearby Waterfalls: Within a short drive, visitors can explore High Falls (Cullowhee) and Schoolhouse Falls, both local favorites for hiking and photography.

Judaculla Rock

Located just outside Cullowhee, Judaculla Rock is one of the most significant Native American archaeological sites in the Southeast. This large soapstone boulder is covered with hundreds of ancient petroglyphs—carvings and symbols that date back more than 1,000 years. The rock holds deep cultural and spiritual meaning to the Cherokee people, who associate it with Tsul’kalu (Judaculla), a powerful giant and protector of the mountains in Cherokee legend.

Visitors can view the rock from a wooden observation deck that helps preserve the site while allowing for close-up views of the intricate carvings. Interpretive signs explain the history, meaning, and preservation efforts behind this unique site.

• Ancient Petroglyphs: Over 1,500 carvings depicting symbols, handprints, and animal-like figures—some still unexplained today.
• Cultural Significance: Believed to mark the territory of Tsul’kalu, a legendary Cherokee figure tied to the landscape.

Nantahala National Forest

The Nantahala National Forest is the largest of North Carolina’s four national forests, covering more than 500,000 acres across the state’s far western mountains. Its name means “Land of the Noonday Sun” in Cherokee, referencing the deep mountain gorges where sunlight only reaches the valley floor at midday. The forest is a haven for outdoor lovers—offering whitewater rafting, hiking, waterfalls, and scenic drives that showcase the rugged beauty of the Smokies and Blue Ridge Mountains.

• Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC): A world-renowned destination for whitewater rafting, kayaking, and ziplining along the Nantahala River.
• Nantahala Gorge: Offers breathtaking views and thrilling rapids for rafting and kayaking enthusiasts.
• Wayah Bald Lookout Tower: Climb the historic stone tower for sweeping views of the Appalachian Mountains and even parts of Georgia and Tennessee.
• Appalachian Trail & Bartram Trail: Miles of scenic trails wind through the forest, ideal for day hikes or long-distance treks.
• Dry Falls & Cullasaja Falls: Two of the region’s most picturesque waterfalls, easily accessible along U.S. 64 between Franklin and Highlands.
• Lake Nantahala: A serene lake high in the mountains, ideal for boating, kayaking, fishing, and swimming. Less crowded than other mountain lakes, offering a peaceful retreat.

Waynesville, NC

Nestled between the Great Smoky Mountains and the Blue Ridge Parkway, Waynesville blends small-town charm with outdoor adventure. The historic downtown is lined with art galleries, local boutiques, and farm-to-table restaurants, while nearby trails and scenic drives offer a true mountain escape. Waynesville is also known for its festivals celebrating Appalachian culture and craft beer.

• Frog Level Historic District: Once a rail hub, now home to breweries, coffee shops, and live music.
• Haywood Arts Regional Theatre: Enjoy high-quality local performances in a mountain setting.
• Blue Ridge Parkway: Access some of the most scenic overlooks just a few miles away.

Maggie Valley

Known for its nostalgic roadside charm and easy access to outdoor recreation, Maggie Valley is a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It’s a favorite destination for motorcyclists, skiers, and families looking for a relaxed mountain getaway with a touch of vintage Americana.

• Wheels Through Time Museum: Showcasing rare American motorcycles and classic automobiles.
• Cataloochee Ski Area: One of North Carolina’s top ski destinations.
• Soco Falls: A beautiful double waterfall located just off the main highway.
• Ghost Town in the Sky (historic attraction): While currently closed, it remains a nostalgic landmark in the valley.

Franklin, NC

Situated along the Little Tennessee River, Franklin is known as the “Gem Capital of the World,” where visitors can mine for rubies and sapphires. The town also serves as a gateway to the Appalachian Trail, attracting hikers and nature lovers year-round. Its historic downtown features mountain heritage museums, cozy eateries, and antique shops.

• Gem Mining: Visit Ruby City Gems or Rose Creek Mine for hands-on fun.
• Scottish Tartans Museum: Learn about the area’s Scottish heritage.
• Franklin Gem & Mineral Museum: Located in the old jailhouse, showcasing local finds.
• Little Tennessee River Greenway: Perfect for walking, biking, or picnicking along the river.

Cashiers, NC

Set high on a mountain plateau, Cashiers offers luxury and tranquility surrounded by waterfalls, lakes, and lush forest. Known for its upscale resorts, golf courses, and boutiques, it’s a perfect base for exploring nearby Highlands or hiking to scenic vistas in the Nantahala National Forest.

• The Village Green: A 13-acre park in the heart of town with walking paths, gardens, and community events.
• Silver Run Falls: A family-friendly waterfall just minutes from the center of Cashiers.
• Panthertown Valley: Nicknamed the “Yosemite of the East,” it’s a hiker’s paradise with trails and waterfalls.
• Cashiers Farmers Market: A local favorite for fresh produce, baked goods, and mountain crafts.

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