9 Hidden Gems in the Great Smoky Mountains

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Welcome to the Great Smoky Mountains, the most-visited national park in the U.S. But do you know there are many hidden gems in the park that most tourists miss?  

Elkmont is a ghost town that was once a logging community and a resort destination. You can see 19 historic buildings, six of which have been fully restored 

Elkmont 

#1

Walker Sisters Cabin is a homestead log cabin that belonged to five spinster sisters who refused to leave their mountain traditions. 

Walker Sisters Cabin 

#2

White Oak Sinks is a hidden wonderland of caves, waterfalls, and wildflowers. It is not marked on any official trail maps, but you can find it off the Schoolhouse Gap Trail. 

White Oak Sinks 

#3

Fontana Dam is the highest dam in the eastern U.S., and it offers stunning views of the lake and the mountains. 

Fontana Dam

#4

Cataloochee Valley is a secluded valley that was once home to a thriving farming community.  

Cataloochee Valley 

#5

Spruce Flats Falls is a beautiful waterfall that is hidden behind the Tremont Institute. You can hike a moderate 1.8-mile roundtrip trail that leads to the falls.

Spruce Flats Falls 

#6

The Sinks is a popular swimming hole that is formed by a powerful cascade of water that plunges into a deep pool. 

The Sinks 

#7

Foothills Parkway is a scenic drive that offers panoramic views of the Smokies and the surrounding valleys. 

Foothills Parkway 

#8

Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a one-way loop road that takes you through a lush forest and a mountain stream. 

Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail 

#9

Next: 9 Top Reasons to Visit the Great Smoky Mountains

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