Great Smoky Mountains National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour
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Great Smoky Mountains National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour

Active
(3 reviews)
14h - 15h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Welcome to Great Smoky Mountains National Park Tour! Come journey with us as we travel through stunning mountain scenery and explore the historical homes of days gone by.

The Great Smoky Mountains are the most visited national park in the country, often receiving over 14 million visitors every year! We've broken it down with the top things to do, including 14 stops in and around the park!

What you'll get:

Expert Narration: Learn about the park's heritage, ecology, and wildlife.

User-Friendly App: Access the tour easily on your smartphone.

Capture the Moment: Discover ideal photo spots for stunning panoramas and wildlife shots.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains with our audio tour. Book now and embark on a journey you'll cherish for years to come!

The remaining hours in the tour details are allotted for the travel time.

*Download the Shaka Guide app to access your purchased tours.*

Available options

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour

What's included

Tours NEVER expire
Offline Audio Guided Tour: Hours of audio narration with stories, travel tips and music
Offline map (map and GPS work completely offline - no wifi or data needed)
Take the tour when you want - download the tour and choose the day that works best for you
Turn-by-turn directions using GPS
Freedom to explore at your own pace - pick the stops you want, skip the ones you don’t
Audio narration that plays automatically as you drive

Detailed itinerary

1

Here, you can discover fascinating facts about the park's animals and history. Don't forget to say hello to the friendly farm animals too!

2

Clingman's Dome is the park's highest point, and you can reach an observation tower for absolutely breathtaking views of the mountains. Don't underestimate the chill, even in summer; so, pack a jacket!

3

Newfound Gap lets you stand right on the border of North Carolina and Tennessee! The views are simply jaw-dropping. Pack a picnic and savor the fresh mountain air.

4

Alum Cave Trail is an exciting hike leading to a captivating cave. Inside, the cave dazzles with sparkling minerals – a true hidden gem! Make sure to wear sturdy hiking boots.

5
Stop 5

Chimney Tops is another fantastic spot for breathtaking vistas. Though you can't hike to the summit anymore, you can still admire the unique rock formations. Don't forget your camera!

6
Stop 6

This short, easy walk is a nature lover's dream with an abundance of plants and animals to discover. Keep an eye out for colorful birds and playful squirrels!

7

The Sugarlands Visitor Center is a treasure trove of information. Here, you can grab maps, ask questions, and delve into the park's history. Don't be shy; the park rangers are eager to assist you!

8

This trail follows a pristine river, and you might even spot some adorable salamanders in the water! Wear water shoes if you'd like to wade in the river.

9

Laurel Falls is a stunning waterfall, and reaching it is a short and rewarding hike. Exercise caution on the trail, as it can be slippery.

10

Metcalf Bottoms is an ideal spot for a picnic or a game of catch. It's a peaceful place to unwind and relish the great outdoors.

11

The Sinks is a fascinating spot to watch the water rushes through the rocky terrain – nature's own waterslide! Be cautious and refrain from attempting to slide down the rocks yourself.

12
Stop 12

Cades Cove is a sprawling, picturesque valley teeming with wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for deer, bears, and wild turkeys. Drive slowly and stay patient for wildlife sightings!

13
Stop 13

Roaring Fork is a one-way loop road surrounded by lush forests and cascading waterfalls. Roll down your car windows and relish the symphony of forest sounds. Don't forget to snap some stunning photos!

14

Gatlinburg is a charming mountain town boasting quaint shops and delightful restaurants. It's a fun place to explore and treat yourself to some local delights like fudge and apple cider donuts.

What's not included

Meals and Refreshment
Parking Fees
Entrance Fees

Available languages

Audio guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0
3 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
1
1★
0

Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Get Started Easily: • Book Your Tour: Receive a confirmation and easy instructions via email. • Download the App: Follow the simple steps in your email. • Redeem the Tour: Use the redeem code in your email to redeem the tour in the app. • Prepare Ahead: Download the tour using strong Wi-Fi.
Begin Your Journey: • Select Your Tour: Go to the My Stuff tab in the Shaka Guide app to launch the tour. • Start the Tour: Select the tour starting point and follow the GPS instructions. • Follow Shaka Guide: Stick to the suggested route and speed for the best experience.
Why Choose Our Audio Tour: • Cost-Efficient: One tour for the entire vehicle—no per-person fees! • Ultimate Flexibility: Start, pause, and resume on your schedule. • Convenience: Use the tour any day, over multiple days if needed.
Top Features: • Hands-Free: The tour works automatically - GPS-activated stories, directions, and music play as you drive for a seamless experience. • Works Offline: No need for continuous wifi or data. • Reliable Support: Get help via call, chat, or email.
Private and Personalized: • Crowd-Free: Enjoy a private tour with just your group. • Customizable Stops: Pick the stops you want and skip the ones you don’t!
The Ultimate Guided Tour: • Detailed Itinerary: Includes travel tips and recommendations. • Engaging Narration: Captivating stories and history.
What Our Users Say: • “A fantastic way to explore! Easy to use and very informative.” • “Loved the flexibility to stop and go as we pleased. Highly recommend!”

Meeting point

Follow Newfound Gap Road west towards the Sugarlands Visitor Center. From there, either turn right towards Gatlinburg and the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail or turn left for Cades Cove Scenic Loop. The tour can be taken vice versa.

Important notes

HOW TO REDEEM YOUR TOUR:

Thank you for purchasing the Great Smoky Mountains Tour.

Before you start your adventure, you'll need to redeem and download the tour in the Shaka Guide app. Follow the instructions below:

*Please Note: The redeem code is the 10-digit booking reference number on your ticket (located under the barcode).

How to Redeem Your Tour(s):
1. Download the Shaka Guide app from the App Store or Google Play
2. Open the app and sign up or sign in
3. Tap Support
4. Tap Retrieve Purchases
5. Tap Redeem Purchase
6. Enter the 10-digit Booking Reference number (under the barcode on their Viator ticket)
7. Hit Redeem Purchase and download the tour(s)

Once you've redeemed your tour, you'll find it under "My Stuff" in the app.

For a smooth ride, download the tour with wifi before you go.

We can't wait for you to explore with Shaka Guide!

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out to aloha@shakaguide.com or call (808) 201-8138

DOWNLOAD THE APP HERE: www.shakaguide.com/download

About Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States, known for its diverse plant and animal life, the beauty of its ancient mountains, and the quality of its remnants of Southern Appalachian mountain culture. It offers stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and a variety of outdoor activities.

Top Attractions

Cades Cove

Cades Cove is a scenic valley with a rich history of early settlers. It offers beautiful views, historic cabins, and abundant wildlife.

Nature Half day to full day Free

Clingmans Dome

The highest point in the park, offering panoramic views from an observation tower.

Nature 1-2 hours for the hike and view Free

Laurel Falls

A beautiful waterfall with a short, paved trail leading to its base.

Nature 1 hour round trip Free

Gatlinburg SkyBridge

The longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America, offering stunning views of the Smoky Mountains.

Adventure 1-2 hours Moderate

Oconaluftee Visitor Center

A visitor center with exhibits on the park's history and cultural heritage, as well as a mountain farm museum.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Fried Chicken

Crispy, golden-fried chicken, often served with mashed potatoes and gravy, coleslaw, and biscuits.

Lunch/Dinner Not vegetarian or vegan

Biscuits and Gravy

Fluffy biscuits smothered in creamy sausage gravy, a classic Southern breakfast dish.

Breakfast Contains meat and dairy

Apple Stack Cake

A traditional Appalachian dessert made with layers of spiced apples and cake, often served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Dessert Contains gluten and dairy

Pimento Cheese Sandwich

A Southern classic made with a creamy mixture of cheese, pimentos, and spices, served on crusty bread.

Lunch Contains dairy and gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking Whitewater rafting Zip-lining Horseback riding Scenic drives Picnicking Wildlife viewing Fishing

Best Time to Visit

September to October (fall foliage season)

This is the most popular time to visit due to the stunning fall colors and pleasant weather. The park is bustling with visitors, and all facilities are open.

10-25°C 50-77°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: English
  • Widely spoken: English
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (GMT-5:00)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas and situations

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is generally safe, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, visitors should be aware of potential hazards, such as wildlife encounters, weather changes, and the risks of outdoor activities like hiking and swimming.

Important Precautions:
  • • Stay on marked trails and follow park guidelines for safety
  • • Be aware of wildlife and keep a safe distance
  • • Carry plenty of water and snacks, and dress in layers for changing weather conditions

Getting there

By air
  • McGhee Tyson Airport • 20 miles from Gatlinburg, TN
  • Asheville Regional Airport • 60 miles from Cherokee, NC
By bus

Gatlinburg, Cherokee

Getting around

Public transport

Shuttle services are available during peak seasons and provide a convenient way to explore without driving.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Gatlinburg Cherokee Townsend

Day trips

Dollywood
30 miles from Gatlinburg • Full day

A popular theme park owned by country music legend Dolly Parton, featuring a variety of rides, shows, and attractions.

Pigeon Forge
20 miles from Gatlinburg • Half day to full day

A popular tourist destination offering a variety of attractions, including museums, dinner theaters, and shopping.

Blue Ridge Parkway
100 miles from Gatlinburg • Full day or overnight

A beautiful scenic drive offering stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, as well as numerous hiking trails, picnic areas, and waterfalls.

Festivals

Smoky Mountain Christmas • November to January Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage • April Smoky Mountain Songwriters Festival • September

Pro tips

  • Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking, especially during peak seasons.
  • Download offline maps and trail guides, as cell service can be limited or nonexistent in some areas of the park.
  • Pack layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions, as temperatures and conditions can vary significantly throughout the day and year.
  • Bring plenty of water and snacks, as food and drink options can be limited or expensive within the park.
  • Consider hiring a local guide or joining a ranger-led program for a more in-depth and educational experience.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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