10 Things to Do in Townsend, TN: The Peaceful Side of the Smokies
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the U.S. Last year alone, just shy of 13 million visitors came to experience this national treasure. So, if you plan on visiting anytime soon, put Townsend, Tennessee, on your radar!
You can’t go to Appalachia Country without visiting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, based out of Townsend, for your trip. Sightseeing and hiking are the top things to see and do in the park.
One of the most popular things to do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park is to drive the 11-mile Cades Cove Loop. People flock from all over the world at the chance to see the area’s famous black bears and historical sites.
3. Learn About the Area at the Heritage Cultural Center
Another wonderful thing to do in Townsend, TN, is visit the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center. They have an extensive Cherokee Native American Collection, tours, and hands-on learning activities about life in East Tennessee during the 19th Century.
There are over 850 miles of trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park; you can even intersect the Appalachian Trail on your day hike adventures. There are so many opportunities to hike in and around Townsend and the backcountry.
5. Be Curious at Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont
Speaking of Tremont, nestled inside the park, is an educational institute dedicated to helping others learn more about the great outdoors. This isn’t just a place for school field trips and summer camp; Tremont offers adult and family adventures like naturalist certifications, photography, and writing workshops.