Great Smoky Mountains National Park
It's hard to believe that Smoky Mountains National Park is only minutes away from Elvira's Cafe! This beautiful park offers many opportunities for visitors, including scenic driving and bike rides along the Cades Cove loop road. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even climb up Clingmans Dome to get a view of this sprawling national treasure. Smoky Mountain National Park is home to over 187,000 acres of Appalachian forest with 9 million visitors coming to visit the park every year.
Many visitors enter the park through our neighboring town of Townsend TN which is the ultimate entry point into Cades Cove, an authentic pioneer village with miles of hiking trails, cozy campgrounds, breathtaking streams, and photo-worthy waterfalls. We highly recommend checking out Smoky Mountain National Park if you're looking for an outdoor adventure.
There's something to do for everyone!
If you're feeling adventurous, we recommend taking a scenic drive or bike ride along the Cades Cove loop road. This 11-mile road offers beautiful views of the Smoky Mountains and is a great way to see wildlife up close. You can also check out some of the pioneer cabins, chapels, and even a working grist mill!
If you're looking for a place to pitch your tent, Smoky Mountain National Park is also home to over 100 backcountry campsites. There's no better way to experience the Smokies than by camping under the stars! You can choose from a variety of front-country or backcountry camping options. Backcountry camping is our favorite as it offers a perfect getaway into the wilderness. But know before you go (backcountry camping is no joke!) then soak up the experience that lies ahead.
If hiking is more your thing, Smoky Mountain National Park offers over 800 miles of trails to explore! You can climb up to Clingmans Dome for some amazing views or venture down to White Oak Sinks for a hike that includes beautiful wildflower foliage in the Spring. There is also a number of trails in close proximity to Elvira's Cafe to choose from. Some of our favorites are Metcalf Bottoms, Curry Mountain, Lumber Ridge, and Little Greenbrier trails.
The Townsend side of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is known as "the Peaceful Side of the Smokies". With the hustle and bustle of Gatlinburg just minutes away, Townsend is a great place to find some peace and quiet. Surrounded by nature's beauty and tranquility, the Peaceful Side offers the relaxation you deserve on your next much-needed vacation.
Smoky Mountain National Park is a perfect adventure for solo travelers, friends, and families alike. And what could be better than enjoying a nice breakfast at Elvira's Cafe before venturing out for a day of hiking and exploration? We'll let you decide!