17Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The popular Great Smoky Mountains National Park straddles the two states of North Carolina and Tennessee deep within the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s reported to be America’s most popular national park. Over 14 million people visited this place back in 2021.
Spring is a great time to visit this park. The weather is cooler, the crowds are comparatively smaller, and the beautiful rhododendron and mountain laurels are starting to bloom. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is also perfect for animal lovers because they can see North Carolina’s very last herd of wild Elk here near Cherokee. From the middle of May to early June, the Cataloochee Valley Elk give birth. Spring’s also a great time for birdwatching, camping, fishing, wildlife viewing, and day-hiking on sections of the Appalachian Trail.
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