The Great Smoky Mountains National Park encompasses 800 square miles in the states of Tennessee and North Carolina and is the showcase for some of the most inspiring natural and cultural treasures that the Southern Appalachians have to offer. The Park's abundant plant and animal life and historical significance, coupled with its accessibility, makes the national park the most visited in the nation with over 10 million visitors annually. The Smokies lies within 550 miles of one-third of the American population. The Park preserves and maintains a collection of some 77 historic structures. These structures, representing a century of human history in the Appalachia region, helps to tell the story of the people who lived and worked in the Park prior to its creation. Today, conservationists, backpackers, trout fishermen, motorists and recreational groups take pleasure in the Park's many recreational opportunities and sanctuary in a natural setting. The Park's fundamental significance lies in its extraordinary quality as a sanctuary--the massive mountain ridges, deep-cleft valleys and unspoiled streams create entirely different ecosystems which are refuges for the thousands of plant and animal species. The Park has more than 1,100 front country campsites, 100 backcountry campsites, 800 miles of trails, 700 miles of streams, 11 picnic grounds, 3 visitor centers, and numerous scenic overlooks. American black bears, deer, turkeys, flowers and other wildlife are popular with nature photographers in the Smokies. The Park's intricate trail system provides access to view the diversity of life in the Smokies. Many salamander and plant species are found nowhere else in the world, and the forests contain more tree species than any national park. Popular destinations in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park include: Sugarlands Visitor Center: 2 miles from downtown Gatlinburg. View a well-produced park film and browse the gift shop and natural history exhibits. Allow an hour. Newfound Gap: A favorite photo spot with incredible views straddling the Tennessee-North Carolina border. Approximate drive time from Gatlinburg is 30 minutes. Cades Cove: A must see in the Great Smokies. Eleven-mile loop is popular with cyclists and motorists. See the true side of pioneer life in the remote mountains. Allow at least half a day. The approximate drive time from Gatlinburg is 45 minutes. Come enjoy the nearby Smoky Mountains! ©2008 gatlinburg.be. All Rights Reserved.