GSMNP the most popular park

I have lived next door to the GSMNP for most of my life and have visited it a great many times.
When I see the attendance figures, I have to ask, how do they count people. There are several entrances with no way to count cars. No counters of any kind that I can see, yet so Millions visit each year. I have even asked at the Visitors center and can get no answer.

Most Parks have an entrance station where you have to pay. At least there you can count vehicles and get some idea of attendance.

It is crowded though. We were in Cades Cove Easter week end and it was bumper to bumper. Saw several deer, turkeys and one bear.

11 million people visited the GSMNP last year. I see license plates from all over the country really and am amazed how big a draw this park and area is. We live about 20 miles outside of Sevierville/Pigeon Forge/ Gatlinburg and enjoy playing tourist in our own hometown area. Yes, it can be CRAZY BUSY with traffic but if you can find your patience there is so much to see and do for all ages you would have to work at being bored. Don't let the traffic keep you from visiting.

We go in late April of early May and the crowds are non-existant. Beautiful place to visit.

What time of year and day? Start early, go in the off-season. Yes, it can be a pain.