Smoky Mountains National Park Summer Crowds

We were there in mid aug 2010 for a week. it was warm a couple of days and HOT for a few more (103). at that time of the year down there the schools were back in session. so it wasn`t too bad, but still busy. on the hot days we did Splash Country one day, and the next we did rafting and then went up into the mountains to Clingmans Dome where the temp dropped to 63 and Misting. there is always something to do.

Honestly. The Smokeys aren't all that cool ever. If you really want to find some cool in the summer. You need to come to the NC High Country. In the area between Little Switzerland And Sparta. We have camped the Blue Ridge Parkway in that area for 30 years, and have yet to need any AC. In fact the average "High" temp in the summer at Linville Falls is in the 70s. Same for Julian Price Park, and Glendale Springs. It is always campfire weather up there. We have been up there when the temp here was in 100, and it was jacket weather up there. You can feel it cooling off as you go up. It's the reason so few CGs have pools. It's too cool for them.

So try Boone, Blowing Rock, Linville, and Glendale Springs. You will love it. AND IF you go up to Mt. Mitchell, take a jacket no matter when you go

Want to escape the heat in July/Aug?? Go to Southwest Colorado!!!:)

Every time I have been there in the summer time it's been bumper to bumper cars going thru the park.

I grew up in the area back when it was not crowded and it was more fun. I still go back but in the off season.

If you can plan mid to later August you'll avoid some of the crowds. However, you won't get much relief from the heat unless you get to higher elevations and even then not always that time of year. Cool mountain streams will be your best heat deterant. The further you get from away from Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg the less crowds. Try Townsend area if you want to stay in private campground, otherwise any of the NP campgrounds will be nice even when full. If you really want to get away from the traffic etc. look to the North Carolina side.

Even at the most crowded times of year, it can still be a pleasant experience. Look for areas of the park less traveled. I'm always amazed at how few people venture past 441 and Cades Cove.

I have been there in July and August and it was not a place to excape the heat and humity. Got stuck in a traffick jam goind to Cades Cove in 100 degree heat with 90% humidity. On a side note, I am in the Piedgon Forge right now and it is pouring down rain and about 50 degrees.

depends on where you go, the Smokey Mountains are very very popular, Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge are very crowded, especially the week of the 4th. BUT its a GREAT place to go. We spend a whole week at Cades Cove, morning evening trips looking for wildlife, we have Lots and Lots of bear pictures! we love it, you get used to the crowds