This classic American Scenic Drive is 106 miles of stunning natural beauty, featuring the Blue Ridge Mountains, national parks, forests, historic sites, hiking trails, and more. Along the way, there are several great camping spots, making this the perfect trip to do with your Luno gear.

Blowing Rock

Peaks of Otter

Laurel Springs

Bedford

Staunton

Waynesboro

Floyd

Spruce Pine

Lexington

Asheville

Meadows of Dan

Rockfish

Marion

Newland

Canton

Blue Ridge Parkway: The Ultimate Car Camping Roadtrip

The United States currently has 63 protected areas known as national parks that are operated by the National Park Service. I’m on a mission to see as many of them as I can. I’ve been to 28 so far. Following is a list of where I’ve been in chronological order. To learn more about my journey, please visit darkskyoverland.com.

National Parks

Experience the Music City! 
In this guide I provide my top picks for… 
✨Hotels & Airbnbs 
✨Must try restaurants 
✨Culture 
✨Day trips 
✨Local Shops & More! 


Nashville, TN, USA

Guide to Nashville, Tennessee! 🎸

Springtime is the perfect season to explore the United States' best travel destinations. In this guide, we'll show you the top places to visit, activities to do, and sights to see during spring.


Sedona, AZ, USA

Yosemite National Park, California, USA

Grand Canyon, Arizona, USA

Maui, Hawaii, USA

Tennessee, USA

New Orleans, LA, USA

Charleston, SC, USA

San Antonio, TX, USA

Napa, CA, USA

The Best Spring Travel Destinations in the United States: A Guide to Discovering Nature's Renewal

Itinerary for a long weekend at Smoky Mountain National Park. WITH A 3 YEAR OLD! 

Gatlinburg

Townsend

Pigeon Forge

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Gatlinburg, Tennessee is a charming mountain town that is perfect for a long weekend getaway. 

It is the gateway community for Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is the most visited national park in America. 

As someone who grew up visiting Gatlinburg, I can attest that there truly is something for everyone in this town, regardless of age. 

With year-round activities, nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both. 

Come and see what this town has to offer!

Gatlinburg, TN, USA

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Pigeon Forge, TN, USA

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, United States

Gatlinburg, Tennessee City Guide

Heading towards the Smoky Mountains? Check out this map of top activities and restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. This guide is composed of recommended places from other travelers’ public guides and travel websites. 


*This guide contains some affiliate links that will allow me to make a small commission 

Smoky Mountain, Tennessee, USA

Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge, TN Guide

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, is a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains and a perfect destination for introverts who want to escape into nature. While the area is known for its bustling attractions like Dollywood, there are plenty of quiet spots for solo travelers looking to enjoy some peace and solitude. Start with a visit to Cades Cove, a scenic valley offering breathtaking views, wildlife sightings, and a quiet atmosphere perfect for reflection.

Escape to Pigeon Forge: A Serene Getaway for Introverts

Ridge upon ridge of forest straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee in Great Smoky Mountains National Park . The sprawling landscape encompasses lush forests and an abundance of wildflowers that bloom year-round

Escape to the breathtaking beauty of Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Immerse yourself in nature's splendor with awe-inspiring vistas, tranquil hikes, and a diverse array of wildlife

Sitting at the southern end of the Blue Ridge Parkway, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a great add on if you have an extra 1-3 days to explore some more.

Get out in nature and discover the beauty of Great Smoky Mountain National Park

Get outdoors in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

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About Great Smoky Mountains National Park