Timed entry and tours at Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park uses booked entry or tours for 2 things. Turning up without one can mean being turned away, even with lodging booked inside the park.
What needs booking
| Name | Booking | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Great Smoky Mountains National Park Parking Tag | Timed entry / ticket | Activity pass |
| The Great Smoky Mountains Firefly Viewing Lottery | Timed entry / ticket | — |
When bookings open
Great Smoky Mountains parking tag can be bought up to six months ahead, and is not a contested release.
Check the current requirement
Great Smoky Mountains National Park sells a parking tag on Recreation.gov, which is not an entrance fee. Driving through without parking needs none. Confirm the current parking rules on the official site.
Official Great Smoky Mountains National Park site — hours, closures, and fees.
Common questions
Does Great Smoky Mountains National Park need a timed entry reservation?
Great Smoky Mountains National Park sells a parking tag on Recreation.gov, which does not gate driving in. Driving through without parking needs none.
Do Great Smoky Mountains National Park tours need booking?
Yes — The Great Smoky Mountains Firefly Viewing Lottery. These sell out well ahead in peak season.