Best Nature and Parks (RV, National, Dog, etc) in Townsend

"When you visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, why not start off by hiking up to Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the Smokies at 6,643 feet. From the car park, it’s a relatively steep half-mile walk to the observation tower on the summit, but our kids handled it no problem and on a clear day you get spectacular 360° views of the Smokies and beyond – a great spot for sunrise and sunset."

"The highest point in the Smoky Mountains provides some of the best views you will ever see…period. Once you travel the 7 miles up Clingman’s Dome Road, the views become amazing. There’s a steep walkway up to the observation tower about half a mile from the parking lot."

"At 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. That’s why it’s no secret that the Clingmans Dome Observation Tower offers the best views of the mountains!. On clear days, views can expand over 100 miles."

"This is one of the more popular hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park due to the sheer beauty of the waterfall. Abrams Falls is only 20 feet (6 meters) in height, but it is the most voluminous waterfall in the park. The trail begins by passing over Abrams Creek by bridge and then turning left to head towards the waterfall."

"A moderate 5 mile hike leads to one of the most dramatic waterfalls in the Smoky Mountains near Cades Cove. From the trailhead near the halfway point in Cades Cove, hikers will descend down a stunning river gorge to this high-flow waterfall in the park. Otters are known the frequent this section of the river on Abrams Creek."

"This 5-mile round trip trail ends at the 18-foot high Abrams Falls named after a Cherokee chief whose village was downstream. The pool at the bottom of the falls has an undertow, so don’t swim there."

"Located in the less-visited Tremont section of the park, Spruce Flats Falls is not on the radar of most park visitors. Because of this fact, you might have this special place all to yourself when you come to visit. These falls aren’t just great for escaping the crowds — they’re also perfect if you’re short on time, as the trail leading to the waterfall is just a two-mile round trip."

"The trail to get to Spruce Flats Falls is considered moderate and has a roundtrip length of 1.8 miles. This trail isn’t on the official Great Smoky Mountain National Park map, but the waterfall is visited often because of its scenic beauty. Before you reach the falls, you’ll cross streams and continue uphill then go downtown."

"Technically, this is not an official park trail and often the falls are not found on any park maps. Thus making it one of the Smokies' true hidden gems. Though, don’t be surprised if you encounter other hikers due to its close proximity to the Tremont Visitors Center."

"Baskins Creek Falls is located along the Roaring Fork Motor Trail, which is a beautiful area in the Smoky Mountains in the fall. You’ll see the fall colors and a waterfall along this 3-mile round trip trail. At the beginning of this hike, you’ll have some great views of the mountains covered in fall foliage."

"Relative to their popularity, this 40-foot, two-tiered waterfall just might be the most underrated falls in the Great Smoky Mountains. It's also a great place to kick back and enjoy a picnic."

"Patriot Park is a quaint park that’s dedicated to wartime veterans and sits along the river’s edge. It’s a perfect spot to go for a picnic, have some time of quiet reflection or respect the county’s veterans. The park isn’t huge, at only 16 acres, but its proximity to nearby shops and restaurants makes this green space perfect for a quick outdoor getaway in the middle of the day."

"For a slow, casual day out, spend it in Patriot Park along Old Mill Square. This park is dedicated to the veterans of war who lived in Sevier County."

"Sevierville City Park has a number of amenities for families of every variety, including basketball courts, picnic shelters, and walking trails. Of course, these are all in addition to the indoor and outdoor pools. Spend a few hours on the playground or squeeze in a match on the tennis courts before cooling off under the surface."

"You’ll be able to easily find souvenirs from gift shops in this area, like airbrush shirts. Want to do something cheesy yet fun?. Get an old-time picture taken of you and your family!"