Going to the Smokies This Summer? 5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Going

Have you ever gone somewhere and just wish you knew more before you went? That’s how it was for me when we took a road trip to the Great Smoky Mountains last year. I did my research – don’t get me wrong. I even asked questions on Reddit forums and everywhere else I could. But, still, there were 5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Going to the Great Smoky Mountains.

Tourist Trap

Of all the researching that I did, not once did I read that the Great Smoky Mountains was a tourist trap. Where did I miss the information?  Had I known this I would have planned so much better. I would have included a least one fun touristy thing for us to do while there, especially since I had my boys with me.

Don’t get me wrong, we did do some cool things. However, I would have chosen other things for us to do instead.

For example, I would have chosen for us to take a helicopter ride instead of getting suckered into several arcades. But then again, I have young boys and arcades make them happy.

Check out how intense the arcade was for them at America’s Incredible Pizza.

Price Check, Please!

Anywho, speaking of helicopter rides. I wanted for us to take one so bad but I decided against it because I wasn’t equipped with all of the information I needed to make the best decision.

So, I am telling you this. I believe it is worth the experience. But, guess what? There are several prices ranges that I didn’t know about. You can take a helicopter ride for as low as $10. But, you have to pay attention to signs, get brochures, and ask around. Do your research and compare prices.

Warning: Everyone, everywhere is selling some kind of show ticket, so be prepared.

How far is a mile?

My, oh my. As you are traveling throughout the Smoky Mountains, it is important to understand what a mile is and is not. It is a “mile”. It is not your typical mile, however. Driving a mile in the Smoky Mountains can take what seems like f.o.r.e.v.e.r.

You are driving through the mountains – up and down. There could be traffic and lots of it. People are pulled off to the side admiring it’s beauty, exploring, taking photos, etc. So, it is important to keep in mind that this is not a fly by type of mile or miles. You will need to be patient and take your time.

It actually took us a few hours to make it from the Tennessee side of the mountain to the North Carolina side of the mountain – and back.

There should be a directional sign that says, “Warning: This journey could cause you to be a nervous wreck when done.”

Because that’s just what I was. I was a nervous wreck and so thankful when we were back down to solid ground and I could get back to our room and rest.

Weather Changes

Oh, and I forgot to mention that it snowed at the top. So, it was clear at the bottom and snowy up top. That’s right. So, I would advise that you are aware of the weather forecast before you attempt this because the weather can change in the blink of an eye, literally.

When we started out the weather was cold, but it was clear. As we got closer to the top, the weather began to change. It went from clear, to rainy, to complete snow. And, driving through the mountains – in snow – is just not my thing.

Now that it’s pretty much summer, I wouldn’t worry as much, but I would still check for rain in the forecast.

Groupon

Finally, I wish I had checked Groupon for attractions. I actually used Groupon for the hotel room, but I didn’t think to look up attractions because our main focus was actually going to explore the great Smoky Mountains. But, now that I know what kind of a tourist trap it is, I’ll be sure to plan better next time and check Groupon for additional discounts.

Have you ever been to the Great Smoky Mountains? What’s your take?