Great Smoky Mountains National Park is expecting significant crowds this Fourth of July weekend as the country marks its 250th anniversary, and park officials want visitors to come prepared. The national park provided a handful of tips for those hoping to make the trip, and while they are specific to Great Smoky Mountains, that can apply to several of the country’s stunning national parks.
Anyone heading to the Smokies for the holiday should be ready for warm, humid conditions. Temperatures typically climb into the high 80s or beyond this time of year. Hikers and day visitors should take frequent shade breaks, drink plenty of water, eat salty snacks to stay fueled, and wear sun protection. The National Park Service also recommends bringing the 10 essentials on any hike and sticking with your group, as cell service throughout the park is limited.
Traffic is expected to be heavy across the park’s road network. Drivers should expect delays near popular destinations like Kuwohi and Cades Cove and should allow extra time. Park rangers have noted an increase in illegally parked vehicles, and the park has warned it may ticket or tow cars parked on road shoulders, in wooded areas, or in ways that block emergency access. Parking tags are not required July 3 through 5, but visitors are still required to use designated parking spaces only.
Bears are active throughout the summer, and the park is reminding visitors to store all food and scented items in a locked, hard-sided vehicle with the windows rolled up. Backpacks and coolers should never be left unattended. Feeding a bear or leaving food accessible can ultimately lead to that animal being euthanized.
Finally, fireworks are strictly prohibited inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park and any National Park Service site, with both fire risk and wildlife disturbance as the primary concerns. You don’t need explosives to celebrate the holiday, leave them at home.