For the many visitors to the National Park, there's many activities for the whole family, ranging from very safe horseback rides, to auto touring Cades Cove, or try your hand at trout fishing! The Great Smokies have both native brown trout and rainbow trout, and trout fishing provides some of the most challenging angling in the world. Home to world class whitewater kayaking often limited to the top 1% of whitewater athletes, it is often said that if you can kayak the Smokies, you can kayak anywhere!

Thankfully there are several top flight rafting firms that will safely guide you down the safer rivers just outside the park borders.

For the vast majority of visitors to the National Park, it's much safer to simply watch these extreme athletes ply the dangerous waters, and photograph the gorgeous waterfalls from a safe distance. Please don't climb on the slippery, wet rocks! Many other safe, family activities are available in and around the Park, so consult the Rangers at the three main visitor centers for details and schedules.

Randy's Great Smoky Mountains National Park has many backcountry camp sites that require hiking too, and provide the true wilderness experience sought by some. For others, 17 major auto campgrounds are available as well. Be prepared for the weather, and call ahead for reservations. The main number for the park is 865-436-1200.

Below we have provided a video narrative of Randy's Great Smoky Mountains National Park. We hope you enjoy it!