One of the awesome benefits of staying at the Black Bear Inn & Suites is that our hotel is just 200 yards from the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! If you are planning a summer vacation to Gatlinburg, this is the perfect time of year to visit all of the scenic hiking trails that the park has to offer! Here are the top 3 reasons to explore the Smoky Mountain hiking trails during the summer months:
1. Beat the Heat
The summer months in Gatlinburg can sometimes be hot and humid, with temperatures reaching 90 degrees during the afternoon. One great way to beat the heat is to head to the hiking trails at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where you can enjoy cooler weather at higher elevations. As an example, the summer temperatures at Mount LeConte rarely reach above 80 degrees! One recommended trail is the Alum Cave Trail, where you can hike through the narrow tunnel of Arch Rock and continue on the trail to the summit of Mount LeConte. Be sure to bring plenty of water and rain gear, as afternoon showers are common in the summer.
2. Longer Hours of Daylight
Another reason why the summer is a fantastic time to explore the Smoky Mountain hiking trails is due to the longer hours of daylight. This means that you can set out on a morning hike when the temperatures are cooler and still have all afternoon to enjoy everything that Gatlinburg has to offer! After your hike, head back to the Black Bear Inn & Suites for a refreshing dip in our indoor swimming pool or relax in your comfortable hotel room for a nap. Late afternoon and early evening is another good time to start a short hike as the crowds have subsided on the most popular trails in the park.
3. Excellent Trail Availability
If you visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park during the winter season, you may have limited access to trails due to the weather conditions and other issues. The summer season, on the other hand, features excellent trail availability so that you can try out a variety of different hikes! This is a particularly good time to check out some of the waterfalls and mountain streams within the park. The hardest decision that you will have to make is what you want to see!
Where to Stay
Make the most of your vacation to the Smokies with a stay at the Black Bear Inn & Suites! Our affordable hotel is situated in a perfect location within a short drive of the National Park entrance and within walking distance of many Gatlinburg shops, restaurants and attractions! While staying with us, enjoy all types of wonderful hotel amenities such as a complimentary hot breakfast, free high speed wireless internet access and a microwave and refrigerator in every room!
Check out all of hotel rooms in Gatlinburg TN today to plan your vacation near the Smoky Mountain hiking trails! We hope to see you this summer at the Black Bear Inn & Suites!