
"I noted that Great Smoky Mountains National Park, spanning North Carolina and Tennessee, was reported as open to the public despite the shutdown." - Jessica Puckett

"I note that Great Smoky Mountains National Park (spanning North Carolina and Tennessee) is being kept open to the public during the shutdown, per statements from local government officials." - Jessica Puckett
"I found some of the best fall foliage in North Carolina at Great Smoky Mountains National Park." - Acacia Gabriel Acacia Gabriel Acacia Gabriel covers responsible ecotourism, cultural experiences, and the intersection of outdoor adventure and luxury. After solo traveling through 35+ countries on five different continents, she began writing to connect travelers with local communities and conservation opportunities. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines

"I time visits to Great Smoky Mountains for the fall foliage, planning shoulder-season trips to catch peak colors with fewer crowds." - Jessica Chapel

"Free entrance sets the tone for an affordable escape, with camping or rustic cabin rentals off-peak often under $100 a night and free ranger programs and fishing streams to round it out." - Paris Wilson