52 Weeks of Fun

Not Just Destination Finders, But Destination Storytellers

National Park Service

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park beckons birdwatching enthusiasts to its habitats. As visitors venture into this breathtaking expanse of wilderness, they are greeted by a symphony of bird songs and an incredible variety of feathered residents and migratory species.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is renowned for its remarkable biodiversity, and birdwatching is a beloved activity that allows visitors to connect with the park's natural wonders. With over 240 species of birds documented in the park, it offers a splendid opportunity to observe both common and rare avian species. Birdwatchers may spot the vibrant scarlet tanager, the elusive peregrine falcon, or the iconic eastern bluebird while exploring the park's lush forests, open meadows, and pristine streams.

The park's extensive network of trails, including the Appalachian Trail, provides easy access to various bird habitats. Whether hiking along the forested trails, visiting the park's many overlooks, or sitting quietly by a babbling stream, birdwatchers are likely to have close encounters with a diverse array of birdlife. Spring and fall are particularly rewarding times to visit, as migratory birds pass through the park on their journeys north and south.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park's breathtaking landscapes, combined with the thrill of spotting unique bird species, create a memorable experience for birdwatchers. Visitors can immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of the park, all while contributing to citizen science efforts by recording their bird observations. For those seeking a nature-filled escape and an opportunity to witness the beauty of Appalachian birdlife, this national park offers a birdwatching adventure like no other.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park

A 52 Weeks of Fun Fascinating Fact about Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Hemlocks and Fraser's Fir trees can age to over 800 years old, creating an old-growth forest critical to the survival of many bird species that rely on them to raise their young.

Attraction Advice



Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The park sits at the crossroads of several ecological regions, creating a diverse habitat for birds, such as lush hardwood forests, open meadows, rivers, and mountain peaks.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Smokies are alive with the melodious calls and songs of birds, from the warblers' vibrant trills to the woodpeckers' drumming.
National Park Service

Witness the transition from northern boreal species like the Red-breasted Crossbill to southern specialties like the Rose-breasted Grosbeak as you descend in elevation through the park.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park

While Great Smoky Mountains National Park is famous for its iconic species like the Wild Turkey and the Ruffed Grouse, cavity nesters like the Red-breasted Nuthatch can be found in its old-growth forests.

Coming Soon: To do, see, stay, etc