Published 5 days ago • loading... • Updated 5 days ago
Townsend, Tennessee, brings slow travel trend to America’s most visited national park
More than 11.5 million people visited Great Smoky Mountains National Park in 2025, making it America’s most visited national park, according to park statistics.
Townsend, Tennessee, lies outside the park and offers a quieter alternative to the crowds.
Townsend has built its tourism identity as “the peaceful side of the Smokies.”
Slow travel encourages visitors to spend more time in one destination, helping Townsend welcome travelers while preserving its character.