The Ultimate Great Smoky Mountain National Park Parking Tag Guide

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

If you are coming to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park we hope this video better helps you understand their fees with associated with parking. If you have any questions about the Parking Tag, feel free to ask in the comments & be sure to SUBSCRIBE Here ► bit.ly/3AI411H 🔔

[@kennyray1573]

Definitely a fan and my family and have traveled there for 25 years straight and we love it. Keep up the great work

[@rebahicks3619]

Okay thank you

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Thanks @@kennyray1573 !

[@mlbrooks4066]

My understanding is that when the park was established the deal with obtaining the land was that there would never be an entrance fee but I am not sure that is true and if it is, I don’t know how the “fee” is described in the deal. It could be argued that the parking fee is a usage fee, maybe even an entrance fee. I don’t know if it’s legality has been tested in court, or the legality of not recognizing NPS annual park passes. I can sympathize with the need to pay for park upkeep but the National Parks were established long ago as something anyone could enter and use, not just something that only people with enough money can use. When I was a kid you didn’t pay fees to get into Shenandoah or Civil War battlefields, for instance. They were free to everyone.

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

@@mlbrooks4066 GSMNP gets over 14 Million visitors a year. The closest in attendance (Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, etc) gets no more than 4 million. Yet the federal money they all get is not much different. GSMNP got about 30 million & Those other parks got about 20 Million each in 2021. I see it as a federal distribution issue, not something that needs to be put right back on the taxpayer. But it's here and not going away anytime soon, so I figured might as well make a helpful guide so people know how the new Parking Tag program works.

[@roadwarrior5810]

Thank you for producing excellent, to-the-point, drama-free content. Very helpful.

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Our pleasure Road Warrior!

[@williambillwaynerobertson930]

Ryan this is the best information that I've ever heard on the parking. As always another great piece of work Thank You, stay safe👍🇺🇸🤙

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Thanks Wm. W, that is very encouraging! We hope it helps people better plan for their upcoming trip to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park & know how their parking tag (fees) work!

[@barryhunter5744]

We bought the yearly Parking Pass just to support the park. We travel to the mountains once a year for a week.

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Thanks for watching Barry! We hope you have a wonderful time when you come back to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park!

[@curtisball4437]

You support it already via federal tax

[@barryhunter5744]

@@curtisball4437 It's a small price to pay for all the enjoyment the Park has given me over the years, and maybe this will help preserve it for future folks to enjoy.

[@debraevans6993]

Heading up there this Monday Oct 21, 2024) One of our first stops will be to buy a parking tag. I don't think it's a lot to ask for since it helps keep up our beautiful park! Thanks.

[@marcboulanger4300]

Even handicapped, if i could hike, i'd get a pass. Thankss for updating us.

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Our pleasure Marc! We hope it helps other families planning their upcoming trip to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park!

[@CaboWabotv]

Excellent information about the new parking tags and a FAQ all in one professionally edited video with beautiful park footage. Thanks for making this great video Ryan!

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Thanks Cabo! It took a bit of time to put together, but tried to be as clear and concise as can be on helping people better understand the Parking Tag (fee) requirements now at the Great Smoky Mountain National Park!

[@brucesteele3052]

As a veteran, I obtained a pass to NPS and Federal Recreational Lands at no cost. The pass is for my vehicle and all passengers.

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Just keep in mind, no previous veteran passes work for this program as mentioned in the video.

[@michaelsnow5229]

Thank you for all your information on the areas surrounding the Great Smoky Mountains N.P.

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Our pleasure Softail! We hope it helps other families planning their upcoming trip to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park!

[@popularadventures]

Very well done as always! Thanks for all of your hard work!

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Thanks Popular Adventures! We hope it helps people better plan for their upcoming trip to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park & know how their parking tag (fees) work!

[@MsSusie1959]

Ryan, This was very informative, Thank you so much for taking the time to do this for the people, You have answer a lot of questions, Hugs n Love to you all, and God Bless, I hope Brie is feeling a lot better.

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Our pleasure MsSusie! We hope it helps people better plan for their upcoming trip to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park & know how their parking tag (fees) work!

[@MsSusie1959]

@@AdventureIsOutThere Your so right Ryan,

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

@@MsSusie1959 Lots of questions online, I tried to answer as many of the main ones as clear and simple as I could!

[@MsSusie1959]

@@AdventureIsOutThere Ryan, I think you have answered all the questions,

[@carolm8003]

Informative video! Im just going to get the whole week one online for our trip even though I think we would only need it 2 days …I don’t want to think about it! Plus I like supporting the upkeep of the National Parks so this will be a donation in my mind. I actually had planned on buying Annual America the Beautiful pass if this was included just for the ease of it all. Strange system

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Thanks Carol! Buying a Great Smoky Mountain National Park Parking Tag online in advance is ideal to avoid lines during busy times & enable you to go straight to your destination. You just need to plan ahead & be able to have a physical copy printed out. We hope you have a wonderful time when you visit & thanks for stopping by!

[@DavidMeilan]

Great video! Thanks for the info, well done and very informative and to the point.

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Thanks David! We hope it helps people better plan for their upcoming trip to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park & know how the parking tag (fees) work!

[@Benton2017]

Thank you Ryan for this informational video on the Parking Tag situation. Can't wait to be in the Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg/Great Smoky Mountain National Park area at the end of the month.

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Our pleasure Levi We hope you have a great time at the end of the month & this video helps people better plan for their upcoming trip to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park & know how their parking tag (fees) work!

[@olafpamela]

Thanks for sharing on how to use parking pass👍😊

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Our pleasure Pamela! We hope it helps people better plan for their upcoming trip to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park & know how the parking tag (fees) work!

[@DanRunsALONE]

great stuff . very informative !

[@golvellius6855]

The best video hands down

[@MrCliffda3rd]

Just got back April 30-May3. The parking meter were't really that hard you pick a pass, enter plate, tap CC and it prints your pass. Bought 2 $5 passes as I only had 2 full days. 3 or more a $15 is perfect. It's even easier than the parking meters at the Florida parks like Ft. DeSoto.

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

I know Ft. DeSoto well! I camped there many times as a kid (born in Tampa) and used to LOVE spear fishing at night there before we moved up here to TN!

[@Wanda-dh6gn]

Thanks for the information on the fees.

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Our pleasure Wanda! We hope it helps others who will be coming to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park better understand the parking tag (fee)!

[@rogerokelley]

Wonderful information and very well illustrated 👍👍👍

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Thanks Roger! We hope it helps people better plan for their upcoming trip to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park!

[@tomsweet1669]

Great video very informative like always. We’re coming next month so now we know exactly what to do n how much. Thanks buddy

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Thanks Tom! We hope it helps other people coming to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park!

[@KR-sh6rm]

Excellent info! Thank you!

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Thanks KR! We hope it helps people better plan for their upcoming trip to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park & know how their parking tag (fees) work!

[@sandrarhea2328]

Thank you Ryan. That was very helpful!

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Our pleasure Sandra! We hope it helps others coming to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park!

[@keyman6689]

Great info. Nicely done as always!

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Thanks keyman...I really appreciate that! We hope it helps people better plan for their upcoming trip to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park & know how the parking tag (fees) work!

[@keyman6689]

@@AdventureIsOutThere Yes, we're a stop and take a picture in less than 15 minutes kind of people. But if we ever feel adventurous and want to hike to that waterfall, $5 is very reasonable.

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

@@keyman6689 I want to take the kids to more bike rides in Cades Cove when they close it down for cars this fall, we really enjoyed it last time we did it. Hope all is well on the road!

[@Woody.D828]

Thanks for the informative Vlog -- Where do I get my FREE Annual Parking Pass since I am a member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee? Thank You GSMNP for not creating an Entrance Gate Fee so that vacationers from TN can drive over to our Casino everyday without paying a fee...and to guarantee that the upper Admin folks working for the park can get future salary raises.

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Our pleasure Woody! I don’t see anything where it specifically states where you have to go to get yours. I would assume you could show proof at any visitor center & they could assist you. The park website states “The National Park Service does provide parking tags at no cost to Tribal leaders who will then distribute the tags to Tribal citizens who are coming to the park for traditional activities. The National Park Service expressly allows citizens of American Indian Tribes to enter parks for traditional activities without paying fees. The NPS acknowledges that the phrase “’traditional’ activities” is neither a static concept nor is it a set of neatly listed activities that can be defined by the NPS but should be defined by the member of the respective communities themselves.”

[@ckgonzales6743]

Great info, thank you! I do have a question - we have an America the Beautiful Disability hang tag. You said disability tags can park free, but America the Beautiful cannot. I'm wondering about the combo tag we have that is both? (we do not have a regular disability tag)

[@Craftitup64]

Great tips indeed. Forgive me if I didn’t hear this in the video, but do you need a parking pass for every visitor center If you’re going to be there more than 15 minutes? Secondly, the easy hike at the Sugarland visitor center. Is it recommended to wear hiking boots or can we just wear our sneakers?

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Thanks Dawn! 4:49 in the video I mention that I wouldn't stress about parking at a visitor center without a parking tag while in the process of buying one. Anywhere you do stop beyond that, if more than 15 minutes on Great Smoky Mountain National Park property, you would want to have your parking tag displayed. I think sneakers are fine for the Cataract Falls hike. Here is a full video of a time we did it so you can better see what it is like: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r2LNlJJ3jZqhaZY

[@Craftitup64]

@@AdventureIsOutThere thank you !!!!

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Our pleasure @@Craftitup64 !

[@YahwehisGodandYeshuaisKingiamr]

Glory to God for this info lol. Thank you for your vids. They're really helpful with planning a va in Gatlinburg. I didn't know ya would need a parking pass if you parked there. I'm glad that I saw this cuz I was planning on going on some trails and see some waterfalls.

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Our pleasure, happy to help!

[@taracastille5625]

We want to hike grotto falls in December. Where would we have to park for that particular one?

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Parking passes are not specific to locations. You can get one online or anywhere they are sold for grotto falls.

[@glenn7721]

3:15 Thank you for that suggestion!

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Happy to help Glenn!

[@smokymountainman4964]

Ryan, Very helpful video. As always this was a very informative video full of very helpful information. This helped me a lot to know where to get a parking pass and what kind we may need. Very well done. God bless brother

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Thanks Smoky Mountain Man...I really appreciate that! We hope it helps people better plan for their upcoming trip to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park & know how the parking tag (fees) work!

[@SmokeyMountainDreamer]

Thank You for this information, I'm gonna buy the annual pass

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Our pleasure SMD, that's what we did! We hope it helps people better plan for their upcoming trip to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park & know how their parking tag (fees) work!

[@John-uv7zp]

I’ve been coming here sense the 70s shame someone would right all over park entrance sign thank you to them and there parents

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Foolish people will always do foolish things! 🤷‍♂️ Hopefully they can get things like this improved!

[@mkt1847]

Thanks for the info. Just a couple questions: 1) The parking pass is placed on the bottom corner of the dash on the passenger side, not the driver side? That is different than most places. 2) None of the parking lots like Laurel Falls have timed entry for parking or a reservation required? I thought I heard they were going to go to some type of reservation system at some of the more popular locations?

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

1) "Annual parking tags must be displayed in the front, lower passenger side windshield. Daily and weekly parking tags must be placed face-up on the front, lower passenger side dashboard." 2) No form of timed entry at this point in time. Hope this helps!

[@diamondpaintingwithsweett]

Great job, Ryan! Very informative!👍

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Thank you Sweet T! We hope it helps other planning an upcoming visit to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park!

[@susancarnes9483]

IF ONLY the parking decals were this well done. We purchased two annual passes. Within a week of sitting in the March sun they started to curl and come off. Same has happened to everyone we know. Imagine what will happen this summer! It's Ridiculous! A hanging tag would have been a better solution.

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

We had a hanging tag when our daughter worked at Dollywood this past season. It was nice to just grab the tag and put it in the car we were taking her in. Its hard plastic and never had any issues & we only needed 1 between both cars. Hopefully they can take the feedback & improve them going forward!

[@lisakurtz1671]

Thank you for great info coming in next weekend to purchase my annual pass

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Our pleasure Lisa! We hope you have a great time in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park!

[@lisakurtz1671]

@@AdventureIsOutThere thanks so much

[@thecakelady916]

Great video! Did you have any issues with getting the permits to film in the GSM? Maybe you could explain that process.

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Thanks Jennifer! The park rangers were great in guiding me to create this video!

[@cherylmikell899]

Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Our pleasure Cheryl! We hope it helps people better plan for their upcoming trip to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park & know how the parking tag (fees) work!

[@cherylmikell899]

@@AdventureIsOutThere Yes, we plan to be in the Smokey's in June. We've been waiting for a good video explaining how to get the pass, and your vlog did that. Thanks again!

[@jamesbrinson4783]

Great video!🎉🎉🎉

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Thank you!! 😁

[@bonniekloes52]

Thanks for the video

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Our pleasure!

[@kyrangerman519]

Thank you for sharing!

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Our pleasure kryangerman! We hope it helps people better plan for their upcoming trip to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park & know how the parking tag (fees) work!

[@plymouthrox]

National Public Lands Day is the fourth Saturday in September. It was not on Sept 23 for 2024.

[@janiceyoung2004]

Thank You so much! This is Most Helpful 🎉🎊

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Our pleasure Janice! We hope it helps people better plan for their upcoming trip to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park & know how their parking tag (fees) work!

[@WSseaghost110]

What doesn’t work well in the seasonal parking sticker, rolled up and fell off the windshield within hours. Having to go to plan B.

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

I taped ours down to the paper it came with & keep ours in the glove box to pull out.

[@kathyg1346]

Thank you for this info!

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Your welcome! So glad our videos have been helpful and we appreciate your support!

[@ritatorres7384]

What if I’m camping in the park? Will the parking pass be included?

[@rebahicks3619]

I have 2 vehicle can I used my parking tag on both.? Or will I have to buy 2 of the parking tags.?

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Good question Reba. The Great Smoky Mountain National Park website states "Parking tags are non-transferable. Each parking tag must include a license plate number matching the vehicle in which it is displayed. If your license plate number changes for any reason, you will need to purchase a new annual parking tag."

[@michaelsisk5938]

Good video, but where does a motorcyclist display their pass safely to avoid it being lost or stolen? The pass is not refundable or replaceable.

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Hey Michael. The National Park website states “The annual parking tag is a cling and can be adhered to the motorcycle windshield or other highly-visible surface. The daily and weekly tags are paper but also need to be prominently displayed. Making sure the tag does not blow away or fall off is the responsibility of the visitor. One option is to tape the tag to the inside of the motorcycle windshield or instrument display. Motorcyclists should plan ahead and come prepared to adequately display their parking tag.”

[@caitlynpender8287]

My family and I always love to take our kids to Herbert Holt park and would love to check out Mynatt park on our next visit. Would visiting a park like those require a parking pass? Thanks so much!

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Hey Caitlyn! Mynatt Park would be considered a city of Gatlinburg park and therefore not need a Great Smoky Mountain National Park Parking TAG. We will be doing a fishing tournament on April 1st there: www.gatlinburgtn.gov/departments/recreation/city_parks.php

[@caitlynpender8287]

Thanks!

[@jewels7863]

I have a question about the parking tags. Will we need a parking tag to do the Grotto Falls trail?

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

If you park for more than 15 min in the park, yes. If not then you don’t need one.

[@forkhorn77]

We are heading to tn from Missouri in august, if we buy a week long past from the automated kiosks , will it be a sticker for the windshield? Or will it be paper that lays on the dash? Thanks for all the great videos!

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

The day/week tags are print outs at the machine. Only the annual tags are stickers. Thanks J Mg!

[@forkhorn77]

@@AdventureIsOutThere thanks for the response, looking forward to exploring the park!

[@garyallen6486]

Where would you display your tag if you are on a motorcycle? Seems like an easy theft opportunity- any suggestions?

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

“The annual parking tag is a cling and can be adhered to the motorcycle windshield or other highly-visible surface. The daily and weekly tags are paper but also need to be prominently displayed. Making sure the tag does not blow away or fall off is the responsibility of the visitor.”

[@billfannin8444]

How about lifetime membership people I’ve been a lifetime member for years. Do we have to pay for a parking pass?

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

No type of "interagency" membership would work for this. It is a completely separate program, so no existing membership would work in its place. The only thing that would is a handicap placard/license plate.

[@rhondao7316]

We saw on the news that National Parks in Ga will now be getting motor wheelchairs for handicapped people. Do you know if they are available there yet?

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Rhonda. Haven't heard anything about that yet so not sure, maybe someone in else can comment on that!

[@AdamSmith-gs2dv]

National Parks? Georgia doens have national parks

[@rhondao7316]

@@AdamSmith-gs2dv Yes there are several in Georgia. Please look it up

[@AdamSmith-gs2dv]

@@rhondao7316 I think you mean state parks or other federal land that's not a national park

[@missys6719]

Great info!

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Thanks Missy!

[@stump2105]

Question , if we have reservations for hiking campsites during a weekend, and pay for campsites , do I still need to purchase parking pass

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Backcountry campers are not exempt from the parking tag requirement. Frontcountry campers parked at their designated campsite are not required to have a parking tag. If they park elsewhere in the park, a parking tag is required. Please note that parking tags are required for vehicles in excess of what is allowable for each campsite. Information about how many vehicles are allowed at each facility is available on recreation.gov.

[@brucewallace3860]

Good video - - if I’m camping at Smoky Mountains NP, will my camping tag cover parking at other parts of the park as well? Or, do I need to purchase an additional parking tag?

[@pacobubbles]

I was wondering the same thing. Everything I Read saying that you can park at your site for free obviously but if you leave your site and park anywhere, tag must be purchased. Wish that parking tag was included or discounted if you have booked a stay in the parks. I'm staying 2 weeks and have to dish out $30 more. At least the money goes to the parks.

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Thanks Bruce! Backcountry campers are not exempt from the parking tag requirement. Frontcountry campers parked at their designated campsite are not required to have a parking tag. If they park elsewhere in the park, a parking tag is required. Please note that parking tags are required for vehicles in excess of what is allowable for each campsite. Information about how many vehicles are allowed at each facility is available on recreation.gov. So if you were staying at Elkmont Campground as we did in this video you would not need a tag at our campsite: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rKGpmI2tjZqJq7s But if you left the frontcountry campsite and parked somewhere in the national park like we did the next morning at Cades Cove (see this video), then you would need one: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aZLTdoqwm7J8eZY

[@JimVicariously]

Thank you for your very informative review. I do have a gripe. As I understand from my research Seniors and Veterans are no longer exempt from National parks fees. Or is it just the Great Smokey Mtn National park, Parking tag?. As a retired Vet I looked forward to using this benefit. Silly note - Humans have embellished walls at gathering places since recorded history. But doing such on tax payer dollar property that will need repair, nope. Same with the stickers that blow off in the wind and litter the landscape. Have the Rangers hand out hammers and chisels and point to a large stone 500 yards down the valley. Charge those who can't carry and then discard the tools on the way up. Probably make more than charging parking fees. More fun too!. ;-)

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

You're welcome & first of all thank you for your service! I wish existing veterans passes would have carried over to this program, but unfortunately they do not. There is a handicap placard/license plate exemption, but not a veteran one Jim.

[@mikefleming996]

Do you have a video of Hilton Head South Carolina

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

We haven’t been to Hilton Head yet, but it’s on our to do list!

[@UKBLUE1]

Is there a fee associated with entrance into the park?

[@1Tori391]

Is a pass needed for the buildings along the Cades Cove drive? I know one area along there has a large parking lot and several buildings, public restrooms, info building with a gift shop, etc. Do we need a pass if we are going to park in their parking lot?

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

If your stop is less than 15 minutes, than no you won't need one. If you don't want to feel rushed or stressed about running back to the car getting a Great Smoky Mountain National Park Parking Tag might be the way to go Tori.

[@1Tori391]

@@AdventureIsOutThere Ok, thank you. Looks like no matter where you stop your car within the park, you’ll need a pass if it’s more than 15 minutes. At first I thought they were mainly for pull off areas. Basically charging admission now for the buildings in Cades Cove. Doesn’t seem right to me that you have to pay to park in a huge parking lot. But what do I know. Thanks again.

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

You're welcome@@1Tori391

[@mrsmcclune]

Is there a parking tag machine at Clingmans Dome?

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

You can get one at Clingmans Dome Visitor Center - 7078 Clingmans Dome Road, Cherokee, NC 28719 You can always buy online in advance & print out your tag.

[@andrewkundratic3318]

Does a disabled “America the Beautiful” pass allow free parking?

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

A disabled license plate or placard does. America the beautiful is a separate program and does not apply.

[@delreytamayo6283]

Has there been any sightings of Bigfoot, Sasquatch?

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

We haven’t seen him in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@randallmcgee6329]

Thank you !!!

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Our pleasure Randall! We hope it helps people better plan for their upcoming trip to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park & know how the parking tag (fees) work!

[@CaboWabotv]

Do you need a parking pass to park and picnic/grill at any of the picnic areas like Chimney Tops picnic area? I'm assuming yes but there's not a ticket machine there. But I guess that's well worth it for $5

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Since they sell them at Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area (5:02 in the video) I would say yes. Anywhere inside the Great Smoky Mountain National Park boundary will require one. I would also assume they have placed signage at areas such as Chimney Tops picnic area letting people know it is required.

[@CaboWabotv]

@@AdventureIsOutThere Metcalf Bottoms has a hiking trail though. Just wondering if that was why. I'll just play it safe and spend the $5 when I picnic at Chimney Tops anyway.

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

@@CaboWabotv haven’t been to Chimney Tops since March 1st, but I would think there would be signs up on the parking tag if they are requiring it. It sounds like it is required anywhere’s in the GSMNP property.

[@gov683]

Is there overnight parking

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Yes. You can specify the date(s) you plan to visit if you purchase your daily or weekly parking tag online through recreation.gov

[@thecoolestdad]

Georgia state parks have been charging the $5 parking fee as long as I can remember. I haven't kept up with things so I don't know the reasons behind why the National parks are charging parking fees now. Is it just the Smoky Mountains National Park that is charging now, or as I mentioned, all national parks? I haven't had the opportunity to venture to any other national parks besides the Smoky Mountains. I mean, if the money will stay right there to help clean up graffiti, among many other things, then I guess it's not a bad thing. But growing up and coming up there with my grand parents as a kid and even now as an adult, we have never had to pay any parking fees. So I guess after all these years, I just don't get it. Not complaining, just don't understand why.

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Other national parks charge admission. When we went to the Rocky Mountain National Park a year ago, it cost us $25 to get in for the day: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pHKtYXZ4mLB6rqc They way the Great Smoky Mountain National Park was set up as a "Park for the People" they can't charge admission with certain road access & other conflicting federal laws. GSMNP gets over 14 Million visitors a year. The closest in attendance (Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, etc) gets no more than 4 million. Yet the federal money they all get is not much different. GSMNP got about 30 million & Those other parks got about 20 Million each. I see it as a federal distribution issue, not something that needs to be put right back on the taxpayer. But it's here and not going away, so I figured might as well make a helpful guide so people know how the new Parking Tag program works. Thanks for stopping by TCD!

[@thecoolestdad]

@@AdventureIsOutThere Thanks for more info on the charging. When you are "out of the loop", LOL, you don't necessarily know what's going on and the changes. I am glad you uploaded this video, to inform us about the parking fees. I'll be sure to get one on our next trip up there. Because I can't think of anyone that would drive straight through the Smoky Mountains and absolutely not stop anywhere to enjoy the views. LOL.

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Our pleasure @@thecoolestdad !

[@jrcflaus]

Can you buy annual tag at machines or online?

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

The machines don't sell the annual tags. Annual parking tags are available for purchase at visitor centers & online through Great Smoky Mountains Association at smokiesinformation.org

[@bonniericks404]

Just so you know, in case you don't. If you have a handicap plate or placard you do not have to have a parking pass.

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Yes Bonnie, that’s what we explain 2 minutes into the video. Thanks!

[@cocoyc495]

What happened to the park entrance sign? That is so sad to see.

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Graffiti

[@cocoyc495]

I've always entered through the Cherokee side and that sign looks good. I've never seen the other entrance signs. Thanks for the parking guide by the way. It definitely helped me and did not feel "lost". I just got back from a trip to The Great Smoky Mountains today.@@AdventureIsOutThere

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

@@cocoyc495 Happy to help!

[@norabradley9108]

Litter with a pen 😐

[@fannieallen6005]

Thank you.

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Our pleasure!

[@dennisreiff4278]

Where is the river shown at the 2:53 minute mark?

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Not sure exactly Dennis...it was stock footage that showed up when I searched for National Parks.

[@NewLife-qj9mx]

Do you need a pass if you are native american?

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Yes, the National Park Service does provide parking tags at no cost to Tribal leaders who will then distribute the tags to Tribal citizens who are coming to the park for traditional activities. The National Park Service expressly allows citizens of American Indian Tribes to enter parks for traditional activities without paying fees. The NPS acknowledges that the phrase “’traditional’ activities” is neither a static concept nor is it a set of neatly listed activities that can be defined by the NPS but should be defined by the member of the respective communities themselves.

[@piedmontpengwing]

I heard your voice today! You should had introduced yourself and your channel!!!!!!! Let me know if that was you in the audience when Dolly Parton ask if there was any questions. You probably was nervous!!!!

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

I was just trying to jump to the question. My friend Jordan also had a question that unfortunately didn't get to her.

[@piedmontpengwing]

@@AdventureIsOutThere They picked 2 media and then it was you. You have a great voice!

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

@@piedmontpengwing I had a friend named Jordan who is waiting for her question and just didn’t get a chance to ask it. I’ve been told I have a great face for radio, whatever that means.

[@TwoWheelsLangley]

I wish state and national parks would sell small annual decals for motorcycles.

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

They do. The annual parking tag is a cling and can be adhered to the motorcycle windshield or other highly-visible surface. The daily and weekly tags are paper but also need to be prominently displayed. Making sure the tag does not blow away or fall off is the responsibility of the visitor. One option is to tape the tag to the inside of the motorcycle windshield or instrument display. Motorcyclists should plan ahead and come prepared to adequately display their parking tag.

[@backwoodsmedia6865]

Very well done video, however be careful that if one wants to video in the park now you need a permit to post to youtube or tiktok.

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Thanks Backwood Media!

[@tcwaterdrill]

Maybe they can use some of the money to add water and sewer to camp sites in Cave Cove.

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

We have really enjoyed Elkmont Campground & would love to do Cades Cove campground this year!

[@FIRED13]

TY

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Our pleasure!

[@windlinewatersports]

Or boycott the park. People need to stand up to this

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

I can’t change that it was done, but at least help people better understand the program in place they are now enforcing.

[@richardsears4665]

Knew this was coming just a glorified way to say it’s not an entrance fee But is

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

👍

[@kathyweaver3251]

Is a parking tab needed if just stopping at the visitor center or the gift shop at Cades Cove? If I only planned to drive the loop & then stop at the end, do I need the pass? Thanks!!

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

A parking tag wouldn't be needed at a visitor or any spot in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park if it is less than 15 minutes. If you stay over 15 minutes at a visitor center without a parking tag you just run the risk that a ranger could be monitoring that area and could give a warning/citation.

[@cindyvanderzee2248]

how much is a ticket for parking without the parking pass?

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Hey Cindy! I asked and was never given amounts on getting a ticket. There is still a lot of education that will need to occur for the 14+ million visitors coming to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park this year. That being said, warnings will be given, but repeat violations will get one a fine of some amount.

[@gloriatownsend1844]

Is it pet friendly

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

There is only 1 pet friendly trail. Otherwise it is a danger to you and others to bring pets on the trail that could have an encounter with a bear.

[@borichfan]

So a person with a handicap parking sign does not need a parking pass BUT a family with more than one vehicle needs to purchase a parking pass for each vehicle??? People can borrow handicap parking signs from someone, they do it all the time. Can't borrow a parking pass from someone, because of having to match up the tag # on the pass to the tag # on the vehicle. Does not make sense. People will be using other's handicap sign to get out of paying the parking pass fee

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

I think they didn't think through families having multiple vehicles through & will hopefully adjust the type of annual pass to a hangtag that can more easily switch between vehicles.

[@claudedalton8970]

HOW ABOUT CAMERAS TO CATCH THOSE LITTERING AND PUTTING GRAFFITI ON OBJECTS AND GO AFTER THEM INSTEAD OF CHARGING THE TAXPAYERS DOUBLE TAXATION ON THE LAND THAT "WE THE PEOPLE" OWN!

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

👍

[@TennEngineer]

Probably a good thing it doesn't show how many dislikes this video has I haven't been back to the park since they started this. TN and NC should be exempt from this . Or remove all together....

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Don't shoot the messenger. We are simply content creators trying to help educate people how the program works and try to help people save time & money for those traveling to the Smoky Mountains or any destinations we travel to that we make guides for.

[@greyfox243.]

Oconaluftee= oh-kona-luff-tee.

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

👍

[@terrillcockeram8472]

My question is if in Cades Cove how will they treat bear 🐻 jam

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

No differently...try to encourage people to keep moving. Here was our experience biking Cades Cove last year: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aZLTdoqwm7J8eZY

[@AdamSmith-gs2dv]

Because of this I'd recommend skipping the summer and fall if you want to do GSM. The no street parking is going to be an absolute disaster, why are they removing that and offering no alternative to driving? I can see people getting in fights over parking

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

I wouldn't discourage someone from enjoying the park, but just recommend trying to get to your destination in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park ASAP. Hopefully they are able to improve trouble areas this year and people keep their cool & just chill out in the mountains!

[@ITalk4-2]

I heard they were talking about shuttle busses. Do you have any word on that?

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

@@ITalk4-2 nothing other than speculation at this point, nothing officially in place yet.

[@RustyFinch]

Not a fan of writing license plate on parking pass. Sometimes we’re not always in the same car when we are there. I’ll be writing both license plate info on annual pass and they are just going to have to deal. Not buying two passes.

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

You could always go the dry erase marker route too Jennifer 😉

[@johnantesbergeriii4053]

Hope you enjoy the gov showing up at your door telling you you’re being cited for filming without a permit. That’s 6mon in prison and 10,000 usd fine.

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

👍

[@beverlyhill6783]

We’re y’all from - Don’t think your born and raised in our area - y’all don’t have our southern mountain talk

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Born & raised in Tampa, FL. We moved up here to The Smokies 5 years ago.

[@mandovapehater6988]

Another move in telling us what we can and can't do. Should be used to it by now.

[@blong257]

National Parks are taxpayers funded. Therefore, their use is free to taxpayers because they pay for it via taxes. So, any additional fees are illegal for taxpayers.

[@Bossman_71]

Thanks but we will be boycotting the park from now on , this is totally ridiculous!

[@rogerokelley]

Nooo!! Come enjoy the park.

[@Bossman_71]

@@rogerokelley I’ll be taking I-40 to bypass it , this has gotten ridiculous

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

👍

[@David-jo4gt]

If I don't buy a parking tag how much is the ticket? I would rather see money spent on a new sign than putting up barriers to parking. That sign is in millions of family photos.

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Hey David! I would guess one would get a courtesy warning, then after repeat offenses they would begin to be fined but unsure on how much the cost of the ticket would be. I would hope they could find more ways to expand the parking at places like Laurel Falls & hopefully clean up things like welcome signs this year in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park!

[@waynehogue2499]

This is crazy! Shouldn’t the fact that we pay federal taxes cover this ridiculous parking fee idea?

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Hey Wayne! They way the Great Smoky Mountain National Park was set up as a "Park for the People" & they can't charge admission with certain road access & other conflicting federal laws. GSMNP gets over 14 Million visitors a year. The closest in attendance (Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, etc) gets no more than 4 million. Yet the federal money given to each park is not much different. GSMNP got about 30 million & Those other parks got about 20 Million each. I see it as a federal distribution issue, if the tax payer money was properly allocated based on park attendance, they would be doing this IMO.

[@amandadryman124]

Such a great video, but still hard not to be enraged by all this as a tax-paying citizen 😡

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Thanks Amanda! If the federal funds were distributed to parks based on attendance, the Great Smoky Mountain National Park would not be doing this IMO. In 2021 with 14+ million visitors they received about 30 million. The next busiest park saw 4 million visitors and received 20 million dollars. The federal government takes plenty of money from taxpayers, they just are terrible at managing it. It is what it is at this point and wanted to try to make a simple video helping people to prepare their upcoming visit.

[@amandadryman124]

@@AdventureIsOutThere you’re absolutely doing the right thing putting this helpful info out there! Thank you!

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

@@amandadryman124 our pleasure, we hope it helps!

[@catspjs6229]

Didn’t they sign a treaty and were to never charge to enter the park? Seems like a sneaky way to charge. Also, I will Say, they know all good and well this is one of the most popular park in America, and they’re going to make serious BANK! I know you’re just the messenger, no hate for you, and you’re just making an informative video. But this really is nonsense.

[@AdventureIsOutThere]

Thanks for not shooting the messenger...LOL! It's a federal government miss allocation of funds problem IMO. I certainly don't agree with some aspects of the program, but I can't do anything about it. I am just trying help people better know how to the program works when they come.