The Great Smoky Mountains are located in the heart of the southern Appalachians along the border between western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee. World famous for its scenic mountain ranges, diverse plant and animal species, and wide-ranging atmospheric conditions, the region is a target-rich environment for outdoor photographers and should be on any landscape or wildlife shooter’s short list of locations to visit.

1. Exploring the Great Smoky Mountains

2. The Great Smoky Mountains are located in the heart of the southern Appalachians along the border
between western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee. World famous for its scenic mountain ranges,
diverse plant and animal species, and wide-ranging atmospheric conditions, the region is a target-rich
environment for outdoor photographers and should be on any landscape or wildlife shooter’s short list of
locations to visit.
Weather
Weather in the mountains can be
unpredictable, and a wide variety of
conditions are always possible. With
elevations ranging from 875 to over
6,600 feet, altitude can have a large
effect on the weather. It’s possible to
experience a high of 80º F in the valley
and a low of 35º F in the mountains on
the same day. Average temperatures
range from highs in the 40s during the
winter to highs in the 90s during the
summer. Being in close proximity to the
only temperate rain forest east of the
Rocky Mountains means wet weather is
fairly common, with annual rainfall
ranging from 55 to 85 inches. I always
make sure to bring adequate rain protection for both myself and my gear, and a warm jacket is useful in
the mountains after sunset, even during the summer months.
Best Times
The Great Smoky Mountains and surrounding areas offer scenic opportunities in all seasons. From
dogwoods blooming along scenic country lanes in the spring, to snow-covered mountain ridges under
stunning sunsets in the winter, you’ll find great things to shoot at any time of the year. My favorite times
in the southern Appalachians are in the spring during the explosion of lowering trees such as the
dogwood and serviceberry, and during the fall color change when the mountains are painted in the
vibrant red and yellow colors of autumn.
Photo Tips
When shooting in the Great Smoky Mountains, it’s necessary to be prepared for the full range of
photographic opportunities the area offers. Depending on your preference, you could find yourself
shooting vast mountain ranges under dramatic skies, the region’s numerous waterfalls and mountain
streams or wildlife such as elk and black bears. With such a wide array of possible subjects, you’ll find
good use for lenses from both ends of the spectrum. I frequently find myself shooting a small waterfall
with a 15mm ultrawide-angle lens and wildlife with a 300mm telephoto on the same day. If you’re
traveling light or planning to hike to more remote locations, a wide-angle zoom lens such as a 17-35mm
and a telephoto zoom like a 70-200mm will give you the greatest flexibility in a reasonably small package.

3. There are a few other items that is also necessary for successful shoots in the area. With an abundance of
waterfalls and mountain streams, a tripod is essential for the longer exposures, and a circular polarizer
will be helpful in getting those rich, saturated colors in the water and lush foliage. If big mountain
landscapes are your thing, you’ll find a graduated ND filter useful for controlling exposures between the
bright sunset skies and dark valley foregrounds.
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