The United States is home to some of the most breathtaking national parks in the world, but two parks stand out in particular: Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. Both parks offer unique and unforgettable experiences, but which one is right for you? In this article, we’ll compare the two parks and discover what makes each one special.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a natural wonder located in the Appalachian Mountains. The park is famous for its scenic drives, stunning vistas, and diverse wildlife. With over 800 miles of hiking trails and several historic sites, there’s something for everyone at Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, on the other hand, is a geological wonder located on the Big Island of Hawaii. The park is home to the world’s most active volcano, Kīlauea, which has been continuously erupting since 1983. The park also offers visitors the chance to witness the creation of new land as lava flows into the ocean. Whether you’re a nature lover, a geology buff, or just looking for a unique experience, Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is a must-visit.
Hiking Trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park both offer scenic and challenging hiking trails for nature enthusiasts. However, the two parks have unique landscapes and trails that set them apart.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is located in Tennessee and North Carolina and boasts over 800 miles of trails, ranging from easy to strenuous. Some popular easy hikes include the Laurel Falls Trail, which is a 2.6-mile round trip hike to a beautiful 80-foot waterfall, and the Grotto Falls Trail, which is a 2.6-mile round trip hike through a forest to a serene waterfall. For more experienced hikers, the Alum Cave Trail is a challenging 11-mile round trip hike that takes you to the summit of Mount LeConte, offering panoramic views of the park.
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, located on the Big Island of Hawaii, offers a unique hiking experience with its active volcanoes and volcanic landscapes. Some easier hikes include the Kīlauea Iki Trail, a 4-mile round trip hike through a volcanic crater and the Devastation Trail, a 1-mile round trip hike through a recent lava flow. The strenuous 11-mile round trip hike to the summit of Mauna Loa offers a challenging and rewarding experience, with stunning views of the surrounding volcanic landscapes.
In conclusion, both Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park offer a diverse range of hiking trails for visitors, from easy hikes to challenging summits. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a scenic walk, these parks have something for everyone.
Most Popular Hiking Trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Name | Length | Elevation | Type | Difficulty | Visitor Ratings |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte | 17219.938 | 916.8384 | Hard | out and back | 5 |
Chimney Tops Trail | 5793.624 | 392.8872 | Hard | out and back | 4.5 |
Rainbow Falls Trail | 8851.37 | 503.8344 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
Grotto Falls Trail | 4184.284 | 162.7632 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
Laurel Falls Trail | 3862.416 | 120.7008 | Easy | out and back | 4 |
Abrams Falls Trail | 7885.766 | 191.7192 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
Clingmans Dome Observation Tower Trail | 1931.208 | 100.8888 | Easy | out and back | 4.5 |
Charlies Bunion via Appalachian Trail | 13840.324 | 603.8088 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
Ramsey Cascades Trail | 13035.654 | 677.8752 | Hard | out and back | 4.5 |
Peregrine Peak via Alum Cave Bluffs Trail | 6759.228 | 322.7832 | Moderate | out and back | 5 |
Most Popular Hiking Trails in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
Name | Length | Elevation | Type | Difficulty | Visitor Ratings |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Kilauea Iki Trail and Crater Rim Trail | 4828.02 | 209.7024 | Moderate | loop | 4.5 |
Kalapana Lava Viewing | 15288.73 | 196.9008 | Easy | out and back | 4.5 |
Pu’u Huluhulu via Napau Crater Trail | 4023.35 | 94.7928 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
Halema���uma���u Steam Bluff and Sulfur Banks | 2092.142 | 24.9936 | Easy | loop | 4 |
Puu Loa Petroglyphs Trail | 1931.208 | 25.908 | Moderate | out and back | 4 |
Mauna Loa via Observatory Trail and Summit Trail | 20760.486 | 905.8656 | Very Hard | out and back | 4.5 |
Devastation Trail to Puu Puai Overlook | 1609.34 | 37.7952 | Easy | out and back | 3.5 |
End of Chain of Craters Road Trail to Lava Viewing | 16576.202 | 130.7592 | Moderate | out and back | 4 |
Sandalwood (Iliahi) Trail | 1931.208 | 13.716 | Moderate | loop | 4 |
Halema’uma’u Trail | 2735.878 | 130.7592 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
Wildlife in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park are both spectacular destinations for nature lovers. Both parks offer a unique and diverse range of wildlife, but in different ways.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a popular destination for birdwatchers, with over 200 species of birds found in the park. Some of the most commonly seen birds include the American Goldfinch, the Eastern Bluebird, and the Tufted Titmouse. The park is also home to a variety of mammals, such as black bears, white-tailed deer, and raccoons. In addition, the park is home to a rich and diverse plant life, including over 1,500 species of flowering plants, 100 species of native trees, and numerous ferns, mosses, and lichens.
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, on the other hand, is a unique destination for those interested in the interaction between wildlife and volcanic activity. The park is home to a number of endemic species, including the nene (Hawaiian Goose) and the Hawaiian hawk. Visitors to the park may also see a variety of other birds, such as the Hawaiian honeycreeper and the Hawaiian owl. The park is also home to a diverse range of plant life, including native Hawaiian ferns, hibiscus, and ohia lehua. The park is also home to several active volcanoes, which offer a unique opportunity to observe the interaction between volcanic activity and the surrounding ecosystem.
Overall, both Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park offer a unique and diverse range of wildlife, making them both must-see destinations for nature lovers.
Below are lists of the most commonly spotted wildlife at Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. However, you can see a full list of wildlife at each national park here.
Birds
Great Smoky Mountains National Park | Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park |
---|---|
Peregrine Falcon | Peregrine Falcon |
Northern Harrier | Canada Goose |
Sharp-Shinned Hawk | Great Blue Heron |
Osprey | Rock Pigeon |
Tree Swallow | House Sparrow |
Mallard | Northern Mockingbird |
Canada Goose | Black-Crowned Night-Heron |
Lincoln’s Sparrow | Wild Turkey |
Ruby-Crowned Kinglet | Barn Owl |
American Robin | Cattle Egret |
Great Horned Owl | Sanderling |
Red-Tailed Hawk | Ring-Necked Pheasant |
Northern Flicker | Chukar |
Merlin | Ruddy Turnstone |
Barn Swallow | Northern Cardinal |
Savannah Sparrow | California Quail |
Great Blue Heron | |
Hermit Thrush | |
American Kestrel | |
Bald Eagle | |
Song Sparrow | |
European Starling | |
Northern Pintail | |
American Wigeon | |
Green-Winged Teal |
Mammals
Great Smoky Mountains National Park | Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park |
---|---|
Coyote | House Mouse |
American Beaver | Norway Rat |
Muskrat | ‘Iole |
Big Brown Bat | Domestic Cattle |
Bobcat | Feral Hog |
Striped Skunk | |
Little Brown Bat | |
Deer Mouse | |
Raccoon | |
Black Bear | |
Porcupine | |
Silver-Haired Bat | |
Hoary Bat | |
Red Fox | |
Long-Tailed Weasel | |
House Mouse | |
Panther (Mountain Lion) | |
Mink | |
Gray Fox | |
Gray Wolf | |
Snowshoe Hare | |
River Otter | |
Masked Shrew | |
Water Shrew | |
Red Squirrel |
Fish
Great Smoky Mountains National Park | Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park |
---|---|
Rainbow Trout | |
Brook Trout | |
Brown Trout | |
Largemouth Bass | |
Green Sunfish | |
Bluegill | |
Common Carp | |
Longnose Dace | |
Yellow Bullhead | |
Channel Catfish | |
Black Crappie | |
Black Bullhead | |
Mosquitofish | |
Creek Chub | |
Goldfish | |
Smallmouth Bass |
Amphibians
Great Smoky Mountains National Park | Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park |
---|---|
Northern Leopard Frog | Bullfrog |
American Bullfrog | |
Wood Frog |
Insects
Great Smoky Mountains National Park | Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park |
---|---|
Orange Sulphur | Painted Lady |
Painted Lady | Monarch Butterfly |
Monarch | American Painted Lady |
American Painted Lady | Red Admiral |
Red Admiral | Cabbage White |
Mourning Cloak | Honey Bee |
Cabbage White | |
Silvery Blue | |
Common Checkered Skipper | |
Common Sulphur | |
Honey Bee | |
Variegated Fritillary | |
Buckeye | |
Commom Wood Nymph | |
Gray Hairstreak |
Beautiful Landscapes in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park are two of the most famous national parks in the United States, attracting millions of visitors each year. Each park offers a unique and breathtaking landscape that is sure to impress.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, located in Tennessee and North Carolina, is known for its beautiful mountain ranges and scenic overlooks. The park is home to over 850 miles of hiking trails, including the famous Appalachian Trail, which offers some of the best views of the Smoky Mountains. In addition, the park is home to a variety of waterfalls, including the 80-foot Laurel Falls and the 120-foot Ramsey Cascades.
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, located on the Big Island of Hawaii, is a unique landscape that features the Kilauea and Mauna Loa volcanoes. Visitors to the park can witness the ongoing volcanic activity and explore the fascinating landscape, including the Thurston Lava Tube and the Halema’uma’u Crater. The park also offers visitors the opportunity to hike through the lush rain forest and witness the beauty of the Hawaiian flora and fauna.
Whether you are a nature lover, hiker, or simply looking for a new adventure, both Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park offer something for everyone.
Things To-Do and Activities in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a popular destination for visitors who are interested in exploring the scenic beauty of the Appalachian Mountains. Among the most popular activities at this park are scenic drives, wildlife viewing, and camping. Visitors can take a leisurely drive along the Newfound Gap Road to enjoy the stunning vistas or visit the Cades Cove area for a chance to see black bears, deer, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. In addition, the park offers camping opportunities for those who want to spend more time in the great outdoors.
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is a unique destination for those who are interested in geology, volcanic activity, and Hawaiian culture. Among the most popular activities at this park are hiking, visiting the Kīlauea Visitor Center, and witnessing volcanic eruptions. Visitors can explore the park’s many hiking trails to see steam vents, sulfur banks, and other volcanic features up close. The Kīlauea Visitor Center provides information about the park’s geological history and ongoing volcanic activity, making it a must-visit destination for those who are interested in these subjects. And there is no greater thrill than seeing molten lava flowing down the slopes of an active volcano, which is an opportunity that visitors to Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park may have.
Best Time to Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park share one rare characteristic, their location on two different sides of the country. Weather patterns are vastly different in these two protected areas and can greatly influence the ideal time to visit.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is located in Tennessee and North Carolina and has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summer temperatures can reach into the 80s, while winter temperatures average in the mid-30s. Winter months bring occasional snow and ice, making hiking and other outdoor activities more challenging. However, the park is most popular during the fall months when the leaves change color, offering a breathtaking display of natural beauty.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is located on the Big Island of Hawaii and has a tropical climate with average temperatures ranging from the low 80s to the low 90s year-round. The park is known for its active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa, and offers visitors the chance to witness volcanic activity. The park can experience heavy rain and strong winds during the winter months, making it a less desirable time to visit. The best time to visit is during the drier summer months, when hiking and exploring the park’s unique landscapes is more enjoyable.
Visitors to both parks should consider the weather when planning their trips, as it can greatly impact their experience. Whether it’s the colorful fall foliage of Great Smoky Mountains National Park or the dry and sunny conditions of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the right timing can enhance a visitor’s enjoyment and create lasting memories.
Family Friendliness of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park are two of the most well-known national parks in the United States. Both parks offer unique natural features and opportunities for outdoor recreation. However, when it comes to family-friendliness, there are some differences to consider.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is arguably the more family-friendly of the two parks. It offers a variety of easy and accessible nature trails, campgrounds, and picnic areas. There are also many educational and interactive programs for visitors of all ages, including ranger-led hikes and campfire talks. In addition, the park is located near several charming towns that offer additional family-friendly activities and amenities.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, on the other hand, offers a more rugged and remote wilderness experience. While it is still a great destination for families, it can be more challenging for young children and those with mobility issues. The park is home to the active Kilauea volcano, which can be awe-inspiring for visitors but also presents some safety concerns. There are also fewer facilities and amenities within the park, so it is more important to come prepared with supplies and provisions.
Overall, if you’re traveling with children, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is likely the better choice. It offers a more accessible and well-rounded family-friendly experience, while Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is best suited for families who are comfortable with a more rugged wilderness experience.