06/25/2026
♥️🤍💙Are you planning on celebrating Independence Day in the Great Smoky Mountains? The Smokies are anticipating lots of visitors, and with such a special anniversary, there's a lot to celebrate! To help keep yourself and others safe over the holiday weekend, follow these tips and tricks:
1.☀️ Prepare for heat! Expect temperatures in the 90s, as well as high humidity. Dress appropriately for the weather, and bring (and use!) sun protection. Most importantly, bring plenty of water and drink it throughout the day.
2.🚙 Drive safely! There will be lots of drivers on the roads, so drive with extra caution to keep yourself and others safe. Use roadside pulloffs to allow faster vehicles to pass you, always wear your seatbelt, and follow the posted speed limits. Parking tags aren't required July 3-5, but parking only in designated parking spaces is still required. The park may ticket or tow vehicles parked illegally.
3.🐻 Be bear aware! It's vital to store your food and trash so that bears can't get to it. Leave your food and scented items in a hard-sided vehicle that is locked and has the windows rolled up. Never leave your backpack unattended, and pack out your trash until you can get to a bear-resistant dumpster. Feeding a bear, leaving food out, littering or approaching a bear too closely can contribute to a bear's death.
4.🎇 Leave all fireworks, sparklers, and other pyrotechnics at home. Fireworks are strictly prohibited inside the national park. Not only are they a serious fire risk, but they also disturb the wildlife that so many people come to the Smokies to enjoy.
Learn more about how to prepare for the weekend at the link below:
https://www.nps.gov/grsm/learn/news/four-tips-for-a-safe-fourth-of-july-in-the-smokies.htm
