The Great Smoky Mountains are a mountain range that runs along the Tennessee-North Carolina border in the southeastern United States. They are part of the Appalachian Mountains and are known for their beautiful scenery, which includes dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which covers over 800 square miles of the mountain range, is one of the most visited national parks in the country. The park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including black bears, elk, and over 1,500 species of wildflowers. The Smoky Mountains are also a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing. The town of Gatlinburg, Tennessee, located near the entrance to the park, is a popular base for exploring the Smoky Mountains.