Smoky Mountain Parking Tags
If you are planning on a Smoky Mountain wedding, or family photos, then before you make your way out to the National Park you will need to know about this new requirement effective March 1st, 2023. Smoky Mountain National Park is now requiring parking passes for visitors who plan to park for more than 15 minutes. And as a Gatlinburg photographer, I know that applies to all of my couples planning to get married inside the park, as well as families planning on a session.
What You Need To Know
Smoky Mountain parking tags are affordable while giving you options for purchase. With daily passes ($5), weekly passes ($15), and annual passes ($40), you can purchase a pass depending on the amount of time you plan on spending in the park. These passes are valid for a single vehicle and are not replaceable or transferable. In addition, they must be displayed in your vehicle as digital representations will not be accepted.
FAQ
Will picnic pavilion reservation holders be exempt from the parking tag requirement?
No. Having a picnic pavilion reservation does not exempt you from the parking tag requirement.
Will special use permit holders be exempt from the parking tag requirement?
Three special use permit types are exempt from the parking tag requirement: burials, cemetery visits including Decoration Days and first amendment activities. No other special use permit types, including weddings, are exempt from the parking tag requirement.
Will vehicles parked at a commercial service inside the park be exempt from the parking tag requirement?
No. Parking lots associated with commercial services will not exempt from the parking tag requirement.
Can I buy a daily or weekly tag in advance for a specific date?
Yes. You can specify the date(s) you plan to visit if you purchase your daily or weekly parking tag online through recreation.gov. However, if you purchase your daily or weekly parking tag in-person, it will be validated on the date of purchase.
For more frequently asked questions and additional information, visit nps.gov.
In addition, if you have any questions for me as a Gatlinburg wedding photographer, who often shoots in the National Park, please reach out! I would love to capture your memories and answer any questions you may have regarding your occasion and the National Park.
