Love the Great Smoky Mountains? Try This Similar Spot in Arkansas

The Southern region of the country doesn’t get the credit it deserves. For instance, do you know the most visited national park in the South? Can you guess what it is? If you said the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you are absolutely correct!

Certainly, the Smokies deserve flowers. After all, they’re one of the oldest mountain ranges in our country, and they feature stunning vistas and are brimming with serene waterfalls. But the crowds can be overwhelming, am I right? And most of us who enjoy being in nature would rather skip this popular destination for something low-key. That’s where the Ouachita Mountains in western Arkansas come in. If you can’t travel to Tennessee, this lesser-known hidden gem in Arkansas is an ideal substitute for the Smokies.

For those skeptical about my bold claim, you might be surprised by the many similarities between the mountain ranges. First, each natural wonder borders two states: the Smokies run through Tennessee and North Carolina, and the Ouachitas through Oklahoma and Arkansas. Second, the mountains have scenic byways featuring the most incredible views in the states. 

Moreover, the rugged terrains are playgrounds for outdoor enthusiasts, with waterfalls and adventure around every turn. Other similarities include their names, which are connected to Indigenous tribes. The Smokies were named by the Cherokee people because of the fog that floats above the gorgeous peaks. And the Ouachitas’ name has connections to the Caddo and Choctaw languages and the Ouachita tribe that settled the area. 

Additionally, both mountain ranges have iconic national parks within their borders: the Great Smoky Mountain National Park and Hot Springs National Park. The best part is that we can explore these national parks for free.

So, why skip the Smokies for the underrated Ouachitas? Aside from avoiding the crowds, one of the best state parks in Arkansas and a national forest are tucked inside the Ouachita Mountains. Lake Ouachita State Park is home to one of the cleanest lakes in the US, with over 200 islands to explore. If you love spending time on the water, this paradise is your ultimate vacation destination.

The Ouachita National Forest is brimming with everything we love about Arkansas. This 1.8-million-acre haven is the largest national forest in the South, and it features breathtaking waterfalls, rugged terrain, lush forests, and several flowing waterways.  

Wolf Pen Gap, arguably the coolest ATV trail in the state, is nestled inside the mountains. The trail meanders through the forest with views of tranquil streams, tree canopies, and rock formations. You’ll want to explore this scenic trail for yourself. 

Plus, several other state parks are nestled inside or tucked in the foothills of the Ouachitas. They include Daisy State Park, DeGray State Park, Mount Nebo State Park, and Queen Wilhelmina State Park. These parks offer endless and unique opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, fishing, swimming, camping, and more. 

One of the Ouachita Mountains highlights is the picturesque Talimena National Scenic Byway. The 54-mile route stretches between Oklahoma and Arkansas, and it’s especially pretty during the fall season. If you plan your road trip in the morning, you might get lucky and witness the fog hovering over the mountains, which will resemble the Smokies. 

Could this underrated mountain range in Arkansas be better than the Tennessee wonder? Calm down, folks—there's no need for competition here! Both destinations are worth visiting, and nature lovers will be inspired by their immense beauty. Honestly, you can’t go wrong with either of them. And if you're looking for more things to do in the area during your getaway or just need some inspiration on how to make the most of your trip, visit our itinerary planner for additional ideas!