How to get a toddler to cooperate for family pictures
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The Great Smoky Mtns National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the U.S.—and for good reason. With misty mountain views, historic cabins, and family-friendly adventures, it’s the perfect destination to slow down and reconnect. Whether you’re road tripping through the Great Smokies, staying near peaceful Townsend, TN, or exploring the beauty of Cades Cove, this guide is packed with must-know tips and local gems to help you make the most of your family vacation.
Best Places to Stay in the Great Smoky Mountains near Townsend
Townsend is known as “the peaceful side of the Smokies,” and it lives up to its name. If you’re looking for Great Smoky Mountains accommodations that are family-friendly and close to nature, these are top picks:
- Little Arrow Outdoor Resort: A luxury camping resort offering cabins, glamping tents, and RV sites—just minutes from the park entrance.
- Dancing Bear Lodge: Offers charming cabin-style lodging with upscale amenities and an on-site bistro.
- Tremont Lodge & Resort: Affordable and close to both Townsend and Cades Cove, great for families.
Family-Friendly Smoky Mountain Hiking Trails
Hiking in the Smokies doesn’t have to mean steep climbs and difficult terrain. There are plenty of family friendly Smoky Mountain hiking trails that little legs can manage:
- Spruce Flat Falls Trail: A hidden gem near the Tremont Institute with a beautiful waterfall payoff.
- Cades Cove Nature Trail: A short, scenic loop perfect for toddlers and strollers.
- Laurel Falls Trail: Paved and popular with families, this 2.6-mile out-and-back hike leads to a beautiful waterfall. (This trail is currently under construction until 2026)
- Clingmans Dome: At 6,643 feet, it’s the highest point in the Great Smokies. The 0.5-mile paved walk to the observation tower is steep but manageable and SO worth the view. We've taken our stroller, and our three year old rode his strider bike, so it's very manageable (we did carry our oldest for part of the time!)
Scenic Drives in the Great Smoky Mountains You Can’t Miss
Sometimes, the best memories are made right from the car window. (Going for scenic drives is one of my and my husband's favorite things to do! We'll grab a snack for the kids, coffee for ourselves, and set off!)
These scenic drives offer breathtaking views and plenty of pull-off spots for pictures:
- Cades Cove Loop Road: An 11-mile one-way loop through a stunning valley filled with wildlife, historic churches, and cabins. Be sure to stop at the Cable Mill Historic Area. (You can spend hours in here! Especially if you have littles, I highly recommend bringing extra water, packing a picnic lunch, and planning for naps to be in the car. It is so worth it!) (Check out my Cades Cove guide!)
- Foothills Parkway: Offers sweeping views with less traffic than other park roads—ideal during peak seasons.
- Newfound Gap Road: A 31-mile stretch from Gatlinburg to Cherokee, NC. Stop at Newfound Gap for panoramic views and the famous state-line sign.
Coffee Shops and Souvenir Stops in Townsend
Before heading into the park or winding down after a long hike, here are some local favorites:
Best Coffee Shops
- Towns End Coffee: This one is my absolute favorite! Such a cozy and peaceful atmosphere and friendly service.
- The Artistic Bean: Locally roasted coffee and an artsy vibe.
- Peaceful Side Social: Coffee, craft brews, and scratch-made eats in a modern space with outdoor seating.
Favorite Souvenir Shops
- Apple Valley Mountain Village: Unique gifts, Smoky Mountain memorabilia, and a great stop for kids.
- Dogwood Mall: Antique-style general store with gifts, handmade items, and collectibles.
Don’t Miss the Chance to Capture These Memories
Vacations like this only come around so often—and your kids won’t stay little forever. One of the best ways to preserve the magic of your family trip to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is with a professional photography session.
As a local family photographer based in Maryville (a town just outside of Townsend) I specialize in capturing genuine, heartfelt moments for families who are here to explore, connect, and just be together. I am always on the hunt for the best scenic spots and I bring along:
- A curated client closet just for moms to help you feel confident and radiant—no packing stress.
- Styling assistance so your family looks beautifully coordinated without being matchy-matchy.
- A playful, relaxed session experience that allows your kids to be themselves and have fun.
You can learn more about what’s included on my pricing page, or browse my portfolio to see recent sessions.
Ready to Book Your Family Photos during your Smoky Mountains Family Vacation?
Whether you’re staying in a cozy cabin, roasting marshmallows under the stars, or watching your little ones spot deer in Cades Cove, this trip is something special. Let’s make sure you have the photos to match.
Click here to book your Smoky Mountain family session—and let's start planning!
Want to learn more? Check out my Family Experience page, or Meet Me - You can also scroll through my blog posts to read more about outfit styling, creating heartfelt connection in family photos, and more. Reach out with any questions! I love meeting new families and I'm excited for your family to get to experience the beauty that my family and I love so much about living here near the Great Smokies.
