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New: Parking Fees

Parking tags are required in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Three tag durations will be available for purchase for all vehicle sizes and types: Daily, $5; Weekly, $15; or Annual, $40. Tags may be purchased online, or on-site. Parking tags will NOT be required for motorists who pass through the area or who park for less than 15 minutes, or while parked at their designated campsite. Parking Program Info

Mingus Mill

A large water-powered mill for grinding corn can be seen in operation one-half mile north of the Oconaluftee Visitors Center in Cherokee on US 441. The grounds are open daily.

Built in 1886, this historic grist mill uses a water-powered turbine instead of a water wheel to power all of the machinery in the building.

A miller is on site to demonstrate the grinding of corn into cornmeal, which is available for purchase. Miller’s hours: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm daily mid-March through mid-November. Also, open Thanksgiving weekend.

You might spot some elk nearby — grazing in the fields next to the Oconaluftee Visitor Center, or in the lowland fields along US 441 in the National Park, or in the Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center just north of the park visitor center. 

IN OUR BLOG…

Seven Things You May Not Know About Mingus Mill

and

Few People Know This Slave Cemetery Exists Near a Treasured Landmark in the Smokies