Duration
1-2 hours (longer if kids are playing in creek or you're taking photos)
Price
$5 parking tag required (trail access is free)
Best For
Families with young kids • Dog owners looking for leashed hiking • Cyclists wanting easy park access
Pro Tip
Park at the small free lots on River Road near Traffic Light #10 instead of paying for the larger lot at US 441/Ski Mountain Road - just remember you still need that $5 parking tag.
About Gatlinburg Trail Trailhead
The Gatlinburg Trail stands out as one of the few locations in the Smokies that welcomes both dogs and bicycles. This 3.8-mile roundtrip follows the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River through stunning cove hardwood forest.
This trail serves as an ideal choice for easy family hikes. The wide dirt path accommodates strollers perfectly, and numerous spots along the creek provide excellent play areas for children.
Historic stone chimneys dot the landscape along the route, with opportunities to spot wildflowers and wildlife for observant visitors. The flat terrain makes this trail accessible to hikers of nearly all ability levels.
Visitors should note that a parking tag is required ($5 daily) and the trail experiences heavy crowds during peak hours. Early morning visits or weekday evenings around 6 PM typically offer the best experience with fewer crowds.
The trail offers two starting points: the Sugarlands Visitor Center or the Gatlinburg end near Traffic Light #10. Many visitors arrange a car shuttle between endpoints to avoid completing the full roundtrip walk.
Amenities & Features
Don't Miss
West Prong Little Pigeon River Access
Multiple spots where you can get down to the creek for photos or letting kids splash around. The water stays pretty cold even in summer, which feels amazing after walking in the heat.
Historic Stone Chimneys
Cool remnants from old homesteads scattered along the trail. We always stop to check these out and imagine what life was like here decades ago.
Dog and Bike Friendly Path
This is literally the only trail in the Smokies where you can bring your leashed dog AND bikes are allowed. The wide dirt path after the initial sidewalk section makes it easy for everyone.
Cove Hardwood Forest
Beautiful mature trees create a canopy that keeps things cool. Spring wildflowers are gorgeous, and fall colors are spectacular if you time it right.
Stroller and Wheelchair Access
The flat, well-graded path works for strollers and wheelchairs in most sections. It's rare to find this level of accessibility in the national park.
Two Trailhead Options
Start from downtown Gatlinburg near Traffic Light #10 or from Sugarlands Visitor Center. We like doing one-way hikes with a car shuttle to avoid the full roundtrip.
Know Before You Go
- Buy your $5 parking tag online ahead of time or at the visitor center
- Bring water and comfortable walking shoes - the trail is mostly flat but 4 miles roundtrip
- Leash required for dogs and stay on designated trail
- Creek water can be chilly even in summer, great for cooling off
- Trail is wheelchair and stroller accessible for most sections
Visitor Sentiment
Based on reviewsGatlinburg Trail Trailhead receives consistently positive feedback from visitors. Located in Gatlinburg, it's a solid choice for the area.
Gatlinburg Trail Trailhead Opening Hours
Best Times to Visit Gatlinburg Trail Trailhead
Visit during weekday mornings for the calmest experience.
Tags
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for Gatlinburg Trail?
The trail is open 24/7 as part of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. We recommend bringing a flashlight if you're hiking in the evening or early morning hours.
How much does Gatlinburg Trail cost?
The trail itself is free, but you need a parking tag - $5 daily, $15 weekly, or $40 annual. You can buy these online, at visitor centers, or at parking kiosks.
Do I need reservations for Gatlinburg Trail?
No reservations needed. Just show up with your parking tag and you're good to go. It's first-come, first-served for parking spots.
How long should I spend at Gatlinburg Trail?
Most people spend 1-2 hours for the full roundtrip. The flat terrain makes it easy to walk quickly, or you can take your time and let kids play in the creek.
Is Gatlinburg Trail good for kids?
Absolutely! The wide, flat path works for strollers, and kids love the creek access points. It's one of the most family-friendly trails in the park.
Is there parking at Gatlinburg Trail?
Yes, you can park at Sugarlands Visitor Center or use the small free lots on River Road near Traffic Light #10. There's also a larger paid lot at US 441/Ski Mountain Road.
Can I bring my dog on Gatlinburg Trail?
Yes! This is one of the only trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park that allows leashed dogs. It's also bike-friendly, which is rare for the park.
Can I avoid walking the full roundtrip?
Definitely. You can arrange a car shuttle between the two trailheads, or during summer months, take the trolley to Sugarlands Visitor Center for pickup.
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We use a weighted 10-point scoring system to evaluate the best places to visit and things to do in the Smokies.
Scoring is carefully evaluated based on reviews, social signals and expert assessments.
Gatlinburg Trail Trailhead receives consistently positive feedback from visitors. Located in Gatlinburg, it's a solid choice for the area.
Last Updated Dec 27, 2025
916 River Rd Gatlinburg TN 37738
916 River Rd Gatlinburg TN 37738
Gatlinburg
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