Gatlinburg Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features River/Creek

The Gatlinburg Trail runs from River Road in Gatlinburg to the Sugarlands Visitor Center. It's really a 1.9-mile exercise path for the locals versus a trail in the mountains, although you can enjoy the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River and some history of the area. If you're looking to get away from everything going on in Gatlinburg, it's a good trail to take.

Great for running, as it is level and well maintained.

The first part of the trail is between the river and Newfound Gap Road. Cross the footbridge over the river, enjoying the views of the river. You'll come across chimneys and foundations from old homesites, which you can explore. Throughout this area, you'll find various artifacts that speak to the history of the area. The park didn't always exist and people lived here before the national park was established.

You'll pass portions of the West Prong, offering great picture opportunities. The gravel path becomes paved as you reach the maintenance area for the park. Once you get past the maintenance area, you make your way past the Little River Ranger Station and the park headquarters, a large stone building. This is where park employees work on making sure the park can handle the 10 million plus people that visit the park each year. The trail winds its way to Sugarlands Visitor Center. It's a little confusing making your way through all these buildings and paths, but you eventually end at your destination.

If you are looking for solitude, this is not the trail for you. While it is primarily a hiking/running trail, this is one of the three trails in the park that you can ride your bike and one of two trails that you can bring your dog on.