Things To Do

Dollywood

This is Dolly Parton's theme park. An all day activity, but highly recommend if you have the time.

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Dolly Parton's Stampede

Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud Show & Adventure Park

Cades Cove

This is one of the easiest ways to get a feel for the Smoky Mountains National Park. This is an 11-mile one way loop open to vehicles or bikers. Wednesday mornings are bike only days, with bike rentals available at the Cades Cove Campground Store. Plan for 3-4 hours, or longer during the weekend.

Abrams Falls Trailhead

This moderate 5 mile roundtrip hike is a great way to extend your time in Cades Cove. The trailhead is part mile marker #10 on the loop drive. Plan on spending 3-4 hours if you do this hike.

Newfound Gap Parking Area

One of Mary's favorite mountain views. Newfound Gap sits on the Tennessee/ North Carolina state line. There are several trailheads that start in the parking area, or you can just sit and take in the scenery.

Charlies Bunion

Starting at Newfound Gap, this 8 mile round trip hike is for serious hikers who want a real taste of the mountains. You will hike along the Appalachian Trail for 4 miles to get to the Bunion covering 1,600 ft in elevation change. You will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the mountains.

Metcalf Bottoms Trail Trailhead

Metcalf bottoms is an easy out and back trail to the Greenbriar Schoolhouse. See the "Walker Sisters Place" entry to extend the hike.

Walker Sisters Place

The Walker Sisters were the last family to live within the National Park boundaries. Several buildings that were part of their original homestead are preserved. To reach the homestead, take the 0.7 mile hike from Metcalf Bottoms to the Little Greenbrier School. This is an interesting pitstop because the school was built by John Walker, the father of the Walker Sisters. Continue past the school for 0.6 mile where the path crosses over a footbridge. From there, hike another 1.1 miles and you will find the 0.2-mile side trail that leads to the Walker Sisters cabin.

Sugarlands Visitor Center Loop Road

The Sugarlands Visitor Center is the closest to Gatlinburg. Stop here for trial maps, information on trail closures, and ranger favorite hikes.