Top 4 Reasons Why You Need to Experience the Gatlinburg Trail

One of the awesome perks of staying in our Gatlinburg condos is they are right around the corner from the Gatlinburg Trail, a scenic walking trail that leads directly into Great Smoky Mountains National Park. If you want to explore the park and enjoy being outside, you definitely need to hike this trail. Here are the top 4 reasons why you need to experience the Gatlinburg Trail during your vacation to the Smokies:

1. Easy Hiking Opportunity

The Gatlinburg Trail offers an easy hiking opportunity for visitors of all ages, so be sure to bring the kids along for the fun! The trail is relatively flat and is 3.9 miles roundtrip, making it perfect for a morning or afternoon hike. You can walk directly from our Gatlinburg condos to the trailhead on River Road, so just turn right on Ski Mountain Road and then go right at River Road to access the marked trail. Once you get back to our condos, you can look forward to a refreshing swim in the outdoor pool or a soothing session in the bubbling hot tub!

2. Leads Directly to Sugarlands Visitor Center

Another reason why you need to experience the Gatlinburg Trail during your Smokies is because it leads directly to the Sugarlands Visitor Center in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This excellent facility is the best place to begin your exploration of the park as it features a bookstore, gift shop, and free admission to a 20 minute film about the park. You can also talk to a park ranger about the current hiking conditions and any seasonal ranger led programs that might be going on!

3. Biking is Permitted

If you are bringing bicycles along for your vacation, you will be happy to know that the Gatlinburg Trail is one of just two walking paths within the National Park that allow bikes! Just keep in mind that the path is also frequently used by joggers and walkers, so be sure to bike responsibly while on the trail! You can also bike along the Cades Cove Loop Road, an 11 mile one way loop that circles through a gorgeous broad valley surrounded by mountains. If you prefer not to share the road with cars, consider visiting on Wednesdays during the summer months for vehicle free days!

4. Spectacular Scenery

The Gatlinburg Trail is not just a convenient access path into the national park, but it offers a variety of spectacular scenery along its route. The trail runs through the forest along the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River, making it a delightful hike for nature lovers! You will enjoy stunning views of the river, and the trail even crosses over the river at one one point by a pedestrian foot bridge. While strolling along the Gatlinburg Trail, you will also have the opportunity to view the foundations and chimneys of several old homesites!

Check out all of our condos in Gatlinburg TN today to stay within walking distance of the trailhead for the Gatlinburg Trail! We look forward to welcoming you to the Smoky Mountains!