2-Day Adventure in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Day 1: Explore Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Kickstart your day with a delicious breakfast at the iconic Pancake Pantry, famous for its fluffy, mouthwatering pancakes.
Located in downtown Gatlinburg, an easy walk from many accommodations.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park Visitor Center

Get oriented and gather information about hiking trails and park activities at the visitor center.
A short 10-minute drive from Pancake Pantry.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Hike to Laurel Falls

Embark on a moderate 2.6-mile round-trip hike to see the beautiful Laurel Falls, one of the park's most popular attractions.
Located a 15-minute drive from the visitor center.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Park Grill

Enjoy a hearty lunch with a lodge-style ambiance at The Park Grill, which offers a variety of American fare with lovely views.
Head back to Gatlinburg, which is about a 25-minute drive.
USD20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Scenic Chairlift Ride

Take a scenic chairlift ride up the mountain for breathtaking views of the Smokies and a chance to spot wildlife.
Located at Gatlinburg SkyLift Park, a 5-minute walk from The Park Grill.
USD22, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Ober Gatlinburg

Visit the amusement park and ski area of Ober Gatlinburg, where you can enjoy various outdoor activities.
A short 10-minute drive or a ride on the Aerial Tramway from the chairlift.
USD45, 3 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Calhoun's

Savor some smoky barbecue at Calhoun's, well known for its ribs and friendly atmosphere.
Located downtown Gatlinburg, a 10-minute drive from Ober Gatlinburg.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Discover Cades Cove

Cades Cove, Tennessee

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Old Mill Restaurant

Feast on a southern breakfast experience, with fresh biscuits and gravy at The Old Mill, set in a charming mill.
Drive approximately 30 minutes to Pigeon Forge.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive through Cades Cove Loop Road

Spend the morning driving the 11-mile Cades Cove Loop Road, where you can enjoy stunning views, wildlife, and historic homesteads.
Cades Cove entrance is about a 35-minute drive from Pigeon Forge.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Hike to Abrams Falls

After enjoying the loop drive, hike the 5-mile round-trip to Abrams Falls, featuring breathtaking scenery and a waterfall at the end.
Start at the Abrams Falls Trailhead inside Cades Cove.
Free, 3 hours

2:30PM

Picnic Lunch at Cades Cove

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy surrounded by nature, with a vibrant view of the mountains and abundant wildlife.
Find a picnic area along the loop road, choose your favorite spot.
USD10, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit John Oliver Cabin

Explore the historical John Oliver Cabin, an early settler's home and a part of the area's rich history.
Located along the Cades Cove Loop Road trail.
Free, 30 minutes

4:00PM

Wildlife Viewing

Spend some time in the late afternoon observing the wildlife that frequents the area, including deer, turkeys, and black bears.
Find a quiet spot along the loop road or near the fields.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at The Barn at Blackberry Farm

Experience gourmet dining in a rustic setting at The Barn, known for its farm-to-table cuisine and beautiful views.
Located about 30 minutes outside of Cades Cove.
USD75, 2 hours
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