4-Day Family Friendly Nature Itinerary in the Great Smoky Mountains

Day 1: Gatlinburg Exploration

Gatlinburg, TN

9:00AM

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Pancake Pantry, famous for its fluffy pancakes and family-friendly atmosphere.
Located in the heart of Gatlinburg, you can walk or drive depending on your accommodation.
USD 50, 1 hour

10:30AM

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Visitor Center

Visit the visitor centre for park information and maps, getting the kids excited about the adventures ahead.
Drive to the visitor center, about 15 minutes from the Pancake Pantry.
USD 0, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at The Park Grill

Enjoy a hearty lunch at The Park Grill, featuring wooden décor and southern specialities that will please the whole family.
This is a short drive from the visitor center, approximately 10 minutes.
USD 70, 1 hour

1:30PM

Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

Take a family-friendly ride on the SkyLift, boasting stunning views of the Smokies, and walk across the SkyBridge for an unforgettable experience.
The SkyLift Park is a 5-minute walk from The Park Grill.
USD 80, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Smoky Mountain Brewery

Unwind with a casual dinner at Smoky Mountain Brewery, where adults can enjoy local brews while the kids savour pizza and wings.
It's a 10-minute walk from Gatlinburg SkyLift Park.
USD 60, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Cades Cove Adventure

Cades Cove, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Inn at Cades Cove

Fuel up with a country-style breakfast at The Inn, surrounded by beautiful mountain views.
Drive to Cades Cove from Gatlinburg, which is around a 30-minute drive.
USD 45, 1 hour

9:30AM

Cades Cove Loop Road

Drive the scenic Cades Cove Loop Road, spotting wildlife and enjoying breathtaking views of the park.
This scenic drive begins by paying your park entrance fee.
USD 0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Cades Cove Visitor Center

Stop by the visitor centre for interactive exhibits that engage the kids in the history of the cove.
The visitor center is located on the loop and easy to find.
USD 0, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch – Cades Cove Picnic Area

Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch in the designated picnic area surrounded by nature.
There are various picnic tables near the visitor center.
USD 30, 1 hour

2:00PM

Hiking to Abrams Falls

Enjoy a family hike to Abrams Falls, which is a moderate hike perfect for families, and the waterfall at the end is worth the effort.
The trailhead is near the picnic area.
USD 0, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Cades Cove Campground Store

Finish your day with a casual meal at the campground store, featuring soups, sandwiches, and quick bites for everyone.
Just a short drive from the Abrams Falls trailhead.
USD 40, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Pigeon Forge Excitement

Pigeon Forge, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at Flapjack's Pancake Cabin

Enjoy a hearty breakfast of pancakes and other delicious morning treats at this family favourite spot.
A short drive of approximately 30 minutes from Cades Cove.
USD 50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Dollywood Theme Park

Spend the day at Dollywood, experiencing thrilling rides, shows, and attractions that are perfect for families.
Dollywood is only 10 minutes from Flapjack's.
USD 250, 6 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at The Old Mill

Delight in a traditional southern dinner at The Old Mill, with local specialities and a welcoming community atmosphere.
A 10-minute drive from Dollywood.
USD 80, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Nature's Beauty in Roaring Fork

Roaring Fork, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Diner

Start your day with a classic breakfast at The Diner, offering big portions that will satisfy everyone’s appetite.
Drive about 20 minutes from Pigeon Forge to The Diner.
USD 60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

Take a scenic drive along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, potentially spotting wildlife while enjoying the beautiful landscape.
Trail entrance is just north of Gatlinburg, making it easily accessible.
USD 0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Hiking at Grotto Falls

Hike to Grotto Falls via the Trillium Gap Trail, which is exciting and family-friendly, plus you can walk behind the waterfall!
The Grotto Falls trailhead begins along the Roaring Fork Trail.
USD 0, 3 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Local Goat

Refuel with farm-to-table flavours at Local Goat, recognised for its delicious and varied menu that caters to all palates.
It's a short drive back towards Gatlinburg.
USD 70, 1 hour

4:00PM

Exploring the Arts and Crafts Community

Wrap up your trip by exploring the local artisan shops within the Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community.
It's just a short drive from Local Goat.
USD 0, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Peddler Steakhouse

Conclude your adventure with a fine dining experience at The Peddler Steakhouse, known for its custom-cut steaks and delightful desserts.
It's about a 10-minute drive from the Arts and Crafts Community.
USD 90, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability