Epic One-Day Adventure in the Great Smoky Mountains

Day 1: Mountain Adventure Day

Gatlinburg, TN

7:30AM

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Start your day with the famous pancakes at Pancake Pantry, a staple in Gatlinburg known for its wide selection and cozy atmosphere.
Located at 619 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN. From here, you'll drive to Cades Cove.
USD15, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Cades Cove

Enjoy the scenic drive to Cades Cove, soaking in beautiful mountain views along the way.
Take TN-73 W to Cades Cove Loop Rd.
N/A, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Cades Cove Loop Road

Experience the stunning 11-mile loop that showcases breathtaking scenery, wildlife, and historic sites within the cove.
Follow Cades Cove Loop Rd; there are many stopping points along the way.
N/A, 2 hours

11:00AM

Hiking at Abrams Falls

Take a short hike (5 miles round trip) to Abrams Falls, where you'll be rewarded with beautiful waterfall views.
Use the trailhead just off the Cades Cove Loop.
N/A, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cades Cove Picnic Area

Pack a picnic or grab a sandwich at the Cades Cove Visitor Center for a laid-back lunch surrounded by nature.
Picnic areas are scattered throughout the cove.
USD10, 1 hour

2:00PM

Drive to Pigeon Forge

After lunch, head to Pigeon Forge for some fun attractions.
Exit Cades Cove and follow TN-73 E for a 30-minute drive.
N/A, 30 minutes

2:30PM

Explore The Island in Pigeon Forge

Stroll around The Island, filled with shops, restaurants, and attractions like the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel.
Located at 131 Island Dr, Pigeon Forge, TN.
N/A, 2 hours

4:30PM

Ride the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel

Take a thrilling ride on the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, offering amazing views of the Smokies.
Located at The Island.
USD15, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Dinner at The Old Mill Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious dinner at The Old Mill, famous for its Southern cuisine and charming atmosphere overlooking the river.
Located nearby at 164 Old Mill Ave, Pigeon Forge, TN.
USD25, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Evening stroll at Pigeon River

End your day with a serene walk along the Pigeon River, enjoying the beauty of the Smoky Mountains as the sun sets.
Access the riverwalk trail from The Old Mill.
N/A, 1 hour
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