4-Day Adventure Itinerary in Smoky Mountain National Park

Day 1: Explore Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Start your adventure with a delicious stack of pancakes at the iconic Pancake Pantry, known for its mouthwatering buttermilk pancakes and cozy atmosphere.
Located in downtown Gatlinburg.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park Visitor Center

Learn about the park's history, wildlife, and trails at the Visitor Center, the perfect introduction to your Smoky adventure.
Drive to the Visitor Center, which is only a 10-minute drive.
USD0, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Hiking the Gatlinburg Trail

Take a scenic 1.9-mile hike along the Gatlinburg Trail, enjoying views of the lush forest and the Little Pigeon River.
Trailhead is adjacent to the Visitor Center.
USD0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Smoky Mountain Brewery

Refuel with a hearty lunch at The Smoky Mountain Brewery, where you can try craft beers paired with delicious sandwiches.
Located in downtown Gatlinburg, just a short drive.
USD25, 1 hour

2:30PM

SkyLift Park

Take a scenic chairlift ride at SkyLift Park for breathtaking views of the mountains and the famous SkyBridge, North America's longest pedestrian suspension bridge.
Easily accessible by foot from lunch spot.
USD25, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Cherokee Grill

Savor a delicious dinner at Cherokee Grill, known for its smoky flavor grilled meats and cozy lodge ambiance.
A short walk from SkyLift Park.
USD40, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Discover Cades Cove

Cades Cove, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at your lodging

Enjoy a quick breakfast at your accommodation before hitting the road to Cades Cove.
N/A
USD15, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Cades Cove Loop Road

Drive the scenic Cades Cove Loop Road, where you might spot deer, wild turkeys, and picturesque mountain views.
Approximately a 30-minute drive from Gatlinburg.
USD0, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Cades Cove Picnic Area

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the tranquil Cades Cove Picnic Area surrounded by nature.
Stop at a local grocery store to grab your picnic items.
USD20, 1 hour

1:00PM

Hiking to Abrams Falls

Embark on a 5-mile round trip hike to Abrams Falls, a stunning waterfall perfect for photographs.
Trailhead located within Cades Cove area.
USD0, 3 hours

4:30PM

Explore Historic Buildings

Visit the preserved historic cabins and churches within Cades Cove to glimpse the life of early settlers.
All located within the Cades Cove Loop.
USD0, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at The Old Mill

Dine at The Old Mill where you can indulge in Southern comfort food in a charming rustic setting.
A short drive back to Pigeon Forge.
USD35, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Roaring Fork Adventures

Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Local Goat

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast including locally sourced meats and veggies at The Local Goat, a popular eatery in Gatlinburg.
Located in Gatlinburg, a quick drive away.
USD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

Take a leisurely drive through the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, stopping for sights, short hikes, and wonderful photo opportunities.
About a 15-minute drive from Gatlinburg.
USD0, 2 hours

11:00AM

Hike the Rainbow Falls Trail

Hike the 5.4-mile Rainbow Falls Trail, one of the park's most popular trails offering stunning views and vibrant flora.
Trailhead is accessible from the Roaring Fork loop.
USD0, 3.5 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at The Pear Tree Restaurant

Refuel at The Pear Tree with their famous fried chicken and gorgeous mountain views.
Return to Gatlinburg for lunch.
USD25, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Visit the Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community

Explore the local artisans' works, including handmade crafts, pottery, and paintings in this charming village.
Located northeast of downtown Gatlinburg, a short drive away.
USD0, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at the Cherokee Grill

Enjoy a second night at Cherokee Grill, relishing their steaks and fresh seafood while reflecting on the hefty hiking of the day.
A return visit from your dining at lunch.
USD40, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Newfound Gap Exploration

Newfound Gap, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at Calhoun's

Start your day with a filling breakfast at Calhoun's, well-known for its Southern-style breakfast options.
A short drive from Gatlinburg.
USD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Newfound Gap Overlook

Drive to Newfound Gap and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views while learning about the area's importance in Appalachian history.
Roughly a 40-minute drive from Gatlinburg.
USD0, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Hike the Crib Gap Trail

Experience the stunning scenery on the moderate 4-mile Crib Gap Trail, which connects to the Appalachian Trail.
Trailhead is at the Newfound Gap parking area.
USD0, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino

Enjoy a buffet lunch at Harrah’s, offering a variety of dishes to choose from after an invigorating morning hike.
The casino is a scenic 30-minute drive away.
USD30, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Clingmans Dome

Visit the highest point in the park, Clingmans Dome, where a short hike leads to a spectacular observation tower.
Another 30-minute drive back to the park.
USD0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at The Smoky Mountain Brewery

Finish your Smoky Mountain adventure with dinner at The Smoky Mountain Brewery, reminiscing about your unforgettable experiences over craft beers and pizzas.
Drive back to Gatlinburg.
USD40, 1.5 hours
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