6-Day Adventure and Nature Itinerary in Smoky Mountains National Park

Day 1: Explore Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg, TN

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Kick off your Smoky Mountains adventure with a hearty breakfast at the iconic Pancake Pantry, known for their delicious buttermilk pancakes.
Located in the heart of Gatlinburg, just a short walk from the main strip.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Gatlinburg SkyLift

Ascend to breathtaking views of the Smokies while riding the Gatlinburg SkyLift, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America.
Short drive or a scenic walk to the SkyLift entrance.
USD25, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Wild Plum Tea Room

Enjoy a charming lunch featuring Southern comfort food with a twist nestled in a quaint setting.
Just a five-minute drive from the SkyLift.
USD20, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Explore the fascinating marine life exhibits and interactive experiences at this award-winning aquarium.
Located a short drive back into Gatlinburg.
USD35, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Stroll through the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community

Discover local artisans and their crafts while enjoying the scenic loop of shops just outside of Gatlinburg.
About a 10-minute drive from the aquarium.
Free, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at The Peddler Steakhouse

Savor your dinner at this intimate steakhouse with a picturesque river view, known for its quality meats and salad bar.
Located just a couple of minutes from the arts community.
USD40, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cades Cove Excursion

Cades Cove, TN

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Donut Friar

Grab some delicious homemade donuts from Donut Friar to fuel up for a day of adventure.
A short drive from your accommodation in Gatlinburg.
USD10, 30 minutes

8:00 AM

Cades Cove Loop Road

Drive the 11-mile loop road through Cades Cove, where you’ll enjoy stunning views and wildlife sightings, along with frequent stops at historical buildings.
Drive approximately 30 minutes to reach Cades Cove entrance.
USD0, 3 hours

11:30 AM

Lunch Picnic in Cades Cove

Pack a picnic lunch from a local deli, and enjoy it at one of the scenic picnic areas in Cades Cove.
You can often grab a picnic at the entrance or improvised local grocery.
USD15, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Hiking to Abrams Falls

Hike the 5-mile round trip trail to Abrams Falls to experience the beauty of one of the most photographed waterfalls in the park.
Start your hike from the Abrams Falls trailhead within Cades Cove.
Free, 3 hours

4:30 PM

Return to Cabin

Head back to your cabin or hotel in Gatlinburg to relax and refresh after the hike.
Retrace your route back to Gatlinburg.
Free, 30 minutes

6:00 PM

Dinner at Smoky Mountain Brewery

Wind down with a hearty dinner at Smoky Mountain Brewery while enjoying local craft beers.
Located conveniently in Gatlinburg.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Adventure to Clingmans Dome

Clingmans Dome, NC

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Crystelle Creek

Fuel your day with a delicious breakfast at Crystelle Creek, known for its fresh, homestyle meals.
Drive from Gatlinburg to the restaurant, about 15 minutes.
USD15, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Drive to Clingmans Dome

Embark on a scenic drive up to Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains.
This is a 30-minute drive along Newfound Gap Road.
Free, 30 minutes

9:00 AM

Clingmans Dome Observation Tower

Hike the steep half-mile trail to the observation tower for unparalleled panoramic views of the Smokies.
Follow the paved path from the parking lot.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:30 AM

Photography and Exploration

Spend time exploring and taking photographs at the summit, where the views are breathtaking.
Enjoy surrounding trails as well for more sights.
Free, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch at Laurel Falls Picnic Area

Have a relaxing lunch at the picnic area nearby, taking in the serene beauty around you.
Drive about 20 minutes back towards Laurel Falls.
USD15, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Hike Laurel Falls Trail

Take the easy, popular trail to Laurel Falls, an 80-foot waterfall offering great photo opportunities.
Follow the signposts from the picnic area.
Free, 2 hours

3:00 PM

Return to Gatlinburg

Drive back to Gatlinburg for some relaxation and leisure time after an adventurous day.
Return along the winding roads to Gatlinburg.
Free, 30 minutes

5:00 PM

Dinner at The Park Grill

Enjoy a delightful dinner at The Park Grill, renowned for its steak and rustic atmosphere.
Less than a 5-minute drive from the Gatlinburg strip.
USD35, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Roaring Fork Nature Drive

Gatlinburg, TN

7:30 AM

Breakfast at The Melting Pot

Enjoy a unique breakfast experience with a fondue twist at The Melting Pot, a short drive from your accommodation.
Quick 5-minute drive.
USD25, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

Drive through the beautiful Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, known for its scenic beauty and historical cabins.
Entry is just a drive out from Gatlinburg.
Free, 2 hours

11:00 AM

Stop at the Noah Ogle Place

Explore this historic cabin and learn about the life of early settlers, surrounded by lush nature.
The cabin is right off the Roaring Fork trail.
Free, 30 minutes

11:30 AM

Hike the Grotto Falls Trail

Embark on the 3-mile round trip hike leading to Grotto Falls, which you can walk behind for a unique perspective.
Start from the Grotto Falls trailhead.
Free, 2.5 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Hungry Bear BBQ

Refuel with a mouthwatering BBQ lunch at Hungry Bear, located conveniently near Gatlinburg.
Return to Gatlinburg, drive about 15 minutes.
USD20, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Explore the Sugarlands Visitor Center

Learn more about the park's history and ecosystems at the visitor center and grab great souvenirs.
A short drive from lunch, roughly 10 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Return to Gatlinburg

Relax at your accommodation before heading out for dinner.
Back to your lodging spot.
Free, 30 minutes

6:00 PM

Dinner at Flapjack's Pancake Cabin

Enjoy dinner featuring delicious savory pancakes and other hearty options in a cozy cabin setting.
Located within Gatlinburg.
USD20, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Hiking Adventure

Smoky Mountains, TN

7:00 AM

Breakfast at The Old Mill Restaurant

Start your day with a filling breakfast at The Old Mill, renowned for its traditional Southern dishes.
About a 20-minute drive from Gatlinburg.
USD20, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Hiking the Alum Cave Trail

Embark on the challenging 5-mile round trip hike to Alum Cave Bluffs, surrounded by stunning scenery and wilderness.
Park at Alum Cave parking area to access the trailhead.
Free, 3 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at a scenic picnic spot

Enjoy a packed lunch at a scenic spot along the hike or at the Alum Cave trailhead post-hike.
Pack your own lunch the day before.
USD15, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Continue Exploration

Explore the surroundings near the Alum Cave area or trek to Mount LeConte if you're feeling adventurous.
The trail to Mount LeConte branches off from Alum Cave.
Free, 3 hours

4:00 PM

Return to Gatlinburg

Head back to your lodging to unwind from the day.
Retrace your steps back down the Alum Cave Trail.
Free, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Dinner at Cherokee Grill

Savor dinner at Cherokee Grill, famous for its mountain lodge vibes and hearty dishes.
Located in Gatlinburg.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Relaxation in Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge, TN

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Cracker Barrel

Enjoy a traditional Southern breakfast at the Cracker Barrel to set the tone for your last day in the Smokies.
Located about a 20-minute drive from Gatlinburg.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Dollywood Theme Park

Spend the day enjoying thrilling rides and entertaining shows at the famous Dollywood theme park.
Drive about 20 minutes to reach Dollywood.
USD85, 6 hours

4:00 PM

Relax at The Island in Pigeon Forge

Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy shopping and attractions at The Island in Pigeon Forge, including fountains and games.
A quick drive from Dollywood, about 10 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Paula Deen's Family Kitchen

Conclude your Smoky Mountains adventure with a delicious family-style meal at Paula Deen's, reflecting true Southern hospitality.
Located within The Island.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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