Family Friendly Nature Adventure in the Great Smoky Mountains

Day 1: Nature Exploration Day

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Start your adventure with a delicious breakfast at Pancake Pantry, famous for its fluffy pancakes and family-friendly atmosphere.
Located in the heart of Gatlinburg, just a short 5-minute drive to Cades Cove.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Scenic Drive to Cades Cove

Enjoy the picturesque drive to Cades Cove, where you will marvel at stunning mountain views and lush greenery along the way.
Take the US-441 S from Gatlinburg to Cades Cove; it's about a 30-minute drive.
USD0, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Cades Cove Loop Road

Explore the 11-mile scenic loop, observing the wildlife, historic cabins, and beautiful landscapes that make this area a family favorite.
Drive the loop at a leisurely pace while making stops at the designated scenic pullouts.
USD0, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Cades Cove Picnic Area

Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature at the Cades Cove Picnic Area, perfect for families looking to relax.
Use the picnic area located conveniently along the Cades Cove Loop Road.
USD25, 1 hour

1:30PM

Hiking the Abrams Falls Trail

Take a family-friendly hike on the Abrams Falls Trail, an easy to moderate hike that leads to a stunning waterfall, perfect for kids and adults alike.
The trailhead is located just off the Cades Cove Loop Road.
USD0, 3 hours

4:30PM

Visit the Cades Cove Visitor Center

After your hike, stop by the Cades Cove Visitor Center to learn more about the natural and cultural history of the area.
Close to the loop's start and end, making it a convenient stop.
USD0, 1 hour

5:30PM

Return to Gatlinburg

Return to Gatlinburg after a full day of exploration, enjoying the scenic views once again.
Drive back along the same US-441 route.
USD0, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at The Peddler Steakhouse

Wrap up the day with a hearty dinner at The Peddler Steakhouse, known for its fresh steaks and warm family ambiance.
Located just a short drive from the main strip in Gatlinburg.
USD80, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Evening Stroll in Gatlinburg

End the day with a leisurely stroll in downtown Gatlinburg, exploring the shops and enjoying the charming mountain town atmosphere.
Walk the main strip, taking in the sights and sounds.
USD0, 1 hour
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