1-Day Family Adventure Road Trip in the Great Smoky Mountains

Day 1: Adventure Day

Gatlinburg, TN

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Start your day at this iconic local favorite known for its delicious, fluffy pancakes, offering a variety of toppings that will delight both kids and adults.
Walk to the Pancake Pantry from your hotel or park nearby.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Cades Cove Loop Road

Embark on a scenic drive through Cades Cove, renowned for its stunning mountain views, historic cabins, and the chance to spot wildlife like deer and wild turkeys.
Drive from Gatlinburg to Cades Cove via US-441 N.
USD0, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Hiking the Cades Cove Nature Trail

Take a family-friendly hike along the 1.5-mile long Cades Cove Nature Trail, perfect for all ages and showcasing the area's natural beauty.
Park at Cades Cove Visitor Center trailhead.
USD0, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Cades Cove Picnic Area

Pack a delicious picnic from local deli or grab lunch at Cades Cove General Store and enjoy it amidst nature with beautiful views.
Find a picnic table in the beautiful surroundings.
USD30 (for picnic supplies), 1 hour

2:00 PM

Visit the Cades Cove Museums

Explore the rich history of Cades Cove through engaging exhibits in the visitor center and nearby historical structures.
Walk to the Museums from the picnic area.
USD0, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Scenic Drive to Clingmans Dome

Take a breathtaking scenic drive to Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the Smokies, with panoramic views that are perfect for family selfies.
Drive from Cades Cove to Clingmans Dome via Little River Road.
USD0, 30 minutes

3:30 PM

Clingmans Dome Observation Tower

Ascend the paved half-mile trail to the observation tower for stunning 360-degree views of the Smoky Mountains; a great reward for the family hike.
Park at the Clingmans Dome parking lot and follow the path.
USD0, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Drive back to Gatlinburg

Head back to Gatlinburg while enjoying the sunset views along the way, reminiscing about your day's adventures.
Drive back via Newfound Gap Road.
USD0, 30 minutes

6:00 PM

Dinner at Smoky Mountain Brewery

Relish a hearty dinner featuring locally brewed beer and delicious pizzas or burgers, a perfect end to an adventurous day.
Drive or walk from your accommodation in Gatlinburg to the brewery.
USD60, 1.5 hours

7:30 PM

Stroll the Gatlinburg Strip

Enjoy a leisurely evening walk along the vibrant Gatlinburg Strip, taking in the sights, sounds, and perhaps indulging in some ice cream for dessert.
Walk along the strip from the brewery.
USD10 (for ice cream), 1 hour
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