3-Day Nature Escape: Explore the Wonders of the Great Smoky Mountains

Day 1: Gatlinburg to Pigeon Forge

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

7:30AM

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the iconic Pancake Pantry, where you can savor delicious buttermilk pancakes topped with fresh berries.
Walk down the street to reach Pancake Pantry, located in the heart of Gatlinburg.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Visitor Center

Visit the Betty Dunn Visitor Center to gather maps, park information, and plan your day's hikes and activities.
Drive 5 minutes to the Visitor Center, located within the national park.
USD0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Cades Cove Loop Road

Explore the scenic 11-mile Cades Cove Loop Road, where you can get a chance to see deer, black bears, and other wildlife along the way.
Drive approximately 30 minutes to Cades Cove to start the loop.
USD0, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Cades Cove Picnic Area

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the stunning views of Cades Cove, surrounded by mountains and lush greenery.
There are picnic tables near the visitor center; stop at local markets to grab supplies beforehand.
USD10, 1 hour

1:30PM

Hiking the Abrams Falls Trail

Embark on a moderately strenuous hike to Abrams Falls, where you'll be rewarded with the beautiful sight of the waterfall and a refreshing atmosphere.
Drive 10 minutes to the trailhead for the Abrams Falls Trail.
USD0, 2 hours

3:30PM

Drive to Pigeon Forge

Head over to Pigeon Forge, known for its lively attractions and easy access to more mountain scenery.
Drive approximately 30 minutes from Cades Cove to Pigeon Forge.
USD0, 30 minutes

4:00PM

Explore The Island in Pigeon Forge

Stroll around The Island, indulge in the shops, and take a ride on the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel for amazing views.
You can walk between attractions as everything is close together on The Island.
USD25, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Old Mill Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Southern meal at The Old Mill, with cornbread, fried catfish, and homemade desserts that will satisfy your cravings.
Just a short drive or a 10-minute walk from The Island.
USD30, 1 hour

7:30PM

Evening Stroll at the Riverwalk Park

Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll along the Pigeon Forge Riverwalk, admiring the serene views of the river.
Drive or walk to the park nearby, it's easily accessible.
USD0, 1 hour
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Day 2: Cherokee & Fontana Lake

Cherokee, North Carolina

8:00AM

Breakfast at Waffle House

Start your morning with a classic diner breakfast at Waffle House, known for its delicious waffles and hashbrowns.
Drive 20 minutes from Pigeon Forge to Cherokee for breakfast.
USD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Museum of the Cherokee Indian

Dive into the rich history and culture of the Cherokee people at this engaging museum filled with exhibits.
Located in Cherokee; you can conveniently walk to the museum.
USD12, 1 hour

10:00AM

Great Smoky Mountains National Park - Oconaluftee Visitor Center

Discover the beauty of nature with an array of trails and information provided at this visitor center.
It's just a 10-minute drive from the museum to the Oconaluftee Visitor Center.
USD0, 1 hour

11:00AM

Take a Scenic Drive to Fontana Lake

Enjoy a picturesque drive with winding roads and stunning views leading you to Fontana Lake.
Drive approximately 30 minutes to the lake.
USD0, 30 minutes

11:30AM

Explore Fontana Lake

Spend some time at Fontana Lake, where you can enjoy kayaking or simply relaxing by the water.
Parking is available by the lake area for easy access.
USD20 (kayak rental), 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Fontana Village Resort

Dine at the Fontana Village Resort where you can savor a lovely meal while enjoying scenic views of the lake.
The resort is right by the lake, with easy access after your kayaking adventure.
USD25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Hike the Forney Ridge Trail

Challenge yourself with the Forney Ridge Trail leading to a stunning viewpoint overlooking the lake.
Drive about 20 minutes to the trailhead.
USD0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Drive to Bryson City

Take a short drive to Bryson City for an afternoon of exploration.
Just a 20-minute drive to the charming town.
USD0, 20 minutes

5:00PM

Dinner at The Filling Station Deli

Savor a hearty meal at The Filling Station Deli, offering delicious sandwiches and local favorites.
Located in Bryson City, just off the main road.
USD15, 1 hour

6:30PM

Sunset from the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Finish your day with a scenic sunset ride on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, offering breathtaking views.
Board the train from Bryson City station.
USD40, 2 hours
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Day 3: Asheville & Pisgah National Forest

Asheville, North Carolina

8:00AM

Breakfast at Biscuit Head

Start your day at Biscuit Head, known for their oversized biscuits and a variety of toppings to customize your breakfast.
Drive 50 minutes from Bryson City to Asheville for breakfast.
USD12, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Biltmore Estate

Explore the grandeur of America’s largest home and its stunning gardens that offer magnificent views.
From Biscuit Head drive around 15 minutes to the Biltmore Estate.
USD60, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Corner Kitchen

Enjoy farm-to-table dining at The Corner Kitchen in Biltmore Village, featuring seasonal local ingredients.
It's just a 5-minute drive from the Biltmore Estate.
USD25, 1 hour

1:00PM

Blue Ridge Parkway

Take a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, famous for its breathtaking mountain views and picturesque stops.
A short 10-minute drive will take you to the Parkway entrance.
USD0, 2 hours

3:00PM

Hike at Craggy Gardens

Embark on a hike through Craggy Gardens, where you can enjoy wildflowers and beautiful panoramas.
Drive about 30 minutes from the parkway to get to the Craggy Gardens Trailhead.
USD0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Drive to Pisgah National Forest

Travel to Pisgah National Forest for an exploration of beautifully preserved wilderness.
About a 30-minute drive from Craggy Gardens.
USD0, 30 minutes

5:30PM

Explore Looking Glass Falls

Marvel at Looking Glass Falls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the area, right off the road.
Just a short drive within the forest will lead you to the falls.
USD0, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Blue Mountain Pizza

Wrap up your adventure with pizza at Blue Mountain Pizza, a local favorite known for its variety of toppings and laid-back vibe.
Drive approximately 30 minutes back to Asheville for dinner.
USD20, 1 hour

8:00PM

Evening in Downtown Asheville

Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of downtown Asheville, exploring local shops and possibly catching live music.
The downtown area is easily walkable from your dinner location.
USD0, 2 hours
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