Family Adventure Road Trip in the Great Smoky Mountains

Day 1: Nature Exploration Day

Gatlinburg, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Start your day with a hearty family breakfast at Pancake Pantry, renowned for its delicious pancakes and family-friendly atmosphere, ensuring everyone gets a good meal before the day of adventure ahead.
From Pancake Pantry, you can walk to the entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

After breakfast, head into the beautiful Great Smoky Mountains National Park where you can hike along family-friendly trails that showcase the stunning natural beauty of the area.
Drive 20 minutes to the park entrance.
USD0, 3 hours

12:30PM

Picnic Lunch

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst nature; there are plenty of scenic spots in the park where your family can relax and recharge before further adventures.
Find a picnic spot in Cades Cove - a picturesque area perfect for family lunch.
USD25, 1 hour

1:30PM

Cades Cove Loop Road

After lunch, drive the 11-mile Cades Cove Loop Road, a scenic drive that offers opportunities to see wildlife and beautiful mountain views, making it a highlight of the trip.
The Loop road begins directly from your picnic on Cades Cove.
USD0, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Hiking at Cades Cove

Choose an easy family-friendly hike such as the Cades Cove Nature Trail where kids can explore nature hands-on while you enjoy the serene surroundings.
Access the Nature Trail directly from the Loop Road; follow the signs for parking.
USD0, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Drive to Pigeon Forge

After an adventurous afternoon, make your way to Pigeon Forge, known for its family attractions and entertainment options.
Return to Gatlinburg first, then take the short 20-minute drive to Pigeon Forge.
USD0, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Dinner at The Old Mill Restaurant

Enjoy a comforting family dinner at The Old Mill Restaurant, famous for its delicious Southern cuisine and rustic charm, a perfect way to end an adventurous day.
The Old Mill is located near the main strip in Pigeon Forge and is easy to find.
USD80, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Stroll the Pigeon Forge Parkway

After dinner, take a family stroll along the Pigeon Forge Parkway, where you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, shops, and plenty of ice cream to share with the kids.
The Parkway is just a walk from The Old Mill.
USD20, 1 hour

7:30PM

Head Back to Gatlinburg

Wrap up your day with a scenic drive back to Gatlinburg, reflecting on all the fun and excitement of the day together as a family.
The drive back to Gatlinburg takes about 20 minutes.
USD0, 30 minutes
View Hotel Availability