3-Day Adventure in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Day 1: Gatlinburg Exploration

Gatlinburg, Tennessee, USA on June 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Start your day with hearty Southern-style pancakes at this popular Gatlinburg spot to fuel up for your park adventures.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Visit Sugarlands Visitor Center

Get park maps, hiking info, and watch the informative park film to orient yourself in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Free, 1h

10:45am

Hiking Laurel Falls Trail

An easy 2.6-mile roundtrip hike to a beautiful 80-foot waterfall, perfect for all skill levels and scenic photo ops.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at The Pottery House Cafe and Grille

Enjoy locally sourced Southern cuisine in a charming setting, with specialties including trout and barbecue.
USD25, 1h

2:30pm

Explore Ober Gatlinburg

Enjoy an aerial tramway ride up to this mountain amusement park offering wildlife exhibits and panoramic views.
USD20, 2h

5:00pm

Relax at Gatlinburg downtown

Stroll shops and galleries before dinner, soaking in the mountain town atmosphere.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Cherokee Grill

Dine on upscale mountain cuisine featuring game meats and fresh trout in a rustic lodge setting.
USD40, 1.5h
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Day 2: Scenic Highlights

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee on June 19, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Log Cabin Pancake House

Classic breakfast fare served in a cozy, log cabin atmosphere to start your day right.
USD15, 1h

8:45am

Drive to Clingmans Dome

Take the scenic drive to the highest point in the park with a paved trail to an observation tower offering 360-degree views.
Free, 3h

12:00pm

Picnic Lunch at Clingmans Dome Picnic Area

Enjoy a packed lunch amidst beautiful forest scenery and mountain views.
USD12, 1h

1:15pm

Cades Cove Loop Drive

Drive or bike the 11-mile one-way loop through rich wildlife habitat and historic buildings.
Free, 3h

5:00pm

Return to Gatlinburg

Relax after a full day of nature and sightseeing.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Peddler Steakhouse

Enjoy prime steaks and Appalachian sides along the Little Pigeon River with a rustic mountain vibe.
USD50, 1.5h
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Day 3: Nature Trails & Cherokee

Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Cherokee, North Carolina on June 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Crockett's Breakfast Camp

Popular for their hearty mountain-style breakfast with cast iron skillets and fresh ingredients.
USD18, 1h

9:15am

Drive Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

Explore a scenic one-way loop with historic buildings, rushing streams, and hiking opportunities.
USD5 (parking), 3h

12:30pm

Lunch in Cherokee at Tsali Smoke Shop Grill

Enjoy authentic Cherokee cuisine and Southern specialties in the heart of the Cherokee community.
USD20, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Museum of the Cherokee Indian

Learn about the history, culture, and art of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians through interactive exhibits.
USD10, 2h

4:30pm

Return to Gatlinburg or surrounding area

Prepare for your onward journey or relax after immersive cultural experience.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Greenbrier Restaurant

Conclude with homestyle Southern cooking and classic desserts in a nostalgic mountain lodge setting.
USD35, 1.5h
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