Explore the Majestic Appalachian Trail
Discover the natural beauty and adventure of the Appalachian Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains, a must-visit hiking destination for every nature lover.
The Appalachian Trail is a stunning hiking area nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains, offering breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and an unforgettable outdoor experience for tourists seeking adventure in nature.
A brief summary to Appalachian trail
- National Park, Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg, NC, 37738, US
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Begin your hike early in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots and dress in layers to adapt to the changing weather conditions.
- Always carry plenty of water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized during your hike.
- Consider downloading a trail map or using a GPS device to help navigate the various trail options.
- Be mindful of wildlife; observe from a distance and never feed the animals.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, head towards Gatlinburg, TN. From the center of Gatlinburg, take US-441 North towards the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Look for signs directing you to Newfound Gap Road (US-441). Follow this road for about 10 miles until you reach the Appalachian Trail trailhead near Clingmans Dome. Parking is available, but be aware that there may be a fee for parking within the park, typically around $5 per vehicle.
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Public Transportation
If you prefer public transportation, you can take a shuttle service from Gatlinburg to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Check local services like the Gatlinburg Trolley, which can take you to various trailheads in the park including the one for the Appalachian Trail. Ensure you check the schedule in advance, as services may be limited, especially during off-peak seasons. The cost for a trolley ride is usually around $2 per ride.
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Hiking
Once you arrive at the Appalachian Trail trailhead near Clingmans Dome, prepare for a hike. The Appalachian Trail can be accessed directly from this point. The hike to the summit of Clingmans Dome is about 0.5 miles and is paved. It provides stunning views, but be sure to wear appropriate footwear and carry water.
Discover more about Appalachian trail
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Messer Cabin
8.8 km
Experience the allure of the 1800s at Messer Cabin, a historical treasure on Porters Creek Trail in Gatlinburg, surrounded by the stunning Great Smoky Mountains.
Roaring Fork Interpretive Marker 1 Overlook
9.0 km
Experience the serene beauty and cultural history at Roaring Fork Interpretive Marker 1 Overlook in the Great Smoky Mountains.
Sugarlands Rock House
9.7 km
Experience the historical allure and natural beauty of Sugarlands Rock House in the Great Smoky Mountains – a must-visit landmark for every traveler.
Homer / Jim Bales Barn
10.1 km
Explore the historic Jim Bales Barn on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, a charming glimpse into the agricultural past of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Alf Reagan House
11.1 km
Discover the rich history and scenic beauty of the Alf Reagan House on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
Smokemont Baptist Church
12.0 km
Explore the historic Smokemont Baptist Church in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, a serene blend of nature and heritage.
The Place of a Thousand Drips
12.4 km
Discover the mesmerizing beauty of The Place of a Thousand Drips, a stunning waterfall in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
13.1 km
Explore Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, where history meets stunning natural beauty in the heart of the Smoky Mountains.
Sugarlands Visitor Center
13.3 km
Explore the wonders of the Great Smoky Mountains at Sugarlands Visitor Center—your gateway to adventure and discovery.
Astra Lumina
13.4 km
Experience Astra Lumina in Gatlinburg, a magical journey through light and sound that captivates all ages in a stunning outdoor setting.
Treetop Skywalk at Anakeesta
13.4 km
Discover the breathtaking Treetop Skywalk at Anakeesta, where adventure meets nature in the heart of Gatlinburg's stunning Smoky Mountains.
Smokies Life
13.5 km
Explore the Great Smoky Mountains with expert guidance at the Smokies Life Visitor Center in Gatlinburg, your essential starting point for adventure.
Ghost and Haunt Tour of Gatlinburg
13.7 km
Discover the chilling tales and ghostly legends of Gatlinburg on a thrilling guided tour through the town's haunted history.
Cataract Falls
13.7 km
Explore the captivating beauty of Cataract Falls in the Great Smoky Mountains, a serene escape offering breathtaking views and tranquil hikes.
Salt & Pepper Shaker Museum
13.8 km
Explore the whimsical world of the Salt & Pepper Shaker Museum in Gatlinburg, where over 20,000 unique shakers bring joy and nostalgia for all ages.
Unmissable attractions to see
Newfound Gap
0.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Newfound Gap, a stunning mountain pass in the Great Smoky Mountains, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Appalachian Trail to Indian Gap
0.4 km
Discover the stunning Appalachian Trail to Indian Gap in Gatlinburg, TN, where breathtaking views and unforgettable hiking experiences await.
Ben Morton Overlook
0.7 km
Experience the stunning beauty of the Smoky Mountains at Ben Morton Overlook, a top scenic spot in Gatlinburg, TN, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Charles A Webb Overlook
2.9 km
Experience stunning panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains at the Charles A Webb Overlook, a must-visit scenic spot in Bryson City, North Carolina.
Inspiration Point
3.4 km
Discover the breathtaking views at Inspiration Point along the Alum Cave Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains, a must-visit for every nature lover.
Arch Rock
3.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Arch Rock in the Great Smoky Mountains, a must-see natural wonder for all nature lovers.
Alum Cave Trail
4.0 km
Discover the scenic beauty and adventure of Alum Cave Trail in Tennessee's Great Smoky Mountains, a must-visit for nature lovers and hikers.
Mt Le Conte
5.0 km
Experience breathtaking views and serene hikes at Mount Le Conte, a stunning peak in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, Tennessee.
Chimney Tops Trail
5.5 km
Explore the captivating Chimney Tops Trail in Great Smoky Mountains, where challenging hikes meet breathtaking views and vibrant wildlife.
Chimney Tops
5.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and thrilling trails of Chimney Tops in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a top destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Charlies Bunion
5.5 km
Explore Charlies Bunion in the Great Smoky Mountains, where breathtaking views and serene trails await outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Gap Overlook
6.4 km
Explore Gap Overlook, a stunning vista point in Bryson City, NC, offering breathtaking views of the Great Smoky Mountains and tranquil nature experiences.
Chimneys Picnic Area
6.8 km
Experience the tranquility of Chimneys Picnic Area in Gatlinburg, TN – a beautiful park perfect for picnics and nature exploration.
Rainbow Falls
6.9 km
Explore the stunning Rainbow Falls in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a breathtaking natural wonder perfect for hikers and nature lovers.
Chimney Tops Overlook
7.1 km
Experience the breathtaking views of Chimney Tops Overlook, a scenic gem in the Great Smoky Mountains, ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
Essential places to dine
Cliff Top Restaurant at Anakeesta
13.3 km
Experience unforgettable dining at Cliff Top Restaurant with stunning mountain views and delicious American cuisine in Gatlinburg.
Crystelle Creek Restaurant
13.4 km
Experience culinary excellence at Crystelle Creek Restaurant in Gatlinburg - where delicious steak meets breathtaking mountain views.
E'terie
13.5 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at E'terie in Gatlinburg - where every meal is a celebration of local flavors and hospitality.
Gatlinburg
13.7 km
Discover Gatlinburg: A charming mountain town famous for gourmet hamburgers and breathtaking views in the heart of Tennessee.
Three Jimmy's Good Time Eatery
13.7 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at Three Jimmy's Good Time Eatery in Gatlinburg – where every meal is an unforgettable experience.
Mama's Chicken Kitchen
13.8 km
Discover Southern comfort at Mama's Chicken Kitchen in Gatlinburg—where every bite of fried chicken feels like home.
Hungry Bear BBQ
13.8 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Hungry Bear BBQ in Gatlinburg - where smoky flavors meet warm hospitality.
The Greenbrier Restaurant
13.9 km
Experience fine dining at The Greenbrier Restaurant in Gatlinburg - where exceptional steaks and an extensive wine selection await you.
Delauder's BBQ
13.9 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Delauder's BBQ in Gatlinburg – where flavor meets tradition!
Smoky Mountain Brewery in Gatlinburg
14.0 km
Discover handcrafted beers and delicious American cuisine at Smoky Mountain Brewery in Gatlinburg - a perfect blend for craft beer lovers.
Pizzeria of Gatlinburg
14.0 km
Discover the Pizzeria of Gatlinburg - where every pizza is crafted with love amidst the stunning backdrop of Tennessee's Smoky Mountains.
The Park Grill
14.0 km
Discover The Park Grill in Gatlinburg – where American flavors meet Southern hospitality amidst stunning mountain views.
LandShark Bar & Grill
14.0 km
Experience vibrant American cuisine at LandShark Bar & Grill in Gatlinburg—where delicious flavors meet stunning mountain views.
Subway
14.1 km
Enjoy fresh sandwiches and salads at Subway in Gatlinburg – perfect for tourists seeking quick and healthy dining options.
Best Italian Cafe & Pizzeria in Elks Plaza
14.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Best Italian Cafe & Pizzeria in Gatlinburg—where every meal feels like a trip to Italy.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Rocky Flats Pottery & Soap
13.6 km
Discover the charm of handcrafted pottery and artisanal soaps at Rocky Flats Pottery & Soap in Gatlinburg, the perfect stop for unique souvenirs.
Simply Savory Gifts & Gourmet
13.9 km
Discover a gourmet paradise at Simply Savory Gifts & Gourmet in Gatlinburg, where local flavors meet unique gifts for every palate.
The Smoky Mountain Mercantile
13.9 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at The Smoky Mountain Mercantile, your one-stop shop for souvenirs in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
The Sock Shop
14.0 km
Discover a whimsical collection of unique socks at The Sock Shop in Gatlinburg, perfect for gifts or a cozy treat for yourself!
U Name It Gatlinburg
14.0 km
Explore U Name It Gatlinburg for unique gifts and local crafts, capturing the spirit of the Smoky Mountains in every treasure.
The Village Shops
14.1 km
Discover a charming shopping paradise at The Village Shops in Gatlinburg, where unique boutiques and local flavors come together amidst stunning mountain scenery.
Misty Mountain Soap Company
14.1 km
Explore the enchanting Misty Mountain Soap Company in Gatlinburg, where handcrafted soaps and local gifts await your discovery.
Life According To Jake
14.1 km
Explore Gatlinburg's charming gift shop, offering unique souvenirs, local crafts, and delightful treasures for every visitor.
Buckboard Too
14.1 km
Discover unique collectibles and vintage treasures at Buckboard Too in Gatlinburg, TN, where every item tells a story.
The Honey Pot
14.1 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at The Honey Pot, Gatlinburg's charming gift shop filled with treasures from the heart of the Smoky Mountains.
Ranger Bob's Trading Post
14.1 km
Explore the charm of Gatlinburg at Ranger Bob's Trading Post, your go-to gift shop for unique souvenirs and local crafts.
Crusin The Past
14.1 km
Explore the unique treasures of Crusin The Past in Gatlinburg, where local crafts and nostalgic gifts come together in a charming shopping experience.
Mountain Mall
14.1 km
Explore the vibrant Mountain Mall in Gatlinburg, where shopping meets local culture and delicious dining experiences await.
Gatlinburg Elegance
14.1 km
Discover unique treasures that capture the charm of Gatlinburg at Gatlinburg Elegance, a boutique filled with local art and stylish finds.
The Trump Store Gatlinburg
14.1 km
Explore The Trump Store Gatlinburg for unique gifts and American memorabilia in the heart of Tennessee's stunning Smoky Mountains.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bar At The Top Of The World
14.0 km
Discover breathtaking views and a lively atmosphere at The Bar At The Top Of The World in Gatlinburg, a perfect retreat for tourists.
Sugarland s
14.0 km
Discover the lively spirit of Gatlinburg at Sugarlands, where great drinks and live music create unforgettable memories in the Smoky Mountains.
Tower Bar at Anakeesta
14.0 km
Discover Tower Bar at Anakeesta - a charming bar in Gatlinburg offering breathtaking views, exquisite drinks, and the essence of Southern hospitality.
Daiquiri Shack & Grill Margaritaville
14.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine and refreshing cocktails at Daiquiri Shack & Grill Margaritaville in Gatlinburg.
Boudicca's Celtic Pub
14.1 km
Discover the heart of Celtic culture at Boudicca's Celtic Pub, where traditional dishes and live music create an unforgettable experience in Gatlinburg.
Gatlinburg Brewing Company
14.1 km
Discover the heart of craft brewing at Gatlinburg Brewing Company, where unique flavors and a cozy atmosphere await every beer lover.
Old smokey barrelhouse
14.1 km
Discover the heart of Gatlinburg at Old Smokey Barrelhouse, where local spirits and Southern hospitality come together in a vibrant atmosphere.
License to Chill Bar
14.1 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and relaxed ambiance of License to Chill Bar in Gatlinburg, where every meal feels like a mini-vacation.
Shamrock Pub
14.2 km
Enjoy a vibrant dining experience at Shamrock Pub in Gatlinburg, where great food, drinks, and friendly vibes await.
Dude's Daiquiris
14.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and refreshing flavors at Dude's Daiquiris, Gatlinburg's ultimate bar destination for tourists.
SHINE SHACK
14.2 km
Experience vibrant nightlife at SHINE SHACK in Gatlinburg, where local brews and creative cocktails create memorable moments.
Salty Bear
14.3 km
Discover a taste of Gatlinburg at Salty Bear, where delicious grilled dishes meet a cozy atmosphere in the heart of the Smokies.
The Rampant Lion
15.3 km
Experience a slice of Britain in Gatlinburg at The Rampant Lion, where traditional cuisine meets a cozy pub atmosphere.
Native Brews Tap & Grill
16.1 km
Experience the best of Cherokee dining at Native Brews Tap & Grill, where local flavors and a relaxed atmosphere come together.
Unplugged Pub
20.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Unplugged Pub in Bryson City, where craft beers and live music create unforgettable experiences.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Snuggled Inn
17.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Snuggled Inn, Sevierville's premier night club for unforgettable evenings of music, dancing, and fun.
Deer vista
17.2 km
Experience the best of Gatlinburg nightlife at Deer Vista, a charming cabaret club that promises captivating performances and a vibrant atmosphere.
Hogg Shed
25.8 km
Discover the lively Hogg Shed bar in Pigeon Forge, where vibrant nightlife, great drinks, and live music create an unforgettable experience.
Iron Boar Saloon
25.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere, delicious Mexican cuisine, and thrilling sports at Iron Boar Saloon in Pigeon Forge.
Hard Rock Cafe
27.6 km
Dive into a rock 'n' roll experience at Hard Rock Cafe in Pigeon Forge, where American cuisine meets iconic music memorabilia in an unforgettable atmosphere.
Deere Trax Inn
28.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Sevierville at Deere Trax Inn, where great music, dancing, and unforgettable moments await you.
Mountain House Jubilee
31.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Mountain House Jubilee, the premier night club in Maggie Valley, NC, known for its lively music and dance atmosphere.
El Pulpo Loco
58.8 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife of Knoxville at El Pulpo Loco, a vibrant night club with craft cocktails and lively dance floors.
Eros Knoxville
59.3 km
Experience Knoxville's electrifying nightlife at Eros Knoxville, where music, dance, and unforgettable memories await.
Five Thirty Lounge
59.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Five Thirty Lounge in Downtown Knoxville, offering delicious cuisine and expertly crafted cocktails in a stylish setting.
Knox Box Karaoke
59.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Knoxville at Knox Box Karaoke, where singing meets fun in a lively atmosphere.
Radius Rooftop Lounge
59.6 km
Discover Knoxville from above at Radius Rooftop Lounge, where creativity meets breathtaking views and vibrant nightlife.
Fat Tuesday Knoxville
59.7 km
Experience the spirit of New Orleans at Fat Tuesday Knoxville, famous for its frozen cocktails and vibrant nightlife in the heart of Market Square.
Peter Kern Library
59.8 km
Discover the elegance of Peter Kern Library, Knoxville's premier bar offering unique cocktails and a cozy, upscale atmosphere.
Preservation Pub
59.8 km
Discover the lively atmosphere at Preservation Pub, where delicious pizzas, craft beers, and live music come together in Knoxville's Market Square.