Explore the Untamed Beauty of Big Creek Trailhead
Discover the scenic trails and natural beauty at Big Creek Trailhead in the Great Smoky Mountains, a perfect escape for adventure seekers and families.
Big Creek Trailhead is a stunning gateway to the natural wonders of the Great Smoky Mountains, offering scenic hiking trails, lush landscapes, and a chance to connect with nature. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families, this location is a must-visit for tourists seeking adventure and tranquility in Tennessee's breathtaking wilderness.
A brief summary to Big Creek Trailhead
- Newport, Tennessee, 37821, US
- +1423-486-6323
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure parking, as spaces can fill up quickly on weekends.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you plan on hiking longer trails.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes for the best experience on varied terrain.
- Keep an eye out for wildlife, but remember to observe from a distance.
- Consider visiting during the fall for stunning autumn foliage.
Getting There
-
Car
If you are traveling by car, start by heading towards Newport, TN. Big Creek Trailhead is located just outside of Newport. From US-25E N, take the exit towards TN-32 S. Follow TN-32 S for approximately 12 miles until you reach the entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Once inside the park, follow the signs for Big Creek Trailhead. The trailhead is located off Big Creek Road, which is accessible from the main park road. There is no admission fee for this area.
-
Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, take a Greyhound or any regional bus service to Newport, TN. Once you arrive in Newport, you will need to take a local taxi service or rideshare (such as Uber or Lyft) to reach Big Creek Trailhead, as public transport does not directly service the trailhead. The taxi ride will take about 30 minutes and may cost around $30-$50 depending on the time of day and traffic.
-
Bicycle
For those adventurous enough to cycle, you can ride from Newport to Big Creek Trailhead. From Newport, head south on TN-32 S, which is approximately 12 miles. Be prepared for some steep inclines, and make sure to wear a helmet and follow traffic rules. It is advisable to check the weather and road conditions before your ride.
Discover more about Big Creek Trailhead
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Big Creek Trailhead
0.0 km
Discover the scenic trails and natural beauty at Big Creek Trailhead in the Great Smoky Mountains, a perfect escape for adventure seekers and families.
Jarvis Palmer House
12.6 km
Experience the rich history and stunning architecture of the Jarvis Palmer House, a must-see destination in the heart of North Carolina's Smoky Mountains.
Old Black
13.7 km
Discover the breathtaking views and vibrant biodiversity of Old Black Mountain Peak, a hidden gem in Tennessee's Great Smoky Mountains.
Beech Grove School
13.9 km
Explore Beech Grove School, a stunning historical site in Waynesville, NC, where the echoes of the past meet breathtaking natural beauty.
Gilleland-O'Dell House
26.0 km
Explore the Gilleland-O'Dell House, a historical landmark in Newport, Tennessee, rich with architectural beauty and stories from the past.
Messer Cabin
27.1 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.
Pisgah National Forest, Rocky Bluff recreation area
27.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Pisgah National Forest at the Rocky Bluff Recreation Area – a perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Bunches Bald Overlook
27.3 km
Explore the stunning Bunches Bald Overlook along the Blue Ridge Parkway for breathtaking views and unforgettable nature experiences.
Lickstone Overlook
27.9 km
Discover breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage at Lickstone Overlook, a scenic gem along the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina.
Blowing Cave Mill
28.7 km
Explore the enchanting Blowing Cave Mill in Sevierville, TN, a historic site that offers a glimpse into traditional milling and stunning natural landscapes.
Great Smoky Mountains
29.7 km
Explore the stunning Great Smoky Mountains, a natural wonder filled with diverse wildlife, breathtaking views, and endless outdoor adventures.
Ballhoot Scar Overlook
30.5 km
Discover the stunning panoramic views at Ballhoot Scar Overlook, a breathtaking spot along North Carolina's Blue Ridge Parkway, perfect for nature lovers.
Woolyback Overlook
31.7 km
Discover the breathtaking views at Woolyback Overlook, the scenic gem of the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Mountain Farm Museum
31.9 km
Explore the Mountain Farm Museum in Cherokee, NC, where history and nature converge in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Oconaluftee Visitor Center
31.9 km
Discover the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Great Smoky Mountains at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center in Cherokee, NC.
Unmissable attractions to see
Raft Outdoor Adventures
7.2 km
Experience the thrill of white-water rafting surrounded by the scenic beauty of Hartford, Tennessee, at Raft Outdoor Adventures.
Smoky Mountain Outdoors (SMO) Rafting
8.5 km
Explore the exhilarating waters of the Smoky Mountains with Smoky Mountain Outdoors Rafting, where adventure and natural beauty collide.
Cataloochee Valley
12.6 km
Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Cataloochee Valley, a hidden gem in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
Cataloochee Valley - Elk Watching
13.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cataloochee Valley, a premier destination for elk watching in the picturesque Great Smoky Mountains.
Max Patch
14.7 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Max Patch, a majestic mountain peak in North Carolina, offering stunning views and serene hiking trails.
Bigfoot Statue
15.4 km
Discover the charm of Waynesville's Bigfoot Statue, a captivating tourist attraction steeped in local legend and surrounded by breathtaking mountain views.
Ramsey Cascades
17.8 km
Discover the breathtaking Ramsey Cascades, the tallest waterfall in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a must-see for every nature lover.
A Walk in the Woods
19.3 km
Discover the Great Smoky Mountains with A Walk in the Woods – your gateway to unforgettable hiking adventures and breathtaking natural beauty in Gatlinburg.
CLIMB Works Smoky Mountains - Zipline Tour
19.6 km
Embark on a breathtaking zipline adventure in the Smoky Mountains, soaring above treetops with stunning views at CLIMB Works.
Tube World
25.8 km
Tube World in Maggie Valley offers thrilling snow tubing adventures for the whole family amidst stunning mountain scenery.
Charlies Bunion
26.7 km
Explore Charlies Bunion in the Great Smoky Mountains, where breathtaking views and serene trails await outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Foxfire Adventure Park
26.8 km
Discover the ultimate adventure at Foxfire Adventure Park, where thrilling rides and breathtaking nature trails await in Sevierville, Tennessee.
Porters Creek Trail
27.2 km
Explore the enchanting Porters Creek Trail in Tennessee, where lush landscapes and rich wildlife await your discovery in the heart of nature.
Forbidden Caverns
27.3 km
Explore the awe-inspiring Forbidden Caverns in Tennessee, a natural wonder showcasing stunning geological formations and rich local history.
Emert's Cove Covered Bridge
27.6 km
Experience the historical beauty of Emert's Cove Covered Bridge, a picturesque destination nestled in the Smoky Mountains of Sevierville, Tennessee.
Essential places to dine
Wild Plum Tea Room
29.4 km
Discover the charm of Wild Plum Tea Room in Gatlinburg - where delightful American cuisine meets vegan-friendly options amidst scenic beauty.
Smoky Mountain Diner
29.6 km
Discover comfort food at its best in Hot Springs at Smoky Mountain Diner—where hearty breakfasts meet warm Southern hospitality.
Delauder's BBQ
30.0 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Delauder's BBQ in Gatlinburg – where flavor meets tradition!
Split Rail Eats
30.7 km
Experience delectable American cuisine at Split Rail Eats in Gatlinburg - where flavor meets hospitality amidst breathtaking mountain views.
Red Oak Bistro
31.4 km
Discover Red Oak Bistro in Gatlinburg - where exquisite flavors meet a cozy ambiance in the heart of Tennessee's mountain paradise.
Crystelle Creek Restaurant
31.4 km
Experience culinary excellence at Crystelle Creek Restaurant in Gatlinburg - where delicious steak meets breathtaking mountain views.
Timbers Log Cabin Restaurant
31.7 km
Experience Southern comfort food at its finest at Timbers Log Cabin Restaurant in Gatlinburg - where every meal feels like home.
Three Jimmy's Good Time Eatery
32.7 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at Three Jimmy's Good Time Eatery in Gatlinburg – where every meal is an unforgettable experience.
Gatlinburg
32.8 km
Discover Gatlinburg: A charming mountain town famous for gourmet hamburgers and breathtaking views in the heart of Tennessee.
Mama's Chicken Kitchen
33.3 km
Discover Southern comfort at Mama's Chicken Kitchen in Gatlinburg—where every bite of fried chicken feels like home.
The Greenbrier Restaurant
33.9 km
Experience fine dining at The Greenbrier Restaurant in Gatlinburg - where exceptional steaks and an extensive wine selection await you.
LeConte Tapas & Grill
35.1 km
Experience unique global flavors at LeConte Tapas & Grill in Gatlinburg – where every dish tells a delicious story amidst breathtaking mountain views.
Alamo Steakhouse
35.2 km
Discover the ultimate steak experience at Alamo Steakhouse in Gatlinburg – where quality meets comfort in every bite.
Granny's Kitchen
35.4 km
Discover delicious comfort food at Granny's Kitchen in Cherokee – a must-visit buffet restaurant offering hearty American dishes for all appetites.
Hungry Bear BBQ
35.6 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Hungry Bear BBQ in Gatlinburg - where smoky flavors meet warm hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cabbage Rose
26.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Cabbage Rose, a charming gift shop in Maggie Valley, perfect for all your souvenir needs.
Jelly Belly's Mountain Gift
26.3 km
Experience the sweetest adventure at Jelly Belly's Mountain Gift, where delightful candies and creamy ice cream await in Maggie Valley, North Carolina.
Tanglewood Village and Shops
26.6 km
Discover Tanglewood Village and Shops in Maggie Valley, NC, where antiques meet artistry in a charming setting filled with history.
Smokies Edge
29.4 km
Explore Smokies Edge for unique gifts and local crafts that celebrate the spirit of Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains.
The Shack @Glades
31.6 km
Discover unique gifts, handcrafted Amish furniture, and charming antiques at The Shack @Glades in Gatlinburg, a must-visit treasure for tourists.
Perfect Essentials
31.7 km
Explore Perfect Essentials in Gatlinburg, TN, for unique handmade gifts, local art, and charming home goods that capture the essence of local craftsmanship.
Kountry Antics
31.7 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and local treasures at Kountry Antics, a charming gift shop in Gatlinburg, TN.
Simply Savory Gifts & Gourmet
32.3 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
32.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at The Smoky Mountain Mercantile, your one-stop shop for souvenirs in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
Apple Annie's Sip N Shop
32.3 km
Explore unique gifts and handcrafted items at Apple Annie's Sip N Shop, a charming destination in Gatlinburg, TN, perfect for tourists seeking local treasures.
Rocky Flats Pottery & Soap
32.8 km
Discover the charm of handcrafted pottery and artisanal soaps at Rocky Flats Pottery & Soap in Gatlinburg, the perfect stop for unique souvenirs.
Saunooke's Mill & Shop
33.2 km
Explore Saunooke's Mill & Shop in Cherokee, NC – a treasure trove of local crafts and gifts celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Smoky Mountains.
Great Smokies Gifts
33.2 km
Explore the charm of Great Smokies Gifts, offering unique local crafts and souvenirs in Cherokee, NC - a must-visit for every traveler.
Twisted Sister
34.7 km
Explore Twisted Sister, the enchanting gift shop in Cherokee, NC, where local crafts and unique souvenirs await every visitor.
The What's Hot Shop
36.0 km
Discover the essence of Cherokee at The What's Hot Shop, where unique gifts and local crafts await every traveler seeking a piece of the Smoky Mountains.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Legends Sports Bar And Grill
26.1 km
Discover the ultimate sports bar experience at Legends Sports Bar And Grill in Maggie Valley, where great food meets exciting games in a lively atmosphere.
The Rampant Lion
31.3 km
Experience a slice of Britain in Gatlinburg at The Rampant Lion, where traditional cuisine meets a cozy pub atmosphere.
Native Brews Tap & Grill
33.1 km
Experience the best of Cherokee dining at Native Brews Tap & Grill, where local flavors and a relaxed atmosphere come together.
Gatlinburg Brewing Company
36.4 km
Discover the heart of craft brewing at Gatlinburg Brewing Company, where unique flavors and a cozy atmosphere await every beer lover.
Tower Bar at Anakeesta
36.4 km
Discover Tower Bar at Anakeesta - a charming bar in Gatlinburg offering breathtaking views, exquisite drinks, and the essence of Southern hospitality.
Sugarland s
36.4 km
Discover the lively spirit of Gatlinburg at Sugarlands, where great drinks and live music create unforgettable memories in the Smoky Mountains.
SHINE SHACK
36.4 km
Experience vibrant nightlife at SHINE SHACK in Gatlinburg, where local brews and creative cocktails create memorable moments.
License to Chill Bar
36.5 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and relaxed ambiance of License to Chill Bar in Gatlinburg, where every meal feels like a mini-vacation.
Daiquiri Shack & Grill Margaritaville
36.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine and refreshing cocktails at Daiquiri Shack & Grill Margaritaville in Gatlinburg.
The Bar At The Top Of The World
36.5 km
Discover breathtaking views and a lively atmosphere at The Bar At The Top Of The World in Gatlinburg, a perfect retreat for tourists.
Boudicca's Celtic Pub
36.8 km
Discover the heart of Celtic culture at Boudicca's Celtic Pub, where traditional dishes and live music create an unforgettable experience in Gatlinburg.
Old smokey barrelhouse
36.8 km
Discover the heart of Gatlinburg at Old Smokey Barrelhouse, where local spirits and Southern hospitality come together in a vibrant atmosphere.
Shamrock Pub
37.1 km
Enjoy a vibrant dining experience at Shamrock Pub in Gatlinburg, where great food, drinks, and friendly vibes await.
Dude's Daiquiris
37.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and refreshing flavors at Dude's Daiquiris, Gatlinburg's ultimate bar destination for tourists.
Salty Bear
37.5 km
Discover a taste of Gatlinburg at Salty Bear, where delicious grilled dishes meet a cozy atmosphere in the heart of the Smokies.