Discover the Gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains: Sugarlands Visitor Center
Explore the wonders of the Great Smoky Mountains at Sugarlands Visitor Center—your gateway to adventure and discovery.
Nestled at the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Sugarlands Visitor Center is a must-visit for any tourist. This center serves as the perfect starting point for exploring the park's natural beauty, offering engaging exhibits, helpful park rangers, and a variety of resources to enhance your adventure in the Smokies. Whether you're seeking trail maps, educational materials, or simply a place to rest and gather information, the Sugarlands Visitor Center is your essential resource.
A brief summary to Sugarlands Visitor Center
- 1420 Fighting Creek Gap Rd, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, 37738, US
- +1865-436-1291
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Check the schedule for ranger-led programs and educational talks during your visit.
- Don’t forget to grab a trail map from the visitor center before heading out.
- Take advantage of the interactive exhibits, particularly if you have kids with you.
- Visit the gift shop for unique local crafts and educational materials about the Smokies.
Getting There
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Walking
Start at the Gatlinburg Space Needle, located at 115 Historic Nature Trail. From there, head southeast on Historic Nature Trail toward the intersection with River Road. Turn right onto River Road and continue until you reach the intersection with Highway 441 (also known as the Great Smoky Mountains Parkway). Cross the street carefully at the marked crosswalk. After crossing, proceed onto the sidewalk along Highway 441. Continue walking for about 1.5 miles, and you will see Sugarlands Visitor Center on your left at 1420 Fighting Creek Gap Rd. The center is directly accessible from the sidewalk.
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Biking
If you prefer biking, rent a bike from one of the local rental shops in Gatlinburg. Start at the Gatlinburg Community Center, located at 156 Proffitt Road. From there, head south on Proffitt Road until it merges with the River Road. Follow River Road until you reach Highway 441. At the intersection, safely cross over to the sidewalk on the opposite side heading towards the Sugarlands Visitor Center. Continue biking along the sidewalk for about 1.5 miles until you see the center on your left at 1420 Fighting Creek Gap Rd.
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Public Transport
For public transportation, take the Gatlinburg Trolley. Board the Orange Route or Green Route trolley at any of the trolley stops around Gatlinburg. Make sure to ask the driver to drop you off at the Sugarlands Visitor Center stop. The trolley ride will take about 15-20 minutes. Once you arrive, you will find the visitor center right across the street from the trolley stop at 1420 Fighting Creek Gap Rd.
Discover more about Sugarlands Visitor Center
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