If you’re considering a visit to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, this guide will take a close look at Gatlinburg’s walkability.
The layout of Gatlinburg is relatively straightforward, with the main Parkway running through the heart of the town, flanked by River Road and Historic Nature Trail on either side. This forms a loop around the central area and makes navigation easy even for first-time visitors.
We’ll discuss pedestrian infrastructure, crime rates, most and least walkable areas, and public transportation options to help you get around without the car.
Pedestrian Infrastructure
In Gatlinburg, there’s a significant focus on making the town accessible for pedestrians. This includes a study funded by the city in 2021 to better manage traffic flow and pedestrians, especially with increasing tourist numbers.
Gatlinburg has a WalkScore of 61, meaning it is somewhat walkable. But downtown Gatlinburg is very walkable, with areas like the Parkway and River road filled with restaurants, shops, and attractions, and flanked by wide sidewalks.
This is also where you’ll find the aquarium, and if you stay in a downtown hotel you’ll barely need a car to get around.
Recommended: Fun Things to Do With a Toddler In Gatlinburg
One great option is the Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg, which is right in the middle of town and just steps away from the Anakeesta Theme Park. Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg is a Jimmy Buffet-inspired hotel complete with a water slide, sun loungers inside of a pool, a spa, biking trails, and much more. In other words, you could just about have a full vacation without leaving the resort.
Crime
Safety is another essential factor to consider when determining a town’s walkability. Gatlinburg unfortunately has a higher than average crime rate, according to multiple sources, including Best Places, Neighborhood Scout, and Area Vibes. The property crime rate is especially high in Gatlinburg.
Of course, most tourists are able to visit Gatlinburg, have a wonderful vacation, and go home without a problem. But it’s definitely something to consider.
You may also want to check out Neighborhood Scout’s Crime Map of the area.
The Most Walkable Areas in Gatlinburg
When it comes to the most walkable areas in Gatlinburg, the downtown area takes the crown. Here, you’ll find a cluster of attractions, shops, and restaurants that are all within easy walking distance of each other. The downtown area is also home to some of Gatlinburg’s most popular attractions.
The River Road area is another walkable part of Gatlinburg. As the name suggests, this scenic pathway runs along a river, giving some beautiful scenery. It’s also home to the popular Gatlinburg Trail, a 1.9-mile path that leads to the Sugarlands Visitor Center in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
This is the intersection of River Road and the Gatlinburg Trail, which takes you to the Sugarlands Visitor Center.
Recommended: Short Hikes in Gatlinburg
The Least Walkable Areas in Gatlinburg
While most of Gatlinburg is pretty walkable, there are some areas where getting around on foot is more challenging. The mountainous regions, in particular, can be difficult to navigate due to steep inclines and uneven terrain.
Areas such as Chalet Village and Ober Mountain, while offering stunning views and serene ambiance, are best explored by car or trolley due to their remote locations and hilly landscapes. Don’t get me wrong – these are top places to visit. It’s just you’ll need a car to get there.
Ober Mountain is a must-visit, but it’s definitely not accessible on foot!
Similarly, the outskirts of Gatlinburg, where many cabin rentals are located, are also not really walkable due to the lack of sidewalks and the long distances between properties.
Finally, the Arts and Crafts Community, located on an 8-mile loop road, is a haven for art lovers. Here, you can check out lots of local artisans. But Glades Road, where much of the loop is, doesn’t have sidewalks and is narrow, so it would not be a safe place to walk. You’ll want to enjoy a lot of this loop by car or trolley (more on that below).
Public Transportation
If you’re planning to explore areas of Gatlinburg that are less walkable, or you simply want to give your feet a rest, the town’s public transportation is an excellent option. Gatlinburg’s Trolley is free and covers most of the town’s key attractions.
Download their app (Apple and Google Play) if you plan on visiting.
Easy Short Hikes Near Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg is at the doorstep of a national park and has a lot of short hikes. These are all less than 5 miles long and have a beautiful location to see, such as a waterfall, a mountain view, or a historic site.
Gatlinburg Trail
Roundtrip distance: 1.9 miles
Estimated Time Commitment: 1-2 hours
Begin your adventure at the Sugarlands Visitor Center, the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. From here, embark on the Gatlinburg Trail, an easy 1.9-mile roundtrip hike that meanders along the west prong of the Little Pigeon River. It’s an easy trail that takes about 1 hour and 17 minutes on average. Many people hike, bike, and run here, so you’ll probably see others around.
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
Roundtrip distance: 5.5 miles
Estimated Time Commitment: 3-4 hours
For a slightly more challenging but still accessible hike, explore the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. This 5.5-mile loop takes you through dense forests, past historic buildings, and alongside the rushing Roaring Fork Creek. The elevation gain provides a moderate workout, rewarding hikers with stunning views and the opportunity to spot black bears.
Before going on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, stop by the Noah “Bud” Ogle self-guiding nature trail. There, you can take a walk through the surrounding forest and an original mountain farm. You’ll see cool things like the Ogle’s handmade wooden plumbing system and a streamside tubmill.
Towards the end of the trail, you’ll see the “Place of a Thousand Drips,” a bunch of small waterfalls woven together to make one beautiful waterfall.
Keep in mind that the trail is not pet-friendly.
Laurel Falls Trail
Roundtrip distance: 2.6 miles
Estimated Time Commitment: 2 hours
Laurel Falls Trail is one of the most popular short hikes near Gatlinburg, only 8 miles away. The Laurel Falls Trail is a medium-level hike in the Smoky Mountains, and it’s easy to get to. It’s the longest of the four paved trails in the national park.
Take Little River Road from the Sugarlands Visitor Center towards Cades Cove to get there. Drive 3.5 miles to the trailhead, which has parking on both sides of the road. This 2.6-mile roundtrip paved trail leads to the stunning 80-foot Laurel Falls, making it an ideal family outing.
The paved trail and observation deck make it especially accessible to seniors and people with limited mobility.
Grotto Falls Trail
Roundtrip distance: 2.6 miles
Estimated Time Commitment: 2-3 hours
Explore the Grotto Falls Trail if you’re looking for an easy-to-moderate trail with a beautiful waterfall. This Gatlinburg Trail is 2.6 miles round trip and is located 6 miles from Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
The best and easiest way to reach Grotto Falls Trail is by taking the Trillium Gap Trail, which you can access from the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. This 25-foot-tall waterfall is the only waterfall in the national park that you can hike to behind!
Wear sturdy shoes for walking on uneven paths. To get to the streams that lead to Grotto Falls, you’ll walk through a path filled with hemlock trees, wildflowers, and rocky terrain. This hike pairs well with the Baskins Falls hike, as both trails are along the Roaring Fork’s gorgeous drive.
Pets are not allowed.
Hike to Andrews Bald
Roundtrip distance: 1.8 miles
Estimated Time Commitment: 2-3 hours
The Andrews Bald Trail, located just 12 miles from Gatlinburg, is among the top short hikes in the area. Hike 1.8 miles down the Forney Ridge Trail to reach Andrews Bald. The Forney Ridge Trail, located close to the Clingmans Dome Parking area, is a starting point. Bring water, as the Clingmans Dome parking lot doesn’t have drinkable water.
You’ll hike through a shady, forested area until the trees open up to a spectacular view! You’ll arrive at Andrews Bald after a short hike. Andrews Bald was named after Andres Thompson, a livestock herder in the 1840s.
In the Appalachian mountains, there is a “bald area” on a mountain surrounded by forests. It is known for its unique plant life and stunning mountain views.
Going there is easier because it is mostly downhill, but the way back is challenging, mostly uphill. The path is rocky and can get muddy, so wear shoes with good traction.
You’ll hike through a forested area until the trees open up to reveal a breathtaking view! Along the trail, you’ll see Fraser firs, patches of raspberries and blackberries, and Innocence or Quaker Ladies, which are small, blue wildflowers. July is the best time to see them in full bloom.
Sugarland Valleys Nature Trail
Roundtrip distance: 0.5 miles
Estimated Time Commitment: 10 minutes
The Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail is an easy and short trail, just half a mile long. It’s special because it’s made for wheelchairs, and the path is paved, making it easy for everyone. You can locate this trail about half a mile past the Sugarlands Visitor Center on Newfound Gap Road.
You’ll see historic homes and a creek running along the trail as you walk. Many people enjoy running and walking on this trail, but you can also find quiet times during the day. Pick up a brochure for a guided tour that will provide insights into the Smokies’ history, flora, and fauna. The trail is open all year and looks beautiful anytime you visit.
Fighting Creek Nature Trail
Roundtrip distance: 1.2 miles
Estimated Time Commitment: less than an hour
Fighting Creek Nature Trail is a short and easy walk, only 10 minutes from downtown Gatlinburg. Start your search for it near Gatlinburg at the Sugarlands Visitors Center. To start the Fighting Creek Nature Trail, look for the “Nature Trail” sign between two buildings, take the paved path into the woods, and then take the unpaved trail on the left. It’s a quiet and easy loop, even though it’s close to town. You can pick up a guide at the beginning to learn about the area’s history and landscapes. As you walk, you’ll see some old cabins along the trail.
If you have more time, you can walk a bit further to see the beautiful Cataract Falls. Enjoy a quick and interesting nature stroll!
Elkmont Nature Trail
Roundtrip distance: 0.8 miles
Estimated Time Commitment: 1-2 hours
If you’re looking for a simple and short hike in the Great Smoky Mountains, explore the 0.8-mile loop Elkmont Nature Trail. It’s usually an easy walk, taking about 20 minutes on average to complete. This trail is perfect for families and those who want an easy walk. It’s less than a mile long and is a self-guided nature trail.
You can learn about the history of the Elkmont area while enjoying the beautiful surroundings. Keep an eye out for interesting features like the troll bridge along the way! You can combine this loop with other trails like Jake’s Creek Trail and Little River Trail to Avent Cabin, all in the same area. The trail is open year-round.
Clingmans Dome Trail
Roundtrip distance: 1 mile
Estimated Time Commitment: 1 hour
Clingmans Dome Trail is a short, paved path leading to the highest point on the Appalachian Trail, reaching 6,625 feet in elevation. The highlight of the trail is the iconic observation tower at the peak of Clingmans Dome. The tower offers panoramic views that extend up to 100 miles on clear days.
The trail is well-known for its outstanding views, making it one of the best short hikes near Gatlinburg. However, due to its popularity, the parking lot can get crowded. You must arrive early to secure a parking spot and enjoy the serene morning atmosphere.
The paved trail provides accessibility for various footwear, and the concrete structure at the summit ensures unobstructed views. While the hike is short, it is not necessarily easy due to its steep incline. You can pair this trail with a short hike to Andrews Bald, both starting from the same parking lot.
The Clingmans Dome Road is closed to traffic from December to March, so planning a visit during this time may be challenging.
Abrams Falls Trail
Roundtrip distance: 5 miles
Estimated Time Commitment: 3 hours
Abrams Falls Trail is a great hike that’s just over 5 miles round trip. It’s one of the best short hiking trails near Gatlinburg. The trail starts at the endpoint of the Cades Cove Loop highway and takes you down to Abrams Creek.
The trail ends at Abrams Falls, a stunning 20-foot waterfall that flows into a large pool. While the pool may look tempting, swimming is not safe here due to the strong currents created by the falls.
Enjoy the view of the falls from the marked trail, as the mist can make nearby rocks slippery and dangerous.
Alum Cave Trail
Roundtrip distance: 4.4 miles
Estimated Time Commitment: 3-4 hours
If you’re up for a bit more of a challenging hike, the Alum Cave Trail is a popular choice. This 4.4-mile roundtrip hike offers a diverse landscape, including unique geological formations like Arch Rock and the iconic Alum Cave Bluffs.
The trailhead is easily accessible from Newfound Gap Road. There are five trail options to reach Mount LeConte, but the most popular is the Alum Cave Trail because of its scenic highlights.
One fantastic thing on the trail is Arch Rock. It’s like a natural tunnel you walk through. The trail is decorated with pretty wildflowers as you go to Alum Cave. About two miles in, there’s a bald spot called “Inspiration Point” with great mountain views.
The main part of the hike is Alum Cave Bluffs. It’s a big cave in the mountain, 80 feet tall and 500 feet long. In winter, there might be icicles, so be careful. After enjoying all the beauty, you can go back down or keep going to the top of Mount LeConte.
The Bottom Line
Overall, Gatlinburg is a pretty walkable town. With its pedestrian-friendly infrastructure in the downtown area, where most of the attractions are, and a free trolley service to take you to other parts of town, you can easily spend a vacation in Gatlinburg without needing to get into the car too often.
If you stay in a hotel in a good location, you’ll easily be able to enjoy a vacation without much driving at all.
