bridge on the Gatlinburg trail
February 11, 2019

One of the benefits of staying at Gatlinburg Cabin Rentals is that you are just minutes from the Gatlinburg Trail, a pleasant 1.9 mile trail that travels between the Sugarlands Visitor Center and the outskirts of downtown Gatlinburg. Whether you are visiting the Smoky Mountains on a solo trip, as a couple or with your family, be sure to put this hike at the top of your “must do” list! Here are the top 4 reasons why you should take a hike along the Gatlinburg Trail:

1. Easy Trail for All Ages

The Gatlinburg Trail is a relatively flat trail that offers an easy hike for all ages! While some trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park might be too difficult for families with young children, this hiking trail is perfect for kids. The trail also offers a great introduction to hiking for novice hikers who may want to test their endurance for more advanced treks in the future. Once you reach the Sugarlands Visitor Center, you can talk to a park ranger about other hikes that may suit your skill level.

2. Pets are Allowed

dog on gatlinburg trail

If you are staying in one of the pet friendly cabins at Gatlinburg Cabin Rentals, you will be delighted to know that the Gatlinburg Trail allows dogs! In fact, this trail is one of just two walking paths within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park that permits pets. The Gatlinburg Trail is a great place for you and your dog to get some exercise while enjoying the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains. The only restrictions are that dogs must be kept on a leash at all times, and the leash cannot exceed 6 feet in length. It is also required that pet excrement be collected immediately and placed inside of a trash receptacle.

3. View Unique Historical Structures

One of the amazing things about the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is that it contains more than 90 historic structures that have been preserved or rehabilitated, including houses, barns, churches, schools and grist mills! Some of these structures can be found right along the Gatlinburg Trail, where you can see the foundations and chimneys of several old homesites. If you want to see even more historical structures, don’t miss the Cades Cove, Cataloochee, Oconaluftee and Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail sections of the park!

4. Explore Beautiful Scenery

Stunning photo of the Smoky Mountains.

The Gatlinburg Trail offers the ideal opportunity to explore some of the beautiful scenery within the national park! The trail runs through the forest along the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River, and even crosses the river at one point via a pedestrian footbridge. The scenery is spectacular throughout the year, including in the winter months when you can see deep into the forest. The spring months bring gorgeous wildflowers to the park, while the summer offers long days of sunshine to explore the trail. Of course, the autumn is also very popular as the leaves change with a vibrant display of colors!

Check out all of our cabins in Gatlinburg TN today to plan your vacation near the Gatlinburg Trail and all of the other wonderful hiking trails at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! We look forward to seeing you soon at Gatlinburg Cabin Rentals!