Gatlinburg, Tennessee is in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park (GSMNP). There are so many attractions and activities in the area; you can be entertained for weeks! You don’t necessarily have to pay for that entertainment. There are hundreds of attractions and shops to visit, although here are some free things you can do while visiting Gatlinburg:
Free Things to do in and near Gatlinburg, TN
Go for a hike in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the only free national park in the United States, which is why it is also one of the most visited national parks. There are more than eight-hundred miles of hiking trails in the park, with over 150 official hiking trails… all for free! Plan a free day of hiking in the Smoky Mountains, but don’t forget to purchase a parking tag. Learn more about parking tags here.
Visit Cades Cove
Within the Great Smoky Mountain National Park is Cades Cove. The area was first settled by Europeans in 1819, there is an 11-mile one-way road that passes by 19 numbered tour stops. These stops are identified in a pamphlet available at the entrance of Cades Cove. There are many historical cabins, farmhouses, and churches that are preserved for viewing. There is also a possibility of seeing some of the wildlife in the area without even having to get out of your car, especially in the early morning and late afternoon hours. Have your camera on-hand to capture wildlife such as deer, bears, turkeys, owls and other small animals. If you prefer, you can also experience the loop on a bicycle. Horseback riding is available for a fee.
Cades Cove is also one of our top places to propose in the Smoky Mountains. Are you looking to propose in the Gatlinburg area? Read this for tips and ideas.
Go Fishing
You can fish year-round in the GSMNP from thirty minutes before sunrise and thirty minutes after sunset. Park visitors can go fishing in one of the small streams or creeks including Abram’s Creek, which is a favorite spot with beautiful natural scenery. You can also go fishing along the Little Pigeon River. In the city limits of Gatlinburg, Herbert Holt Park has a children’s fishing area as well as a handicapped fishing area. For information on fishing rules, click here.
Go for a Walk or Stroll
Walking is the best way to see Gatlinburg! Hit the streets to enjoy the town’s beautiful scenery. Along the way, window shop at the many boutiques and stores. Take in the smells of Gatlinburg’s top eateries like The Donut Friar and Fanny Farkles. Meander through the shopping plazas that sit along the Parkway.
Step off the beaten path to find the Gatlinburg Trail. This trail connects Gatlinburg to Sugarlands Visitors Center. It is one of only two trails inside the GSMNP that allow dogs, so this is an excellent way for visitors to get in some hiking with their canine.
Have a Picnic
Picnicking is a great way to enjoy nature and each other. Plus, it’s an effective way to save money!
Mynatt Park is a popular and scenic park in Gatlinburg. There are several picnic tables with BBQ grills, a pavilion, children’s play ground, a small fishing stream, tennis and basketball courts, a baseball field, and horseshoe pits.
Mills Park, another popular park in Gatlinburg, provides some of the same amenities as Mynatt Park. In addition, take advantage of a jogging trail, a state-of-the-art playground, and a 400-meter track.
Take Photos in and Around Gatlinburg
Rookie photographers will find it to be a pleasure to take photos inside the GSMNP. Newfound Gap or one of the scenic overlooks provide spectacular views. One of the most popular and easily accessible overlooks is located off the Gatlinburg bypass. If you are a commercial photographer with special requirements, click here for more information.
The Gatlinburg bypass is another great place to propose. Learn more here.
Visit Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
Located just outside of Gatlinburg on Airport Road, enjoy a relaxing drive through the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. It is a six mile, one way loop that takes you by historic homes, buildings, and sites. Like Cades Cove, early settler’s called the area home over 150 years ago. You can park and enjoy a short hike to Rainbow Falls just beyond the “Bud” Ogle cabin. For more information on Roaring Fork Motor Trail, click here.
View Elk in the National Park
Elk were re-introduced into the Smoky Mountains in 2001. The large animals were over-hunted and with loss of habitats, the elk populations were eliminated in the mid 1800’s. After conservation efforts, there are now approximately 200 elk living in the Smokies. The best place to see them is in Cataloochee Valley and near the Oconaluftee Visitors Center. The best time of day to view elk is early morning and after sunset. You can also view them on cloudy days or right after a storm. Click here for locations and elk viewing safety tips.
Tour the Great Smokies Arts & Crafts Community
The Appalachian Mountains are rich in skilled artisans and crafters, and the Smoky Mountain area is no exception. The Great Smokies Arts & Crafts Community is in Gatlinburg. It’s a short drive along Highway 321 to the entrance to the loop of galleries, shops, and studios. Visitors can find anything from pottery and art to jewelry and candles. Plus, there are plenty of eateries along the way to keep you fueled. Read more about the area here.
Free Things to do in Gatlinburg, TN
With so many attractions, shops, and restaurants, it’s easy to spend your budget quickly. It’s also easy to enjoy days in the Gatlinburg area enjoying the many free things to do! We hope you enjoy your visit to the Gatlinburg area.
If you’re planning a Smoky Mountain wedding, we’d love to help with your entertainment, lighting, and officiant needs. Learn more about Smokey Mountain Sounds here!
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