Hillbilly Golf

Hillbilly Golf

A mountainside miniature golf course that's been a Smoky Mountains tradition since 1971 — and the only one in Gatlinburg where you don't walk to the course. You ride a steep incline railway 300 feet up the mountain to get there.

The incline itself, originally from a local Coca-Cola bottling plant, has been carrying players to the summit for over fifty years. What waits at the top is two 18-hole courses carved directly into the mountainside, packed with Appalachian-themed obstacles and views that make every putt worth a pause.

Looking for a base nearby? Our Gatlinburg cabin rentals are minutes from the Parkway.

The incline ride

The experience starts at the base on the Parkway, where you board the incline railway for a slow, scenic ride 300 feet up the mountain. The original incline is a genuine piece of Gatlinburg history — repurposed from a bottling plant and now one of the most distinctive entrances to any attraction in the Smokies.

It's a short ride, but a memorable one, and the view when you step off is the first hint that this isn't a typical mini golf stop.

The two courses

Both are 18 holes, built into the mountainside terrain, and each has its own character.

Course A

Classic barnyard obstacles, tricky inclines, and hillbilly-themed hazards — outhouses, moonshine stills, and vintage farm equipment. Every hole brings a new challenge and a new piece of Appalachian atmosphere, with downtown Gatlinburg and the surrounding mountains as a constant backdrop.

Course B

The more adventurous of the two. Forest trams, deeper mountain hazards, and terrain that rewards careful play — a step up in difficulty while keeping the same quirky charm.

Both courses play downhill from the summit, taking advantage of the natural slope and giving the layout a character flat-ground courses simply can't replicate.

A family legacy

Hillbilly Golf was founded by Shelby Boyd in 1971 with a single 18-hole course. The incline railway that carries guests to the top was repurposed from a local Coca-Cola bottling plant, giving the attraction an authenticity that can't be manufactured.

A second course was added over the years, and the attraction grew into one of Gatlinburg's most recognized landmarks. Boyd passed away in 2015, but his family has continued to operate it, honoring his legacy as a generational staple in the Smokies. More than fifty years on, it's still one of the most genuinely fun stops in town.

Before you go

• Season — Hillbilly Golf operates seasonally, typically spring through late fall, weather permitting. Confirm current dates at hillbillygolfgatlinburg.com before visiting
• Duration — plan at least an hour for one course, up to two if you play both
• Weather — open rain or shine, though it may close during thunderstorms. Rain checks are provided if needed
• Pets — not permitted on the courses
• Restrooms — available at the base; there are none on the mountain courses
• Parking — free on-site, though spaces can be limited in peak season

Hours and location

Open daily during the season, with hours varying. Check hillbillygolfgatlinburg.com for current hours before you go.

Nearby

Hillbilly Golf sits near the lower end of the Gatlinburg strip, within walking distance of several major attractions. See our things to do guide for more.

• Gatlinburg SkyPark — North America's longest pedestrian cable bridge, and a natural companion for a mountainside afternoon
• Ripley's Believe It or Not! — three floors of unbelievable artifacts just up the Parkway
• Ripley's Haunted Adventure — year-round haunted house on the Parkway
• Anakeesta — mountaintop gondola and adventure park, with Astra Lumina after dark
• Riverside dining on the Parkway — Mexican, seafood, and pizza all within a short walk
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park — the entrance is minutes from downtown

Frequently asked questions

What makes Hillbilly Golf different from other mini golf in Gatlinburg?

The incline railway. Guests ride a steep, historic incline 300 feet up the mountain to reach the courses — an experience unique to Hillbilly Golf. The courses themselves are carved into the mountainside, which gives them a character flat-ground courses can't match.

How many courses are there?

Two 18-hole courses — Course A with classic barnyard obstacles, Course B with more adventurous mountain hazards. Both are included with your ticket.

How long does it take?

At least an hour for one course, up to two hours if you play both.

What should I wear?

Comfortable, closed-toe shoes. The courses involve inclines and steps on the mountainside — sandals and flip-flops aren't recommended.

Are strollers or pets allowed?

No — neither is permitted on the courses. If you're traveling with a dog, our pet-friendly cabins give them somewhere comfortable to wait.

Is it open year-round?

No — it operates seasonally, typically spring through late fall, weather permitting. Confirm current dates and hours at hillbillygolfgatlinburg.com.

Is parking available?

Yes, free on-site, though it can be limited during peak season.

Is it good for young kids?

Generally yes, though the mountainside terrain means steps and slopes throughout, and strollers aren't allowed. Kids who can walk the course comfortably tend to love it — the incline ride alone usually wins them over.