Bring your four-legged family member to the Smoky Mountains. You’ll find plenty of spots for both you and your dog to stretch all those legs! Use this list of dog-friendly trails to pick a new walk each day.
1. Gatlinburg Trail
Inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, dogs are allowed on only two trails: The Oconaluftee River Trail and the Gatlinburg Trail. Starting at the Sugarlands Visitor Center, the level, wide Gatlinburg Trail is a four-mile round trip walk next to a river. You’ll spot historic ruins dotting the woods. Want a little more adventure? Side trails lead to waterfalls nearby.
2. Oconaluftee River Trail
The riverside walk is a three-mile round trip through lush forests. The trail, starting at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center, is level, wide, and graveled. You might see wildlife among the trees here, especially majestic elk. Be sure your dog is leashed and doesn’t approach animals.
3. Wear Farm City Park
Shady walking trails thread through this large Pigeon Forge city park. Watch players on the fields and courts while you walk. The park’s two playgrounds are ideal for occupying kids. Don’t miss StoryWalk, where a kids’ storybook appears on panels along a half-mile trail, so youngsters can walk from page to page to finish the tale!
4. Patriot Park
Fido can romp on the grassy riverbanks, then join you on the half-mile walking trail. Located in the heart of downtown Pigeon Forge, Patriot Park features veterans’ memorials, a lovely gazebo, and ample space for picnicking or tossing a Frisbee.
5. Mynatt Park
Walking trails abound at this Gatlinburg city park. You’ll also find a playground, picnic tables, children’s fishing stream, restrooms, and courts for tennis, basketball, and pickleball. A day of fishing and play, with a picnic lunch, makes an inexpensive break from sightseeing.
6. Townsend Historical Trail
The easy walking and biking trail runs next to the Little River at Townsend, near Gatlinburg. With sections on each side of the river, you get double the views. This trail tends to be less crowded than some other trails, making it a good option for a quieter walk.
Stay in a dog-friendly vacation cabin where your pet is treated like a guest! Take a look at our pet-friendly cabins online, or just call us. We’ll help you find the right cabin for your family!
