Which Is More Pedestrian-Friendly: Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg?

Looking for a car-free way to enjoy attractions in the Smoky Mountains? If you prefer strolling to driving, Gatlinburg is your best bet, where you can walk between attractions with ease. Park just once, at the start of your day, and you won’t need the car again until you’re heading back to your vacation cabin that night!

Neighboring Pigeon Forge isn’t easy to navigate solely on foot. Thanks to Pigeon Forge’s trolley system, you can still ditch the car–mostly. Let’s look at how Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge compare when it comes to pedestrian access.

Prefer Walking? Choose Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg’s downtown is more defined, with attractions clustered together along the Parkway, known as “The Strip” to locals. 

For example, you can stroll from the Gatlinburg Space Needle to Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies in about 10 minutes. Want to sample local moonshine after you visit the sharks? Walk from the aquarium to Ole Smoky Distillery in about 11 minutes. You’ll find sidewalks everywhere you need to go.

In Pigeon Forge, attractions along the Parkway are farther apart, spread out along a longer section of road with plenty of cars, but fewer sidewalks. For example, if you wanted to walk from The Island shopping and entertainment center, to WonderWorks science and tech attraction, the two-mile walk would take about 40 minutes or more. A mile or more between attractions is common here. 

Take the Trolley

Both Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg have trolleys to give your feet a break and help you go car-free all day. 

• Pigeon Forge trolley fares are either $1 or $2.50 per person, per ride, depending on the route. Get an all-day pass for unlimited rides for $3. Pigeon Forge has both free and paid parking downtown, but arrive early to secure a free spot.
• Gatlinburg trolleys are all free to ride, with free parking available at the city’s two Park and Ride lots. Those lots fill up quickly each day, so either arrive early or plan to pay for parking elsewhere. 

Both towns offer attractions for all ages and all interests. With trolleys, and planning, you can enjoy both towns relatively car-free! Bring your patience. Check parking locations and trolley schedules online before you set out. And stay in a Smoky Mountain rental cabin close to either town. You’ll spend less time driving and more time having fun!