Are you planning a Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg vacation for your family and looking for more things to do? If so, going to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an excellent option, as its natural beauty is captivating at any age. With that, here are 5 things that make the Great Smoky Mountains National Park family-friendly:
1. The Park Has No Admissions Fees
When going on a family vacation, we know that entertainment is a costly expense. While it is fun to go to all the attractions, the cost of everything adds up fast. If you are trying to save money on your vacation, spending a day at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is very cost friendly because there are no admissions fees. Spending time in the park can also be a great bonding experience for your family. Being out in nature eliminates the classic distractions of cell phones and the Internet. Therefore, you can really take in the beauty around you while having meaningful conversations with your loved ones.
2. Kid-Friendly Hiking Trails
Hiking is a great kid-friendly activity for a couple of reasons. First, kids will love the natural scenery. Most of all, they will love having the chance to spot some animals. Second, hiking is also a great way for kids to get their energy out. The car ride back home will be silent because the little travelers will be sleeping like champions! Luckily, the Great Smoky Mountains have fun options for kid-friendly hikes! For example, The Elkmont Nature Trail is a short, easy hike that is rich in scenery. In the warmer months, you can see a rainbow of pretty wildflowers!
3. Accessible Hiking Trails
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park makes it easy for all visitors to enjoy the natural beauty with the accessible hiking trails. They are great for people in wheelchairs or parents who have small children and need to bring a stroller. Additionally, these trails can also allow visitors to be out in nature without having to navigate potentially rough terrain. Wherever you go, make sure to bring a camera because the natural scenery can provide a gorgeous backdrop for photos that you will cherish forever!
4. Pet-Friendly Trails
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park makes sure to accommodate all members of the family, including the furry, four-legged ones. If you bring Fido on vacation, bring him along to enjoy the park. He will love the fresh air and room for exercise! During your visit, make sure to stay in the pet-friendly areas of the park. Pets are prohibited in other areas of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park because of the rough terrain and potential threat to wildlife. To ensure a safe and fun visit, read over some helpful guidelines for having pets in the park.
5. Motor Trails
If you don’t enjoy hiking, going on the motor trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park can be an excellent alternative! You don’t have to worry about the weather or bringing all the equipment for a hike. You can come as you are and enjoy the natural scenery from the comfort of your own vehicle. Get a glimpse of how the scenery changes throughout the seasons and see the many historical buildings that are remnants of the once thriving community. The drive itself is very calming and may even help lull little travelers to sleep. It is important to note that some motor trails open and close depending on the seasons. If you want to see when all the trails open and close, take a look at our operating hours and seasons!
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has activities for all ages! To start planning your visit, check out some of our family-friendly hiking trails!
