dskimo1

I am taking my family to Gatlinburg the second week of June. Everyone says how crowded it will be? What does that mean? How long will it take to drive from Pigeon Forge to Gatlinburg this time of year? Will it be difficult to fnd parking in Gatlinbug? Any recommendations on good half day hikes that won't be too crowded?

Claudia99

Summer is always crowded in Gatlinburg but there's still plenty of things to enjoy. Here is the top ten attractions in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.

http://what-are-the-best.com/the-bes...tractions.html

http://what-are-the-best.com/the-bes...tractions.html

SAnParis2

I don't know where you are staying but I would seek out a cabin, or other lodging away from town, if possible. (www.vrbo.com is a great source). It will be a mess, esp. on the weekends. If I may ask, why Gatlinburg, when they are so many other great, less-touristy/busy Mt. towns ?

jent103

Yes, it'll be crowded, especially on the Parkway, but that's sort of a state of being in Gatlinburg much of the year. The mountains, however, have a bit more space to spread out. Popular routes like Cades Cove will be crowded, but once you're parked and hiking it'll be better.

Are you staying in Gatlinburg itself, or outside of town? Getting there from Pigeon Forge normally takes about 15 minutes or so (although I've not been in June for awhile, so others may have better estimates). Just be mentally prepared for heavy traffic, and if it's not bad, then you'll be pleasantly surprised.

kskid

Thanks for your responses. Why am I going to Gatlinburg when there are so many other mountain towns? It is a question I ask myself many times. Because my kids want to go to a haunted house, wax museum, etc. Oh, the sacrifice. But perhaps I'll have some nice hikes in the morning.

maj

We used to stay in Gatlinburg when our kids were young and spend the day in the mountains (many good trails for families - Laurel Falls and Grotto Falls come to mind). If you go to Cades Code, Abrams Falls is another. Then we could come back to town and walk anywhere we wanted (there are also trollies available). Therefore didn't have to worry about parking. When you get there (if not before) get a good map of the city streets -- there are ways of avoiding the main drag which makes it much easier to get around.

SAnParis2

My kids have never been there & I can assure you, they don't miss it...I'd do the winky thing if I knew how...