Gatlinburg sits at the edge of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and offers direct access to visitor centers, trailheads, and all sorts of regional attractions. Families often base themselves here for our walkable downtown and proximity to nature. If you’re traveling with kids, here’s our handy guide to all the activities worth checking out on your Gatlinburg adventure.

Easy Hikes the Family Will Love

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Family hiking gatlinburg trail

Exploring the Smoky Mountains doesn’t have to mean tackling steep, challenging trails. Plenty of kid-friendly hikes offer stunning views without wearing out little legs. 

The Little River Trail follows a former logging railroad route and a mountain stream, winding past historic cabins, wildflowers, and even a small waterfall! Its gentle grade makes it accessible to all skill levels, and you’ll enjoy one of the Smokies’ most scenic (and ecologically protected) areas!

Another great option is the Cades Cove Nature Trail, a short loop surrounded by lush forests and meadows. Kids will love spotting deer and other wildlife along the way. And for an even easier option, the Gatlinburg Trail is a flat, stroller-friendly walk along the Little Pigeon River, making it perfect for families with toddlers. Look out for the old homesite foundations and chimneys that can be seen along the trail!
 

Step into the Past: Fun Ways to Explore Smoky Mountain History

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John Oliver cabin

Did you know the Smoky Mountains are steeped in plenty of history, and there are many ways to introduce kids to the area’s past? Cades Cove features well-preserved 19th-century homesteads, churches, and even a working mill! Visit preserved sites like the John Oliver Cabin, where you can get a firsthand look at early settlement structures and the conditions families once lived in.

The Sugarlands Visitor Center offers a similar experience with hands-on learning, exhibits, and on-site experts - perfect for the kiddos. Another great stop is the Elkmont Historic District & Ghost Town, where abandoned vacation homes from the early 1900s tell a fascinating story of the area’s bygone past.

Meet the Locals: Wildlife Experiences for All Ages

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Black Bear in wildflowers

One of the biggest draws of the Smokies is the incredible wildlife. Black bears, elk, white-tailed deer, and numerous bird species inhabit this region. Open areas, such as Cades Cove, are prime spots for spotting animals. For a guaranteed up-close encounter, stop by Ober Mountain’s Wildlife Encounter, where kids can observe native animals like river otters and bears in a safe setting.

If your family loves birds, the Kuwohi area (formerly Clingmans Dome) is a hotspot for migratory species. Just remember to bring binoculars for the best views!

If you’re visiting in late spring, the annual firefly display is one of the region’s most well-known events that kids love. 

If you think you’re ready for some family-friendly adventure in the Great Smoky Mountains, start planning your trip today and create memories that will last a lifetime. Looking for more family-friendly things to do in Gatlinburg? Check out other local attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies or Anakeesta.