Getting to Gatlinburg, TN

Nestled at the entrance to the breathtaking Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is an easily accessible mountain haven. Most visitors arrive by car, as Gatlinburg is only a day's drive from two-thirds of the U.S. population. For those flying in, McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) in Knoxville is the closest commercial airport, just an hour's scenic drive away. Once you arrive, getting around is a breeze with numerous parking options and the free Gatlinburg Trolley system, connecting downtown attractions, restaurants, and shops, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Resources including current road closures, and alternate routes to Gatlinburg can also be found below.

Current Tennessee Road Closures

Interstates I-80, I-75 and I-65 are OPEN for travel.
As of 6/18/25: I-40 is CLOSED in each direction near the TN/NC border at MM 540 due to a flooding/rockslide.
For more information visit the TDOT website.

 I-26 in Unicoi County is reopened to all traffic but is reduced to one lane between MM 39 and MM 40 in Erwin.
All overweight vehicles and any vehicle wider than 10 feet are prohibited and must continue to use the established I-81 and I-77 detour.

US 441/Newfound Gap Road is OPEN 24 hours a day
As always, Newfound Gap Rd is closed to ALL commercial vehicles
For the latest updates and current conditions for Great Smoky Mountains National Park, visit GSMNP website.

Driving Directions to Gatlinburg

If you’re planning to visit Gatlinburg, there are plenty of routes to get you here. For those visiting Gatlinburg from areas impacted by road closures, you will find the best route from your city below using Google Maps which provides the quickest, safest routes to Gatlinburg. We encourage all of our visitors to stay safe and not drive through affected areas, but instead use an alternate route to get here.

Driving Directions from Popular Cities