Gatlinburg Cabins

Gatlinburg does not have its own airport, but there are several airports within reasonable driving distance. Here's information about the airports near Gatlinburg:

McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS): Located in Knoxville, Tennessee, approximately 45 miles west of Gatlinburg, McGhee Tyson Airport is the closest major airport. It offers domestic flights and serves as the primary gateway for travelers visiting the Gatlinburg area.

Asheville Regional Airport (AVL): Situated in Asheville, North Carolina, about 95 miles east of Gatlinburg, Asheville Regional Airport is another option for travelers. It serves as a regional airport with domestic flights.

Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA): Located in Chattanooga, Tennessee, approximately 120 miles southwest of Gatlinburg, Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport is another viable option. It offers domestic flights and provides car rental services and shuttle services to nearby destinations, including Gatlinburg.

While these airports are the most convenient options for reaching Gatlinburg, there are additional airports within a longer driving distance, such as Nashville International Airport (BNA) and Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL). These alternative airports offer more flight options, including international connections.

Several shuttle services operate between major airports and Gatlinburg, offering direct transportation for visitors arriving by air. For example, McGhee Tyson Airport in Knoxville has shuttle services that can take you directly to Gatlinburg.

Gatlinburg occupies some of the most beautiful landscape in Tennessee, and is a dream for drivers to explore by road.

Mountainous Roads: Gatlinburg is nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains, so expect steep and winding roads throughout the area. Be prepared for elevation changes and sharp curves, especially when driving on routes such as US-441 and the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.

Traffic Congestion: Gatlinburg is a popular tourist destination, particularly during peak seasons. Traffic congestion can occur, especially in the downtown area. Be patient and allow extra time for travel, particularly if you plan to visit attractions or dine in popular areas.

Parking: There are various parking options available in Gatlinburg, including public parking lots, street parking, and private parking at attractions and accommodations. However, during busy times, parking spaces can fill up quickly.

Trolley System: Gatlinburg offers a convenient trolley system with multiple routes that cover the town and nearby attractions. Utilizing the trolley can help alleviate traffic congestion and provide an easy way to get around without worrying about parking.

Wildlife Caution: The Great Smoky Mountains are home to a diverse wildlife, including bears, deer, and elk. Be cautious while driving, particularly during dawn and dusk, as animals may be more active near the roadways. Observe posted speed limits and be prepared to yield or stop for wildlife.

Road Conditions: Road conditions can vary, especially during inclement weather or winter months, when snow and ice are possible. Stay informed about weather forecasts and road conditions, and consider using caution or altering your travel plans if conditions become hazardous.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is served by several bus services that provide transportation to and from the area.

Greyhound: Greyhound is a well-known bus service that operates nationwide, including routes to Gatlinburg. Greyhound offers scheduled bus service to Knoxville, Tennessee, which is the closest major city to Gatlinburg. From Knoxville, you can take a connecting bus or explore other transportation options to reach Gatlinburg.

Trolley Buses: Gatlinburg itself has a trolley system known as the Gatlinburg Trolley. While primarily serving the local area, the trolleys can be a convenient mode of transportation for getting around Gatlinburg and visiting various attractions within the town.

Group Charters: Charter bus services are available for group travel to Gatlinburg. These services can be arranged for school trips, corporate outings, or other group events, providing customized transportation solutions to meet specific needs.

The Gatlinburg Trolley system is a popular and convenient mode of transportation within the town of Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

Routes: The Gatlinburg Trolley system consists of multiple routes that cover different areas of the town. These routes include the Blue Route, Red Route, Yellow Route, Green Route, Purple Route, Pink Route, and Tan Route. Each route has designated stops and serves specific areas, attractions, hotels, and shopping areas.

Fares: The fares for riding the Gatlinburg Trolley are affordable and vary depending on the route. Exact fare (between 50 cents and $2 at time of publication) is required when boarding the trolley. Fare information may change, so it's recommended to check the official Gatlinburg Trolley website or inquire locally for the most up-to-date fares.

Schedule: The Gatlinburg Trolley system operates seasonally, typically from spring through fall. The trolleys generally run daily, but the exact schedule and hours of operation can vary depending on the time of year and the specific route. It's advisable to check the official Gatlinburg Trolley website or consult local resources for the current schedule.

Trolley Information Centers: Gatlinburg has trolley information centers located at key points, such as the Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies and the Gatlinburg Mass Transit Center. These information centers provide maps, schedules, fare information, and assistance regarding the trolley system.

Accessibility: The Gatlinburg Trolley system strives to provide accessible transportation for individuals with disabilities. Some trolleys are equipped with wheelchair lifts or ramps, and priority seating is available for those who need it.