Quick Facts
Nearest Airports
Gatlinburg does not have its own airport, so you will fly into a nearby city and drive the final stretch. Here are your best options, from closest to furthest:
McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) - Knoxville, TN
45 miles / Approx 1 hour drive
The closest major airport and the most convenient option. A small but modern airport with most major airlines, rental car agencies, and easy navigation. The scenic drive to Gatlinburg takes about an hour on good traffic days.
Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) - Asheville, NC
75 miles / Approx 1.5 hours drive
A smaller alternative that can sometimes offer better fares. The drive enters the park from the North Carolina side via Newfound Gap, one of the most scenic drives in America. Consider this if you want to experience the park on your way in.
Nashville International Airport (BNA)
220 miles / Approx 3.5 hours drive
A major hub with more flight options and often cheaper fares. Worth considering if Knoxville flights are limited or expensive. The drive is mostly interstate and goes quickly.
Charlotte Douglas International (CLT)
170 miles / Approx 3 hours drive
A major American Airlines hub with extensive connections. The drive is scenic through the North Carolina mountains. A good option if Charlotte offers significantly better flight options.
Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson (ATL)
200 miles / Approx 3.5 hours drive
The world's busiest airport with connections everywhere. Consider if you need specific flight times or airlines not available at smaller airports. The drive is straightforward via I-75 and I-40.
For most visitors, fly into Knoxville (TYS). The short drive, easy airport, and scenic final approach make it the best choice. Only consider other airports if Knoxville flights are unavailable, significantly more expensive, or you want to explore other areas (Nashville, Asheville) before or after your Gatlinburg trip.
Ready to Plan Your Trip?
Once you have your flights booked, reserve your cabin! We are approximately 15 minutes from downtown Gatlinburg.
Check Cabin AvailabilityDriving to Gatlinburg
Many visitors drive to Gatlinburg, and it is often the most convenient option. Here are directions from major cities:
From Knoxville (approx 45 miles)
Take I-40 East to Exit 407 (Sevierville). Follow TN-66 South through Sevierville, which becomes US-441/Parkway. Continue through Pigeon Forge into Gatlinburg. Allow about 1 hour, longer during peak traffic times.
From Nashville (approx 220 miles)
Take I-40 East toward Knoxville. Exit at 407 (Sevierville) and follow TN-66 South to US-441/Parkway into Gatlinburg. Allow about 3.5 hours without stops.
From Atlanta (approx 200 miles)
Take I-75 North to I-40 East. Exit at 407 (Sevierville) and follow directions above. Allow about 3.5 hours.
From Charlotte (approx 170 miles)
Take I-85 West to I-40 West. Exit at US-19 South (Maggie Valley), then take US-441 North through Cherokee and across the national park via Newfound Gap. This route is incredibly scenic but slower. Allow 3+ hours.
From Asheville (approx 75 miles)
Take I-40 West to Exit 20, then US-276 South to US-441 North through Cherokee. Or take the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway. Allow 1.5 to 2 hours depending on route.
GPS Warning
Be careful with GPS directions! Some navigation apps route drivers through the national park on Newfound Gap Road (US-441). While scenic, this road can be slow, may be closed in winter, and adds significant time. During peak traffic or poor weather, insist on the route through Pigeon Forge (via Exit 407/TN-66) unless you specifically want the park experience.
Road Conditions and Tips
- Peak Traffic Times: Friday evenings and Saturday mornings (arrivals), Sunday afternoons (departures), and October weekends (foliage season)
- The Spur: US-441 between Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg is called "The Spur," a winding mountain road that can be congested
- Alternative Route: In heavy traffic, use the Gatlinburg Bypass (US-321) to enter Gatlinburg from the east
- Winter Driving: Mountain roads can be icy. Carry chains if traveling in winter. Newfound Gap Road may close during snow.
- Construction: Road construction is common; check TDOT for current conditions
Rental Cars
A rental car is highly recommended for visiting Gatlinburg. While downtown is walkable, you will want a car for:
- National park access and scenic drives
- Day trips to Cades Cove, Clingmans Dome, etc.
- Visits to Pigeon Forge and Dollywood
- Reaching cabin rentals (many are in the mountains)
All major rental car companies operate at Knoxville airport. Book in advance during peak season.
Getting Around Without a Car
While possible, it is challenging to visit Gatlinburg without a car:
- Gatlinburg Trolley: Inexpensive trolley system within Gatlinburg and to some attractions. Limited routes.
- Uber/Lyft: Available but limited. Can be expensive for longer trips.
- Walking: Downtown Gatlinburg is very walkable; you can explore shops, restaurants, and many attractions on foot.
- Shuttles: Some hotels and cabin rental companies offer shuttles. Ask when booking.
Bottom line: You can enjoy downtown Gatlinburg without a car, but accessing the national park and surrounding areas will be difficult.
Other Transportation
Bus/Greyhound
The nearest Greyhound station is in Knoxville. You will need to arrange transportation from Knoxville to Gatlinburg (about 45 miles).
Train (Amtrak)
There is no direct Amtrak service. The nearest stations are in Greenville, SC or Cincinnati, OH, both several hours from Gatlinburg.
Private Charter/Helicopter
For those seeking luxury, private charter flights can land at small regional airports near Gatlinburg. Helicopter tours operate in the area but do not typically provide transportation.
