You’ll find tons of pet friendly lodging in Pigeon Forge as people love to travel with their dogs. But are dogs allowed in the Smokies? The simple answer is yes, but only in designated areas. Here’s what you need to know about bringing your dog to the Smoky Mountains.
Dogs On Hiking Trails
You’ll find only two dog friendly trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park: the Gatlinburg Trail and the Oconaluftee Trail. Both short walking paths allow you to hike with your dog in the Smokies. Dogs are not allowed on any other hiking trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Please respect our park’s rules and only bring your leashed pet along on Oconaluftee Trail and Gatlinburg Trail.
The Gatlinburg Trail
For a short hike close to the city, the Gatlinburg Trail is a great option for a place to take your pet. The two mile paved walkway begins near Sugarlands Visitor Center, where you can find great information about the national park and even bring home some souvenirs.
Gatlinburg TrailOconaluftee River Trail
The Oconaluftee Trail is a 1.5 mile one-way trail that starts at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center on the southwestern side of the park. You’ll walk along the outskirts of Cherokee, NC. It has a few small hills and promises views of the Oconaluftee River. This is a prime location for elk viewing, all the more reason to keep your dog leashed and on its best behavior.
Leashed Dogs Only
Before you and Rover lace up your hiking shoes, you’ll need to know the following: Your dog will need to be kept on a leash no longer than six feet at all times when you’re in the Smoky Mountains. You are required to pick up and properly dispose of all pet waste while you’re in the park. Simply bag it up and toss it in a bear proof trash receptacle.
NPS Information
Where Else Are Dogs Allowed?
Good news! Leashed dogs are allowed in picnic areas, campgrounds and along roadways in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. But do not bring your dog to any other parts of the national park. You could get a ticket and fine from park ranger. Dogs are not allowed in the park for a handful of reasons, many of which are in place to protect you and your pet.
Park Rules
Picnic Areas
Leashed dogs are allowed in designated picnic areas within the park boundaries, which is nice for large reunion events or having lunch outdoors on a beautiful day. As with any other experience in the national park, make sure you take all bear safety precautions and leave no trace of food, trash, or animal droppings so that we can all continue to to enjoy these public spaces.
GRSM Picnic Areas
Designated GRSM Campgrounds
Pet are welcome in designated frontcountry Great Smoky Mountains campgrounds. Camping with your dog is an option at Elkmont, Abrams Creek, Cades Cove, Cosby, and Big Creek campgrounds as well as the frontcountry spots on the North Carolina side. As with hiking, this does not include anything in the backcountry.
Frontcountry CampgroundsDogs are involved in most bear-related incidents with people. If your dog runs after a bear, it may lead the bear back to you. In these situations, there’s a 50% chance your dog will be injured or killed – and an even higher chance you’ll be hurt if you try to help.
National Park Service
It is also important to note that pets are allowed in the many Tennessee state parks around the Great Smoky Mountains. Ready to make your dog part of your Smoky Mountains vacation? Explore pet friendly lodging in Pigeon Forge and plan your getaway today!
