PET-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES IN GATLINBURG AND PIGEON FORGE

This trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park allows dogs to join the fun. The Gatlinburg Trail is 1.9 miles long one way. It starts at the Sugarlands Visitor Center and ends near Gatlinburg, TN.

The land is mostly flat and weaves through the forest next to the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River. It offers beautiful views of the river. A footbridge crosses the river at one point, and the trail shows the remains of several old homes. The Gatlinburg Trail is a popular choice for joggers, walkers, and bicyclists.

This is the second of two Great Smoky Mountains National Park trails that allow pets to hike alongside their owners. The Oconaluftee Trail is 1.5 miles long one way.

It starts at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center and ends near Cherokee, NC. While the trail is mostly flat, there are a few small hills to navigate. The trail runs through the forest alongside the Oconaluftee River, offering beautiful views of the water.

This nine-mile path is a few miles off the beaten path (pun intended), but it's well worth the visit. Townsend lies to the west of Gatlinburg and often receives the nickname "The Gateway to Cades Cove."

The Townsend Trail follows Little River and passes by several attractions. These include the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center and the Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum. Both places show the town's history. It begins at The Townsend Visitors Center.

Users can also find local eateries and businesses along the way. Exercise caution at road and driveway intersections because of some mild slopes on the trail.

Patriot Park hosts year-round activities like Winterfest lights, 4th of July fireworks, and the Patriot Festival. It also features memorials honoring local Armed Forces veterans. The park's walking trail is half a mile long. It features flags from all 50 states and memorials for veterans from Pigeon Forge.

The following Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge restaurants have pet-friendly patios and are worth your consideration as you plan your meals out.

• Tom and Earl's Back Alley Grill: Tom and Earl's is known for good food and good fun in a relaxed Smoky Mountain atmosphere. Stop by for Tom and Earl's favorites whenever you are in town.
• Howard's Restaurant: Howard's has been serving the Gatlinburg community since 1946. Between their mouthwatering menu, the scenic setting, and an in-house saloon, there's no better way to spend a day relaxing in the Smokies.
• Jimmy's Smokehouse and Pizzeria: Jimmy's specializes in consistently delicious, fresh, and homemade food. They offer a wide range of entrees with tasty side dishes. These include their famous smoked Gouda macaroni and cheese, delicious baked beans, and fresh homemade coleslaw. They expertly smoke all their meats in-house!
• Mad Dog's Creamery and Donuts: Mad Dog's has a great selection of sweet treats. You will find the best desserts in the Smokies! They even have goodies and toys just for your furry BFF. Oh, and here’s the best part: they have outdoor picnic tables and water bowls for your pup.
• Split Rail Eats: Split Rail Eats is the place to be for some seriously tasty grub! They've got a menu that's all over the map with mouthwatering American dishes. The best part? You can bring your furry friend, Fido, and relax at one of their pet-friendly outdoor tables.
• Red Oak Bistro: Red Oak Bistro is known for its exceptional menu featuring shared small plates. Don't miss out on their impeccably curated selection of wine, bourbons, and beer, perfectly complementing your dining experience.
• Tennessee Jed's: As a fast-casual counter service joint, they offer limited indoor seating alongside a spacious patio that welcomes your furry friends. So swing by, grab a seat, and treat yourself to a sandwich experience like no other!

• Junction 35 Spirits & Kitchen: Junction 35 Spirits delivers high quality, unique spirits and unique signature dishes to everyone who visits. This fun and friendly atmosphere is a great place where guests can gather with friends and family. 
• Hard Rock Cafe: The Pigeon Forge location of this tried and true classic restaurant features an outdoor dog-friendly patio. They'll even bring you a special "doggy" menu!
• Wild Bear Tavern: This welcoming eatery offers a delightful array of comfort food and authentic German cuisine. Patrons can enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner, or dessert, and take advantage of a full bar. Quality service and delicious food guarantees a memorable dining experience.
• Buzzed Bull Creamery: Buzzed Bull Creamery harnesses the power of liquid nitrogen to deliver fresh, premium ice creams and milkshakes, providing a unique experience for customers and their families. They take pride in hand-crafting each ice cream and milkshake, allowing for complete customization.
• Margaritaville: From margaritas to cheeseburgers in paradise, this Buffet-themed restaurant franchise offers fun takes on American and island classics. Its lively atmosphere makes for a fun night out, and there's often live music as well. 
• Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant: Built upon a legacy of excellence and charm, Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant serves beloved southern classics to over a million guests annually.

Yes, that's right—our puppy can ride the SkyLift with you. They can also enjoy the SkyBridge, SkyTrail, SkyDeck, and other fun activities at the top of the mountain. You must leash your dog at all times and hold and secure Fido to allow him/her to join you on the SkyLift.

Our guest concierge service, Xplorie, offers all guests of Mountain Laurel Chalets a free ticket to SkyLift Park. You will receive one ticket for each day of your stay, making it more affordable for you. The best news? Dogs ride the SkyLift for free!

Have you ever wanted to take your dog river tubing with you? Thanks to River Rat tubing, now you can! Grab your sunscreen and bathing suit. Head to Townsend, TN, for a river rafting trip with your family and dog!

The dog even gets his or her own doggie tube! A pretty sweet deal, providing you and Fido with a great way to cool off in the warmer months, exists. Doggie passes are only $16.99.

The Dog Park at Mills Park features a great opportunity for large and small dog owners to enjoy with their pets. A pair of separate fenced-in areas, one for large dogs and one for small dogs, feature a double-gated entrance to prevent dogs from getting loose. Both parks offer a large fenced-in area for dogs to exercise and play off-leash.

This amazing facility has separate areas for large and small dogs. It includes dog agility equipment, water stations, and shaded spots. Observation cameras, Wi-Fi, benches, and parking spaces, including handicapped parking, are also available.

This amazing facility has separate areas for large and small dogs. It includes dog agility equipment, water stations, and shaded spots. Observation cameras, Wi-Fi, benches, and parking spaces, including handicapped parking, are also available.

This amazing facility has separate areas for large and small dogs. It includes dog agility equipment, water stations, and shaded spots. Observation cameras, Wi-Fi, benches, and parking spaces, including handicapped parking, are also available.

Discover the joy of Bonediggity Barkery & Gifts. Here, you and your furry friend can enjoy many USA-made gourmet dog treats, toys, clothes, collars, strollers, and more. Unleash your excitement with a wide selection of toys and treats suitable for furbabies of all sizes.

At The Island in Pigeon Forge, the property welcomes dogs and maintains a pet-friendly environment for leashed pups. However, it is important to remember that each shop and restaurant has its own rules about dogs inside.

Parrot Mountain and Garden of Eden is just one mile from Dollywood in Pigeon Forge. They happily welcome leashed dogs at their dog-friendly attraction.

Within the captivating gardens, visitors can encounter a multitude of tropical birds residing in serene stone gardens. The event invites guests to see these beautiful creatures and offers them the chance to interact with and pet them.

You'll need a place to rest your heart and head after a long day out and about with friends, family, and furbabies. Mountain Laurel Chalets is adding new dog-friendly properties all the time, and we have a 50-year history of serving the Smoky Mountain area as the premier vacation rental management company. Check out all our properties now and plan your trip to the Smokies today!