Attractions / Activities
Bicycling
In addition to being an effective way to get some exercise, bicycling is just out-and-out fun. Whether you're traveling solo or rolling along with the whole family on a scenic cruise, the Smoky Mountains are the perfect setting for enjoying nature's glory
while pedaling with the wind in your hair. WARNING - Some roads have little or no shoulders and great care must be taken to be easily visible to traffic.
Biking in the National Park is allowed on all road that are open to vehicle traffic, the steepness of much of the terrain isn't very conducive to biking. There is one site in the park, however, that has been a long-time favorite with pedal pushers. On Cades Cove Loop Road, bicyclists can take advantage of some of the most gorgeous picture-book views in the area from your bicycle. The 11 mile loop features moderately level terrain with a few small hills just to add a bit of interest. The loop is closed to auto traffic on Wednesday and Saturday until 10 a.m. from the second week of May through the next to last Saturday in September.
Another great ride is the Greenbrier Cove that is only 2.3 miles east of the JMH office. This entrance to the National Park is known well by residents of Gatlinburg as the "locals entrance to the park" because very few tourists know it even exists. The ride which is partly paved with the remainder gravel and includes about 6 miles along a pristine, crystal clear river with many scenic stops.
The JMH staff rates Cade's Cove and Greenbrier Cove as "must see" freebies!
Townsend Bicycle Loop - This, paved mostly level, 10 mile biking and walking trail runs parallel to the main highway through Townsend. An easy place to start is at the Townsend Visitors Center where you can park, get information, and use the facilities. This is an easy trail that offers many shopping, dining, and sightseeing opportunities. Townsend is about a one hour drive from Gatlinburg along the scenic river road.
Tennessee state law does require that children 12 and younger wear helmets when bicycling; it's recommended that all riders wear them for better safety. Bicycles are prohibited on park hiking trails.
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