Although you might have already thought to pack the essentials – bathing suits, sunscreen, movies, rain jacket, and baseball cap – did you remember to include your bike? The great thing about vacationing in the Great Smoky Mountains is that there is as much to do inside as out; why limit yourself to seeing these glorious mountains by car or foot when you can zoom along trails courtesy of your mountain bike?
Whether you are an avid biker or have to brush the dust off of your old ten-speed, you will not want to miss out on all of the ways you can enjoy the sights, sounds, even tastes of Gatlinburg by way of your bicycle. Take for instance the Cades Cove Trail. Open to bikers all day, it is especially pleasurable in the morning when foot traffic is low and temperatures have not yet peaked for the day. If you dare, wake up extra early and watch the sun rise through the mountain peaks to witness something undeniably beautiful and one-of-a-kind.
During the day, and just minutes from Elk Springs Resort, take your bike throughout the Artists Village in Gatlinburg that houses over one hundred shops that are brimming with unique crafts, artwork, and even freshly made food that will fill an empty belly after a long bike ride! Not a fan of the arts? Bike along the streets of Gatlinburg and enjoy all of the attractions, rather than wasting time parking at each one. Just make sure to bring a bike lock along to secure a spot at your “free parking”.
There are several trails and roads that are conducive to riding your bike, from leisurely trails to more strenuous ones, there is a spot that everyone in your family will enjoy exploring. To learn more, you can call one of the park ranger’s stations to see which trails are in the best shape for riding, or call our main office.
Didn’t bring a bike or just don’t feel like lugging it all the way to Gatlinburg? You can rent one at the Cades Cove Visitors Center; call ahead for reservations. (865) 448-9034
