The Most Pet-Friendly Spots in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Around

Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge in Tennessee are renowned for their stunning landscapes, outdoor adventures, and vibrant local culture. These beloved destinations attract countless visitors each year, many of whom bring their furry companions along for the adventure.

Finding pet-friendly spots can be challenging when traveling, but not in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Many parks, trails, and restaurants here are welcoming to dogs. Simply adhere to local rules, and you and your furry friend can enjoy a day full of exploration and natural beauty.

Are you planning a trip to the Smokies with your pet? This guide has you covered. Here are some top pet-friendly spots in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and the surrounding areas.

At  Stony Brook, we're all about making your vacation unforgettable. We offer an amazing selection of vacation cabins and chalets in Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Sevierville, and Cosby, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Smoky Mountains. And since we're at it, you can dive into our destination blog if you ever need tips on Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. We've got the scoop on everything from the best restaurants in the region to where to go for some shopping therapy.

Ready for some tail-wagging adventures?

The Most Pet-Friendly Spots in Gatlinburg, TN

Gatlinburg Trail: A Scenic Adventure

The Gatlinburg Trail stands out as one of the most pet-friendly hiking trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This 1.9-mile (3.8-mile round trip) trail is relatively flat and easy, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll or a more vigorous hike with your canine companion. As you trek along the well-maintained path, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding forest and the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River.

The trail offers countless opportunities for wildlife observation, including chances to spot white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species. Remember to keep your dog leashed and under control to avoid disturbing the local fauna. Along the way, you'll find designated picnic areas and rest stops where you can take a break and enjoy a meal with your pet. The trail also features historic homesteads, adding an educational element to your outdoor adventure.

Mills Park: A Canine Paradise

For those seeking a more urban pet-friendly experience, Mills Park in Gatlinburg is a must-visit destination. This versatile park offers a wide range of activities for both pets and their owners. The crown jewel of Mills Park is the Gatlinburg Dog Park, which opened in 2022. This state-of-the-art facility provides a safe and fun environment for dogs to play off-leash.

The dog park is thoughtfully designed with separate areas for large and small dogs, ensuring that all sizes can play comfortably and safely. It boasts double-gated entrances for added security, shaded areas for comfort, and benches for pet owners to relax. Dog-waste bags and trash cans are also provided for easy cleanup. Beyond the off-leash area, Mills Park offers on-leash walking trails, a large grassy area, a hilly wooded section, and flat terrain. Water stations are available throughout the park to keep your furry friend hydrated.

The Village Shops: A Charming Shopping Experience

For a unique shopping experience with your pet, head to The Village Shops in the heart of Gatlinburg. This collection of 27 specialty stores is set in a charming European-style village with cobblestone walkways, creating a picturesque atmosphere for a stroll with your four-legged friend. Many shops welcome well-behaved pets on leashes, though it's always best to check with individual stores before entering. Don't miss the pet-friendly Simply Animals store, where you can pick up a special toy or treat for your furry companion. The Village Shops also offer outdoor seating areas at some of their restaurants and cafes, allowing you to enjoy a meal or snack while keeping your pet nearby.

The Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum: An Unexpected Pet-Friendly Gem

For a truly unique experience, visit The Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum with your leashed dog. This one-of-a-kind museum houses over 20,000 sets of salt and pepper shakers from around the world. The staff is incredibly welcoming to pets, even accommodating bathroom breaks for dogs during visits. The museum offers a fascinating array of exhibits, including historical shakers dating back to the 1500s, themed shakers shaped like animals and famous landmarks, rare Amish-made sets, and a dedicated Christmas room with over 1,000 holiday-themed shakers. Interactive displays allow visitors to closely examine certain sets, making the experience both educational and engaging.

Gatlinburg SkyPark: A Sky-High Adventure

For an unforgettable experience with your pet, head to Gatlinburg SkyPark. This attraction allows well-behaved, leashed dogs to join their owners on the iconic yellow SkyLift chairs for a scenic ride to the mountain's peak. Once at the top, you and your furry friend can explore the SkyBridge, offering breathtaking views of the Tennessee and North Carolina Smoky Mountains. The expansive SkyDeck provides ample space for relaxation and stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains and Gatlinburg below. For those seeking more adventure, the pet-friendly SkyTrail offers a hiking path through the mountain's wilderness. Shaded areas near the SkyCenter provide a cool resting spot for pets during warmer days.

Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community: A Cultural Experience

The Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community, an 8-mile loop of shops and galleries east of Gatlinburg, offers a pet-friendly environment where you can explore local art and culture with your animal companion. Many artisan shops and galleries welcome well-behaved pets on leashes, though it's always best to check with individual stores before entering. The community also features restaurants and cafes with pet-friendly outdoor seating areas, allowing you to enjoy local cuisine while spending time with your furry friend. The scenic route provides an excellent opportunity for walking with leashed pets, allowing them to enjoy the fresh mountain air and beautiful surroundings.

The Most Pet-Friendly Spots in Pigeon Forge, TN

Patriot Park: A Historical and Recreational Gem

Situated along Old Mill Square near the Little Pigeon River, Patriot Park offers a unique combination of historical significance and pet-friendly amenities. The park features a 1/2-mile walking trail adorned with flags from all 50 states and armed forces branches, making it an educational and scenic spot for a stroll with your leashed dog. The central grassy area is perfect for playing fetch or frisbee with your pet, while the park's location provides beautiful river views and access to various memorials. For those looking to extend their walk, the Riverwalk Trail connects Patriot Park to The Island in Pigeon Forge, offering an extended route for you and your furry friend to explore.

Wear Farm City Park: A Spacious Retreat

Wear Farm City Park is another excellent option for pet owners in Pigeon Forge. This 118-acre community park features lovely walking trails perfect for taking your dog on a leisurely stroll. The expansive open spaces provide plenty of room for pets to explore and play while enjoying scenic views of lush trees and the Great Smoky Mountains in the distance. While pets may not be allowed on the sports fields or playgrounds, these areas provide entertainment for other family members, allowing for a full family outing that includes your four-legged friends. The park also offers several amenities that can enhance the overall experience for pet owners, including three shelters that provide shade during hot days.

The Island: An Amusement Park with a Pet-Friendly Twist

The Island in Pigeon Forge is a unique amusement park that welcomes leashed dogs in its outdoor areas. While individual shops and restaurants may have varying policies regarding pets, many outdoor attractions are pet-friendly. One of the highlights is the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, a 200-foot observation wheel that allows pets in its climate-controlled gondolas, offering a one-of-a-kind experience for you and your furry friend. Throughout The Island, there are various pet-friendly activities and amenities, such as synchronized Island Show Fountain performances, live bluegrass music at Ole Smoky Moonshine, inviting rocking chairs, and pet-friendly outdoor patios at select restaurants.

Pet-Friendly Spots Near Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge

Sevierville's PetSafe Unleashed: A Canine Playground

Just a short drive from Gatlinburg, PetSafe Unleashed in Sevierville offers a well-equipped and expansive park dedicated to dogs and their owners. The park features separate off-leash areas for small and large dogs, agility equipment for training and exercise, water fountains designed specifically for dogs, shaded areas for pets and owners to cool off, and waste bags and disposal facilities for easy cleanup. Open daily from dawn to dusk, PetSafe Unleashed allows for flexible visiting hours and extended playtime for your pet.

Burchfiel Grove and Arboretum: A Nature Lover's Paradise

Located in Downtown Sevierville, Burchfiel Grove and Arboretum offers a pet-friendly paved path as part of the city's Memorial Greenway system. This 2.22-mile trail stretches along the banks of the West Fork of the Little Pigeon River, providing beautiful views of Mount LeConte and the crest of the Great Smoky Mountains. As you walk with your pet, you'll discover 73 different species of trees, all identified by signs, adding an educational aspect to your stroll.

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