Getting around in the Tennessee Smokes: Transportation options

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Transportation Options in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge

Planning a Smoky Mountain vacation? One of the first questions visitors ask is: how do you get around Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge?

While some attractions are walkable, the area is spread out, so transportation varies depending on where you stay and what you plan to do. This guide covers the most common options for exploring Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and the Smoky Mountains.

Driving Your Own Vehicle

For most visitors, having a car is the easiest way to explore the Smoky Mountains. Pigeon Forge stretches about five miles along the Parkway, and many scenic drives, hiking areas, and waterfalls in Great Smoky Mountains National Park require a vehicle.

Once in downtown Gatlinburg, however, many attractions are within walking distance along the Parkway.

Gatlinburg Trolley – Completely Free

The Gatlinburg Trolley is one of the easiest ways to get around the city, and it is completely free to ride.

The trolley operates year-round and connects many popular locations, including:

  • Downtown Gatlinburg Parkway
  • Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
  • The Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community
  • Rocky Top Sports World
  • Gatlinburg Welcome Center Park-and-Ride

Many visitors park at the Gatlinburg Welcome Center and ride the trolley downtown to avoid parking fees and traffic congestion.

Pigeon Forge Trolley (Fun Time Trolley)

The Pigeon Forge Fun Time Trolley is an affordable way to travel along the Parkway and access major attractions.

  • The Old Mill District
  • The Island in Pigeon Forge
  • Dollywood
  • Dollywood’s Splash Country
  • Wears Valley Road

Fares:

  • Single ride: $1–$2.50 (depending on route)
  • All-day pass: $3

Trolleys generally run from 8:00 AM until midnight during peak season, with reduced hours in winter.

Traveling Between Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg

Both cities have trolley systems, but they are separate. Visitors traveling between the two must:

  1. Take the Pigeon Forge trolley to the Gatlinburg Welcome Center
  2. Transfer to the Gatlinburg Purple Route trolley to reach downtown Gatlinburg

This park-and-ride connection helps visitors avoid traffic and parking congestion.

Ride Sharing Services (Uber & Lyft)

Uber and Lyft operate in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, but availability may be limited compared to larger cities. Driver coverage can be affected by:

  • Seasonal tourist demand
  • Time of day
  • Cell service coverage in mountain areas

Taxi and Shuttle Services

Several local taxi and shuttle services are available:

  • A+ Shuttle by David Haywood – guided tours, airport shuttles, hiker transport
    • Guided Tours
    • Cades Cove, Newfound Gap, Roaring Fork, or others as requested 
    • Hiker Preferred Driver
    • Go see the Great Smoky Mountains 
    • Airport Shuttle Service
  • A Chick in a Cadillac
    • Enjoy Lux rides with fair pricing with service to anywhere in the state of TN.
    • Airport service to the Smoky Mountains for vacations, nights out on the town with friends, parties, business trips, weddings, school functions, and more.
    • Call, Text or message Shannon for a quote! 239-318-4745
  • Bear Paw Taxi 
    • Dependable taxi service in the Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg area. 865-414-2395
  • Olympus Car and Coach – luxury private rides (Knoxville-based)
  • Smoky Bear Shuttle
    • Based in Sevierville. Offering a diverse range of excursions, as well as convenient and hassle-free shuttle transportation services, so you can get your adventure started. 865-441-4812 reservations@smokybearshuttle.com   
  • Chariots of Hire 
    • Serving Knoxville and East TN. 
  • Angels Taxi Service
    • Service in Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Sevierville, Knoxville airport 
    • Amusements, Shows, Hiking trail rides
    • Smoky mountain tours
    • Bachelor(ette) parties
  • Smoky Mountain Transportation 
    • Luxury transportation for your shopping, amusement, and sightseeing needs.
    • Priced by the hr, half day, and full day.
    • To book 865-228-9312
  • Olympus Car and Coach (Knoxville-based) 2519 Mitchell Street, Knoxville, TN 37917 865-523-2796 
    • Individuals/Corporate
    • Small groups
    • Large groups
    • Luxury VIP
* The above compilation of transportation options is based on publicly available information. Blue Mountain Cabins are not affiliated with the abovementioned businesses and are not responsible for publishing errors.

Walking in Gatlinburg vs. Pigeon Forge

Downtown Gatlinburg is walkable once you park. Pigeon Forge is spread out along a five-mile stretch of Parkway, so walking is less practical. Visitors typically drive or take the trolley for convenience.

Where to Stay Near Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge

Many travelers choose to stay in a cabin outside busy areas while remaining within easy driving distance of attractions.

Blue Mountain Cabins offers private Smoky Mountain cabins with:

  • Secluded mountain settings
  • Hot tubs and scenic views
  • Easy access to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge attractions
  • Direct booking with no platform fees

For more tips on things to do in the area, check out our posts:

Browse available cabins and check your dates here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there public transportation in Gatlinburg?

Yes, the Gatlinburg Trolley operates year-round and is free to ride.

Is there a trolley between Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg?

Yes, but you must transfer at the Gatlinburg Welcome Center between the Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg trolleys.

Do you need a car in Pigeon Forge?

Most visitors find it helpful to have a car because attractions are spread out along the Parkway.

Is Gatlinburg walkable?

Yes. Downtown Gatlinburg is very walkable once you park your vehicle.