The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a must-do activity in the protected Great Smoky Mountain National Park (GSMNP) if you are here during the regular season.

This trail is easily accessible from Gatlinburg Landing – about a 30 minute drive. You will drive through downtown Gatlinburg or take the Baskins Creek Bypass to access the nature trail.

The motor nature trail does close seasonally and generally is open in early spring to Thanksgiving. The exact opening timeframe depends on road conditions, but typically opens in early April.

Roaring For Motor Nature Trail is great for travelers that want a quiet, scenic drive in the comfort of their own vehicle. This is a one-way loop road that provides for a slower pace to look at nature and wildlife.

Throughout the trail, there are several areas where you can park or quickly stop to take some breathtaking pictures of the mountains.

Be sure to get a parking pass if you intend to stop for more than a few minutes – or walk any of the trails. There are no kiosks in this area to purchase parking passes, so plan ahead.

Address: 117 Airport Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Website: https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/roaringfork.htm