Chimneys Picnic Area
A tranquil picnic spot in the Smokies, featuring a beautiful rocky creek, shaded tables, and easy nature trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the weekend rush
Chimneys Picnic Area
Best Time
Beat the weekend rush
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil picnic spot in the Smokies, featuring a beautiful rocky creek, shaded tables, and easy nature trails.
"It's one of our favorite stops during our trip to the Smokies — peaceful, fun, and perfect for families."
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking can fill up fast, especially on weekends. Arrive early or be prepared to wait.
👟 Sturdy Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the rocky creek and nearby trails.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Rocky Creek
Adjacent to picnic sites
Dip your feet in the ice-cold, crystal-clear water of the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River. Perfect for cooling off and exploring.
Shaded Picnic Sites
Throughout the area
Enjoy a meal amidst nature with numerous well-spaced tables and grills, many offering peaceful river views.
Nature's Playground
Along the creek
Climb and explore the large, smooth rocks scattered along the creek bed – a natural adventure zone for all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Elements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking can fill up fast, especially on weekends. Arrive early or be prepared to wait.
👟 Sturdy Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the rocky creek and nearby trails.
💧 Dip Your Toes
The river water is refreshingly cold, perfect for a quick dip on a warm day.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Bring your own food and drinks to enjoy at the many picnic tables. Grills are available.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking can fill up fast, especially on weekends. Arrive early or be prepared to wait.
👟 Sturdy Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the rocky creek and nearby trails.
💧 Dip Your Toes
The river water is refreshingly cold, perfect for a quick dip on a warm day.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Bring your own food and drinks to enjoy at the many picnic tables. Grills are available.
🌿 Wildflower Spotting
Springtime offers beautiful wildflower viewing along the easy loop trail.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Chimneys Picnic Area for its serene atmosphere, beautiful river, and ample picnic facilities. It's a beloved spot for families seeking a peaceful nature escape with opportunities for gentle exploration. While parking can be challenging during peak times, the overall experience is highly recommended for its natural beauty and tranquility.
"I love this spot! It's one that my family and I go to every time we visit Gatlinburg just because we love the beautiful, huge stream of water that runs through it! This place is just so peaceful and beautiful! This time we decided to do the hike inside the park. It was not super difficult. It was a nice little hike. The restrooms were actual toilets with running water, which was a nice change up from the other toilets at some of the other locations throughout the Smokeys."
Hope Wilke
"Lots of picnic tables spread out nicely! Also parking for rugged nature trail."
Nina Lantz
"It's one of my favorite places. I recommend trying to go on an off day, which is very hard to do in the park. But even when it's crowded, there are usually several spots open. Make sure to dip your feet in the ice-cold water."
Andre Kaufman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Chimneys Picnic Area is located along Newfound Gap Road (US-441) within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, about 7 miles from Gatlinburg. It's a scenic drive, and the picnic area is well-marked.
Yes, there is a parking area, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak seasons. Arriving early is highly recommended.
Chimneys Picnic Area is a seasonal facility and is typically open from late spring through fall. It's best to check the official Great Smoky Mountains National Park website for current operating dates.
No, public transportation does not directly serve Chimneys Picnic Area. A personal vehicle is required for access.
The drive is along a well-maintained park road. However, be aware of potential wildlife crossings and other visitors. During winter, roads may close due to snow and ice.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee for Chimneys Picnic Area itself, but you will need to pay the Great Smoky Mountains National Park entrance fee if you don't have a valid pass.
The picnic area is typically open during daylight hours, but specific times can vary seasonally. Always check the official park website for the most up-to-date information.
Picnic tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations are not typically offered for individual sites.
There are no additional fees for using the grills provided at the picnic sites.
As of recent updates, there is a parking tag system for vehicles entering the park. Daily, weekly, and annual passes are available for purchase. Check the NPS website for current pricing.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Enjoy picnicking, wading in the river, exploring the rocky creek beds, and hiking nearby trails. It's a great spot for nature photography and relaxation. 
The river has shallow areas suitable for wading and cooling off, especially with adult supervision. However, currents can be strong, so exercise caution.
Yes, there are several trails accessible from or near the picnic area, including an easy loop trail known for wildflowers in spring.
Amenities include picnic tables, grills, restrooms with running water, and trash receptacles.
Absolutely! The shallow creek, easy trails, and ample space make it a fantastic spot for families. Kids love exploring the rocks and water.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, Chimneys Picnic Area is a picnic-only facility. You'll need to bring your own food and drinks.
Sandwiches, salads, snacks, and drinks are popular choices. Consider items that are easy to transport and eat outdoors.
The closest major town with grocery stores is Gatlinburg, which is a short drive away. It's best to stock up before heading into the park.
Campfires are generally not permitted outside of designated grills. Always check park regulations regarding open fires.
Heartier options like chili, stews, or baked goods are great for cooler fall weather. Don't forget hot beverages like cider or cocoa.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the scenic river, the unique rock formations, lush greenery, and the overall peaceful atmosphere. The changing seasons offer diverse photographic subjects.
Early morning and late afternoon offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for landscape and nature photography.
The areas along the creek offer the most picturesque scenes. Experiment with different angles from the rocks and picnic sites.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive river and forest views. A macro lens can be useful for close-ups of wildflowers or textures.
Drone usage is restricted in national parks. You must follow all FAA regulations and park-specific rules regarding drone operation. Check the NPS website for details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
📸 Photographers
+1 Early morning and late afternoon light can create stunning shots, especially during the fall foliage season. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the Little Pigeon River
+1 The river is shallow enough in many areas for safe wading, providing a refreshing escape on warmer days. It's a popular spot for families to let children play and explore the natural water features under supervision. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the river is also a habitat for various aquatic life. While fishing is permitted in designated areas of the park, the picnic area itself is more about enjoying the visual and auditory experience of the water. The rocky banks and surrounding trees create a beautiful contrast with the flowing water, offering numerous opportunities for photography.
Whether you're picnicking nearby or simply taking a stroll, the river is an integral part of the Chimneys experience, contributing significantly to its peaceful and natural ambiance. Picnicking and Relaxation
Each table is accompanied by a grill, making it easy for visitors to prepare a hot meal amidst the natural beauty of the Smokies. The atmosphere at Chimneys is consistently described as peaceful and tranquil. The gentle murmur of the river, combined with the rustling leaves and the fresh mountain air, creates an environment conducive to unwinding. It’s a place where visitors can disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with nature.
Many reviewers highlight the 'calm' and 'peaceful' nature of the area, making it a favorite stop for repeat visitors. Whether you're enjoying a family gathering, a romantic picnic, or a solo moment of reflection, the picnic facilities and serene surroundings at Chimneys make it an ideal destination. Exploring the Trails and Rocks
This trail is particularly noted for its beautiful wildflower displays in the spring, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts during that season. The terrain is generally gentle, making it accessible for most visitors, including families with young children. The most engaging feature for active visitors is the abundance of large, smooth rocks scattered along the creek bed. These rocks serve as a natural playground, inviting visitors to climb, balance, and explore.
+2 While not a challenging rock-climbing destination, they offer a fun way to interact with the environment and get a closer look at the creek. Always exercise caution when climbing on wet rocks, and ensure children are supervised. These rocky areas, combined with the nearby trails, add an element of adventure to the otherwise tranquil picnic setting. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit