Route into Gatlinburg

[Blazing_Zippers]

Anyone here have knowledge about the best route into Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge from I-95? There is I-26 that is close and also hwy 441 that has switchbacks and tunnels.
We're going to be towing a 30 ft. trailer.
Also, what about Dollywood? Worth it?
Thanks

[ken56]

You are correct Drew that exit 440 works too. I suggeted 435 only because there is a Walmart there that you can stop at for groceries and such if needed before giong on to the campground.

Point of interest on the way is Carver's Orchard. They have a great farmers market through the season and they have a good home cookin' restaurant there for a good lunch. Worth stopping in but DO NOT tow your trailer or take a motorhome up there. The parking lot is tight and no room to manuver a long rig. Go back there after you get settled into your camp site.

[DrewE]

I've taken 441 with my class C. It's a pretty road but none to fast and certainly not as easy going as the interstate. There are pleny of noticeable grades and pretty sharp curves and so forth. Ken's route is also what I would suggest, but it looks like the proper exit number is 440 according to my map.

I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to Dollywood; it's one of the nicest amusement parks I've been to. They have quit a broad range of attractions, many of which appeal to people other than adrenaline junkies. Wear good comfortable walking shoes.

[ken56]

Unless you have a lot of experience in mountain driving do not take 441 through the national park. It is steep and very curvey. From I-95 take 26 to I-40 to Newport TN RT 321 exit 435 depending on where you are going to in G'burg.

Dollywood is a nice park that is 'family friendly' to the extreme. They have some good shows and all are included with the price of admission. Stop by the bakery and get the monkey bread. Take the train ride. Lots of other worthy attractions in the area too.

[schlep1967]

We thought Dollywood was worth it. But we stayed in one of her property's and had access to the park free every day. Depending on when you are going keep an eye on the weather. We had summertime thunderstorms roll through every day. Everybody would bail out of the park. Half an hour later the storms were over and we were walking straight onto the rides.

[bgum]

i40 to 66. No tunnels and no switchbacks.