Swimming Spots in the Smokies

There’s nothing quite like a cozy cabin getaway in November. The air is crisp, the trees are bursting with color, and the Smoky Mountains make the perfect backdrop for a relaxing retreat. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend or a quiet escape with friends, here’s how to make the most of your cozy cabin stay this fall.

1. Settle In and Get Cozy

Start by creating that classic cabin atmosphere. Light a fire in the fireplace, curl up with a blanket, and enjoy a good book or conversation by the glow. Make use of the cabin’s amenities, play a round of pool or board games, watch a movie on the big screen, or soak in the private hot tub while taking in the cool autumn air. With a fully equipped kitchen and outdoor grill, you can cook up a hearty dinner and enjoy your meal on the deck surrounded by the beauty of fall.

2. Explore the Great Outdoors

When you’re ready to venture outside, take advantage of the season’s stunning scenery. Drive along scenic routes like Cades Cove Loop Road or the Blue Ridge Parkway for breathtaking views of fall foliage. Go for a hike in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, just start early to avoid crowds. You can also visit a local pumpkin patch, explore Gatlinburg’s charming downtown, or stop by the Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival for crafts and seasonal fun.

3. Plan Ahead for a Perfect Trip

November is a busy month in the Smokies, so book your cabin and activities early. For a quieter experience, try visiting midweek instead of the weekend. And don’t forget to plan your meals and stock up on groceries before you arrive so you can focus on relaxing and enjoying your autumn escape.

If you're ready to take the plunge or are just interested in where you should stay this fall click here for the best autumn cabins around.

Keeping Cool In the Summer


Don't let the back-to-school blues fool you, it's still summer until September 22 and the temperatures in the Smokies certainly reflect it. This year in particular we'll see 90 degree temperatures through August and 80s throughout September - so don't pack those swimming trunks or one/two-piece away yet, you'll want to cool off all the same.

In the Smokies, we have many public swimming places you can enjoy either as a swimming pool or as a natural body of water and in this article, we'll list them out for you. Please note that, generally, outdoor swimming places are open between Memorial Day to Labor Day but dates may vary. Indoor swimming areas are generally open year-round.

 


  1. Pigeon Forge Community Center




Features an outdoor swimming pool, that is generally the most public outdoor pool in Pigeon Forge short of Splash Country, as well as an indoor swimming pool. Admission is required. Features trolley access.

 


  1. Gatlinburg Community Center




Features an indoor swimming pool and is rarely filled with people. Excellent choice for a relaxing, quiet swimming experience. Admission is required. Features trolley access.

 


  1. Sevierville Community Center/Municipal Pool




Features an indoor swimming pool at the community center while the outdoor pool is located at the Sevierville City Park 1 mile away. Indoor pool is generally not filled with people. The municipal pool features water slides, a family aquatic center, diving board and concession stand. Admission is required.

 


  1. Chalet Village Owners Clubhouses




Three clubhouses each with at least one outdoor swimming pool all of which are located in Chalet Village overlooking Gatlinburg. Features additional entertainments and water slide(s). A reservation with a participating Chalet Village cabin company is required for access to the Chalet Village Clubhouses.

 


  1. Townsend Wye River




A National Park attraction inside Townsend, TN, and therefore free to the general public. Offers opportunities to swim or tube along the river. Generally highly populated during the summer season. Water is COLD and there are some rapids. Caution is recommended.




  1. Dollywood Splash Country




The Smokies' most popular and ambitious swimming experience. Features all kinds of rides, slides, a wave pool, concessions, play areas and much more. Heavily populated during summer and potentially expensive, but worth the price and effort. Trolley access is available.

 


  1. Douglas Lake




Huge lake offering many swimming opportunities as well as opportunities for boat rentals, jetski rentals, seadoo rentals and family fun similar to going to the beach. Water is COLD and there can be risks to swimming. Caution is recommended.

 


  1. Metcalf Bottoms




Located between Gatlinburg and Townsend while offering access to the Little Greenbrier River. This is part of the National Park and there is no cost to enjoy. Good for families and tubing. Water is COLD and there can be risks to swimming. Caution is recommended.

 


  1. Abrams Falls




Located in Cades Cove. This area is another National Park swimming area and there is no cost to enjoy. This swimming area offers a unique element with the waterfall and makes for a good place to bring family and tubes. Surrounding views are gorgeous. Water is COLD and there can be risks to swimming. Caution is recommended.

 

Relevant links for more information on these swimming locations are as follows:

www.cityofpigeonforge.com/community-center.aspx

www.gatlinburgtn.gov/recreation/community-center

www.seviervilletn.org/index.php/facilities/community-center.html

www.chaletvillageownersclub.com

www.insidetownsend.com/townsend-information/townsend-wye

 

 

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