Blog for Zipline Attraction in the Smoky Mountains
Located in Pigeon Forge, TN and near Gatlinburg and Sevierville.
Best Picnic Areas in the Smoky Mountains for a Relaxing Day Outdoors
By Ross Bodhi Ogle
Posted on August 26, 2025
The Great Smoky Mountains offer countless ways to slow down and enjoy nature, and few activities are more relaxing than a peaceful picnic surrounded by mountain scenery. Whether you are planning a family outing, a quiet lunch beside a river, or a relaxing break during a day of sightseeing, the Smokies provide beautiful picnic areas throughout the national park and surrounding towns.
Many visitors are surprised by how easy it is to combine scenic drives, short hikes, waterfalls, and picnic stops into a full day of exploration. From riverside tables to shaded mountain settings, there are picnic locations throughout the Smokies that work well for couples, families, and groups of all sizes.
If you are planning a Smoky Mountain vacation, you can also explore our Great Smoky Mountains National Park Guide for additional outdoor activities and scenic destinations.
Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area
Metcalf Bottoms is one of the most popular picnic areas in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and a favorite among families visiting Gatlinburg and Townsend.
Located along Little River Road, this picnic area offers large shaded spaces beside the Little River along with easy access to restrooms, picnic tables, grills, and open grassy areas.
Visitors enjoy:
- River access
- Beautiful mountain scenery
- Large picnic spaces
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Nearby walking opportunities
During warmer months, many families spend time relaxing beside the river after enjoying lunch together.
The nearby Metcalf Bottoms Trail and historic Little Greenbrier School provide additional opportunities for exploration nearby.
Cades Cove Picnic Area
Cades Cove is known for its scenic loop road, wildlife viewing, and historic buildings, but it is also home to one of the best picnic areas in the Smoky Mountains.
Surrounded by mountain views and peaceful forest scenery, the Cades Cove Picnic Area offers a relaxing environment for visitors wanting to spend time outdoors without rushing through the day.
Many visitors enjoy combining a picnic with:
- The Cades Cove Loop Road
- Wildlife viewing
- Historic cabin exploration
- Short walking trails
- Photography stops
Early mornings and weekdays are often quieter times to visit, especially during busy fall foliage season.
Greenbrier Picnic Area
The Greenbrier section of the national park is often considered one of the quieter areas near Gatlinburg, making it perfect for visitors looking for a peaceful picnic experience.
Located beside flowing streams and surrounded by forest scenery, Greenbrier offers a more secluded atmosphere compared to some of the park's busier picnic areas.
Families often enjoy wading in shallow stream areas during summer while relaxing beneath the trees nearby.
If you enjoy peaceful outdoor settings, you may also want to explore our guide to quiet places in the Smoky Mountains.
Chimneys Picnic Area
Conveniently located along Newfound Gap Road, the Chimneys Picnic Area is one of the easiest picnic stops to access when traveling between Gatlinburg and the higher elevations of the national park.
The area features picnic tables positioned beside a mountain stream, creating a relaxing environment filled with the sounds of flowing water and forest wildlife.
This location works especially well for visitors combining scenic drives with short outdoor stops throughout the day.
Nearby attractions include:
- The Chimneys hiking area
- Newfound Gap Road overlooks
- Kuwohi scenic area
- Sugarlands Visitor Center
Deep Creek Picnic Area
Located near Bryson City on the North Carolina side of the Smokies, Deep Creek offers one of the most scenic picnic settings in the national park.
The area is known for its waterfalls, creeks, and peaceful forest surroundings. Visitors can enjoy lunch at the picnic area before exploring nearby walking trails and waterfalls.
Popular nearby trails include:
- Tom Branch Falls
- Indian Creek Falls
- Juney Whank Falls
Because several waterfalls are accessible through relatively short hikes, Deep Creek is an excellent choice for visitors wanting both outdoor relaxation and light adventure.
Foothills Parkway Overlooks
While not traditional picnic areas, many overlooks along the Foothills Parkway offer incredible spots for scenic roadside picnics.
The Foothills Parkway features panoramic mountain views, peaceful surroundings, and significantly less traffic than some of the busier areas near Gatlinburg.
Visitors often pack simple lunches or snacks and stop at overlooks to enjoy the scenery at their own pace.
If you enjoy scenic drives through the mountains, you may also enjoy our guide to easy scenic drives in the Smoky Mountains.
Douglas Lake Picnic Areas
For visitors wanting a different type of scenery, Douglas Lake near Sevierville offers peaceful picnic opportunities beside the water with beautiful mountain backdrops.
Unlike some of the more heavily visited national park areas, Douglas Lake often feels calmer and more spacious.
Popular activities around the lake include:
- Fishing
- Kayaking
- Photography
- Wildlife viewing
- Boating
- Relaxing lakeside picnics
Sunset views around the lake can be especially beautiful during summer and fall.
Picnic Tips for Visiting the Smokies
Planning ahead can help make your Smoky Mountain picnic experience more enjoyable and stress-free.
- Arrive early during busy seasons
- Bring plenty of water
- Pack insect repellent during warmer months
- Use designated trash containers
- Keep food secured from wildlife
- Check weather conditions before traveling
Visitors should always remember that black bears and other wildlife are common throughout the Smokies. Never leave food unattended or feed wildlife.
Add Adventure to Your Relaxing Mountain Day
Many visitors enjoy combining peaceful outdoor activities with exciting adventures during their Smoky Mountain vacation.
After a relaxing picnic in the national park, families and groups often head to Smoky Mountain Ziplines for an unforgettable outdoor experience near Pigeon Forge.
Ziplining offers incredible mountain views and exciting family-friendly adventure while allowing guests to experience the Smokies from a completely different perspective.
You can continue planning your Smoky Mountain getaway with our Smoky Mountain Adventures Guide, featuring more scenic destinations, outdoor activities, and family-friendly attractions throughout the region.
