In Sevierville County, one of the most popular counties in the Smoky Mountain region, Gatlinburg is home to some amazing attractions, adventures, and family fun.
But Gatlinburg surely isn’t all you’ll want to see when you’re visiting the Volunteer State. You’re going to want to hit up the other attractions, visit Music City, and so much more! But how long will it take to get from here to there?
What is the Drive Like from Gatlinburg to Nashville?
As you meander through these beautiful hills and valleys of the state that’s home to Country Music, you’ll find some incredible sights and stunning views along the way.
How Long is it From Gatlinburg to Nashville?
Depending on the route you take, your drive from Gatlinburg to Nashville will be between four and five hours.
Adding in stops along the way, you’ll definitely be bulking on some time, as well. Gas stops, rest stops, maybe some shopping or hitting up the attractions – you’ll add in anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours.
If you’ve got a deadline for an event (show tickets anyone?) or meet-up time with folks in Nashville, you’ll want to make sure you give yourself some extra time to make the drive, in case you need (or want) to stop along the way.
But if you don’t need to stop and you’re in a rush, take I-40 West for the fastest, smoothest route.
Which Route is Better?
There are three basic routes for getting to Nashville from Gatlinburg.
Fastest, Most Direct Route
Leaving Gatlinburg, take Highway 321 East to 454 north. When you hit 411, take that west until you hit 66. Take 66 north until you come to Interstate 40. Take 40 going West all the way to Nashville.
Route Through Pigeon Forge
If you’d like to make your way to Dollywood or other attractions in the area on your way to Nashville, you can take Highway 321 West up toward Pigeon Forge.
Continue on this route after you’ve taken in the sights and sounds of the area, and continue on until you hit the Dolly Parton Parkway. Take the Parkway northwest (TN-449/35/411) and on to 66 and then Interstate 40 West all the way to Nashville.
The Longest Route
Alternatively, when you can split off I-40 and take I-75 West and loop southward and up to Nashville.
This route takes you down through Chattanooga and up through Murfreesboro on the way.
What Are Some Things to Do and See On the Route?
If you’re primarily focused on activities in the area, you’ll find more than you could possibly do in a week in Pigeon Forge.
Some of the attractions include:
- Dollywood
- Moonshine Mountain Coaster
- Ripley’s Davy Crockett Mini Golf
- Hillbilly Golf
- Country Tonite
- Pirate’s Voyage Dinner & Show
- The Redneck Comedy Bus Tour
- Anakeesta Mountain Sightseeing Chondola
- Titanic Museum
- Smoky Mountain Jeep Tours
- Wonderworks Interactive Experience
- Smoky Moutain Outdoors Rafting
- Rainforest Adventure Discovery Zoo
If you have more time, consider checking out the best things to do and see in Knoxville on the northern route, or things to do and see in Chattanooga and Murfreesboro if you’re taking the longer route.
How Far is Gatlinburg From Nashville – Conclusion
Now that you know how far is Nashville from Gatlinburg, you’re ready to hit the road! Just remember to plan enough time along the way to make some stops at some of the big attractions like Dollywood and maybe a few of the lesser-known ones along the way.
Be sure to:
- Determine how much time you want to take
- Plan your route ahead of time
- Choose a few attractions ahead of time
- Give yourself some flexibility to enjoy unexpected stops
Any questions or comments? Let us know! We’d love to learn your tips and tricks or answer any questions we can.
