Hike the Oconaluftee River Trail

This ~3-mile (4.8-km) roundtrip hike begins at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center.

NPS Photo

Overview

Elk frequent this area—please stay 50 yards from elk and all wildlife

Enjoy a riverside stroll approximately 3 miles (4.8 km) roundtrip on one of the only pet- and bike-friendly trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

This popular trail is relatively flat, wide, and graveled and follows the Oconaluftee River through elk habitat and low-elevation hardwood forest from the Oconaluftee Visitor Center to the park boundary at the edge of Cherokee, North Carolina. This trail is relatively flat and wide making it wheelchair, stroller, and bicycle friendly. Pets are allowed on this trail but must be on a leash.

Length

3 miles (4.8 km) roundtrip

Parking

Oconaluftee Visitor Center—walk from the visitor center parking to the Mountain Farm Museum to find the trailhead

Nearest Restroom

Oconaluftee Visitor Center

Alternate Hikes

• Gatlinburg Trail: approximately 4 miles (6.4 km) roundtrip

• Big Creek Trail: varying lengths

• Little River Trail: varying lengths

Details

Activity

Hiking

Pets Allowed

Yes

The Gatlinburg Trail and Oconaluftee River Trail are the two park trails where pets are permitted. Pets are also allowed in picnic areas, in campgrounds, and on roads.

Activity Fee

Yes

A parking tag is required to park in the Smokies for more than 15 minutes.

Reservations

No

Accessibility Information

Not ADA accessible with various roots and rocks along the trail, but considered a leisurely trail that is mostly flat and wide.