If you’ve been to Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, or Gatlinburg, in the past… oh… 20-plus years…. you’ve probably seen or even been a part of the large number of cars, trucks, trailers and campers that flock to the area on the weekends, during the holidays and in peak season. It can literally be a slow moving mess, and a headache for drivers. Here are just a few easy ways to avoid major traffic jams when you come to town:
- Try to avoid arriving in town between 3 pm and 7 pm on Friday. This is when the east coast travelers arrive in the area. If possible, arrive at your destination earlier rather than later.
- Leaving town between 10 am and 1 pm on Sunday should also be avoided. Stay for lunch if you can. The southbound side restaurants (if you’re traveling toward Gatlinburg from Sevierville and Pigeon Forge) will be less busy. Around 1 pm the traffic really starts to thin out.
- Of all the things to keep up with, keep up with the Pigeon Forge calendar of events for car shows. It can be quite a task to enjoy everything Sevierville and Pigeon Forge have to offer if you’re in town during a car show… unless of course that’s what you’re here for. During the Spring Rod Run, Shades of the Past, and the Fall Rod Run, the Parkway is packed with antiques hot rods, and basically any other car you can think of.
- Try taking the trolley when you’re in town, or walking. Sevierville and Gatlinburg are taken in a lot easier if you’re on foot and there are ample places to park throughout town.
- Plan things that are close together and easy to reach. There are places that have shopping, restaurants, and shows and entertainment all within walking distance. Plan accordingly to keep from having to actually get on the Parkway.
And these are just a few tips. Take a look at the links to the right and you might just find some secret, insider info! Samples: Alternate route to Dollywood and Shortcut to the Park From Pigeon Forge.