Chimneys Picnic Area in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Relax and Refuel at Chimneys Picnic Area

Located along U.S. Highway 441 between Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and Cherokee, North Carolina, Chimneys Picnic Area offers one of the most accessible and scenic spots for outdoor dining in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Featuring 68 well-maintained picnic sites—many situated right alongside the Little Pigeon River—this area provides an inviting setting to unwind, enjoy a meal, and reconnect with nature.

A Riverside Retreat

One of the standout features of Chimneys Picnic Area is its proximity to the river. Several picnic spots are positioned directly on the riverbank, offering a tranquil setting complete with the soothing sound of flowing water and the chance to dip your feet or splash in the shallows. With large, flat rocks scattered throughout the stream and ample shade from surrounding hardwoods, it’s a popular place to relax after a morning hike or enjoy a leisurely lunch.

Each site is equipped with a picnic table and raised charcoal grill, and many offer convenient parking directly adjacent to the spot. The level pads make these areas accessible to visitors using mobility aids, and the surrounding forest provides a cool and comfortable atmosphere, even during warmer months.

An Ideal Stop Along a Scenic Drive

Centrally located within the park, Chimneys Picnic Area is an excellent midpoint for those traveling the full length of U.S. 441. It’s also a short distance from popular hiking destinations such as the Chimney Tops Trail and Alum Cave Bluffs Trail, making it a perfect place to pause and recharge.

For those seeking a more relaxed alternative to strenuous hiking, the nearby Cove Hardwood Nature Trail offers a peaceful 0.8-mile loop through old-growth forest. Most visitors can complete the walk in under 30 minutes, making it a great way to stretch your legs before or after your meal.

Plan Your Visit

Chimneys Picnic Area is open seasonally, typically from mid-March through November. During peak summer months (May through August), the area remains open until 8:00 PM; at other times during the season, it closes at sunset. While the site does not have a central pavilion, each of the 68 picnic spots is designed for comfort and ease of use, with flat, accessible surfaces and essential amenities, including a public restroom.

The area can be reached by driving approximately five miles south of the Sugarlands Visitor Center on U.S. 441. Look for the clearly marked right-hand turn onto Chimneys Picnic Area Road, which loops through the site.

Safety and Stewardship Guidelines

To help preserve the natural beauty and wildlife of the area, visitors are encouraged to follow these safety and environmental guidelines:

  • Park only in designated areas and avoid driving on unpaved surfaces.
  • Dispose of all waste in bear-proof containers provided throughout the picnic area.
  • Thoroughly clean your site and grill after use to prevent attracting wildlife.
  • Exercise caution around the river; rocks can be slippery, and water levels may rise quickly after rainfall.
  • Always supervise children near the water and keep a safe distance from fast-moving streams.

 

Whether you're planning a full day of hiking or simply seeking a peaceful spot for a riverside lunch, Chimneys Picnic Area offers an ideal combination of accessibility, natural beauty, and park amenities. It's a perfect place to pause, refuel, and enjoy one of the Smokies' most beloved picnic experiences.

For a complete list of picnic sites in the park check out their page: Picnicking in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. And here’s our page where you can find a Smoky Mountains map to get oriented in the park.

And if you’re wondering about accommodations in the area, the best way to be peacefully surrounded by nature with a roof over your head is to stay in a cabin. Call us at 877 80 SMOKY anytime to explore our Pigeon Forge Cabin Rentals as well as our Gatlinburg Cabins and our Wears Valley cabins.

 

Great Smoky Mountains National Park