- The Appy Lodge blends rustic Smoky Mountain charm and family-friendly comfort near Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
- Plan easy hikes like the Gatlinburg Trail, plus scenic drives like Newfound Gap and Roaring Fork.
- Gatlinburg is among the most affordable U.S. destinations for families, making it a popular getaway destination.
Imagine waking up to mountain air, grabbing a free breakfast, and being on a waterfall trail before the kids ask, “Are we there yet?” That’s the rhythm of a family trip based at The Appy Lodge (nature by day, cozy comfort by night).
The Appy Lodge sits just off the main Gatlinburg strip and a short drive from the national park entrance, so you’re close to trailheads while still enjoying a quiet, rustic-focused stay. Expect hickory furnishings, Smokies history touches, a free continental breakfast, an indoor pool, a seasonal outdoor pool, a 24-hour market, and free guest parking.
Mini-summary: Families get top national park access at a great value, with The Appy Lodge delivering a cozy, nature-forward home base.
Best Family-Friendly Hikes near The Appy Lodge
Whether it’s your first time hiking with kids or you’re ready for a moderate challenge, these trails are tried-and-true family pleasers:
3.8 miles round-trip; flat; riverside stroll
One of the few dog-friendly trails in GSMNP; connects to Sugarlands Visitor Center
5.4 miles round-trip; moderate
Highlight: Tallest single-drop waterfall in the Smokies
Grotto Falls (via Trillium Gap)
3 miles round-trip; moderate
Highlight: Walk behind the waterfall (kids love this one)
4.6 miles round-trip; moderate to challenging
Highlights: Arch Rock, Alum Cave Bluffs, and big mountain views
1 mile round-trip (paved, steep)
Highlight: Highest point in the Smokies with sweeping views from the observation tower
Your comfy basecamp: The Appy Lodge
After trail time, come back to The Appy Lodge for:
- Rustic Smoky Mountain style: hickory furnishings, heritage displays, and cozy gathering spaces.
- Family-friendly comforts: free continental breakfast, indoor pool, seasonal outdoor pool, fire pits, free parking, free WiFi, and a 24-hour market.
- Close to the action: a short drive to the park entrance yet tucked just off the main strip for a “near-nature” feel at night.
Mini-summary: The Appy Lodge delivers the simple, comfortable rhythm families want: quick park access, restful rooms, breakfast ready, and pools for post-hike fun.
FAQs: Plan your family trip with confidence
Q: How close is The Appy Lodge to Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
A: You’ll be a short, simple drive from the park entrance while staying just off Gatlinburg’s main strip (ideal for early trail starts and easy evenings back at the hotel).
Q: What are the best easy hikes for kids near Gatlinburg?
A: The Gatlinburg Trail (relatively flat, 3.8 miles round-trip) is among the top family favorites here in the area for first outings.
Q: What scenic drives should families do?
A: Newfound Gap Road for overlooks and mountain vistas,and Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail for history, waterfalls, and wildlife opportunities.
Q: Should we book our stay early?
A: Yes. Summer and fall are popular, so early booking helps secure preferred dates.
Reserve Your Gatlinburg Lodging Today
Now that you know more about some of the best ways to enjoy natural activities alongside comfortable Gatlinburg lodging, you can probably see why visitors to the area love coming to stay with us here at The Appy Lodge! If you are ready to experience all that our hotel has to offer, you can go ahead and reserve Gatlinburg lodging at our hotel today. We can’t wait to welcome you.
