ATV riding in Gatlinburg is a thrilling way to explore the great outdoors. Here is some information before you go on a recreational ATV riding adventure.
Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains offer plenty of trails to choose from, so whether you’re looking for a leisurely ride or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, you’ll surely find one that suits you.
If you’re looking for an off-road adventure while visiting Gatlinburg, you certainly won’t be disappointed. There are several trails in the area that offer beautiful scenery and challenging terrain.
Here is a guide to ATV riding in Gatlinburg to get you started!
Can You Ride ATV in Gatlinburg TN?
Yes, you can ride an ATV in Gatlinburg, TN. You are allowed to ride on roads in the Smoky Mountain area, including within the national park and on the town of Gatlinburg. However, you can only ride your ATVs on any roads in the region that have a posted speed limit of 40 mph or less.
Places you can ride ATVs in Gatlinburg:
- National Park
- Private Guided ATV Tours
- Private Clubs and Resorts
The national park, unfortunately, has no off-road ATV trails, however, there are a few available street-legal ATV/UTV rentals in Gatlinburg.
For more trail riding destination ideas, read our guide to the Best ATV trails in Tennessee for our pick of the top places for Tennessee ATV Riding.
Do You Have To Register ATVs in Tennessee?
No, you don’t have to register your ATV in Tennessee, and that includes ATVs in Gatlinburg. However, you must attach a special identification plate or sticker to your vehicle that shows that you were issued a certificate of title for it.
Read our guide on Tennessee State ATV Riding Laws for more information, or go to the Tennessee Department of Revenue site.
Do I Need A License In Gatlinburg, TN To Operate An ATV?
No, you do not need to have a special license in order to operate an ATV in Gatlinburg, TN. However, it is highly encouraged for riders to take a driver safety course.
Additionally, some areas may require you to have a special-use riding permit.
Gatlinburg, TN ATV Trail Maps
Most trail systems will provide you with a trail map when you arrive at your riding location. However, if you are a regular ATV rider and want a great ATV trail map navigation system, we recommend the onX off-road App membership.
Are there ATV trails in Smoky Mountains?
While there are no official ATV trails in the Smoky Mountains to ride on your own, there are still several ways to ride ATVs and UTVs in the Smoky Mountains.
And there are definitely some awesome places not far from the national park where you can ride your ATV.
While that is the case, there are several outstanding places to take a guided ATV trail riding tour like the Bluff Mountains Adventures which is located close to Gatlinburg, TN.
Gatlinburg ATV Rentals
Looking for ATV/UTV rentals in Gatlinburg? Check them out below!
Check out these spots if you need to rent an ATV while visiting Tennessee.
Fun ATV Riding Clothes
While protective gear is essential on the trail, looking cute and sharing your wilder riding side with the world is okay. I’m a big fan of ball caps and love this adorable “ATV hair, Don’t Care” hat from Sew Vivid Design on Etsy. Be sure to check out all this cute ATV apparel.
Get Your FREE ATV Pre Ride Inspection Checklist
Recommended ATV Riding Resources
- Top ATV Trails Near Me in the Southeast
- Must-Have ATV Accessories
- ATV Riding Clothes– Everything you need to get started
- ATV Trails Near Me Facebook Group
MORE RELATED RESOURCES
Looking for places to ride in nearby areas of Gatlinburg? Maybe our guide to ATV Riding in Pigeon Forge, TN is what you’re looking for.
And if you’re in it for new off-roading adventure ideas, check out this post about Pink Jeep Tours will make you want to explore the great outdoors even more!