Metcalf Bottoms		The "Y" in Townsend		Oconaluftee Islands Park
The Sinks		Pigeon River - Townsend		The "Y" in Townsend

Swimming in Mountain Rivers:
Mountain rivers can rise suddenly due to flash flooding. They are also very dangerous for swimming. Please do not swim in the mountain rivers!

The "Y" in Townsend
Townsend is located approximately 20 miles from Pigeon Forge by Wears Valley Road and 22 miles from Gatlinburg at Sugarlands Visitor Center. There is a large grassy area beside this cool mountain river where you can picnic or sun bathe. Tube rentals are available at several shops close to the "Y".

The Sinks
The Sinks are located approximately 15 miles from Gatlinburg on the Little River Road and approximately 5 miles from Townsend. The Sinks is a very rocky area with massive waterfalls but is a very dangerous swimming area. Many deaths have occurred in this area.

The Chimneys
The Chimneys Picnic Area offers a beautiful mountain river with lots of picnic tables, charcoal grills, and relaxing by a cool mountain stream. The Chimneys Picnic Area is located 4.5 miles into Great Smoky Mountains National Park from the Gatlinburg entrance.

Cataloochee Creek
Getting to this remote area requires a long drive over a gravel road. Approaching from the west along I-40, take the Waterville exit (No. 451) and cross the Pigeon River. Turn left at the end of the bridge, and follow the paved road 2 miles to an intersection. Here, turn left onto a gravel road (formerly known as NC 284), and continue on to the Cataloochee Valley (approximately 23 miles).

Upon reaching the valley, the New Cataloochee Road follows alongside the stream for 3 miles, arriving at the campground. The confluence of Palmer Creek and Caldwell Fork is located a short distance upstream. The confluence of these two streams marks the starting point of Cataloochee Creek.

Oconaluftee Islands Park in Cherokee
A beautiful, cool mountain river runs wide through Oconaluftee Islands Park. It flows through a beautiful park where you can picnic and spend the day fishing or just relaxing. The river bed is level.

Pigeon River in Townsend
The Pigeon River runs for several miles throughout Townsend and offers various picnic areas.

Theme Parks:

Dolly's Splash Country - Waterfalls, winding streams and white water adventures for the whole family!  Enjoy loads of rides - from wild to mild!