Gatlinburg Officially Designated ‘Gateway to the Smokies’

Tennessee General Assembly approves resolution recognizing the city’s historic connection to Great Smoky Mountains National Park

GATLINBURG, Tenn. (Smokies.LIVE Information Center) — Gatlinburg has officially been designated the “Gateway to the Smokies” following approval of House Joint Resolution 751 by the Tennessee General Assembly.

The designation recognizes the city’s longstanding relationship with Great Smoky Mountains National Park and its historic role in welcoming visitors to the nation’s most-visited national park.

Gatlinburg’s connection to the park dates back to its dedication in 1940, which helped spur tourism growth that ultimately led to the city’s incorporation in 1945.

“When people think about visiting the Great Smoky Mountains, they often think of Gatlinburg first,” Mayor Mike Werner said. “Gatlinburg’s history, culture, and economy have been closely tied to the national park for decades, and this recognition further highlights Gatlinburg’s important role as the connection point between visitors and one of America’s greatest natural treasures.”

Located along U.S. Highway 441 and surrounded on three sides by the national park, Gatlinburg provides direct access to the Smokies through the park’s primary Sugarlands entrance. The city serves as a base for visitors exploring the park’s scenic drives, hiking trails, visitor centers and mountain landscapes.

“This designation is an incredible honor for our City and our community,” City Manager Greg Patterson said. “For decades, Gatlinburg has welcomed millions of visitors as they begin their Smoky Mountain experience.”

Great Smoky Mountains National Park attracts more than 13 million visitors annually, making it the most-visited national park in the United States.

Chad Netherland, president and CEO of the Gatlinburg Convention and Visitors Bureau, said the designation highlights the connection between the city and the surrounding mountains.

“Gatlinburg and the Smokies have always gone hand in hand,” Netherland said. “This official designation helps tell the story of who we are as a destination.”

Netherland said visitors come to experience the national park’s natural beauty while also discovering Gatlinburg’s hospitality, attractions, lodging, dining and traditions.

The city and visitors bureau thanked state Reps. Fred Atchley and Andy Farmer and state Sen. Steve Southerland for sponsoring the resolution and supporting the designation, along with the full General Assembly.

The recognition formally establishes Gatlinburg’s identity as the “Gateway to the Smokies” and celebrates the city’s role in connecting visitors with the natural beauty and heritage of Great Smoky Mountains National Park.