Partial pet access

Great Smoky Mountains National Park pet access

Reviewed summary of the park's official pet rules. This is not an official NPS website.

TN, NCChecked 2026-09-28Official page updated August 17, 2026

Where pets are allowed

  • Frontcountry campgrounds.
  • Picnic areas.
  • Along roadways.
  • Gatlinburg Trail and Oconaluftee River Trail.

Where pets are not allowed

  • All other park trails and the backcountry.

Leash rule

Pets must be restrained; reviewed source states a maximum leash length of 6 feet.

Safety notes

Official source

Authority: National Park Service

Open the official NPS pet-rules page

Rules can change. Verify the official source before travel.

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