VISIT IN THE OFF-SEASONTo avoid traffic (and packed attractions), visit in winter or early spring. Try to avoid spring break weeks or popular periods like Memorial Day weekend.
People Also Ask
Overall, summer and fall are busier times to visit the Smokies and the cooler times of year like winter and spring see fewer crowds. While you may dislike crowds, this also shows that most people enjoy exploring the mountains and seeing attractions in warmer, dryer weather.
You avoid traffic in Gatlinburg by avoiding traveling the last week of June and the first two weeks of July are the busiest times in Gatlinburg as families take advantage of summer break from school. Additionally, October can also be a busy time due to the fall foliage and Halloween festivities.
Even if you don't see a bear on the trail, it's extremely likely that you will see one while you're driving around the area, especially if you take a drive along any of the motor nature trails or Newfound Gap Road. Cades Cove is one of the most popular spots to see black bears in the Smoky Mountains.
Overall, Gatlinburg is more compact than Pigeon Forge, which creates a more pedestrian friendly area. There are some downsides to being in a smaller valley. Since there's not much open space or alternative routes, this mountain town tends to get more crowded than Pigeon Forge.
While Pigeon Forge is the gateway to the stunning Great Smoky Mountains, Branson is the gateway to the majestic Ozark Mountains. Both are family-friendly destinations. Perhaps the best one to visit depends more on how close one is or if one would like to visit the Ozarks or the Smoky Mountains.