Airport Near Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge, nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, offers a blend of natural beauty, family attractions, and entertainment. Traveling here requires some planning, especially if you’re flying. Therefore, knowing the closest airports helps streamline your journey.
McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)
The nearest major airport to Pigeon Forge is McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) located in Knoxville, Tennessee. It’s approximately 40 miles from Pigeon Forge, making it a convenient option for travelers. The drive takes about an hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This airport services several major airlines, offering daily flights to and from cities like Atlanta, Charlotte, and Chicago.
Car rental services are available at the airport for those wishing to drive to Pigeon Forge. Taxis and ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate out of McGhee Tyson as well. Although public transportation options to Pigeon Forge from the airport are limited, these services ensure a fairly straightforward journey.
Asheville Regional Airport (AVL)
Located a bit further away, Asheville Regional Airport in North Carolina can also be a feasible option. It’s about 100 miles away, translating to roughly a two-hour drive to Pigeon Forge. This airport services several routes with connections through American Airlines, Delta, and United, among others.
Travelers often choose Asheville Regional because of its accessibility and less crowded nature compared to larger airports. Rent a car at the airport for flexibility in timing and routes. The scenic drive to Pigeon Forge can be an experience in itself for those seeking an enjoyable road trip through the mountains.
Amtrak and Bus Options
For those considering a combination of flight and ground transport, Amtrak trains and various bus services might play a role in your travel plans. The nearest Amtrak stations lie in cities like Knoxville and Asheville, but travel from these stations to Pigeon Forge requires additional modes of transport such as taxis or rental cars.
Greyhound and Megabus operate routes that may stop in nearby cities. Checking current schedules and stops is essential for accurate trip planning. Combining these services with flights might be more time-consuming but can sometimes offer cost benefits or other conveniences.
Surrounding Airports
- Nashville International Airport (BNA)
- Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)
- Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
These airports are considerably farther from Pigeon Forge but might be options depending on your itinerary or budget. When planning long-distance travel, consider potential layovers and available direct flights. Deciding to fly into these airports might allow you to explore other regions of the South before heading to Pigeon Forge.
Nashville Airport has a vast array of flights and can cater to international travelers more seamlessly. Atlanta’s airport, one of the busiest globally, also gives extensive flight options, albeit requiring a longer drive to the Smokies.
Driving Alternatives
Some travelers prefer driving directly to Pigeon Forge. Depending on your starting point, highways like I-40 and US-441 provide access to the region. Driving offers the most flexibility, as travelers can stop at scenic areas or towns along the way. Parking in Pigeon Forge isn’t typically an issue, as many attractions offer ample space. Mapping out your route and accounting for traffic times helps avoid delays.