Exploring the ‘peaceful side’ of the Smokies: How biking is growing in Townsend

by: Naomi Hillmer

Posted: Apr 16, 2026 / 12:05 PM EDT

Updated: Apr 16, 2026 / 05:40 PM EDT

TOWNSEND, Tenn. (WATE) — Tourism in Townsend offers visitors a look at the peaceful side of the Smokies, outside the hustle and bustle of large cities or amusement attractions. Serving as a gateway to the Smokies, shop owners say people come to town for the views, laid-back atmosphere, and accessibility to a number of bike trails and greenways nearby.

Biking remains one of the most sought-after activities in Townsend, and with Cades Cove’s Vehicle-free Days set to begin next month, thousands are expected to go through the town ready to enjoy the Smokies.  

What to explore beyond 441: ‘The best part of Gatlinburg’ visitors might miss

“Because we’re about as close as you can get to the National Park and getting up to Cades Cove. So, that’s a huge draw where they close it to cars,” said Vee Hollow General Manager, Ben Elmer.  

Just before you enter the mountains lies Vee Hollow, a 14-mile trail network, along with a bike rental and repair shop. The private trails are open to the public for free from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., weather permitting. Here is where Elmer said both experienced mountain bikers and novices can explore for free.  

“It’s proper mountain biking, you definitely want the tool for the job,” he said. “You can’t really go in there with a greenway bike or anything. We do allow e-bikes, but only the class one pedal-assist e-bikes. So whether you have your own bike, electric or non, in a mountain bike style, you’re welcome to just come ride the trails.”  

2026 Spring Rod Run returning to Pigeon Forge

However, if mountain biking is not quite your speed, then you can rent an e-bike that can either take you up the town’s greenway loop or into the Smokies. 

“We have a beautiful greenway out here that actually has tunnels underneath it, so you don’t have to go across the traffic. We have play areas for kids to play. We have lots of shops and coffee shops, eateries,” said Scotty Bike Townsend co-owner, Michelle Schleich.  

Schleich said e-bikes have grown in popularity since COVID, and they provide a unique feature when it comes to renting one.  

“We also have communication helmets. So that’s one of the fun features of our shop is that anywhere you’re going, whether you’re on the Greenway, or out by the River, or even in Cades Cove, where there’s no service, you can actually talk to the people that you’re with,” she said.  

Changes coming to backcountry camping in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Whether you want the paved, gravel, or dirt road to bike on, both shops agree there is no better place to ride.  

“The beauty of Townsend is it’s not all done up like Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, where it’s just quiet and charming, and it’s just outdoor minded,” said Elmer.  

Vehicle-free days in Cades Cove will happen each Wednesday starting May 6 through September 30. Both shops said it is one of the busiest days of the week for them. According to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, nearly 30,000 bicyclists and pedestrians participate.