Hillbilly Golf

Hillbilly Golf in Gatlinburg is mini golf on the side of a mountain. You start on the Parkway, ride an incline railway 300 feet up the hill, then play your way back down on one of two 18-hole courses full of outhouses, moonshine stills, rock walls, and views of town. It has been a Gatlinburg family tradition since 1971.

The incline ride

Your visit starts at the base on the Parkway, where you board the incline for a slow, steep ride up the mountain. It's short but memorable, and the view of Gatlinburg from the top tells you this isn't your usual mini golf course. The incline was rebuilt after the 2016 wildfires, and it has been carrying golfers up the hill ever since.

The two courses

Both courses are 18 holes, built right into the hillside, and both play downhill from the top.

The first course

Classic hillbilly hazards like outhouses, moonshine stills, and old farm equipment, with views of downtown Gatlinburg between holes.

The second course

More mountain obstacles and trickier slopes for players who want a bit more of a challenge, with the same playful Appalachian theme.

Can't decide? Play both. It's a great way to spend an afternoon, and the scenery changes with the seasons, from spring blooms to summer green to fall color.

Before you go

Wear good shoes — the courses are on a steep hillside with slopes and steps, so skip the flip-flops.

Leave the stroller and pets — strollers and pets aren't allowed on the incline or the courses.

Use the restroom first — there are no restrooms at the top.

Plan about an hour — one course takes about an hour, or allow up to two hours to play both.

Check the season — Hillbilly Golf is open from spring through late fall and closes in the coldest months, with limited days in early winter depending on the weather. It may also close during storms. Call ahead or check hillbillygolfgatlinburg.com for current hours.

Parking — parking nearby can be limited in peak season, so consider walking from downtown or riding the Gatlinburg Trolley.

More mini golf

Hillbilly Golf is one of several mini golf courses along the Parkway. Compare your options in our guide to the best mini golf courses in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, or try Crave Golf Club and Professor Hacker's Lost Treasure Golf in Pigeon Forge. Rainy day? See our guide to indoor mini golf.

Nearby

Hillbilly Golf sits near the north end of downtown, a short walk from more Parkway fun. Explore Ripley's Believe It or Not! or Ripley's Haunted Adventure, ride to the top of the Space Needle, cross the SkyBridge at the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park, or ride the gondola to Anakeesta. For dinner, try No Way Jose's, Chesapeake's, or Best Italian. See all things to do in Gatlinburg.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Hillbilly Golf in Gatlinburg?

At 340 Parkway, near traffic light #2 at the north end of downtown Gatlinburg.

How do you get to the courses?

You ride an incline railway 300 feet up the mountain from the Parkway, then play your way back down.

How many courses are there?

Two 18-hole courses, for 36 holes in all.

How long does it take?

About an hour for one course, or up to two hours for both.

Is Hillbilly Golf open year-round?

No. It's open from spring through late fall and closes during the coldest winter months.

Are strollers or pets allowed?

No. Strollers and pets aren't allowed on the incline or the courses. Traveling with a dog? See our pet-friendly cabins.

Is it good for young kids?

Yes, for kids who can handle some walking on slopes and steps. It's a family favorite.