Gatlinburg Golf Course
Pigeon Forge · 18 holes and a 200-foot par three
Gatlinburg's municipal course, which actually sits in Pigeon Forge off Dollywood Lane — a naming quirk that catches out first-timers. The reason to play it is the twelfth, a par three called Sky Hi that drops two hundred feet from tee to green, the steepest on LINKS Magazine's national list of par-three drops. The rest is a hilly 1955 layout with mountain views on nearly every hole, and there's no driving range, so warm up on the putting green.
Gatlinburg Golf Course is the area's best-known public course, an 18-hole layout with big mountain views. Despite the name, it isn't in Gatlinburg. It sits in Pigeon Forge, just off Dollywood Lane.
The course opened in 1955 and was later redesigned by golf architect Bob Cupp. Today it's a scenic, hilly round that works for visiting golfers of all levels, and it's home to one of the most talked-about holes in the Smokies.
Why is the Gatlinburg Golf Course in Pigeon Forge?
It's Gatlinburg's municipal course, and it was built before Pigeon Forge grew into the town it is today. So the course kept the Gatlinburg name even though its address is in Pigeon Forge. That's great news for visitors, because it's minutes from the Parkway, Dollywood and the rest of Pigeon Forge's attractions.
The course
William Langford laid out the original course in 1955. Bob Cupp redesigned it in the 1990s and again in 2007. The result is a mountain course with elevation changes, tree-lined fairways and Smoky Mountain views on nearly every hole.
The famous 12th hole
The par-3 12th is the hole everyone remembers. You tee off from a bluff about 200 feet above the green, so your ball hangs in the air for what feels like forever. Bring your camera, because it's one of the best views on the course.
Good for every level
The course is public, so you don't need a membership to play. Its mix of scenic, hilly holes makes it a fun vacation round whether you're a regular or just play a few times a year.
Plan your round
520 Dollywood Ln, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
(865) 453-3912
Book a tee time: Call the pro shop to reserve a tee time, especially on weekends and during fall color season.
Carts and rentals: Carts are included with green fees, and rental clubs are available if you didn't pack your bag.
Warm up: There's a putting green near the clubhouse, but no driving range, so plan to stretch and roll a few putts before you head out.
Know the basics: The course is soft-spikes only. The clubhouse has a pro shop with drinks and snacks.
Year-round golf: The course is open all year, weather permitting. Spring and fall bring the best mountain scenery.
More golf courses near Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge
Planning a golf trip? See our guide to the best golf courses in Sevierville, just a short drive away. Traveling with kids who'd rather putt for fun? Check out the best putt-putt courses in Pigeon Forge and the best mini golf in Gatlinburg. For more ideas, browse all our Pigeon Forge attractions.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Gatlinburg Golf Course?
At 520 Dollywood Ln in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, just off the Parkway and close to Dollywood.
Why is it called Gatlinburg Golf Course if it's in Pigeon Forge?
It's Gatlinburg's municipal course, and it was built before Pigeon Forge grew up around it, so it kept the Gatlinburg name.
Is Gatlinburg Golf Course open to the public?
Yes. It's a public 18-hole course, and no membership is needed.
What is the signature hole?
The par-3 12th, where you tee off from a bluff about 200 feet above the green.
Does the course have a driving range?
No, but there's a putting green for warming up.
Can I rent clubs?
Yes. Rental clubs are available, and carts are included with green fees.
Stay just minutes from the first tee. Browse our cabins near Gatlinburg Golf Course, unwind after your round in one of our hot tub cabins, or bring the whole foursome and their families to one of our large cabins.