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Started By
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Dollywood and question about Smoky Mountains
Posted on 10/10/25 at 9:45 am
Posted on 10/10/25 at 9:45 am
Bringing the family next week to Gatlinburg/Sevierville. Arriving Tuesday evening and departing Sunday morning. We always have gone in June/July, so this is our first time in the fall.
My first question...how crowded is Dollywood in the middle of October? Should we plan on going on a Wednesday or Thursday to avoid the weekend crowd, or is it not too bad on the weekends during this time of year that going on a Saturday would be fine?
Second question...I have a 6 and 8 year-old son. I haven't hiked the whole 10-mile trail up Mount Le Conte in 15+ years. Anyone who hiked that one recently think 2 young boys could hike that?
My first question...how crowded is Dollywood in the middle of October? Should we plan on going on a Wednesday or Thursday to avoid the weekend crowd, or is it not too bad on the weekends during this time of year that going on a Saturday would be fine?
Second question...I have a 6 and 8 year-old son. I haven't hiked the whole 10-mile trail up Mount Le Conte in 15+ years. Anyone who hiked that one recently think 2 young boys could hike that?
9
Posted on 10/10/25 at 10:08 am to Crescent Connection
quote:
I have a 6 and 8 year-old son. I haven't hiked the whole 10-mile trail up Mount Le Conte in 15+ years. Anyone who hiked that one recently think 2 young boys could hike that
I went with a group of boys this year, all around that age. They peter out pretty good after about 6 miles.
If you want to attempt it, bring WAY more food than you think is necessary. At least two lunches.
Posted on 10/10/25 at 10:14 am to Crescent Connection
I have been to that area a number of times in October for the LSU- Tennessee game. The crowds at Dollywood are not that bad. Sometimes it is quite chilly that time of year.
The hike up to LeConte Lodge is one of my favorites although I have never stayed at the lodge or made it all the way to the top. I don’t know about a six year old doing the whole thing. There are other nice hikes around there with pretty scenery and waterfalls that are a lot easier.
The hike up to LeConte Lodge is one of my favorites although I have never stayed at the lodge or made it all the way to the top. I don’t know about a six year old doing the whole thing. There are other nice hikes around there with pretty scenery and waterfalls that are a lot easier.
Posted on 10/10/25 at 10:30 am to Crescent Connection
quote:
Mount Le Conte
Are you planning on staying overnight there? If not, just do a bunch of shorter waterfall hikes.
Posted on 10/10/25 at 10:44 am to Crescent Connection
In my humble opinion, the best time to visit Dollywood would be during the week as the crowds aren't very big. If you go on the weekend, the crowds are exponentially larger.
This post was edited on 10/19/25 at 8:48 pm
Posted on 10/10/25 at 1:00 pm to Crescent Connection
10 mile hike for a 6 year old sounds terrible for all parties. Like the other poster said, try the waterfall loops this time around.
Posted on 10/10/25 at 1:42 pm to Crescent Connection
Went to Dollywood last October and the crowd wasnt bad IMO
Short ride on trolly that wasnt crowded.
We went on a Friday right before dark.
The food places closed before we got to eat but other than that it was amazing with all of the fall decorations/pumpkin/jack-o-lanterns and they pump that spice smell in the air.
Would go again.
Short ride on trolly that wasnt crowded.
We went on a Friday right before dark.
The food places closed before we got to eat but other than that it was amazing with all of the fall decorations/pumpkin/jack-o-lanterns and they pump that spice smell in the air.
Would go again.
Posted on 10/10/25 at 2:19 pm to Crescent Connection
I would definitely go to Dollywood during the week, but I would also make sure to look at the schedule and double check hours and what not. They may not be open 7 days a week all year? I can't remember. But they do run special days and themes so make sure to look.
Posted on 10/10/25 at 4:29 pm to Crescent Connection
This time of year is much better than June/July. Crowds are less and the weather is much cooler. You might need a light jacket in the evenings.
Posted on 10/10/25 at 4:53 pm to Shexter
I forgot that part!
Light jacket required!!!
The leaves will be looking great as well.
Light jacket required!!!
The leaves will be looking great as well.
Posted on 10/11/25 at 8:59 pm to Donkus
You could hike Alum Cave and stop at the bluff. I would recommend hydration packs for everyone and lunch/snacks like previously mentioned
Posted on 10/12/25 at 1:34 pm to Donkus
quote:
try the waterfall loops this time around.
Or Alum Cave, or Grotto Falls.
I agree that I wouldn't go more than 2-3 miles for 5-6 total. No way it's fun to go all the way up LeConte. Everybody will be miserable unless you have kids that are used to hiking that far already.
Posted on 10/14/25 at 12:04 am to Crescent Connection
My sisters were there two weeks ago, said, not crowded at all. A suggestion, 6&8 would love the Dixie Stampede. My sister brought a grandson and friend. Said the food and entertainment were great, the guys really did enjoy.
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