The 3 Closest Airports to smoky mountains national park
Here’s a guide to the closest airports to Great Smoky Mountains National Park:
The 3 Closest Airports to Smoky Mountains National Park
Planning a trip to the breathtaking Great Smoky Mountains National Park? Choosing the right airport can significantly impact your travel ease. Here’s a look at the closest airports to help you plan your adventure in the Smokies.
1. McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)
Introduction: McGhee Tyson Airport, located in Knoxville, Tennessee, is the closest major airport to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It’s a convenient option for travelers seeking a wider variety of flights and amenities.
- Distance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Approximately 30-40 miles (depending on the park entrance).
- Address: 2055 Alcoa Hwy, Alcoa, TN 37701
- Pros: Diverse airline options, car rental agencies on-site, close proximity to Knoxville.
- Cons: Can be more expensive than smaller airports, potential for flight delays.
- Airlines: Allegiant, American, Delta, Frontier, United.
- Car Rental: Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Alamo.
- Official Website: https://flyknoxville.com/
- Phone: (865) 342-2000
- Rating: 4.0 stars
2. Asheville Regional Airport (AVL)
Introduction: Asheville Regional airport is a good option for reaching the southern part of Great Smoky Mountain National park, with a relatively convenient location.
- Distance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Approximately 60-70 miles (depending on the park entrance).
- Address: 61 Terminal Dr Suite 1, Fletcher, NC 28732
- Pros: Scenic approach, growing number of destinations, fewer crowds.
- Cons: Fewer flight options compared to McGhee Tyson, potentially higher prices.
- Airlines: Allegiant, American, Breeze, Delta, Elite Airways, United.
- Car Rental: Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National.
- Official Website: https://flyavl.com/
- Phone: (828) 684-2285
- Rating: 4.2 stars
3. Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge Airport (GKT)
Introduction: Primarily serving private and general aviation, this airport is located near the park’s popular tourist towns. However, it’s important to note that the airport is not a commercial airport, and you cannot travel from this aiport.
- Distance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Approximately 5-10 miles (depending on the park entrance).
- Address: 163A E Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
- Pros: Ultra-convenient location, close to Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge.
- Cons: Only for small aircraft, no commercial flights, limited services.
- Airlines: N/A – Private aviation only.
- Car Rental: N/A – Limited availability, may require pre-arranged rental
- Official Website: http://www.flygkt.com/
- Phone: (865) 436-0590
- Rating: 3.5 stars
Conclusion:
While the Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge Airport is the closest by a small range, it doesn’t operate for commercial flights. Therefore, McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) in Knoxville is the closest major airport to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, providing the most convenient option with the widest selection of flights and services.