Photo: mypigeonforge.com
Travel experiences become more memorable when focusing on the surroundings instead of navigating traffic and finding routes. When you visit a new destination, it is always a wise idea to use available public transportation to immerse yourself in the surrounding culture.
Pigeon Forge, located amidst the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, is a perfect blend of scenic beauty and thrilling entertainment. Exploring the vacation city of Pigeon Forge via a trolley allows you to immerse yourself in the surroundings without worrying about directions or travel routes. Even better, the Pigeon Forge trolley ride is available at a minimal cost, significantly enhancing convenience and the overall travel experience. Choosing the trolley allows you to interact with more people and enjoy the city’s beauty, up close and personal.
Before embarking on your trolley ride, there are a few things you should know to enjoy your journey and ensure a hassle-free vacation. Read on to learn about the insider tips on using the Pigeon Forge trolley and make the most of your trolley experience!
Tips for Exploring Pigeon Forge with the Trolley
Pigeon Forge is a mesmerizing destination, captivating visitors with its natural beauty. The Pigeon Forge trolley offers an authentic local experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the city’s local offerings. Let’s start with tips for using the trolley that will undoubtedly enhance your experience:
-
Know the Routes
In total, there are 6 Pigeon Forge trolley routes departing from Patriot Park, providing access to various destinations. The extensive trolley network encompasses over 100 stops across the Smoky Mountains region. This comprehensive system ensures convenient transportation throughout the area, offering visitors easy access to numerous attractions and scenic spots.
The routes of the Pigeon Forge trolley are as follows:
Route 1: North Parkway
The North Parkway trolley departs from Patriot Park and travels through Pigeon Forge towards Sevierville, turning at Governor’s Crossing. Trolleys are available approximately every 20 minutes, providing frequent and reliable transportation along this route.
Route 2: South Parkway
This trolley travels along Teaster Lane, stopping at the LeConte Event Center, and concludes its route at Jake Thomas Road. It also provides access to the nearby area campgrounds and Dolly’s Stampede. Trolleys on this route operate approximately every 25 minutes.
Route 3: Gatlinburg Welcome Center
The trolley for this route departs from Patriot Park and travels directly to the Gatlinburg Welcome Center. From there, you can board trolleys to various destinations of your choice. Trolleys on this route operate every 30 minutes, providing convenient and regular transportation options for visitors.
Route 4: Dollywood
If you plan to visit Dollywood, you can take this trolley, which offers a cost-effective option and runs every 15 minutes.
Route 5: Dollywood’s Splash Country
Every 20 minutes, you can catch a trolley from Patriot Park to Dollywood’s Splash Country, one of the most iconic locations in Pigeon Forge.
Route 6: Wear Valley
The Wear Valley trolley route takes you through the nearby valley campgrounds and various businesses in the city. Trolleys on this route are available every 40-45 minutes.
-
Research Trolley Fares
Every time you board the trolley, you must pay the corresponding fare. If you’re exploring the city and prefer not to deal with paying each time you board, consider purchasing an all-day pass. However, remember that these passes are not valid on the Gatlinburg trolley route. You can also buy the passes through the mobile app. Below are the details of Pigeon Forge trolley fares for different routes:
| North Parkway | $1.00 |
| South Parkway | $1.00 |
| Gatlinburg Welcome Center | $1.00 |
| Dollywood | $2.50 |
| Dollywood’s Splash Country | $2.50 |
| Wear Valley | $1.00 |
| All Day Pass (Colored Wristband) | $3.00 |
| Children under 3 years old | Free |
-
Get Familiar with the Service Opening and Closing Times
The Pigeon Forge trolley operates from 8:30 am to midnight from March to October. In November and December, service hours are from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm. Please note that there is no trolley service on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Trolley frequency may vary depending on traffic, weekends, and city events, so plan accordingly for your travel needs.
-
Explore Like Locals
Boarding the Pigeon Forge trolley from less busy stops can help you avoid crowds, especially at hubs like Patriot Park, which tend to be busiest. Mid-mornings and late evenings generally see fewer passengers, making it easier to catch a trolley.
Understanding the connections between routes can streamline your travel; for instance, taking the appropriate route directly to Dollywood to avoid changing trolleys. Utilize the mobile app for tracking routes and schedules. If you require wheelchair access or have strollers, the Pigeon Forge trolleys are equipped to accommodate these needs. Simply inform the driver upon boarding, and they will assist you in ensuring a comfortable and accessible ride. Given Pigeon Forge’s tendency for regular summer showers, it’s advisable to carry an umbrella with you.
-
Follow the Safety Rules and Local Etiquette
While Pigeon Forge trolleys are generally safe, it’s important to remain vigilant like you would on any public transport system. Be mindful of your personal belongings to ensure they’re secure throughout your journey. Some etiquette rules you can follow onboard the Pigeon Forge trolley include:
- Giving seats to elderly or disabled individuals
- Maintaining a quiet atmosphere in the trolley
- Paying fares promptly upon boarding
- Disposing of trash responsibly
Adhering to these local etiquettes enhances the overall comfort and enjoyment of your ride.
Sit back, relax, and view the city’s charming surroundings and attractions from the trolley windows. This can enrich your experience of Pigeon Forge and make your trolley journey all the more enjoyable.
Conclusion
The Pigeon Forge trolley system stands out as a dependable, cost-effective, and convenient mode of transportation, ideal for exploring local attractions, attending events, or simply navigating the city with ease. Your journey through Pigeon Forge aboard the trolley will not only leave you with cherished vacation memories but also provide an authentic local experience.
Embrace the trolley like a local to enhance your overall travel experience, ensuring convenience and enjoyment throughout your stay. Should you encounter challenges navigating the routes, seeking assistance from friendly locals can further enrich your visit.
The post Insider Tips for Using the Pigeon Forge Trolley Like a Local appeared first on DOWNBEACH.