Planning a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains begins with one important travel decision—choosing the Closest Airport to Gatlinburg TN. As one of Tennessee’s most beloved mountain towns, Gatlinburg attracts visitors year-round with its scenic beauty, outdoor adventures, and welcoming atmosphere. However, since the town does not have its own airport, understanding which nearby airport offers the easiest and most convenient access is essential for a smooth journey.

Selecting the Closest Airport to Gatlinburg TN not only saves travel time but also makes the transition from flight to mountain getaway far more enjoyable. Whether you’re arriving from another U.S. city or travelling internationally, the right airport choice helps reduce driving stress and allows you to start exploring sooner. From short scenic drives to flexible travel routes, knowing your airport options ensures your Smoky Mountain adventure begins on the right note.

This guide breaks down the Closest Airport to Gatlinburg TN, along with other nearby alternatives, driving routes, and travel tips, so you can plan your trip with confidence and focus on what truly matters—enjoying the breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable experiences Gatlinburg has to offer.

Getting There: Understanding the Route to the Closest Airport to Gatlinburg TN

Gatlinburg sits just outside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, about 40 miles southeast of Knoxville. While that might sound like a bit of a drive, it’s one of the most picturesque routes in the country. The town itself doesn’t have an airport, but there are several nearby — all within easy driving distance.

The airport closest to Gatlinburg TN depends on where you’re coming from. For most domestic travellers, the Knoxville McGhee Tyson Airport is the easiest choice. For international visitors, Nashville International Airport often makes the most sense. And if you’re exploring from the Carolinas, smaller regional airports can also work perfectly.

Read More: Longest Beach in the World: Location, Length, and What Makes It Special

Quick Comparison: Closest Airports to Gatlinburg TN

Here is a table comparing the main airports mentioned:

Airport	Distance from Gatlinburg	Drive Time	Best For
McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)	~40 miles	~1 hr 15 mins	Closest major airport; domestic flights
Nashville International Airport (BNA)	~220 miles	~3.5–4 hours	International flights; diverse connections
Asheville Regional Airport (AVL)	~85 miles	~2 hours	East Coast travellers; scenic Blue Ridge route
Greenville-Spartanburg Airport (GSP)	~140 miles	~3 hours	Travellers visiting Tennessee + Carolinas
Chattanooga Airport (CHA)	~150 miles	~3 hours	Quiet airport; Southern U.S. connections

Best Airport Choice Based on Your Travel Plans

Choosing the right airport depends on your starting point, your travel time, and whether you prefer a short drive or don’t mind a scenic road trip. Domestic flyers usually prefer TYS, while international travellers often choose BNA for more global connections. Many travellers also consider the closest airport to Pigeon Forge TN for added convenience when visiting the Smoky Mountains.

Best Time to Fly to the Closest Airport to Gatlinburg TN

The time of year you visit can influence which is the best and closest airport to Gatlinburg TN for your trip. During peak seasons like fall foliage (September–October) and summer vacations, flights into McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) tend to fill quickly, and rental car prices rise. Booking flights early during these months is highly recommended.

Winter travel is quieter, especially from January to early March, making it easier to find affordable flights into Knoxville or Nashville. However, mountain roads may occasionally be affected by snow or ice, so checking weather conditions before driving to Gatlinburg is essential.

Spring offers a perfect balance—mild weather, blooming wildflowers, and smoother airport experiences. No matter the season, choosing the closest airport to Gatlinburg TN ensures less travel fatigue and more time enjoying the Smoky Mountains.

Fly or Drive: Choosing the Closest Airport to Gatlinburg TN

While flying into the closest airport to Gatlinburg TN is ideal for most travellers, some visitors prefer driving depending on distance and travel style. If you live within 5–7 hours of Gatlinburg, driving can be cost-effective and allows flexibility for scenic stops along the way.

Flying is the better option for long-distance or international travellers, especially when time is limited. Airports like TYS reduce overall travel stress by minimizing driving time after landing. On the other hand, flying into Nashville (BNA) may offer cheaper flights, even though the drive is longer.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your budget, schedule, and travel goals. Whether you fly into the closest major airport to Gatlinburg TN, or enjoy a scenic road trip, the journey becomes part of the Smoky Mountain experience.

McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) – Closest Major Airport to Gatlinburg TN

If you’re after the most direct route, McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) is where your Smoky Mountain journey should begin.

• Location: Alcoa, Tennessee — roughly 40 miles from Gatlinburg
• Drive Time: Around 1 hour and 15 minutes

McGhee Tyson is widely recognized as the closest major airport to Gatlinburg TN, and for good reason. It’s small enough to feel relaxed yet big enough to offer a variety of flights from cities across the U.S. You’ll find carriers like Delta, United, American, Allegiant, and Frontier, making it easy to fly in from hubs such as Atlanta, Dallas, or Charlotte.

What makes McGhee Tyson such a traveller favorite is its simplicity. There’s none of the chaos that comes with huge airports — everything from baggage claim to car rentals is straightforward to find.

Why Travellers Love It:

• Quick access to car rentals (Hertz, Enterprise, Avis, and more)
• Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available
• Cozy cafes, souvenir shops, and short lines
• Friendly southern hospitality everywhere you turn

Once you pick up your rental car, you’ll follow US-441 South, a route that winds through Sevierville and Pigeon Forge before arriving in Gatlinburg. It’s not just a drive — it’s an experience. As the mountains rise around you and the air turns cooler, you’ll feel the transition from city to mountain life begin almost instantly.

Read More: Vaucluse’s Hidden Coastal Walks: Discovering Sydney’s Most Exclusive Waterfront Trails

Nashville International Airport (BNA) – Closest International Airport to Gatlinburg TN

If you’re coming from abroad or from one of America’s coastal cities, Nashville International Airport (BNA) is a fantastic option.

• Location: Nashville, Tennessee — about 220 miles west of Gatlinburg
• Drive Time: Around 3.5 to 4 hours

This is the closest international airport to Gatlinburg TN, and while the drive is longer, it’s a beautiful one. Rolling hills, charming Tennessee towns, and wide-open skies make the road trip just as memorable as the destination.

Nashville International serves dozens of airlines, including Southwest, British Airways, Delta, and American, with direct flights to London, Toronto, and several major U.S. cities. The airport itself is modern, clean, and infused with Nashville’s legendary music culture — live bands often perform in the terminals.

Why It’s a Great Choice:

• Excellent international connections
• More flight options and competitive prices
• Opportunity to explore Nashville before heading to the Smokies
• Easy car rental and highway access

Many travellers choose to land in Nashville, enjoy a night in Music City, and then hit the road toward the mountains the next morning. It’s a fun way to blend city excitement with mountain serenity — two very different sides of Tennessee.

Driving Routes to Gatlinburg from Major Airports

Each major airport on the route to Gatlinburg provides a scenic and straightforward drive, making the journey from the closest airport to Gatlinburg TN both beautiful and enjoyable.

• From Knoxville (TYS): Take US-441 through Sevierville → Pigeon Forge → Gatlinburg
• From Nashville (BNA): Take I-40 East toward Knoxville → Exit to US-441
• From Asheville (AVL): Follow I-40 West → US-321 North into Gatlinburg
• From Chattanooga (CHA): Take I-75 North → I-40 East → US-441
• From GSP: Follow I-26 West → I-40 West → US-321

These routes include some of the most beautiful mountain landscapes in the southeastern U.S.

Other Airports Near Gatlinburg

Depending on where you’re flying from, smaller regional airports can also make your journey easier. They may not be as big as Knoxville or Nashville, but they offer quick access and shorter lines.

Asheville Regional Airport (AVL)

• Location: Fletcher, North Carolina — about 85 miles east of Gatlinburg
• Drive Time: Around 2 hours

AVL is perfect for travellers from the East Coast. With airlines like Delta and United offering daily flights, it’s both convenient and scenic. The drive from Asheville to Gatlinburg passes through the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering breathtaking views around every curve.

Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP)

• Location: Greer, South Carolina — roughly 140 miles southeast
• Drive Time: About 3 hours

This airport is a bit farther but often has good fares. It’s a smart choice if you plan to explore both Tennessee and the Carolinas during your trip.

Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA)

• Location: Chattanooga, Tennessee — around 150 miles southwest of Gatlinburg
• Drive Time: 3 hours

While smaller, CHA offers a calm travel experience with easy connections from southern cities. The route to Gatlinburg from here is scenic, passing through lush countryside and mountain valleys.

Getting from the Airport to Gatlinburg

Now that you’ve picked your airport, how do you get to Gatlinburg itself? The good news is that no matter where you land, the journey is beautiful and simple.

Car Rental:
Renting a car is the best way to travel to Gatlinburg. The drive gives you freedom to explore spots like Pigeon Forge, Dollywood, or Sevierville along the way. Every nearby airport offers plenty of rental options.

Private Shuttles:
For groups or families, private transfers can be arranged from Knoxville. They’re a bit pricier but completely hassle-free.

Ride-Sharing:
Uber and Lyft are available from McGhee Tyson, though availability may drop once you reach the mountain area.

Bus Travel:
You can take a Greyhound bus to Knoxville, then rent a car or grab a shuttle to Gatlinburg. It’s slower but affordable.

The drive itself is an adventure — especially the final stretch through the Smoky Mountains. If you can, plan to drive during the day to fully appreciate the rolling scenery and vibrant mountain colors.

How to Choose the Right Airport for Your Smoky Mountain Adventure

Selecting the right airport depends on your flight options, travel budget, and the type of mountain experience you want from the closest airport to Gatlinburg TN.

• Choose TYS for the closest and easiest access.
• Choose BNA for international flights or if you want to explore Nashville.
• Choose AVL for the Blue Ridge Mountain drive.
• Choose GSP or CHA for quieter airports and great regional fares.

Why Visit Gatlinburg?

Gatlinburg is more than a destination — it’s a feeling. You’ll find cozy log cabins with fireplaces, streams running through the woods, and crisp mountain air that makes you want to stay forever.

It’s known as the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and for good reason. You can step out of your hotel and, within minutes, find yourself surrounded by hiking trails, waterfalls, and stunning overlooks.

Top Things to Do in Gatlinburg:

• Hike in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park — perfect for both beginners and pros.
• Visit Anakeesta, a mountaintop park with ziplines and treetop walks.
• Ride the Gatlinburg SkyLift for jaw-dropping mountain views.
• Explore Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, a family favorite.
• Enjoy local food and crafts — from pancake houses to handmade candies.

Every corner of Gatlinburg tells a story, whether it’s a quiet morning mist over the mountains or the laughter of visitors exploring the town’s cozy streets.

Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey

Before booking your flight to the closest airport to Gatlinburg TN, keep these handy tips in mind:

1. Book Early: Flights and cabins sell out fast during fall and summer.
2. Drive in Daylight: The roads are stunning but curvy — easier to enjoy when you can see the views.
3. Check Weather Conditions: Mountain weather changes quickly. Pack layers and a rain jacket.
4. Plan a Stop: The drive from any airport is full of small towns worth exploring.
5. Bring a Camera: The views on the way are too good not to capture.

Where to Stay in the Closest Airport to Gatlinburg TN

After landing at your chosen airport and making the drive, you’ll have plenty of lodging options waiting in Gatlinburg.

Popular Choices Include:

• Cabins and Chalets: Private, romantic, and perfect for cozy nights.
• Downtown Hotels: Ideal if you want to be near restaurants and attractions.
• Resorts and Lodges: Great for families and larger groups.
• Campgrounds: For the outdoor enthusiasts who want to sleep under the stars.

Book ahead, especially during peak seasons like autumn when the leaves turn fiery shades of orange and red.

The Scenic Drive Experience at the Closest Airport to Gatlinburg TN

One of the best parts of your trip might be the drive itself. From the closest major airport to Gatlinburg TN, the route unfolds like a moving postcard. You’ll see farmland give way to mountain ranges, rivers glistening beside the road, and the Smokies rising in the distance.

If you’re driving from Asheville, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers unforgettable views. From Nashville, you’ll roll past Tennessee’s open landscapes before reaching the cool mountain air. No matter where you start, the journey will be one to remember.

Final Thoughts about the Closest Airport to Gatlinburg TN

Finding the closest airport to Gatlinburg TN is more than just travel logistics — it’s the start of your mountain story. For most visitors, McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) in Knoxville is the perfect choice. For international travellers, Nashville International Airport (BNA) stands as the closest international airport to Gatlinburg TN, offering global connections and an easy drive.

So, the next time someone asks, “What airport is closest to Gatlinburg TN?”, you’ll know exactly where to land — and how to turn the trip into an unforgettable adventure. The Great Smoky Mountains are waiting, and Gatlinburg is ready to welcome you home.

FAQs About the Closest Airport to Gatlinburg TN