Best of the Smokies Custom Private Tour

Planning a trip to Gatlinburg and wondering how to make the most of the Smoky Mountains? The Best of the Smokies Custom Private Tour offers a flexible, intimate way to explore the park’s highlights. This tour stands out for its personalized approach, allowing you to choose your adventure from waterfalls, scenic views, history walks, or a combination of all three.

What makes this experience appealing? First, it’s completely customizable, ensuring you get exactly what you want. Second, the private nature of the tour means personalized attention from your guide, who also doubles as your driver. Lastly, the tour includes a delicious picnic lunch, making the day not only scenic but also practical and satisfying.

However, it’s worth noting that parking fees are not included, so budget accordingly if you plan to visit other areas around Gatlinburg. This tour is an excellent fit for travelers seeking a flexible, guided outdoor adventure with a focus on authentic experiences. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or someone simply looking to enjoy the stunning views at your own pace, this tour is worth considering.

Good To Know

• Highly customizable experience tailored to your interests and fitness level.
• Private tour ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.
• Includes picnic lunch and snacks, with options to bring your own water.
• Operates rain or shine, perfect for all weather conditions.
• Excellent reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and breathtaking scenery.
• A great choice for groups and families, with group discounts available.

What’s Included and Why It Matters

This private tour, operated by A Walk in the Woods, offers a well-rounded day in the Smokies for $325 per person. The price might seem significant, but considering the personalized service, private transportation, and inclusive lunch, it offers good value—especially for those wanting a tailored experience rather than a standard group outing.

The tour features private transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, picking you up from Gatlinburg’s Sugarlands Visitor Center at 8:00 am. The fact that your guide is also the driver means you can relax entirely, soaking in the scenery without worrying about navigation or planning.

The lunch is a deli-style sandwich, chips, and cookies—perfect for fueling up after a morning of hiking or exploring. The tour also includes various snacks like trail mix, peanut butter crackers, and fruit snacks, with a note to bring your own water for hydration. Guides are prepared with water filters to refill bottles if needed, a thoughtful touch that aligns with their eco-friendly goals.

The Itinerary: Flexibility is the Key

The tour begins at the Sugarlands Visitor Center, the gateway to the Smokies. The real magic lies in the flexibility you have once you’re there. The itinerary doesn’t pin you down to a fixed route—instead, your guide will craft a day based on your interests.

Potential Stops and Experiences

• Waterfalls and Views: Many travelers love to include scenic vistas and waterfalls, with reviews mentioning stunning scenery and excellent photo opportunities. Guides are praised for their extensive knowledge, sharing insights about the flora, fauna, and history of the park, making each stop educational as well as beautiful.
• History Strolls: For those interested in the stories behind the mountains, the guide can focus on local history, adding a cultural layer to the hike.
• Multiple Short Experiences or One Long Hike: Whether you prefer several quick stops or one comprehensive trek, this tour adapts. As one reviewer noted, you might combine multiple short adventures or go for a single longer hike that covers everything.

What You Can Expect

Expect your guide to gauge your group’s abilities and preferences, then craft a route that maximizes fun and minimizes fatigue. The reviews highlight guides like Kels, China, Sam, and Samantha, who are praised for their helpfulness, knowledge, and ability to keep everyone safe and engaged.

The Hike and Scenery: Authentic and Stunning

Travelers consistently mention the “gorgeous” scenery, with many noting the breathtaking vistas and the serenity of the forest. The park’s diverse terrain offers opportunities to see waterfalls, mountain views, and lush greenery. Reviewers appreciated guides’ storytelling and the way they made each stop interesting—bringing to life the natural and historical significance of the surroundings.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for families, groups of friends, or couples wanting a personalized day in the Smokies. Since the tour can be tailored, it’s perfect for moderate hikers, history buffs, or those seeking scenic photography spots. It’s equally suitable for travelers of various ages and abilities, thanks to the flexibility built into the route.

Practical Considerations: Value and Planning

At $325 per person, the tour is a premium experience, but it delivers in terms of flexibility, personalized attention, and the inclusion of a picnic lunch. It’s worth noting that most bookings are made 68 days in advance, indicating high demand and the importance of planning ahead.

Since parking fees are not included, budget extra if you plan to explore other park areas independently. The tour operates rain or shine, making it a reliable choice regardless of weather. Keep in mind the minimum of two travelers requirement; if you’re traveling solo, you’ll need to join with another group or check for private options.

The Authentic Touch and Expert Guidance

What truly distinguishes this tour is the knowledgeable guides who make the experience more meaningful. Reviewers mention guides like Kels and Samantha, who are described as “very informative” and “excellent storytellers.” Their ability to tailor the experience based on group interests—whether focusing on natural beauty or park history—adds significant value.

Final Thoughts on Value

Compared to typical guided tours, this private experience offers a high level of customization and comfort. The inclusion of lunch, snacks, and private transport makes it a convenient all-in-one package. If you’re after a memorable, personalized day that combines scenic beauty, education, and relaxation, this tour offers a compelling option.

This private tour is perfect for travelers who want to avoid large crowds and prefer a flexible, personalized experience. It’s well-suited for families, couples, or small groups, especially those interested in a mix of hiking, sightseeing, and learning about the Smoky Mountains. If you’re looking for an authentic, immersive experience with knowledgeable guides and the ability to tailor your day, this tour checks all boxes.

Final Recommendation

For those visiting Gatlinburg and craving a custom, guided adventure into the Smokies, this Best of the Smokies Private Tour delivers on its promise of flexibility, comfort, and scenic wonder. It’s an excellent way to make the most of your time in the park, especially if you appreciate expert guidance and a more intimate experience.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes private transportation, a guided experience, a picnic lunch (deli sandwich, chips, cookies), and snacks such as trail mix and fruit snacks. Guides also have water filters to refill bottles.

What is the starting point?
The tour begins at Sugarlands Visitor Center in Gatlinburg at 8:00 am.

Is the tour suitable for all weather conditions?
Yes, it runs rain or shine, so be prepared for whatever weather occurs.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, giving ample time to explore, hike, and enjoy the scenery.

Do I need to bring my own water?
Yes, travelers are advised to bring their own water bottles for hydration.

Is parking included?
No, parking fees are not included in the price, so plan for additional parking costs if needed.

Can I customize the route?
Absolutely. Guides will tailor the stops based on your interests—whether waterfalls, vistas, or history.

What if I have specific interests?
Just let your guide know beforehand! They’re experienced at customizing the experience to suit your preferences.

Is this tour good for families?
Yes, many reviews mention families with children enjoying the experience, noting the guides’ ability to make it engaging for all ages.

What if I want to book as a single traveler?
The tour requires a minimum of 2 people to operate, so solo travelers will need to join with others or inquire about private options.

In essence, the Best of the Smokies Custom Private Tour offers a well-balanced, personalized way to explore one of America’s most beautiful national parks. Expect knowledgeable guides, flexible planning, and unforgettable scenery—an ideal choice for those who value quality and authenticity in their outdoor adventures.