A golf course with several golfers playing in the distance. A white golf cart with clubs is parked on the grass near the right side of the image at Gatlinburg Golf Course, bordered by trees under a cloudy sky.

Gatlinburg Golf Course: Details, Rates, and Reviews

March 30, 2026

Gatlinburg Golf Course is a public 18-hole municipal course located in Pigeon Forge, about a 10-minute drive from downtown Gatlinburg, and surrounded by the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. First opened in 1955 as a nine-hole layout, the course has undergone major upgrades over the years, including full redesigns and renovations that have enhanced both its playability and its scenic appeal.

Designed to highlight the natural terrain, the course features rolling fairways, well-maintained greens, and striking elevation changes that make every round unique. Measuring just over 6,200 yards with a par of 71, it provides the right balance of challenge and accessibility for golfers of all skill levels. Beginners will appreciate the forgiving fairways, while more seasoned players will find strategic elements that test precision and course management.

Beyond the game itself, Gatlinburg Golf Course is known for its panoramic mountain views, peaceful atmosphere, and convenient location near some of the Smokies’ most popular attractions. Whether you’re playing a quick round during vacation or planning an all-day golf outing, this course offers a memorable way to experience the Smokies while enjoying a sport you love.

Know Before You Go: Hours, Location, and Parking

Location
Gatlinburg Golf Course is located at 520 Dollywood Lane in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, about five miles from downtown Gatlinburg. Despite the name, the course has always been based in Pigeon Forge, but it retains the Gatlinburg identity because of its long history and connection to the region. Set against the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, the course is surrounded by scenic views and is within a short drive of top attractions, restaurants, and accommodations in both Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. This makes it an easy stop whether you’re planning your day around a round of golf or adding it to an already busy Smokies itinerary.

Hours of Operation
The course operates year-round, weather permitting, and offers consistent hours for planning purposes. Tee times typically start at 7:00 AM and run until early evening, with the course closing around 6:00 PM. This schedule allows early risers to enjoy cool morning rounds and gives afternoon players plenty of time for 18 holes before sunset. Seasonal daylight changes may slightly adjust the hours, so confirming your tee time in advance is recommended, especially during late fall and winter.

Contact Information
The pro shop is your main point of contact for reservations, weather updates, and course condition reports. You can reach them directly at (865) 453-3912. Staff can assist with tee time bookings, rental club arrangements, and answering questions about fees or special group rates.

Parking
A large, paved parking lot is located directly beside the clubhouse, giving players easy access to the pro shop, practice area, and first tee without a long walk. Parking is free for all guests and is spacious enough to accommodate standard vehicles, SUVs, and even small buses for group outings. During peak seasons, the lot can fill quickly in the mornings, but turnover is steady as players finish their rounds. For added convenience, there’s a designated area for unloading clubs before parking.

With its easy-to-find location, reliable hours, and hassle-free parking, Gatlinburg Golf Course makes it simple to plan your visit and focus on the game itself.

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Rates

Before planning your visit to Gatlinburg Golf Course, it’s helpful to know the current fees and options available. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer looking for a full 18-hole experience, a casual player squeezing in 9 holes, or a spectator coming along for the ride, the course offers a variety of pricing tiers to fit different needs. Rates also include the use of a golf cart, adding comfort and convenience to your game.

Off Season (December 1 – April 14, including holidays)

$50 for 18 holes
$30 for 9 holes

In Season (April 15 – November 30, including holidays)

$75 for 18 holes
$50 Twilight Rate (starting time varies by time of year)
$40 for 9 holes (after 12 PM only)

Spectator Fee

$10 for 9 holes
$20 for 18 holes

Discounts (Applicable Anytime)

Seniors (65+) and Military (Active & Veteran): $10 off
Juniors 13–17 years old: $10 off
Juniors 6–12 years old: 50% off non-member greens fees

Replay Rates (Same Day after 18 Holes)

$20 for 9 holes
$40 for 18 holes

Rental Clubs (All players must have their own set)

$60 Premium Rental Set (Ping & Titleist)
$30 Basic Rental Set (Strata)

Note: Rates were last updated in 2025 and may be subject to change.

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Golf Course Overview: Layout, Amenities, and Tee Times

Golfers visiting the Great Smoky Mountains won’t want to miss the chance to play at Gatlinburg Golf Course, one of the area’s most uniquely designed courses. With a challenging layout, lush emerald fairways, beautifully wooded landscapes, and meticulously maintained greens, this course blends natural mountain beauty with a rewarding golf experience. After a major Irrigation and Drainage Renovation in Spring 2022, the course is in prime condition, offering a smooth and scenic round for players of all levels.

Course Layout and Design

Originally designed by acclaimed architect William Langford, the course underwent significant renovations in 1993 and 2007 by Bob Cupp & Associates of Atlanta. These updates brought rebuilt greens, reworked fairways, and improved playability without losing the mountain charm that makes the course so beloved. Today, the 18-hole course offers challenges for both seasoned players and beginners, all while providing stunning views of the Smoky Mountains.

Standout holes include:

#12 “Sky Hi” – A legendary par 3 measuring 194 yards with a dramatic 200-foot drop from tee to green.
#3 “Long Lane” – A 529-yard par 5 that lives up to its name.
#17 – A demanding 231-yard par 3 with minimal forgiveness for errant shots.

In total, the course spans 6,281 yards of challenging and memorable golf.

Convenient Location and Amenities

Located just five miles from downtown Gatlinburg and adjacent to Dollywood, the course is open year-round and offers:

A modern clubhouse
A fully equipped pro shop
A snack bar for food and beverages
Facilities for convention and group outings

Pace of Play

To ensure an enjoyable experience for everyone, the course maintains a maximum pace of play of 4 hours and 30 minutes — that’s 15 minutes per hole (14 minutes for par 3s) with a 5-minute turn time. Staff will review this policy at check-in.

Tee Times and Discounts

To book your round, call the Pro Shop at (800) 231-4128 or (865) 453-3912, or use their online booking system. Discounts are available for seniors, juniors, and active military.

Course Rules

No outside food or beverages (snack bar available).
Only two people per cart.
Children under 6 years old are not allowed on the course.
Spectator fees: $10 for 9 holes, $20 for 18 holes.
Soft spikes only.
Each player must have their own set of clubs (rentals available).
Golf cart drivers must be at least 16 years old with a valid driver’s license.
Maximum of four players per group.
Rain checks are offered for inclement weather; no refunds on green fees.

The Clubhouse at Gatlinburg Golf Course

Hours & Contact: The clubhouse welcomes players daily from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM. For scheduling tee times, checking availability, or asking about services, you can call (800) 231-4128 or (865) 453-3912.

Pro Shop & Equipment Rentals

Inside the clubhouse is a well-stocked Pro Shop with the latest golf apparel, gadgets, and gear—ideal for on-the-go shoppers. Rentals are available on a first-come, first-served basis and include:

Premium sets (Ping G425 or Titleist T200): $50 each
Basic sets (Tour Edge Strata): $30 each

Food Service

Don’t worry about golfing on an empty stomach. The clubhouse features a casual snack bar serving classic fare—like hamburgers and chicken salad sandwiches—as well as refreshing beverages. Whether you stop by before teeing off or after finishing the back nine, it’s a convenient place to refuel.

Relaxation & Convenience

The clubhouse offers more than just shopping and snacking—it’s also a spot to unwind. Richly inviting, it provides a comfortable setting to relax with your group, plan your round, or simply enjoy the mountain surroundings while gathering your gear.

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Cabins Near The Gatlinburg Golf Course

Want to make your golf getaway even more relaxing? Our cabins are just minutes from Gatlinburg Golf Course, giving you the perfect home base between rounds. Whether you’re here for a weekend on the greens or a longer stay in the Smokies, you’ll enjoy quick access to the course along with the comfort, privacy, and scenic beauty of the mountains—without the hassle of long drives or traffic.