When you are planning a hike in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you want to make sure you have all the gear necessary for a safe and fun day in the park! If you forgot to pack some of your hiking equipment or just want to purchase a few new items, you will be happy to know there are several excellent stores in the Smokies that have everything you need! Here are the top 4 stores in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge perfect for hikers:
1. The Day Hiker
The Day Hiker has been providing quality and affordable outdoor supplies for 2 decades, so be sure to stop here first before beginning your hiking adventure! While browsing through the store, you will find a fantastic selection of daypacks, hiking poles, water carriers, hats, and other essential items. The shop also features plenty of books with helpful information about the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, including maps, trail guides, and even children’s books for the young hikers in your family! The Day Hiker is located within the Village Shops in downtown Gatlinburg and is open Sundays through Fridays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
2. Hikey Mikey
Another one of the top stores in Pigeon Forge to gear up for hiking is Hikey Mikey, where you can find top quality day hiking gear for everyone in your group! Don’t forget to pick up a first-aid kit and any weather-related items, such as ponchos. The friendly staff would be delighted to help you find anything you need, and they can also tell you where all the best hiking trails are located! Hikey Mikey is nestled into the historic Old Mill district in Pigeon Forge and is open at various times, so be sure to call (865) 323-1102 to confirm the latest operating hours.
3. Nantahala Outdoor Center
The Nantahala Outdoor Center is a massive outdoor store at the downtown Gatlinburg entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and is within easy walking distance of our hotel! This store features the North Face Summit Shop, where you will find a complete line up of gear, footwear, outerwear, and apparel for hiking, camping, running, and casual living. The in-store shopping experience is designed to be unique and fun, so your family can experience a swinging rope bridge, a kid-friendly bear cave, and a giant fireplace for warming up on cool days! The Nantahala Outdoor Center is open Sundays through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
4. GSM Outfitters
If you happen to be traveling on Wears Valley Road during your vacation, be sure to stop by GSM Outfitters! As one of the premier outdoor stores in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, this outdoor shop carries some of the top name brands in hiking to ensure you get the best products for the best value. From an exclusive line of clothing, sandals, and boots to a variety of accessories for any outdoor excursion, GSM Outfitters is sure to have what you need! The store is open Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and closed on Wednesdays.
Check out all of the rooms at our Gatlinburg hotel today to stay close to these stores in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge where you can gear up for your hike! We look forward to seeing you soon at the Black Bear Inn & Suites!