Sugarland Valley Nature Trail Head — Attraction in Gatlinburg

My husband and I have been visiting/hiking this trail many times a year since 2015. We have witnessed the continuation of neglect and upkeep of the trail and restrooms. The restrooms are always disgusting. We thought after the Covid pandemic it would get better but it hasn’t. After the fire they made an effort to cut the trees off the trails. When we where there last 2/7 - 2/21 we walked the trail four times. During that time, many trees fell on the path and laid there for over a week before anyone cut them up. They left several large trees lay where people like to walk up to the stream, making it impossible.. Also, you never see a Park Ranger for assistance except standing around in the visitor center. This is a trail for dogs and bicyclists. Be aware that people will bring their vicious dogs (lunging at other dogs and people) on the trail and their is no one to monitor their activities. Many people ride motorized bikes on this trail too, which is prohibited. Their are no trash cans in the restrooms nor in the parking lot. The National Park, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg made billions during the pandemic (when they should have been shut down like everyone else). Now the Park (which made millions in donations during the pandemic) will charge to park at this visitor center. Which is ridiculous! Shame on you Smoky Mountain National Park for overriding the original agreement that this park was to have free admission. Now many of the scenic trails are charging...

Great short loop hike for little kids. We used it as a chance for them to stretch their legs, but you could easily have a wagon/stroller here. Safe, open and plenty of spots to walk down to and around the stream. It’s a short distance, but you can take your time sitting or playing by the water. Very peaceful and wasn’t crowded when we went. We stopped here on our way back down from Newfoundland Gap/ Kuwohi. The parking lot is small so we parallel parked by the road. No restrooms, but you’re not far...

There are no bad places in the Smokies. The nature trail is ADA friendly. Half mile one way, riverviews, old home sites, there are chimneys and stone fences no homes, the benches are wheelchair/powerchair friendly. The only views missing, are the ones like you get at Newfound Gap. Otherwise everything that is the Smokies is available at this...