Overview
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
The River Remembers is an easy guided walk in the more quiet section of the Smokies, along a cascading mountain stream where nature and history meet. This relaxed Smoky Mountain tour follows an old roadbed through forest beauty, seasonal wildflowers, historic cabins, old rock walls, a springhouse, and the traces of families who once lived in these mountains.
This is more than a history walk. It is a gentle riverside hike with moving water, forest sounds, mountain plants, and meaningful stories woven together by an experienced guide. It’s a strong introduction to the Smokies for guests who want scenery, interpretation, and a relaxed pace.
Best for: History lovers, families, seniors, beginners, wildflower lovers, and guests who want an easy Smoky Mountain walk with pristine streams, nature and cultural history.
Duration: 3 Hours | Difficulty: Easy | Mileage: 2.5 | Elevation Change: 347' | Ages: All
Meeting Location: Greenbrier Parking Area 1, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Additional Info
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please note that, while we do our best to follow the itinerary listed, we may need to pivot due to road closures or events outside of our control. We require a minimum of 2 people to operate this tour. We operate rain or shine.
What To Expect
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
We will be in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for the duration of the tour.
Greenbrier
Greenbrier is one of many entrances to the National Park. Also a lesser traveled area, but equally stunning.
Options
The River Remembers: A Smoky Mountain History Walk
What‘s Included
Snacks can consists of trail mix, peanut butter crackers or fruit snacks.
Tour guide
Gratuities
Parking Fees
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
6 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great and worthwhile experience!
Danielle A,Jun 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was a great experience and truly was an easy and leisurely hike. Our guide Debbie was extremely knowledgeable, not just about the animals, trees, etc., but also about the history of the area. We learned a lot and having her as a guide was certainly worth the price rather than going it on our own. Would definitely recommend and do again!
A walk in the Woods to remember
W7465WOfrankh,May 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Wonderful hike. Lucy our guide was Knowledgeable, informative and considerate. Would definitely walk with her again.
Rainy day hike
Lori R,Sep 25, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00An educational and enjoyable experience on a rainy day in Gatlinburg. Our cheerful and friendly trail guide, Luci, was very knowledgeable about the history of the area. I highly recommend her! The trail is relatively easy with some inclines.
Trail hike to restored barn and cabin
493jeris,May 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Mike did an excellent job. He explained various plants and their uses. Pointed out wildlife on the trail hike. Knowledge about the barn and cabin, and the history of the area.
This checks all of the boxes!
anotherjustine,May 14, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our guide Debbie was phenomenal! She asked about our interests in the area, and proceeded to delight us with her knowledge of wildflowers, animals, park history and tales of families who had lived and died in this space. We will do these tours again. Great way to get out and enjoy nature while learning from an experienced former park ranger.
Stroll Back in Time – A Rainy Day Made Bright by Lucy
Jennifer A,Apr 25, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Even though the weather didn’t cooperate for our Stroll Back in Time tour, Lucy’s sunny disposition more than made up for the downpour. From the Greenbrier Entrance, we set out under pouring rain, and despite our pockets filling with water, Lucy kept us smiling with her enthusiasm and warm energy. We continued for about an hour, exploring the trail and soaking in the beauty (quite literally!) before lightning made it clear that it was time to turn back. Throughout it all, Lucy was kind, upbeat, and truly game to make the most of our time together. Her love for the Smokies was still shining through, even in the worst weather. While we were disappointed the tour was cut short, Lucy turned a soggy situation into a genuinely memorable experience. I’d gladly hike with her again—rain or shine!
Related Experiences
Operated by A Walk in the Woods