
Gatlinburg Municipal Course
Gatlinburg Municipal Golf Club
About this course
Gatlinburg Municipal Golf Course, nestled near the heart of Pigeon Forge, carries the distinction of being one of Tennessee's oldest continuously operated courses. Its accessible layout, carved from the rolling foothills of the Smoky Mountains, offers a welcoming, less strenuous alternative to the region's more demanding, modern designs. Designed in the mid-1950s, "The Gatlinburg Pit," as it’s affectionately known by locals, presents a classic, no-frills parkland experience. The fairways are relatively forgiving, while the small, subtly contoured greens demand a deft touch. Don't expect length to be a major factor—the course favors strategic play over sheer power, rewarding those who can navigate the gentle doglegs and manage the course's elevation changes. While Gatlinburg Municipal might not command national headlines, its enduring appeal lies in its unpretentious character and family-friendly atmosphere. Known as a local favorite, where generations of golfers learned the game, the 19th hole often echoes with stories and laughter long after the final putt drops.
Rankings
Ranked by CV ratings from golfers who've played this course. Positions are shown worldwide, by country, and by state; the Public column compares courses anyone can play.
Best in World
Best in USA
Best in TN
Quick facts
- Location
- Pigeon Forge, TN, USA
- Access
- Public
- Year built
- 1993
- Holes
- 18
- Designer(s)
- William Langford, Bob Cupp
- Par
- 71
- Length
- 6,282 yards
- Difficulty
- 72.3/117
- Course Vaults score
- 7.2
Getting there
The journey to Gatlinburg Municipal Golf Club begins at McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) near Knoxville, roughly forty minutes north, or alternatively through Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) in North Carolina, a scenic ninety-minute drive through the Blue Ridge foothills. From either gateway, the route descends into the Great Smoky Mountains region, trading interstate efficiency for the winding Parkway approach that signals entry into Pigeon Forge's mountain valley setting. The final miles unfold through the distinctive landscape of East Tennessee - dense forest canopy, mountain vistas, and the gentle elevation changes that define this corner of the Smokies - before arriving at the club's welcoming grounds, where the crisp mountain air and surrounding peaks frame the course's natural setting.

FAQ
Common questions about Gatlinburg Municipal
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
Gatlinburg Municipal has a Course Vaults score of 7.2 out of 10 based on 22 logged golfers.
Gatlinburg Municipal was designed by William Langford and Bob Cupp.
Yes. Gatlinburg Municipal is listed as welcoming public or guest play on Course Vaults.
Par at Gatlinburg Municipal is 71.
Gatlinburg Municipal plays 6,282 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
The slope rating at Gatlinburg Municipal is 117.



