Discover Bryson City Island Park: Nature's Retreat

Lovely new experience

Beautiful park, nice gravel trails, picnic tables available, you can play in the water also.

I was on my way to eat at Everett Street Diner but there was no parking. I ended up down a side road that led me straight to this park, which I didn’t know existed until today. Sometimes in life, a wrong turn leads you to the right place. This is why you should always explore a little. This is a very easy walk on gravel pathways that loop around or you can take a short and simple middle route. Two things you should know… When you first enter the park, you will not see the value of it and might be tempted to turn around. I highly recommend you keep walking because you don’t see the wide river until you reach the end of the walk, which might take five minutes. When you get there, you can sit on the ledge and watch the water for cortisol drops and decompression. The most valuable things in life are free. Another thing you should know is that some people say there are waterfalls here. This is not true. You will see some light rapids over rocks but if you’re looking for actual waterfalls, there are many other options in the area. This park is more for a short and simple stroll where you can access nature and unwind. There is a road on the other side of the river on the back end of the park but it’s elevated. When you’re away from the river, you hear the cars. When you’re right next to the river, it’s very light background noise because you hear the rapids more. There is a small picnic area toward the front of the park and right behind it is an easily-navigating slope to access the river by foot, but this area is usually going to have people. If you want peace, go to the back of the park. You also might see some kayakers go by while here. This entire Great Smoky Mountains area is one of my favorite places in the world because it always makes me think that this is how life is supposed to be. Bryson City Island Park doesn’t offer the big waterfalls or majestic hikes, but it does offer an easy stroll that almost anyone can handle with access to a peaceful river. Definitely recommended.

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

Nice easy walk around the river.