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🏞️ River Swim  ·  East Tennessee / Smokies

Townsend Wye (“The Y”)

📍 Townsend
Nearest Town
GSMNP Parking Tag required ($5/day or $15/week)
Entry Fee
💧 Cold, mountain-fed
Water Temp
🟡 Moderate
Difficulty
📅 Summer
Best Season
🏞️ River Swim 🟡 Moderate GSMNP Parking Tag required ($5/day or $15/week)
🌊 About Townsend Wye (“The Y”)

A fork in the Little River popular for tubing and swimming, with small rapids, a jump-off rock, and large pools.

📋 Visit Details
Entry Fee
GSMNP Parking Tag required ($5/day or $15/week)
Water Temperature
💧 Cold, mountain-fed
Best Season
📅 Summer
Reservation
Not Required
Water Type
Confluence/fork of Little River
Managed By
National Park Service (GSMNP)
County
Blount County, Tennessee
Access Difficulty
🟡 Moderate
🗺️ Getting There

Address / Access Point:
Little River Rd near Townsend entrance, GSMNP

Access Notes:
Roadside pull-offs; small rapids

GPS Coordinates
35.6669, -83.7225
Open in Google Maps →
✅ Before You Go — Checklist
  • ✓
    Check current water conditions — especially after recent rain
  • ✓
    Save GPS coordinates offline before leaving — cell service may be limited
  • $
    Bring cash or card for entry: GSMNP Parking Tag required ($5/day or $15/week)
  • ✓
    Pack reef-safe sunscreen, dry bag, water shoes and plenty of drinking water
  • ✓
    Tell someone where you are going before heading to a remote location
  • ✓
    Pack out everything you bring in — leave no trace
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