Being settled right on the edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park does certainly have its advantages, and the area of Gatlinburg takes advantage of this wholeheartedly! With the great outdoors right at its doorstep, there are a number of incredible activities available in Gatlinburg for those looking to get out and explore, as well as those looking for fun things to do to help stay in shape! With that in mind here are the top five Gatlinburg activities you need to partake in if you’re looking to stay fit the next time you visit.
Plenty of Hiking Trails to Explore!
One of the greatest features of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is that it is home to well over 800 miles of hiking trails, featuring some of the most picturesque natural beauty as your reward! Because there are so many different trails winding throughout the park, it is guaranteed that you’ll find one that’s perfect for whatever group you’re traveling with, from short beginning treks to the more adventurous 13+ mile hikes!
Or Jump on a Bike!
If that all sounds good to you but you’re looking for Gatlinburg activities that offer a little more high-octane for your workout, then feel free to jump on a bike and explore! Many of the trails in the park are open for bikes; there are some areas that don’t allow bikes, so make sure to check first! One that we would highly recommend is the Cades Cove Loop Road, which is an 11-mile trail through lush valleys, mountains, and more!
Experience a Rush with Whitewater Rafting
If you’re looking for a workout and adrenaline rush all wrapped up in one fantastic package, look no further than whitewater rafting! Pigeon River is the place to go for whitewater rafting, and the upper river is definitely a rollercoaster ride to say the least. You’ll get one heck of a workout while at the same time be making memories on your vacation that will last a lifetime!
Take a Stroll down the Arts and Crafts Trail
One of the best kept secrets about Gatlinburg is its incredible history of art and culture, and this has been perfectly preserved with the Tennessee Heritage Arts & Crafts Trail. Gatlinburg is home to a number of incredible artisans who paint, sew, whittle, and much more, and thus one of the main attractions of the town is the 8-mile loop that will help you discover all of it and more! If you’re an avid art fan looking to stay in shape on your next trip to Gatlinburg, slip on a pair of comfy shoes and hit the trail!
Once the Powder Falls, the Gatlinburg Activities List Changes
If you decide to visit the Gatlinburg area during the wintertime, you’re in luck, as once the snow begins to fall, the place turns into an outdoor sports wonderland and the list of Gatlinburg activities to stay fit changes! The Great Smoky Mountains experience a good amount of snow every year and this turns many of the surrounding areas into the perfect place to hit the slopes by skis or snowboard; both of these Gatlinburg activities can be incredible workouts and great ways to help stay fit! Book your stay in a cozy cabin today and start planning your vacation.
