If you’re ready for outdoor fun, then come on down to the outdoor enthusiast’s playground known as Gatlinburg, Tennessee! Nestled in the Smoky Mountains, this charming town offers a variety of outdoor activities that will allow you to soak up the sunshine, breathe the fresh mountain air, and cool off in the refreshing waters. Check out this list of the Top 5 Outdoor Activities in Gatlinburg you just must experience when you visit Gatlinburg!
Hiking in Great Smoky Mountain National Park
Nothing beats hitting the trails in a beautiful national park. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is no exception. This captivating national park features a variety of trails for all levels of hikers. In just a short drive, you can access over 800 miles of trails that feature varying terrains and landscapes perfect for grounding yourself in nature. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful stroll in the woods with your family or a strenuous hike to the mountain top: Great Smoky Mountains National Park has you covered. Well-known trails include the Alum Cave Trail, famous for its breathtaking views and majestic stone bluffs. If you’re hiking with little ones, they’ll love walking along the Kephart Prong Trail which is like a trail through time back to the area’s logging era and features four log bridges that cross creeks! There are two walking paths in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park that allow dogs: the Gatlinburg Trail and the Oconaluftee River Trail. Pets are not permitted on any other park trails. Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park for a unique national park experience that you’ll remember for years to come.
Visit The Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park
Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park is a fun-filled experience with much to see and do. This amusement park and ski area provide a plethora of outdoor things to do in Gatlinburg, such as an aerial tramway, alpine slide, wildlife habitat, and mountain coaster. This is the perfect place to bring kids as they’ll have much to explore! Get a bird’s eye view of the entire park and the stunning forests of the Smoky Mountains from the Aerial Tramway. The Scenic Chairlift is another option for seeing the best views of the Smoky Mountains without having to hike them! You can even use the Scenic Chairlift to take you to the midway point of the Alpine Slide! The slide features carts that have a push and pull lever allowing you to control how fast you go. For a thrilling ride, check out the Mountain Coaster. The coaster zips, turns and corkscrews down the mountain for an adrenaline-inducing rush! Ober Gatlinburg is an extremely family-friendly destination with awesome activities that are perfect for young children and the young at heart.
White Water Rafting
Prepare to conquer the currents when you hop aboard a raft for some whitewater rafting! Gatlinburg offers the exhilarating experience of whitewater rafting on the Pigeon River. There are many companies to choose from in Gatlinburg so with a quick internet search, you can find the one that best suits your vacation plans. With Class III and IV rapids, whitewater rafting is a great option for spending time in nature while conquering the amazing rapids. If you’re traveling with young ones, kids aged 8 and up are welcome to participate. Naturally, this option isn’t ideal for pets, but you’ll be able to spot birds and other wildlife as you make your way down the rapids. If the rushing rapids are too extreme for this trip to Gatlinburg, don’t worry. There are calmer sections of the river perfect for floating along on a tube and relaxing in the sweet sunshine.
Ziplining
Like whitewater rafting, several companies in Gatlinburg offer ziplining tours in the area. Get close to the mountains as you soar through the trees and take in the breathtaking views of the Smokies. Taking a zipline tour with family and friends allows you to create vacation memories that will last a lifetime. Depending on which zipline company you go with, you may be able to have a unique ziplining experience in the dark! Some tours provide nighttime ziplining, where you can glide through the mountains under a canopy of stars. Be sure to note the zipline company’s age and weight restrictions so you can enjoy yourself safely.
Horseback Riding
If you’re seeking a more relaxing excursion, then horseback riding through the Smoky Mountains is the activity for you. Gatlinburg hosts several stables in and around the area that feature guided trail rides. Take in the picturesque views of the Smokies from atop a majestic horse. If you happen to be visiting the first of our Top 5 Outdoor Attractions, Great Smoky Mountain National Park, check out Smoky Mountain Riding Stables which partners with the national park. You’ll be able to saddle up and enjoy a 3-mile tour across the park. Navigate through streams and forest trails with an experienced guide by your side. Other stables in the area may even offer specific rides such as sunset or waterfall rides, which are scenes you won’t soon forget. Check the age and height prerequisites for horseback riding and get ready to enjoy a peaceful ride through the trees.
So, what do you think? Ready to get out into the great outdoors in Gatlinburg? Be sure to add our Top 5 Outdoor Activities in Gatlinburg to your travel itinerary and get ready to explore Gatlinburg in a whole new way! If you’re ready for an adventurous and refreshing vacation experience, then let the Cabin Rental Store provide you with your new home away from home for all your Gatlinburg adventures! Reach out today for more information on how you can reserve your Gatlinburg cabin!
