3 Fun Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN in November

Although another rafting season has come to an end at Smoky Mountain Outdoors, there are still plenty of fun activities to enjoy in Gatlinburg in November! Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast who wants to stay active during the colder months or someone who appreciates the winter scenery in the Smokies, you will find lots of exciting options! Here are 3 fun things to do in Gatlinburg TN in November:

1. Hiking Trails

While you can go hiking in Great Smoky Mountains National Park all year long, November can be one of the best times to hit the trails! You will find that some of the most popular hiking destinations aren’t quite as busy after the fall foliage season, so you don’t have to worry as much about crowds. You will also be rewarded with some spectacular scenery, ranging from majestic mountain peaks to old-growth forests! As a bonus, you don’t have to worry about gnats and other insects that can be a nuisance during the summer months. 

Consider taking the Gatlinburg Trail from downtown Gatlinburg to Sugarlands Visitor Center, where you can browse fascinating exhibits, pick up trail maps and other helpful brochures, and talk to a ranger about the best hikes in the park. There are several short, easy hikes accessible behind the visitor center, perfect for families with kids!

2. Winterfest

If you are lucky enough to be visiting the Smoky Mountains during November, you can be one of the first to experience Winterfest! This annual celebration of the holiday season kicks off in November with millions of sparkling light displays throughout Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville! As you drive down the Parkway, you will be amazed by the spectacle that includes the 12 Days of Christmas in lights! 

The Gatlinburg portion of Winterfest contains detailed displays of animals native to the Smoky Mountains, making it one of the most unique holiday light displays in the country, and many Gatlinburg attractions in November start their Christmas festivals, special events, and seasonal decorations!

3. Scenic Drives

Another one of the fun things to do in Gatlinburg TN in November is a scenic drive through the Smokies! You will find many impressive drives throughout the Smoky Mountains, so grab your camera and hop in the car for an exciting automobile tour! 

• Cades Cove Loop: one of the most popular destinations, an 11-mile one-way drive where you can enjoy wildlife, historical structures, and great hiking trails if you want to stretch your legs
• Roaring Fork Nature Trail: a 5.5-mile one-way road that takes you on a magnificent journey through the mountains; closes to vehicle traffic at the end of November, so it’s your last chance before the spring to explore!
• Some of the other recommended scenic drives include Newfound Gap Road, Upper Tremont Road, and Little River Road.

We hope that you enjoy these fun things to do in Gatlinburg TN in November! Before you know it, SMO Rafting will be open again for another season of adventures on the river! Be sure to check all of the information about our whitewater rafting trips so that you can be one of our first guests back on the water next spring!