Top 3 Outdoor Activities in Gatlinburg to Try This Off Season
Even though rafting season is coming to an end, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the fantastic views of the Smoky Mountains. There are a large variety of different activities that you can do outdoors, even when the weather begins to cool down. Here are 3 of the best outdoor activities in Gatlinburg to try this off season:
1. Enjoy a Ziplining Adventure
One of the best ways to take in the breathtaking views of the Smokies is by ziplining. With CLIMB Works, you can create memories that your family will have forever. They offer two world-class zipline experiences, the Mountaintop Tour and the Treetop Zipline. With the Mountaintop Tour, you will soar high above the Smokies in a dual-line adventure! This means you can ride side by side next to another member of your group and see who can soar the fastest. As you glide through the mountains, you will be met with a beautiful panoramic view of nature all around you. This tour lasts a total of two hours and features six lines, a walk across an aerial bridge, and an ATV ride to start the adventure! With the Treetop Zipline experience, you will glide down 9 different lines on an exciting treetop canopy tour. This thrilling experience is available for anyone ages 7 and older and is the most popular tour!
2. Take a Beautiful Scenic Drive
There are a large variety of scenic drives that you can take in Gatlinburg that will give you great views while enjoy the great outdoors. One of the most popular drives in the area is the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. This 5.5 mile loop road is a favorite for families visiting the Smokies. It offers hiking trails that lead to mountain streams, an old forest, and a number of log cabins, grist mills, and other historic buildings. In just a short distance, you can see a large array of what makes the Smoky Mountains popular. If you are looking for a short hike, try taking a trip to the Gatlinburg Trail. It is a paved walking path that is relatively flat and provides excellent views of the Little Pigeon River. This is also one of only two trails in the Smoky Mountain National Park where you can ride bicycles and walk your dog! A nice drive or hike in the Smokies are two of the perfect outdoor activities in Gatlinburg when you can’t go rafting!
3. Challenge Your Family at Miniature Golf
While you are visiting Gatlinburg, you can test out one of the many outdoor attractions the city has to offer. One of the most popular activities for families to do on vacation is miniature golf. There are a couple of different courses in the area that will give you a great view of the Smokies while you play. At Hillbilly Golf, you can literally play your game of putt putt on the side of the mountain! If you are thinking this sounds like a challenge, it’s because it is. After you ride a tram nearly 300 feet up the mountain, you will work your way down with 18 holes of family fun! While you play, you will have great views of the Smoky Mountains surrounding you from all angles!
While you enjoy these outdoor activities in Gatlinburg this off season, it is never too early to start planning your next rafting trip. Be sure to check out all the information you need to know about our rafting trips and start planning your next adventure on the Pigeon River!
