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smoky mountains at sunset

Why are the Smoky Mountains Smoky?

January 19, 2025

Why are the Smoky Mountains smoky? Have you ever stopped to ponder this question and think about how the mountains of East Tennessee and Western North Carolina got their unique name? Anyone who has been to the Smokies can confirm that there is definitely a haze over the area that helps to create a magical setting! In fact, even the Cherokee referred to the area as “Shaconage,” or land of the blue smoke, as they considered the mountains to be a sacred place. If you wondered what makes them smoky in the first place or asked yourself, “Why are the Smoky Mountains called the Smoky Mountains,” read on to discover the answer! Read More

parent and child hiking along a snowy trail while dressed in warm clothes and wearing backpacks

6 Things to Bring for Winter Hiking in the Smoky Mountains

January 14, 2025

Are you planning on going hiking in the Smoky Mountains this winter? If this is your first time embarking on a winter hiking trip, you may be wondering what you need to bring with you. Here’s a list of some of the things you should pack for winter hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains so you can be prepared! Read More

Mountains

5 Reasons You Should Vacation in the Smokies

January 14, 2025

Are you looking to plan a vacation in the Smoky Mountains? The Smokies have so much to offer, including breathtaking views of nature and activities for the whole family. No matter what your hobbies are, you can find something that will interest you in the Smokies. If you’ve been asking yourself, “Why should I go to Gatlinburg Tennessee?” We’re here to answer that for you. Check out these 5 reasons why you should vacation in the Smokies: Read More

gatlinburg welcome sign lights

Top 5 Things to Do in Gatlinburg in January

January 1, 2025

Are you planning on being in town during January? You’re probably wondering about things to do in Gatlinburg and what you should try. There are so many fun experiences you can have, from skiing to trying delicious new food. Here are the top 5 things to do in Gatlinburg in January: Read More

winding road in the Smoky Mountains surrounded by snow

Top 3 Tips for Visiting the Smoky Mountains in the Winter

December 23, 2024

While the hours of daylight may be shorter and the weather a bit chilly, the winter months are still a great time to visit the Smoky Mountains! You’ll find plenty of festive holiday events in the area for those coming in December, while January and February offer a unique opportunity to visit your favorite local attractions without the crowds! The national park is also open year-round for your enjoyment, so bundle up for a scenic hike and soak in the dramatic winter landscapes! Here are the top 3 tips for visiting the Smoky Mountains in the winter: Read More

rafting on the Pigeon River

Everything You Need to Know About the History of White Water Rafting in the Smoky Mountains

December 18, 2024

While Smoky Mountain Outdoors is well known for our action-packed white water rafting excursions on the Pigeon River, you might be wondering how this unique leisure activity started in the first place! You’ll be surprised to know that the first rafting trips began over 1,700 miles away in the American Northwest before becoming popular in the Smokies! Here is everything you need to know about the history of white water rafting in the Smoky Mountains: Read More

4 Important Things You’ll See Along the Cades Cove Loop

November 29, 2024

One of the most popular destinations in Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the Cades Cove Loop, a scenic one-way road that travels for 11 miles through a spectacular valley. This road not only offers access to hiking trails and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, but a variety of notable structures that offer a unique glimpse into the history of the area! Here are 4 important things that you’ll see along the Cades Cove Loop: Read More

White water rafting down river

What to Wear When White Water Rafting in the Smoky Mountains

November 11, 2024

White water rafting in the Smoky Mountains combines the thrills of an amusement park ride with the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountain area. As you plan your visit to Smoky Mountain Outdoors, be sure to pay special attention to what you will wear. Choosing the wrong clothing can put a serious damper on your white water rafting adventure. To help you make the right clothing decisions, we have provided some fashion advice for your next trip down the Pigeon River.
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Baby Bear

3 of the Most Common Animals in the Smoky Mountains to Spot

November 9, 2024

If you’re hoping to see some wildlife during your visit to the Smoky Mountains, there is a good chance you may get lucky! The Smokies are a sanctuary for a wide assortment of animals, including about 65 species of mammals, more than 200 varieties of birds, and over 80 types of reptiles and amphibians! While some of the wildlife may be difficult to find while exploring the area, there are other animals that are frequently seen! Here are 3 of the most common animals in the Smoky Mountains to spot: Read More

Winterfest in Gatlinburg

Walking in a Winter Wonderland: 4 Ways to Enjoy Smoky Mountain Winterfest

November 7, 2024

It’s almost the most wonderful time of the year! That means winter is approaching, and it’s time to celebrate in the Smokies. If you are coming into town for the holidays, then you absolutely have to enjoy all the amazing activities at Smoky Mountain Winterfest. This festival is a celebration between Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and Sevier County. You and your family will love driving around and looking at the Christmas lights displays all over town. There are so many ways to enjoy Smoky Mountain Winterfest. All you have to do is get ready to have a great time! Read More

group rafting with Smoky Mountain Outdoors

4 Reasons to Come Whitewater Rafting in the Smoky Mountains With Us in 2025

October 30, 2024

As our rebuilding process continues, we can’t wait to welcome all of you back on the river in 2025! We are pleased to announce that our 2025 rafting trips are open for reservations so that you can plan your excursion months in advance and take advantage of our wide-open calendar. Here are 4 reasons to come whitewater rafting in the Smoky Mountains with us in 2025: Read More