Are you planning a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains? You’ll want to spend as much time in the fresh mountain air as possible! There’s so much natural beauty to take in, and so many fun ways to do it! Here are some of the can’t-miss outdoor activities in the Smoky Mountains you have to try:
1. Hiking
One of the popular outdoor activities in the Smoky Mountains is hiking. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to more than 800 miles of hiking trails! These trails range from easy walks in the woods to challenging uphill treks. You can hike trails to waterfalls, mountain views, and historical sites. In the spring you can spot beautiful wildflowers along the trails, and in the fall you can hike while surrounded by colorful foliage. Some of the most popular hikes in the Smoky Mountains include Alum Cave, Grotto Falls, and Abrams Falls.
2. Wildlife Viewing
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is known for its diverse wildlife. This is why wildlife viewing is one of the can’t-miss outdoor activities in the Smoky Mountains! Some of the many amazing animals in the Smoky Mountains include black bears, white-tailed deer, elk, salamanders, and various birds and reptiles. If your goal is to spot wildlife, you should take a scenic drive through places like Cades Cove, Cataloochee, and Roaring Fork. When wildlife viewing, make sure you always keep a distance of at least 50 yards from the animals at all times and do not try to feed or touch any wildlife. This is for your safety and the safety of the animals.
3. Fishing
Are you looking for relaxing outdoor activities in the Smoky Mountains? Fishing is a fun and peaceful way to spend time in nature! The national park has approximately 2,900 miles of streams, all of which can be fished in. The Pigeon River is known for its abundance of trout and smallmouth bass, making it a popular spot for anglers. Other great spots to cast a line include Abrams Creek and LeConte Creek, especially for fly fishing. Make sure you check out the rules and regulations of fishing in the Smoky Mountains before you set out.
4. Ziplining
If you’re searching for thrilling outdoor activities in the Smoky Mountains, you’ll love ziplining at CLIMB Works! Your tour begins with an exciting UTV ride up the mountainside. Then, you will soar high above the trees along 9 world-class ziplines, walk across 3 sky bridges, and enjoy a surprise ending. CLIMB Works is the closest zipline to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, surrounded by the national park on 3 sides. This means you can enjoy breathtaking, panoramic views of the beautiful Smoky Mountains during your adventure!
5. White Water Rafting
One of the can’t-miss outdoor activities in the Smoky Mountains is white water rafting with Smoky Mountain Outdoors. You’ll love spending time in the fresh air surrounded by the beauty of nature as you float down the Pigeon River! As you navigate the rapids with an experienced guide, you’ll experience exciting dips, twists, and jolts that will have you smiling and laughing the entire way! Our Lower River Rafting trip offers a scenic float down the river with fewer rapids, making it ideal for first-timers and families with kids. Our Upper River Rafting trip provides a more exhilarating ride down larger rapids. You can choose a rafting trip that suits your experience and thrill level!
Want to experience both the thrill of white water rafting and the adrenaline rush of ziplining in the Smoky Mountains? Smoky Mountain Outdoors is partnered with CLIMB Works to offer you a special combo deal! This white water rafting and ziplining package allows you to experience both outdoor adventures for one low price! Book your rafting and ziplining package today!
