- Experience the top summer activities: ziplining, trout fishing, waterfall hikes, horseback riding, camping, and white water rafting.
- Find great Smoky Mountains summer adventures for all ages and skill levels, from family-friendly river trips to thrilling zipline courses.
- Bundle rafting and ziplining for exclusive savings with Smoky Mountain Outdoors (SMO) and CLIMB Works.
Your Smokies Summer Adventure Starts Here
Whether you’re a family looking to make lifelong memories, a couple seeking thrills, or a solo explorer craving fresh air, the Smoky Mountains in summer are your playground. Imagine a vacation where you rafted the Pigeon River, hiked to a stunning waterfall, and watched the sunset from your tent in Cades Cove. The verdict? “Best vacation ever!”
Ready to write your own Smokies story? Here’s your ultimate guide to the best things to do in the Smoky Mountains in summer.
What Are the Best Things to Do in the Smoky Mountains in Summer?
The Smoky Mountains are bursting with summer activities for every type of traveler. Here are the top six experiences you can’t miss:
1. Zipline Above the Treetops
Soar through the canopy and get a bird’s-eye view of the Smokies! Ziplining in the Smoky Mountains is a must for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. Smoky Mountain Outdoors (SMO) has teamed up with CLIMB Works to offer a special adventure bundle: combine a rafting trip with a ziplining experience and save!
2. Go Trout Fishing
With 2,900 miles of streams open to fishing from sunrise to sunset, the Smokies are a paradise for anglers. All you need is a valid fishing license. Favorite trout fishing and picnic spots include Greenbrier, Deep Creek, and Metcalf Bottoms, perfect for casting a line, grilling, and cooling off in the water.
3. Hike to a Waterfall
Wondering what to do at Great Smoky Mountains National Park in summer? A waterfall hike should be at the top of the list! Trails range from easy strolls to challenging treks, so there’s something for everyone. Summer brings wildflowers, wildlife sightings, and the soothing sound of rushing water.
4. Take a Horseback Ride
Explore the Smokies the old-fashioned way, on horseback! Cades Cove Riding Stables offers guided trail rides, carriage rides, and hayrides. Each horse is matched to your skill level after a friendly orientation, making this a safe and memorable experience for beginners and seasoned riders alike.
5. Camping in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Nothing beats a night under the stars. Choose from frontcountry campgrounds like Cades Cove, Elkmont, Cosby, and Deep Creek (for tents and RVs), or tent-only sites at Big Creek and Abrams Creek. Reservations are required and can be made online. Wake up to mountain views and the promise of a new adventure every day.
6. Raft Down the Pigeon River
White water rafting in the Smoky Mountains is the ultimate summer thrill! SMO offers trips for all ages (kids as young as 3 can join), plus an Extreme Pigeon River Trip in smaller rafts for ages 12 and up. This heart-pounding ride is only available in summer: swimming ability required, and prior rafting experience is recommended.
Key Takeaway: From ziplining above the treetops to casting a line in crystal-clear streams, the Smoky Mountains offer endless summer fun. Whether you crave adrenaline, relaxation, or a mix of both, there’s an activity for every traveler.
Is White Water Rafting in the Smoky Mountains Good for Families?
Absolutely! White water rafting with SMO is designed for families and groups of all ages. Kids as young as 3 can join the fun on the Lower River, while older kids and adults can tackle more adventurous rapids on the Upper River. All trips are led by experienced guides, and safety is always the top priority.
Key Takeaway: Family-friendly rafting trips make it easy for everyone to experience the excitement of the Pigeon River together. For thrill-seekers, SMO’s extreme rafting trip offers big waves and fast action, perfect for teens and adults with swimming skills.
Where Can I Go Ziplining Near Gatlinburg TN?
Gatlinburg and the surrounding area are home to some of the best ziplining courses in the Smokies. CLIMB Works, located just outside Gatlinburg, is a top-rated choice, offering a variety of zipline tours with stunning mountain views that feature aerial bridges and ATV rides for a full day of adventure.
Local Tip: Bundle your ziplining and rafting experiences with SMO and CLIMB Works for exclusive savings and double the fun!
Comparing Summer Activities in the Smoky Mountains
| Activity | Difficulty | Age Suitability | Location Highlights | Booking Required? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ziplining | Moderate | 7+ | Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge | Yes |
| Trout Fishing | Easy | All ages | Greenbrier, Deep Creek | License needed |
| Waterfall Hiking | Varies | All ages | Park-wide (850+ trails) | No |
| Horseback Riding | Easy-Moderate | 5+ | Cades Cove | Yes |
| Camping | Easy | All ages | Cades Cove, Elkmont, etc. | Yes (online) |
| White Water Rafting | Easy-Extreme | 3+ (varies) | Pigeon River | Yes |
No matter your age or adventure level, the Smoky Mountains have a summer activity for you. From easygoing fishing to adrenaline-pumping rafting, you’ll find the perfect fit for your group.
How Do I Plan the Perfect Smoky Mountains Summer Vacation?
- Choose Your Base: Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville all offer easy access to the national park and our Pigeon River rafting outpost.
- Book Early: Summer is peak season; reserve your rafting, ziplining, and camping spots in advance.
- Mix It Up: Combine high-energy adventures (like rafting and ziplining) with relaxing days fishing, hiking, or horseback riding.
- Pack Smart: Bring water shoes, sunscreen, and a camera for those unforgettable moments.
- Check Local Events: Look for summer festivals and special events in the area for extra fun.
A little planning goes a long way! With so many things to do in the Smoky Mountains in summer, you’ll want to make the most of every day.
Ready to Make Memories this Summer? Book Your Rafting Adventure!
Smoky Mountain Outdoors (SMO) is your trusted partner for unforgettable summer adventures. From white water rafting to Gatlinburg ziplining and rafting packages, we’re here to help you make the most of your vacation. See you on the river!
Get ready to experience one of the best things to do in the Smoky Mountains and book your family’s white water rafting trip now!
