One of the most popular reasons to visit the Smoky Mountains area is to spend time outdoors in the fresh air and natural scenery. There are plenty of ways to enjoy your time outside with your family and friends when the weather is nice, whether you’re looking for something laid-back or adrenaline-pumping! Here are some of the best outdoor activities in Gatlinburg that you won’t want to miss:
1. Ziplining
One of the most thrilling outdoor activities in Gatlinburg is ziplining! There are a few different places to go ziplining in Gatlinburg, including CLIMB Works and Anakeesta’s Dueling Zipline Adventure. During your zipline trip, you’ll soar through the trees high above the ground, surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery. Some zipline adventures include bridges, rappels, and other exciting challenges! An expert guide will take care of hooking you up and ensure your safety, so all you have to do is enjoy the rush of the wind as you fly through the air!
2. Horseback Riding
If you’re looking for laid-back outdoor activities in Gatlinburg, you should definitely try horseback riding! Sugarlands Riding Stables is conveniently located just a few minutes from Gatlinburg in the beautiful Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Whether it’s your first time riding or you’re an experienced equestrian, you’re sure to have fun exploring the forested landscape on horseback! Horses are matched to riders based on experience level, and each ride is led by an experienced guide.
3. Fishing
Fishing is an excellent leisure activity in Gatlinburg! Breathe in the fresh air and listen to the sounds of nature as you cast a line into a mountain stream. The area is home to more than 50 native fish species, including trout and bass. If you’re new to fishing or want to hone your skills, you can book a guided fly fishing trip with The Smoky Mountain Angler to learn the techniques necessary to catch wild mountain fish.
4. Mini Golf
One of the best family-friendly outdoor activities in Gatlinburg is mini golf! There are a few excellent places to play mini golf in town, including Hillbilly Golf, Ripley’s Davy Crockett Mini-Golf, and Gatlin’s Mini Golf. Each of these miniature golf courses offers their own unique challenges with various hazards and obstacles to overcome. This is the perfect activity with family and friends as you compete against one another for the best score!
5. Mountain Coaster
Are you looking for adrenaline-filled outdoor activities in Gatlinburg? You should take a ride on one of the mountain coasters in town! There are a number of mountain coasters to choose from, including Ripley’s Mountain Coaster, Moonshine Mountain Coaster, Anakeesta’s Rail Runner and Hellbender, and Ober Mountain’s Tennessee Flyer. Climb into a gravity-propelled cart and zoom down the track at the speed of your choice! You’re in control of the brake, so you can choose whether you race down the hillside at top speed or take a scenic cruise at a calmer pace.
6. Hiking
If you want to spend time in nature, one of the can’t-miss outdoor activities in Gatlinburg is hiking! There are a number of great hiking trails to explore nearby in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, including trails that lead to Gatlinburg waterfalls! Just a short drive from downtown you can reach fantastic trails like Laurel Falls and Grotto Falls. No matter your age or experience level, you can find trails ranging from easy hikes like the Gatlinburg Trail to more challenging treks like Mt. LeConte.
More Outdoor Activities Nearby
These are some of the can’t-miss outdoor activities in Gatlinburg that you should add to your vacation to-do list! Are you looking for more ways to enjoy the fresh air during your trip? Check out these nearby outdoor activities in Pigeon Forge you need to try!
