3 of the Best Outdoor Activities in Gatlinburg

March 31, 2021
Things to Do in Gatlinburg

Choosing Gatlinburg as your vacation destination is the perfect way to blend visiting great attractions with the beauty of the great outdoors. Here are 3 of the best outdoor activities to do while you’re staying with us in the Great Smoky Mountains.

1. Take A Hike

Our downtown Gatlinburg hotel is a 5 minute walk to the entrance of our beautiful Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Our location makes it very convenient for you to take a hike along the Gatlinburg Trail that’s located next to the entrance. You can ride the trolley from our hotel to certain locations in the park and being nearby makes it simple to drive to numerous trailheads in the park. Hike to one of the numerous waterfalls in the park, trek up Mount LeConte or Rocky Top, wander among the wildflowers, or explore historical areas throughout the most visited national park in America. Our friends at NOC Gatlinburg are very knowledgeable when it comes to the park and they are always happy to help you set up a guided hike or plan your own hike. Need a child carrier for your hike or trekking poles? You can rent both from the NOC while you’re in town. Take a hike and experience firsthand the reason that so many return to the Smokies time after time.

2. Ride the Rapids

NOC Gatlinburg is also one of the spots in town that allows you to set up a ride on the rapids of the upper and lower Pigeon River. They offer a lower Pigeon Gorge rafting trip that is suitable for families with children ages 3 and older. If you’re looking for an extra adventurous day sign up for the upper section of the gorge and you’ll experience non-stop action on the water!

3. Catch a Sunrise or Sunset

Not up for taking a hike or paddling your way down the river? No worries! There’s always a way to experience the great outdoors when visiting Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains. One of the most phenomenal experiences you can have is simply watching a sunrise or sunset from the top of the mountains. During your time with us you’ll be just a short drive from the Gatlinburg Bypass Overlook, an excellent spot for sunrise. Clingmans Dome is a prime location for both sunrise and sunset. Newfound Gap Road also offers numerous spots for taking in the beauty of the beginning or ending of the day. Taking a drive around Cades Cove or along the Foothills Parkway is a great way to soak up the view as well. Please do remember while you’re in the park to leave no trace and to pack all trash out with you. There is an ongoing effort to make the national park litter free and we’d love for you to be a part of something good while you’re in town!

Are you ready to go outside and play in the Smoky Mountains? Our downtown Gatlinburg hotel, Old Creek Lodge, is the perfect basecamp for the adventures mentioned above and countless more! Go ziplining, walk among the treetops at Anakeesta, explore on horseback, ride a mountain coaster, enjoy a guided fly fishing experience with our friends at Smoky Angler, or play a round of mini-golf. The possibilities are endless when you’re in the Smokies.