5 Fun Outdoor Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN

Fresh mountain air, stunning views, and adventure are waiting for you in Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains! Do you need some help with deciding on what type of outdoor activities to add to your itinerary? Check out these 5 fun outdoor things to do in Gatlinburg TN!

Find Your Trail

We are blessed to have the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in our backyard here in downtown Gatlinburg. The most visited national park in the nation is made up of 520,000+ acres, stunning views, an incredible network of rivers and streams, and more than 850 miles of hiking trails. In the Smokies, there’s a trail for everyone. The Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail is paved and handicap accessible, a hike to the Alum Cave Bluffs is a great moderate experience and those seeking more difficult trails will enjoy a trek to Gregory Bald, Rocky Top, or Mount LeConte. You’ll find trails of all difficulty levels in between and hikes that feature waterfalls, views, history, and more. To take in the beauty of the park on foot, find your trail, grab your pack, and head out for an adventure.

Cast Your Cares Away

Over 2,000 miles of streams and rivers flow throughout the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and act as veins of life for the forests. When staying with us in Gatlinburg you’ll find that all of our guest rooms are riverside and include a private balcony. If you think sitting by the river is relaxing and allows you to escape for a moment, then try fishing for a day. Sitting on the bank is great but if you want a true Smokies fishing experience give Smoky Mountain Angler a call and book a guided trip with our friend CJ or any of their other knowledgeable and professional guides. With your feet in the water and a wild rainbow in your hands, you’ll forget that the stress of the world even exists!

Been Dreamin’ of Roaming the Hills like the Pioneers?

A horseback ride in the Smokies is a great way to explore the outdoors. Travel the trails with a guide for a taste of what life was like in the hills long before cars were rolling down Newfound Gap Road. Sugarlands Riding Stables is less than 2 miles from our downtown Gatlinburg hotel and offers a peaceful experience with a good horse beneath you and a blue sky above. With no experience needed, beginners to experienced riders will enjoy their tour. You can also take a ride in Cades Cove with the Cades Cove Riding Stables or at the Smoky Mountain Riding Stables just outside of downtown Gatlinburg.

Fun in the Sun, River Style

Guests can find opportunities to enjoy the streams and rivers year-round in Gatlinburg but during the warmer months, the possibilities are endless! Visit the NOC Gatlinburg to book a rafting trip, bring your kayak and ride the river, take a tubing tour, go snorkeling, or just find a little swimming hole and waste the day away. The beauty and tranquility of the area’s waterways are truly one of the greatest gems in the Smokies so please be sure to Leave No Trace and help us to keep the pristine mountain streams clean for future generations.

Outdoor Attractions

Do you love the outdoors but also want to enjoy a little extra dash of fun while you’re in town? Then consider visiting some of Gatlinburg’s best attractions which also include spending most of your visit outdoors and in the fresh air of the mountains. Anakeesta, Gatlinburg SkyPark, Ober Gatlinburg, CLIMB Works, mountain coasters, mini-courses, and zipline tours are all fun things to do in Gatlinburg TN. Adventure awaits around every corner of the mountains!

Are you ready to escape to Gatlinburg and the Smokies for a week of outdoor fun?

Browse Our Guest Rooms to find the perfect accommodations at our downtown hotel. We’re just steps away from the best dining, things to do in Gatlinburg TN, and shopping in town. Plus, a short walk will take you to the Gatlinburg Trail and the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. If you don’t want to walk and you don’t feel like driving, pick up a $2 all-day pass for the Gatlinburg Trolley at our front desk. Our amenities provide a home-away-from-home experience and our staff is available 24/7 to assist you. Click Here to book a stay today!