There are plenty of off-the-beaten-path things to do in the Smoky Mountains! Check out this Smoky Mountains vacation guide if you’re looking for unusual things to do or want to avoid the tourist traps.
There are so many things to do in the Smoky Mountains, it’s hard to know where to start.
But if you’re looking for something a little bit different here are some ideas.
The Smoky Mountains are a beautiful and popular destination for vacations, but sometimes it can be difficult to find things to do that are off the beaten path.
Here are some hidden and unusual things to do in the Smokies that will make your trip even more special.
Off The Beaten Path Smoky Mountains
The Smoky Mountains offer a wide range of activities for visitors, from hiking and camping to fishing and picnicking. However, there are also a number of off-the-beaten-path things to do in the Smokies that are often overlooked.
Here are just a few of the many special things you can do while visiting this beautiful area.
- Smoky Mountain Llama Trek
- Explore the Forbidden Caverns
- Visit Parrot Mountain & Gardens
- Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum Tour
- Elkmont Historic District
- Smoky Mountain Cat House
- Spence Field Hike
- Gem Mining at Friendly Falls
- Spend time in Cataloochee Valley
There are many benefits to venturing off the beaten path in the Smokies.
By doing so, you can avoid crowds and enjoy a more authentic experience.
You’ll also have the opportunity to see some of the most beautiful scenery and wildlife that the area has to offer.
So if you’re looking for a truly unique and memorable experience, be sure to check out some of these off-the-beaten-path things to do in the Smoky Mountains.
Off the Beaten Path Things To Do In The Smoky Mountains
Here are the best off the beaten path things to do in the Smoky Mountains!
Llama trekking is a great way to see the Smokies from a different perspective, and Smoky Mountain Llama Trekking offers some of the best llama treks in the Smokies.
Their llamas are well-trained and gentle, making them the perfect hiking companions for people of all ages. And, since llamas can carry up to 25% of their body weight in gear, you can pack everything you need for a comfortable hike without having to worry about being weighed down.
Smoky Mountain Llama Trekking offers several different trekking options, so you can choose the trek that best fits your abilities and interests.
Forbidden Caverns is a unique attraction is located in Sevierville, Tennessee, and offers visitors the chance to explore a real cave. The caverns are home to a variety of different rock formations as well as bats, so it's definitely an experience you won't forget.
There are a number of different tours available depending on how adventurous you're feeling, but all of them are led by experienced guides who will teach you all about the history and geology of the cave.
If you're looking for something a little different to do in the Smoky Mountains, Forbidden Caverns is definitely worth a visit.
Parrot Mountain is a great place to visit in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee. There are many things to do there, including hiking, bird watching, and picnicking.
The views from the top of the mountain are beautiful, and you can even see some of the parrots that live there!
If you're looking for a fun and adventurous place to visit, be sure to check out Parrot Mountain. You won't be disappointed!
This quirky museum is home to over 20,000 salt and pepper shakers from all over the world.
Visitors can learn about the history of these common kitchen items, see some of the world's rarest shakers, and even create their own salt and pepper shakers to take home.
Elkmont Historic District is a Smoky Mountain gem that is often overlooked by visitors. Nestled in a remote corner of the park, Elkmont is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the Smokies.
In addition to its stunning views, Elkmont is also home to a number of historical structures. These include the original log cabins built by members of the exclusive Elkmont Hunting and Fishing Club, as well as the Spence Cabin, which is one of the oldest structures in the Smokies.
Visitors to Elkmont can enjoy several activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and picnicking. There are also a number of ranger-led programs offered at Elkmont, which are a great way to learn more about the history and culture of the Smokies.
Smoky Mountain Cat House is a unique shop in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee that specializes in selling Smoky Mountain-themed gifts and souvenirs.
The shop is known for its wide array of cat-themed items, including t-shirts, keychains, coffee mugs, and more. Plus, visitors get to see the cats that reside at the house, and yes you can pet them too!
Spence Field is one of the lesser-known areas in the Smoky Mountains, but it definitely shouldn't be missed! The trailhead is located just off the beaten path, which makes it a great place to explore if you're looking to avoid crowds.
The hike itself is relatively challenging, but the views from the top are well worth it. The best time to visit Spence Field is in the spring or fall when the weather is cooler and the leaves are changing.
This secluded valley is home to an abundant elk population, as well as several historical structures.
Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the valley to see the elk and learn about the history of the area. There are also several hiking trails in the Cataloochee Valley, providing visitors with opportunities to explore the area's natural beauty.
Friendly Falls is one of the best-kept secrets in the Smoky Mountains. This beautiful waterfall is hidden away in a quiet corner of the park, and it's the perfect spot to enjoy some peace and quiet.
There are plenty of things to do at Friendly Falls, including gem mining and exploring the snack shop. It is also a unique and beautiful location for weddings and renewals.
Smoky Mountains 7-Day Itinerary
I understand how difficult it can be to plan a trip, especially if it’s your first time going. That’s why I created this 7-day itinerary for the Smoky Mountains. It outlines all of the best places to go in the area and comes with insider tips that will save you a lot of stress–trust me, they saved me when I was planning my own trip!
- Our 7-day itinerary takes you to the best places in the Smoky Mountains.
- You’ll get to see all the best sights and attractions with driving directions
- The itinerary is designed to show you the most scenic routes.
- Packing Checklist for every season.
- You’ll have everything you need to make the most of your trip.
- Insider Tips!
Here’s a quick overview of our Smoky Mountains 7-Day Itinerary.
- Day 1: Cades Cove Loop
- Day 2: Rich Mountain Road
- Day 3: Cataloochee Valley
- Day 4: Newfound Gap Road
- Day 5: Roaring Fork Motor Trail
- Day 6: Little River Road
- Day6: Foothills Parkway
Get This FREE Smoky Mountains Checklist Now!
Related Smoky Mountain Resources
- Pigeon Forge Vacation Guide
- Gatlinburg Vacation Guide
- 125+ Things to Do in the Smoky Mountains
- Great Smoky Mountains Family Vacations Facebook Group
MORE RELATED RESOURCES
Looking for more ideas? Take a trip off the beaten path with this list of the best Unique Things To Do In The Smoky Mountains.
And after a trip to the Smokies maybe you can visit the nearby area of North Carolina, here’s a post about awesome must-see stops on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Asheville by CS Ginger.