No matter what the season, you’ll never run out of outdoor things to do in Gatlinburg! Here is a Gatlinburg vacation guide to give you your best options.
With some of the best hiking, rafting, and scenic views in the USA, Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains offer endless recreational opportunities for every outdoor enthusiast.
If you’re looking for outdoor fun during your vacation to Gatlinburg, you’ll find no shortage of activities to keep you busy.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is right at your doorstep, which is the perfect place to spend a few days in nature. You can also go downtown for more exciting discoveries.
Check out the best outdoor things to do in Gatlinburg, TN!
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Where To Stay In Gatlinburg, TN?
Embark on a new adventure in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and immerse yourself in the unparalleled beauty of the Smoky Mountains with a stay at Bear’s Wilderness Lodge, exclusively offered by GSM Family Vacations.
Nestled amidst the serene wilderness, this charming cabin offers a refreshing escape from the ordinary, inviting you to discover the true essence of mountain living.
Is Gatlinburg Walkable?
Gatlinburg is a very walkable city. The main downtown area is compact and easy to get around on foot. There are also plenty of sidewalks and paved trails that wind through the city, making it easy to explore everything Gatlinburg has to offer.
Even if you’re staying outside of downtown, most of the attractions in Gatlinburg are within a few blocks of each other, so you can easily walk from one to the next.
The only time you might need a car is if you’re planning on hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is just a short drive from Gatlinburg.
Walking is a convenient way to explore the town during the peak season when traffic and parking can be difficult. If you’re looking for a fun and easy way to get around Gatlinburg, walking is definitely the way to go!
Outdoor Things To Do In Gatlinburg
If you’re looking for a place to get away from it all and enjoy some time in nature, be sure to check out this list of outdoor things to do in Gatlinburg.
There are countless hiking trails to explore in Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, ranging from easy walks to strenuous hikes. One popular trail is the Chimney Tops Trail, which leads to an overlook with stunning views of the Smokies.
For those looking for a thrill, Gatlinburg is home to several whitewater rafting companies that offer trips down the Pigeon River. This is a great activity for families or groups of friends looking to experience some adventure.
There are many scenic drives in Gatlinburg, such as the Newfound Gap Road and Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, which takes you through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This is a great way to see the beauty of the area without having to hike.
Horseback riding is one of the best ways to see the beauty of Gatlinburg. There are a few riding stables in the area that offer guided trails through the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Ober Gatlinburg is a great place to enjoy the outdoors! With so many activities available, there is something for everyone.
You can ride the Aerial Tramway to the top of Ober Gatlinburg for some stunning views, or go Skiing, snowboarding & tubing during winter. There are also hiking trails, a wildlife encounter, a mountain coaster, and so much more!
This park features scenic chairlifts that take you up to the top of Crockett Mountain. From there, you can enjoy panoramic views of Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains. There’s also a skybridge that spans across the valley.
Anakeesta is a great place to explore the outdoors with its zip lines, rope courses, treehouses, and more. You can also take a scenic gondola ride up to the top of the mountain.
Mountain coasters are a thrilling way to experience the Smokies, and Gatlinburg is one of the best places to do just that! Soar through the trees and control your own speed as you wind your way down the mountain on a roller coaster-like track for an unforgettable experience.
Ripley's offers two unique themed mini golf courses that are perfect for friends and family bonding. Play through each of the courses, and try your luck to score the elusive hole-in-one with the Smoky Mountains as the backdrop.
If you’re looking for an off-road adventure while visiting Gatlinburg, you certainly won’t be disappointed. There are several trails in the area that offer beautiful scenery and varied terrains that are perfect for novice and advanced riders.
Is it better to go to Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg?
Both Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg offer unique attractions and experiences, making it difficult to definitively state which is better.
Pigeon Forge is renowned for its family-friendly attractions, such as the Dollywood theme park and the Titanic Museum. The city also offers a variety of shopping and dining options.
To help you decide where to stay, head to our post: Is It Better To Stay In Pigeon Forge Or Gatlinburg?
On the other hand, Gatlinburg is located near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
The downtown area of Gatlinburg is walkable and contains unique shops and eateries.
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 Our FREE Smoky Mountains Checklist Now!
Recommended Gatlinburg Vacation Resources
- Smoky Mountains Vacation Guide
- Pigeon Forge Vacation Guide
- Fun Things to Do in Gatlinburg in March
- Great Smoky Mountains Family Vacations Facebook Group
MORE RELATED RESOURCES
Wondering when to visit Gatlinburg and experience these outdoor adventures? Read our guide on the Best Time To Visit Gatlinburg, TN.
And while visiting don’ forget to pack a compact travel camera to document all the fun!