Prepare for an exciting Smoky Mountains Vacation! Start your adventure with these awesome things to do in the Smoky Mountains in the Summer!
Located in Tennessee, this lush mountain range is home to some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the United States. From stunning waterfalls and rivers to breathtaking views from atop its highest peaks, there’s something for everyone here.
Summertime is fast approaching, making it a great time to plan a family vacation! What better way to enjoy this sunny season than experiencing what these wondrous mountains have to offer.
To get the most out of your trip to the Smokies, here is a guide about the things to do in the Smoky Mountains in the summer that is definitely one for the books.
What Are The Smoky Mountains Known For?
The Great Smoky Mountain runs along the Tennessee–North Carolina border in the southeastern United States and is best known as the home of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is America’s most visited national park.
The Smokies are known for their diverse wildlife including over 100 native species of trees and are the home of the densest black bear population in the Eastern United States.
What are the Smoky Mountains like in the summer?
The Smokies in the summer are truly a sight to behold. With warm temperatures and long, sunny days, there is no better time to explore this picturesque region.
Visitors can expect lush greenery, vibrant wildflowers, and breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and ridges.
Weather in the Smokies during the summer is usually hot and humid. While you may be looking forward to spending time outdoors, it’s important to plan for rain showers and thunderstorms that are common during this season.
Also, remember that Summer is the peak season in the Smokies. Expect to see lots of other visitors exploring the area, so plan ahead and make reservations in advance if you need lodging or restaurants!
Things To Do In The Smoky Mountains In The Summer
The Smoky Mountains offer plenty of fun activities that are sure to make your summer vacation memorable. Here are the best things to do in The Smoky Mountains in summer.
Beat the summer heat with an adrenaline-rushing whitewater rafting in the Smoky Mountains. This summer activity is a must-have if you want a break from the usual hiking and sightseeing. Whitewater rafting generally runs from late February to the month of November and all tips take place in the heart of the Smokies which is the Pigeon River.
Upper Pigeon River is perfect for beginners and children who are new to the activity while the lower Pigeon River is ideal for people who want some more action.
One of the most popular places in the Smoky Mountain Areas during the summer season is Dollywood. Their Summer Celebration offers extended hours, nightly fireworks, and other exciting summer entertainment for the whole family.
Also, cool off this summer don’t forget to visit Dollywood’s Splash Country and enjoy various slides, swimming pools and play areas.
Summertime is the perfect time to go hiking in the Smokies. With over 800 miles of hiking trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you’ll never run out of options. It’s one of the best ways to experience and see the forests in all their glory. Popular hiking trails are as following;
The Smokies don’t run short of gorgeous waterfalls to visit. Hiking during the summertime can take a toll on the body, and the perfect spot to cool off and rest is by visiting waterfalls scattered all over the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Be sure to visit these amazing waterfall trails before the summer ends.
- Laurel Falls trail
- Abrams Falls Trail
- Big Creek / Mouse Creek FallsTrail
- Grotto Falls Trail
If you prefer to see waterfalls without the hassle of walking for miles, there are also accessible Smoky Mountains waterfalls that you can drive by the road and visit for only a short walk.
River tubing is one of the best ways to spend a warm day in the Smokies In the summer. There are several tubing outposts in the area where you can chill and relax as you leisurely cruise down the river.
Climb up the highest peaks in the Smokies and enjoy the breathtaking view and colder temperature perfect to beat the summertime heat. You can drive up nearly to the summit of the Clingmans dome which is the highest of them all. You can also visit two of the other highest points in the Great Smokies which are the 6,580-foot Mount Buckley and 6,420-foot Mount Love.
You can also enjoy high elevation hikes on Andrews Bald Trail, Clingmans Dome Trail, and the hike to the Jump Off-trail in the Smoky Mountains.
Within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is Cades Cove, its the perfect place to visit if you want to experience great scenery and learn a little bit about the Smoky Mountain History. You can see Cades Cove via car but you can also experience the place on foot or by bicycle.
Barns, churches, historic homes, and other buildings constructed by early settlers are to be seen in this historical place. Plus, you’ll also get to see wildlife like black bears, deers, bobcats, Raccoons, and more. Remember to keep your distance and don’t disturb these beautiful creatures.
Book a stay at Bear’s Wilderness Lodge at GSM Family Vacations!
This luxurious mountain retreat is the perfect place to enjoy your downtime and explore the beauty of nature. With serene wooded views, incredible amenities, and plenty of entertainment options – you’ll never want to leave this cozy hideaway.
Enjoy the great outdoors and go camping! With so many campgrounds available in the Smoky Mountains, there's something that will suit your camping style and budget.
And if you want a unique camping experience why not try, glamping in the Smokies!
Within the Great Smoky Mountains are several swimming holes which are perfect to cool you down on a warm day at the Smokies. These great swimming spots are filled with cool, clean water fed by nearby springs which are pleasantly refreshing.
Take a dip and cool off at these amazing swimming holes within the Smokies;
- Greenbrier Swimming Hole
- Townsend Wye
- The Sinks
- The Midnight Hole
- Little River Swimming Hole
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 Summer Packing Checklist For the Smokies!
Related 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
Are you looking for a thrilling adventure in the Smokies? If so, then you’ll surely enjoy ATV riding in the Smoky Mountains.
Bring a compact travel camera so you’re always ready to capture all the fun while exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
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