Outdoor & Nature Things to Do in Gatlinburg, TN
Stats don’t lie: The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is America’s most visited, drawing over 12 million visitors each year! And guess what the closest city is? Yep, Gatlinburg, Tennessee. With endless attractions and those unbeatable Gatlinburg accommodations, this charming town serves as the perfect gateway to the park, with an entrance just minutes from its center.
But Gatlinburg offers even more for nature lovers, both inside and outside the park. Curious about the best nature activities in and around town? This blog brings you the top 10 things to do for nature enthusiasts in Gatlinburg!
Before we start, here’s a little about us…
At Smoky Mountain Holiday, we offer a variety of cabins with amenities like hot tubs, full kitchens, fireplaces, cinema and game rooms, and even pet-friendly options. Check out our website to find the perfect cabin for your stay.
For more tips on what to do during your visit to Gatlinburg and nearby Pigeon Forge, head over to our destination blog. From the best rainy-day activities to the top eats in each town, we’ve got tons of local spots and insider tips just waiting for you!
Are your hiking boots ready? Let’s talk about adventure, pristine landscapes, and countless outdoor activities!
Reason 1: You’ll experience all four distinct seasons, each bringing its own special charm.
Gatlinburg is a stunning Tennessee nature escape with four distinct seasons and each season offers its own special experiences, making every visit unique.
- In spring, Gatlinburg comes alive with vibrant wildflowers and budding trees. The mild weather is great for hiking and bird-watching.
- Summer brings warm weather and endless outdoor fun. You can swim, fish, or enjoy a picnic by the stream, and The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-see during this time.
- Fall brings an explosion of colors, with the mountains turning red, orange, and gold. It’s perfect for scenic drives and photography. Besides, you can also enjoy local festivals and trails.
- Winter turns Gatlinburg into a snowy wonderland. It’s a great time for skiing, snowboarding, and cozy cabin stays. The crisp air and snowy landscapes make it incredibly peaceful.
Reason 2: The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is your backyard playground.
As we mentioned earlier, Gatlinburg is just minutes away from a natural wonderland brimming with outdoor fun, making it the perfect starting point to explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
With over 850 miles of trails ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes, the Smokies are a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, offering breathtaking views and historic landmarks that make every visit unforgettable.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a treasure trove of natural beauty. Whether you’re wandering through lush forests, discovering hidden waterfalls, or exploring historic homesteads, you’re guaranteed to find something extraordinary. It’s an essential part of any Gatlinburg adventure!
Reason 3: Hiking is basically the local favorite pastime around here.
When you visit Gatlinburg, you see hiking isn’t just an activity; it’s a way of life. There are many Gatlinburg hiking trails to explore. You can find easy walks for families or tough trails for experienced hikers.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is full of nature activities. Walking through lush forests or reaching scenic views, you’ll feel a sense of community. Locals often share trail tips, making visitors feel welcome.
Whether you’re new to hiking or have done it before, Gatlinburg has trails for everyone. Embrace the tradition, feel the camaraderie, and make the trails a memorable part of your Gatlinburg adventure.
Reason 4: And did we mention the amazing wildlife-watching opportunities?
For nature lovers, wildlife watching in Gatlinburg is a top experience. The area’s diverse ecosystem is home to many species. It’s a great spot for wildlife enthusiasts.
Common animals you might see include black bears, white-tailed deer, and many bird species. Whether hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park or exploring town, you’ll likely see these creatures.
To enjoy wildlife watching, follow these tips:
- Best times to watch: Early mornings and late afternoons are best. Animals are most active during these cooler times.
- Top spots: Cades Cove and Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail are great for sightings.
- Practical gear: Bring binoculars, a camera with a zoom lens, and a wildlife guide to help identify species.
Wildlife watching in Gatlinburg is a thrilling outdoor activity, but remember: always keep a safe distance and respect the animals’ natural habitat. This way, you’ll have a memorable and eco-friendly adventure.
Reason 5: There’s always a chance to hop in the saddle and go horseback riding.
Exploring Gatlinburg’s trails on horseback is a unique adventure. The Great Smoky Mountains offer a stunning backdrop for this experience. It combines the charm of horse riding with the beauty of nature.
Many stables and guided tours are available, catering to all skill levels. Local stables like Sugarlands Riding Stables and Smoky Mountain Riding Stables offer great experiences. They have well-trained horses and friendly guides. You’ll ride through lush forests, scenic trails, and peaceful mountain views.
Horseback riding lets you connect deeply with nature. The sound of your horse’s hooves, the fresh mountain air, and the views create a magical experience. It’s a way to find peace and tranquility away from city life.
Reason 6: Whitewater rafting is as easy peasy as it gets.
If you’re looking for an exciting Gatlinburg adventure, whitewater rafting is perfect. Imagine navigating the thrilling rapids of Gatlinburg’s roaring rivers. It’s an experience that gets your adrenaline pumping, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
Whether you’re new to rafting or have experience, Gatlinburg has something for everyone. Novices can enjoy gentle floats to see the scenic beauty. Meanwhile, more adventurous folks can tackle challenging rapids for a thrilling ride.
Gatlinburg whitewater rafting is easy to access and offers a wide range of experiences. As you navigate through rapids, you’ll bond with nature in unique ways. This is really a Tennessee adventure that invites you to explore Gatlinburg’s wild side.
Reason 7: You can take in the breathtaking views by exploring the Gatlinburg SkyPark.
While in town, you can discover the wonders of the SkyPark Gatlinburg, a must-visit for families and nature lovers, this incredible spot blends excitement with stunning views, making it one of the top outdoor experiences in Gatlinburg.
At the heart of SkyPark is a series of sky bridges, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. It’s a perfect way to experience nature from a unique perspective, combining adventure with tranquility.
The park also features observation towers that provide panoramic vistas of the Great Smoky Mountains, making it an ideal destination for outdoor fun for all ages.
As a highlight of Gatlinburg’s attractions, the SkyPark has something for everyone. Whether you’re walking along the treetop paths or simply soaking in the views, it’s an unforgettable experience for both kids and grandparents alike.
Reason 8: You can discover some hidden waterfalls
For those who love adventure, Gatlinburg’s hidden waterfalls are a treasure. They are a great reward after hiking the Gatlinburg hiking trails. The nature activities in this area are many, but finding a waterfall is a special thing to do. Here are some trails to find these hidden natural gems:
- Grotto Falls – On the Trillium Gap Trail, this waterfall is perfect for a break.
- Ramsey Cascades – The tallest waterfall in the park, it’s a mix of challenge and reward.
- Rainbow Falls – With its 80-foot drop, this waterfall is a must-see after a hike.
Exploring these waterfalls lets you connect with nature and feel a sense of peace and it’s not just about the destination either. Taking these Gatlinburg hiking trails to these waterfalls offers a unique experience for everyone.
Reason 9: You can soak it all in while soaring through the sky on a zipline.
Another way to enjoy nature while in town? Feel the rush of flying over the treetops with a Gatlinburg zipline adventure. It’s a thrilling thing to do in Gatlinburg and another chance to see the forest canopies from above.
Gatlinburg and its surroundings offer zipline tours for everyone. Whether you’re a beginner or looking for an extreme thrill, there’s a zipline course to match your adventure level. Everyone can find the perfect zipline experience. Here are two of the most popular ones:
- Legacy Mountain Premier Ziplines: Over 4.5 miles of breathtaking ziplining across several lines.
- Anakeesta’s Dueling Ziplines: Race a friend while enjoying the mountain views.
Each tour is led by experts with top-notch equipment. As you zip through Gatlinburg’s beauty, you’ll see the Great Smoky Mountains from a new angle — and a new speed!
Reason 10: Finding a charming rental cabin nestled in nature is a breeze.
Planning your vacation in Gatlinburg? How does finding a cozy cabin nestled in nature sound for a Gatlinburg accomodation? These cabins blend comfort with rustic charm, set against the mountain landscape. Imagine waking up to birds chirping and enjoying the fresh mountain air on your deck.
Choosing a cabin as your Gatlinburg vacation rental means privacy and peace, yet you’re still close to exciting outdoor activities. You can hike, watch wildlife, ride horses, or go rafting, with your cabin as a cozy base to relax after exploring.
In our cabins, you’ll find modern comforts like hot tubs, fireplaces, and well-equipped kitchens. Here are some tips to make the most of your experience:
- Book early, especially in peak seasons, to find the perfect cabin.
- Look for cabins with great views, easy trail access, and fun features like reading nooks or game rooms.
Where Should You Stay in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg?
Our short-term rental cabins provide the ideal blend of privacy, stunning mountain views, and a cozy atmosphere, ensuring a truly relaxing escape in the Smokies.
At Smoky Mountain Holiday, we offer cabins of various sizes and amenities, including hot tubs, full kitchens, fireplaces, cinema and game rooms, and even pet-friendly options. Explore our website to discover our fantastic range of cabin choices.
We’re dedicated to ensuring you and your family have the best possible experience in the Smokies. With Smoky Mountain Holiday, your vacation memories are guaranteed to be unforgettable.