Check out some of our favorite activities to enjoy in the Smoky Mountains during your next trip. The Smoky Mountains offer many activities for adventure seekers, and they’re a place that you should definitely visit. You can do hiking, biking, walking, photography, and so much more here. So, let’s share some hidden gems of the Smokies that are perfect for travel enthusiasts.
Hiking is Fun in the Smoky Mountains
The Smokies have over 800 miles of trails, making them a hiker’s paradise. Here’s what you can do here:
Adventure
The Appalachian Trail, a whopping 2,190-mile trek, cuts right through the Smokies. Go for a challenging day hike on a portion of this trail. Or you can choose a different, shorter trail like the Alum Cave Trail for breathtaking views.
Enjoy the view
Visit the highest point in the Smokies, Clingmans Dome, for amazing panoramic views of endless mountainscapes. And make your adventure a truly unforgettable experience by taking the paved nature trail to the observation tower. But keep in mind that it’s steep.
Activities to Enjoy in the Smoky Mountains – Waterfalls
The Smoky Mountains waterfalls add more charm to your hike. Rainbow Falls, an 80-foot waterfall, offers a moderately challenging hike. On the other hand, Laurel Falls is a bit easier and more accessible for families.
Biking for All Levels in the Smoky Mountains
The Smokies aren’t just for hikers. Bikers can also push their pedals fast and enjoy the fresh air on their faces. The whole region is a cyclist’s playground, offering a diverse experience for adventurers with different interests.
In nearby towns like Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, you can find bike rental shops and some family-friendly paved trails. These are great for enjoying a leisurely ride, perfect if you want to just pedal around and enjoy the mountain views.
For hardcore cyclists, the roads winding through the mountains offer challenging rides with stunning scenery. For example, The Foothills Parkway offers a good workout with its climbs, and the sights are rewarding, too.
Casual Walking – Activities to Enjoy in the Smoky Mountains
The Smoky Mountains are hard to beat when we talk about casual walking. There are easy trails and walkways to experience the beauty of the mountains without having to go on a tough hike.
Many towns in the region, like Gatlinburg and Cherokee, have their own walking trails. Usually, there are paved paths and boardwalks alongside mountain streams or through charming wooded areas. This is perfect for a morning stroll or an evening walk after dinner.
Photography in the Smoky Mountains
We mentioned Clingmans Dome being the highest point around, so yeah, take out your cameras, as the views are insane. You won’t regret dragging yourself out of bed for sunrise here.
And don’t forget to visit Morton Overlook for clicking awesome photos. Next, you can go to Cades Cove, where the “wildlife photographer” within you will thank you. Be patient and quiet, and you might snap a black bear or deer.
For the perfect waterfall shot, Grotto Falls is your spot. And if you love those classic misty mountain shots, Newfound Gap or Foothills Parkway is your best bet. Have a great time!
Ready for some unforgettable memories? Call us at the Highland Manor Inn and book your room now: Call (865) 448-2211
