Summertime in the Smokies is packed with opportunities to do as many fun things as you have the time to do. The possibilities are endless but we wanted to get you started with these 4 fun things to do in Gatlinburg in the summer.
1. Get High or Fly the Sky
Have a fear of heights that you want to conquer this summer? Love being up high and in the sky? Gatlinburg is the place for you then! Visit the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park and walk the SkyBridge, take a ride up to the top of the Gatlinburg Space Needle, or explore Anakeesta’s new AnaVista Tower. You can also drive up to the Clingmans Dome parking area and walk up to the top of the observation tower to get a break from the heat and stand on the highest point of the Smokies and the Appalachian Trail. Still not high enough? Connect with Scenic Helicopter Tours and take a bird’s eye view tour of the area.
2. Take A Hike
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has close to 900 miles worth of hiking trails that range from easy peasy to strenuous. While you’re in town stop off at the NOC in Gatlinburg and let the staff help you find the perfect trail to hike for your interest. Doing a little research will put you on a trail with less of a crowd but plenty of beauty and tucked away gems that many others miss. You can also pick up info at Sugarlands Visitor Center in the park, but be prepared for a possible wait due to the number of visitors they receive. From our downtown Gatlinburg hotel you can walk to the Gatlinburg Trail that will take you over to the Visitor Center as well as Cataract Falls.
3. Ride The River
If you’re seeking adventure while you’re on vacation then you’ll want to add a ride down the river to your itinerary as well. Connect with the good folks at the NOC in Gatlinburg and they can set you up with a rafting adventure down the Pigeon River. You can also take a scenic drive through the beautiful Great Smoky Mountain National Park into Townsend and find numerous companies that offer opportunities to tube the river.
4. Connect with Locals
A more laid-back approach to fun things to do in the summer while in Gatlinburg is just simply to relax and connect with the locals. Take a day to wander the Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community and maybe even sign up for a workshop with a local artist or craftsman. Seek out locally owned shops and dining spots. Check out the farmer’s market and pick up some goodies. Connect with Smoky Mountain Angler or Smoky Mountain Guides and let a local give you a guided tour of their favorite areas of the park. Time with the locals will give you a greater appreciation for the area and it will also support them at the same time. Ready to book your visit to Gatlinburg this summer? View Our Guest Rooms ! Check Out Gatlinburg Events ! Need more ideas of fun things to do in Gatlinburg? Browse Our Blog !
