Gatlinburg is an exceptional vacation destination to experience the beauty, color, and rebirth of spring. The temperatures rise, and flowering plants begin to bloom; plus, seasonal events and attractions provide ample opportunities to enjoy the fresh air and unique experiences that only the Smokies can offer. Read on to discover some of the best things to do during spring in the Smoky Mountains!
Spring Events in Gatlinburg
From Shamrock Festivals to popular Easter and spring celebrations at Anakeesta, Gatlinburg is bursting with possibilities! The month of March is a great time to visit since the Parkway businesses decorate for St. Patrick’s Day, and many restaurants offer special Irish-themed dishes. We also suggest hitting up the local Celtic pubs and eateries, such as Boudicca’s , located in The Village. Get Lucky at the SkyBridge showcases a new way to experience the iconic bridge, lit up with festive green lights. It’s included in general admission, and you can also enjoy live music, seasonal food, and more!
Easter Arts & Crafts Show
The Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community puts on several shows throughout the year at the Gatlinburg Convention Center, and the Easter craft fair is completely free to enter. You’ll find a variety of unique gifts, decor, and so much more, handmade by the artists who call the Smoky Mountains home!
Hands On Gatlinburg
The Hands On Gatlinburg weekend is another Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community event that DIY-ers and craft hobbyists will love! Local artisans host and offer around 30 unique workshops focusing on a variety of mediums, including jewelry making, gourd birdhouse painting, watercolor, glass fusing, basket weaving, candle making, chair seat weaving, and more.
Spring Activities in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The warmer weather that marks the beginning of spring means that families will start flocking to the national park to explore popular areas such as Cades Cove and Clingmans Dome. Take a look at a few fun activities during spring in the Smoky Mountains:
Trout Fishing Tournaments
The city of Gatlinburg hosts several community programs but is most known for the Annual Spring Trout Fishing Tournament. It takes place at Herbert Holt Park, and you can choose to register in advance online or in person on the day of the tournament. It’s suitable for all ages, or those 15 and under can participate in the Kids’ Trout Fishing Tournament instead!
Hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains
As the most visited national park in the US, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park boasts a variety of trails suitable for every skill level, whether you’re interested in shorter family-friendly hikes or backpacking trips. Spring in the Smoky Mountains is an exceptional season for wildflower viewing on your hikes through the Smokies. With over 1,500 kinds of flowering plants in the park, it contains the most diverse plant population in North America! Hikes such as Porters Creek, Little River Trail, and even some of the popular Smoky Mountain waterfall hikes showcase spectacular wildflowers, including rhododendron, crested dwarf iris, yellow trillium, dwarf cinquefoil, stonecrop, Canadian violets, and umbrella leaf.
Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage
If you’re looking for a more guided approach to seeing the spring wildflowers in the national park, consider taking part in the annual Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage . This week-long event offers professionally guided programs exploring the region’s wildflowers, wildlife, natural history, ecology, and culture through hikes, seminars, and workshops.
Where to Stay
With an abundance of beautiful scenery, outdoor activities, and special events, spring in the Smoky Mountains is the perfect backdrop for a relaxing and fun-filled vacation. At our Gatlinburg hotel, you can enjoy cozy and accommodating rooms with pretty views, amenities and perks like the outdoor pool, a free hot breakfast, and so much more. Book a stay today and experience this incredible season for yourself!
