Epic outdoor adventures await your next getaway. Whether they’re covered in snow or flush with foliage, the Great Smoky Mountains offer the perfect setting for adrenaline-filled excursions. You’ll discover a slew of outdoor activities in Gatlinburg, and with each adventure, you’ll enjoy a new facet of Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains like never before.
While you’re here, don’t forget to request our complimentary Vacation Guide. Our expertly crafted guide is full of local insight on some of the area’s top restaurants, attractions, and seasonal events. The best that the Great Smoky Mountains have to offer is just one click away!
Three of the Best Outdoor Activities in Gatlinburg
Hiking
Without a doubt, Gatlinburg is the best destination for outdoor adventure in the Southeast! The city is surrounded by the grandeur of the Great Smoky Mountains, making it easy to find a hiking trail or two for a fun-filled mountain excursion. From beginner, kid-friendly trails to more challenging paths, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has something for everyone!
Three Gatlinburg hiking trails for your upcoming Smoky Mountain outdoor adventure:
- Porters Creek Trail
- Ramsey Cascades Trail
- Trillium Gap Trail
Whitewater Rafting
A trip to the Smokies is always more fun when you spend a little time on the water! Due to the area’s free-flowing waters, whitewater rafting in Gatlinburg is a popular, family-friendly activity. Adrenaline-lovers can experience cascading waterfalls, refreshing swimming holes, and, of course, the thrill of wild water rapids during these exciting river rafting trips!
Horseback Riding
Try an off-the-beaten-path activity and treat yourself to an afternoon of horseback riding at Sugarlands Riding Stables. With scenic landscapes and peaceful surroundings, Gatlinburg is the perfect place to enjoy an activity like this one! Whether you’re new to the saddle or have galloped through the forest many times before, we’re sure no activity will allow you to reconnect with nature, quite like horseback riding in Gatlinburg.
More Ways to Spend Time Outdoors in Gatlinburg
- Take the aerial tramway at Ober Gatlinburg
- Tee-off at the Gatlinburg Golf Course
- Zipline over the lush green canopies of trees
Rest and Relax at Edgewater Hotel
After an exhilarating day of outdoor activities in Gatlinburg, we invite you to stay at Edgewater Hotel. Our Downtown Gatlinburg hotel is surrounded by incredible parks, beautiful waterfalls, and endless places to explore. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Little Pigeon River are all just steps away from our entrance. Each of our rooms and suites features top-notch amenities and are designed with your ultimate comfort in mind. No matter which of our accommodation you choose, every stay at Edgewater Hotel will be one for the books!
During your visit, you can expect to start each morning with a complimentary continental breakfast. Then, venture out into the great outdoors, or take a dip in our indoor-outdoor pool. No matter what, every second spent here will be unforgettable.
If you’re ready to hit the best hiking trails in the country, check our availability, and book your stay today. We can’t wait to welcome you!