things to do in smokey mountains

The Great Smoky Mountains offer a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some things to do in the Smoky Mountains:

Outdoor Activities

1. Hiking: With over 800 miles of trails, the Smoky Mountains offer endless opportunities for hiking and exploration.
2. Camping: Set up camp in one of the many campsites throughout the park and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
3. Fishing: The Smoky Mountains are home to over 2,000 miles of streams, rivers, and lakes, making it a fisherman’s paradise.
4. Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for black bears, elk, deer, and other wildlife that call the Smoky Mountains home.
5. Horseback Riding: Explore the park on horseback for a unique and memorable experience.

Scenic Drives and Views

1. Cades Cove Loop Road: A 11-mile loop road that takes you through a historic valley with preserved log cabins and churches.
2. Clingmans Dome: The highest point in the Smoky Mountains, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
3. Newfound Gap Road: A scenic drive that runs through the park, offering stunning views of the mountains and valleys.
4. Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail: A 5.5-mile drive that takes you through a beautiful forest with waterfalls and historic buildings.

Attractions and Shows

1. Dollywood: A theme park owned by Dolly Parton, featuring roller coasters, live music, and craft demonstrations.
2. Dolly Parton’s Stampede: A dinner show featuring horse riding, music, and comedy.
3. Ober Gatlinburg: A ski resort and amusement park that offers year-round activities, including skiing, ice skating, and an alpine slide.
4. The Island at Pigeon Forge: A entertainment complex with a giant Ferris wheel, haunted house, and other attractions.
5. Smoky Mountain Opry: A music show featuring country, bluegrass, and gospel music.

Cultural and Historical Attractions

1. Cades Cove Heritage Center: A museum that showcases the history and culture of the Smoky Mountains.
2. Great Smoky Mountains National Park Visitor Center: A museum that offers insight into the park’s natural and cultural history.
3. Cherokee Heritage Center: A museum that explores the history and culture of the Cherokee people.
4. Smoky Mountain Trout Farm: A working trout farm that offers tours and fishing opportunities.
5. Hillbilly Village: A historic village with a collection of log cabins, churches, and other buildings.

Other Activities

1. Whitewater Rafting: Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting on the Pigeon River.
2. Ziplining: Fly through the trees with one of the many ziplining companies in the area.
3. Golfing: Tee off at one of the many golf courses in the Smoky Mountains.
4. Shopping: Visit the many shopping centers and malls, including The Island at Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg’s Strip.
5. Dining: Enjoy the local cuisine, including barbecue, country cooking, and fresh seafood.

These are just a few things to do in the Smoky Mountains. With its natural beauty, rich history, and wide range of activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful region.