Author: Prestige Vacation Rentals

Great Smoky Mountains National Park ranks as America’s most-visited national park for good reason. The blue peaks, shrouded in their namesake mist, feature stunning natural beauty and some of the best outdoor recreation in the country. Even better, unlike most other national parks, you don’t need an entrance pass to visit — just a low-cost parking tag – recently implemented to avoid overcrowding.

A short drive from metropolitan areas like Asheville and Gatlinburg, the park offers countless opportunities for year-round fun. You can view vibrant autumn leaves in the fall, strap on cross-country skis during the winter, and raft down whitewater rivers in the spring and summer. Everyone, from families to solo travelers, honeymooners to thrill seekers, can enjoy activities they like to experience the park to its fullest.

To help you decide what to see and where to go, we’ve compiled a list of the top 20 things to do in this magnificent national forest while on a Prestige vacation home rental getaway. With several locations in the Gatlinburg area, guests will be positioned right at the north entrance to the national park.

Read on to learn about all the best activities in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, then book your stay today!

1. Hunt waterfalls

Photo Credit: Tony Fernandez via Flickr CC 2.0

During the spring and summer, the park comes alive with rushing streams and hundreds of waterfalls. No two falls are alike — for example, hikers can marvel at the majestic Abrams Falls via the Abram Falls Trail or catch the vibrant greenery surrounding Grotto Falls via the Trillium Gap Trailhead. Cataract Falls, just a 10-minute drive from downtown, is a hidden gem that should be added to any Gatlinburg itinerary.

Bring a waterproof sleeve for your phone no matter which falls you visit so the spray doesn’t keep you from snagging pics!

2. Visit Cades Cove

Despite its name, this destination isn’t a water feature but a tranquil, green valley where some of the first European settlers planted their roots. You can tour Cades Cove from your car on an 11-mile driving loop, but short hiking trails like the Cades Cove Nature Trail will fully immerse you in the area’s wild beauty. While you explore, keep an eye out for wildlife like turkeys, black bears, and deer.

3. Climb Clingmans Dome

Photo Credit: Jack Koning via Flickr CC 2.0

The highest point in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Clingmans Dome will afford you some unforgettable views. On clear days, you may see up to seven states from the observation tower on top of the dome. Tourists flock to the striking viewpoint from spring to fall, when the road is open to car traffic, but if you hike in during winter, you could have this iconic landmark all to yourself.

4. Hike Mount LeConte

Reaching the four peaks of Mount LeConte, one of the largest mountains in the Smokies, requires some commitment. All of the hikes here clock in at ten or more miles roundtrip, but you’ll be rewarded with incredible sights along the way.

At Myrtle Point, you can catch the best sunrise in the Smokies, while Cliff Top will give you the best sunset. If you choose to hike up via the Trillium Gap Trail, you might see some unexpected furry friends: pack llamas, which bring provisions to the mountaintop LeConte Lodge.

5. Other Hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Photo Credit: Whitney via Flickr CC 2.0

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park boasts 150 trails in its half a million acres. Since you probably don’t have time to try all of them, we’re keeping things short and sweet by breaking down a few of the most iconic hikes.

Deep Creek Loop

This relaxed, family-friendly loop covers not one, not two, but three waterfalls, following the scenic Deep Creek uphill on a gentle incline. Bring a picnic lunch to dine by the creekside and watch for native wildlife, like gray foxes and whitetail deer. You can even fish for trout in those crystal-clear waters.

Charlie’s Bunion

The Appalachian Trail stretches from Georgia to Maine, with 72 miles in the national park’s boundaries. If that sounds daunting, don’t worry — you can still experience the AT as a day hike. Strap on your pack and lace up your boots to complete an eight-mile out-and-back hike from Newfound Gap to the Charlie’s Bunion overlook.

Mount Cammerer

Famous for its panoramic views and stone lookout tower, Mount Cammerer also falls on the AT called the Low Gap Trail. Three thousand feet of elevation gain and an 11-mile roundtrip make this one of the lengthier and tougher hikes in the park, but if you complete the steep climb, you can enjoy unobstructed views of the Pigeon River Gorge and, of course, the Smoky Mountains themselves.

6. Spend a day at Dollywood

Although Dollywood isn’t within the national park, it’s just a short drive away in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. This theme park is founded and run by the Queen of Nashville herself, and you might even catch her there — she drops in for surprise visits and special events. Ride roller coasters and float through Splash Country, then wrap up the day with dinner and a show (we recommend Dolly Parton’s Stampede).

7. Peek into the past

Photo Credit: Judy Baxter via Flickr CC 2.0

If you’re entering the park’s south side on Newfound Gap Road, you can’t miss the Oconaluftee Visitor Center. One of the park’s four visitor centers, Oconaluftee is home to the Mountain Farm Museum and half a mile from Mingus Mill, a water-powered gristmill built in the late 1800s.

On your way back out of the park, you’ll pass the Museum of the Cherokee Indian in the town of Cherokee, North Carolina. Here, you can learn more about the area’s complex history through the lens of its indigenous people.

8. Drive the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

If hiking on foot isn’t your thing, you can tackle this particular trail from your car. Along this short loop drive, you’ll spot rushing mountain streams and a handful of buildings preserved from the early days of settlement, including gristmills and log cabins. If you want to stretch your legs after the drive, take the 5.4-mile hike to Rainbow Falls, one of the most photographed destinations in the park.

9. Walk along Fontana Dam

Photo Credit: Dana Lane via Flickr CC 2.0

This gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park forms a fascinating part of American history. The 480-foot-tall dam was constructed during World War II to produce electricity for aluminum manufacturing, and it still supplies power to local communities today. You can learn more at the small visitor center atop the dam, walk across the concrete structure, and watch decades of engineering at work.

10. Float on Fontana Lake

Besides providing electricity, the Fontana Dam had the added benefit of creating Fontana Lake, now a nearly 17-mile-long body of freshwater that forms part of the park’s southern border. Take a scenic drive two hours south of Gatlinburg and grab a kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard at Nantahala Outdoors Center. Or, you can take a dip in those inviting emerald waters from the Fingerlake Day Use Area.

11. Ride horses

Photo Credit: Land Between the Lakes KY/TN via Flickr CC 2.0

Visitors to Great Smoky Mountains National Park can participate in guided horseback rides starting from one of four stables: Cades Cove, Smokemont, Smoky Mountains, and Sugarlands. Rides start at $30 per hour. On horseback, you can soak up mountain views and learn some local history from your guides, who will escort you on your ride. Depending on which stable you pick, you’ll see different sides of the park, so read up on their routes and choose wisely.

12. Ride a zipline

Although no companies offer ziplining inside the park, adventurous types can still soar over the trees just outside for 360-degree views of the Appalachian Mountains. CLIMB Works in Gatlinburg will get you closest to the park itself, but several other nearby adventure companies, like Smoky Mountain Ziplines and Foxfire Adventure Park, provide plenty of zipline thrills with equally spectacular scenery.

13. Tube down Deep Creek

Photo Credit: David Malouf via Flickr CC 2.0

One of the most-visited spots in the park, Deep Creek draws thousands of tourists every year. The creek owes its popularity to shallow but fast-flowing waters perfect for inner tubing and swimming. You can rent inner tubes from companies up and down the creek, and once you have your tube in hand, hike upriver as far as you’d like before floating back down to Deep Creek Campground. Lather, rinse, and repeat until you get tired or the sun sinks below the horizon.

14. View the wildflowers

Some call the Smokies “Wildflower National Park” due to the year-round presence of colorful wildflowers. While picking flowers in the park is prohibited, you can admire them from afar on your hikes and snap photos for long-lasting memories. You’ll find beautiful blooms in meadows and balds all over the park, but don’t forget to look up, as trees like rhododendrons and dogwoods put on some of the best floral shows every year.

15. Raft a whitewater river

Photo Credit: anoldent via Flickr CC 2.0

Amp up the adventure with a whitewater river rafting trip. You can choose from several exciting rivers that run near the park, like the Nantahala, Tuckaseegee, and the Pigeon Rivers. For guidance on the Nantahala, book a trip with Wildwater Rafting. Those looking to raft the Pigeon River can ride with Ober Gatlinburg or Raft Outdoor Adventures.

16. Pick berries on the Blue Ridge Parkway

Much like the wildflowers, you can’t pick fruit inside the national park. But you can head to the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway to partake in the area’s greatest summer bounty: blueberries.

Berry bushes thrive at Max Patch, Graveyard Fields (south of Asheville), and Black Balsam Knob. The harvest season peaks in mid to late August, so bring buckets for the whole family and be prepared to gorge yourself on delicious fruit.

17. Peep fall foliage

Photo Credit: RubyT via Flickr CC 2.0

Leaf peepers, as they’re colloquially known, descend upon the Great Smoky Mountains every fall to catch a dazzling show when the famous mountain greenery transforms into shades of red and gold, bringing thousands of visitors to landmarks like Cades Cove and Clingmans Dome from October through November.

If you’re hoping to avoid the crowds, though, we have some good news — you can see jaw-dropping fall foliage at almost every park overlook. Stick to the less traveled roads, and you might just stumble across your private viewing area.

18. Spot elk in the Cataloochee Valley

Several historic buildings in the Cataloochee Valley, including an old chapel, have been preserved since the 1800s. But the area is better known for its abundant elk population, the largest in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Once native, elk were reintroduced in the early 2000s and still roam the valley today.

19. Cross-country ski or snowshoe

Photo Credit: Jeff Moore via Flickr CC 2.0

Many roads in Great Smoky Mountains National Park close once winter arrives, but you can still explore on foot. Break out the skinny skis or snowshoes to create your own track and see a different side of the park sans all the warm-weather crowds. You can even set out to Clingmans Dome, where you may catch a gorgeous, wintry vista of the Smokies.

20. Snap some sunset shots

No trip to the Smoky Mountains would be complete without a sunset photo. Clingmans Dome provides great opportunities for sunset pics, as do Morton Overlook, Newfound Gap, and Cliff Top on Mount LeConte. But with so many incredible landscapes in the park, it’s hard to go wrong at any location.

Explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park features seemingly endless scenery, fun activities, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. We can’t possibly cover everything here, though — to get the full picture, you’ll just have to come see the park’s wonders for yourself.

Book your Gatlinburg getaway with Prestige Vacation Rentals today!

Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is known as the “Myrtle Beach of the Mountains” for good reason. The city is packed with world-class attractions and exciting things to do throughout the year, from hiking the nearby Smoky Mountains to rafting the local whitewater rivers. But since it is, after all, in the mountains, Gatlinburg can get more than a little chilly during the winter.

Photo Credit: Daniel Korzeniewski

You could retreat indoors with a mug of hot chocolate –or make the most of the season and go snow tubing. This popular winter activity consists of riding inflatable inner tubes down a slope of crisp, white snow, then heading back to the top of the hill to do it all over again.

Easy to plan and enjoyable for all ages, snow tubing is perfect for the whole family or friend group. Once you’re done tubing, you can make a full snow day out of it by building snowmen and making snow angels nearby.

The best part? When you stay with Prestige Vacation Rentals, you can go snow tubing right in Gatlinburg. All of our locations will put you just a few minutes from the snow tubing action!

Where to Go Snow Tubing

Photo Credit: Marina-A

• Location: Ober Mountain Adventure Park and Ski Area
• Address: 1339 Ski Mountain Rd, Gatlinburg, TN
• Season Starts: Mid November

You don’t have to go far for Gatlinburg snow tubing— in fact, you don’t even have to leave city limits. Located a short drive from the busiest parts of town, Ober Mountain Adventure Park and Ski Area (formerly Ober Gatlinburg) offers family-friendly activities throughout the year.

During the summer, you can explore the mountain bike park, soar down a gravity coaster, take the kids rock climbing, and much more. Winter, meanwhile, sees plenty of visitors looking to ski, snowboard, and snow tube.

While you can drive to Ober Mountain, you might want to take the resort’s aerial tramway, which starts in Downtown Gatlinburg and provides 360-degree mountain views along the way.

Once you arrive at the outdoor tubing slope, you’ll start your ride at the top of the 350-foot-long snow tubing hill, dropping 50 vertical feet over the course of your run. Snowmaking machines ensure that you’ll be sliding down real snow, no matter what the precipitation forecast looks like. At the end of your run, step onto the Magic Carpet lift (a standing outdoor escalator) and ride back to the top of the hill for another go.

Snow Tubing Tickets & Restrictions

Photo Credit: Linda Hughes Photography

If you’re wondering how much your tubing experience will cost, don’t worry; you won’t be breaking the bank.

Ages 3 & 4

At Ober Mountain, kids aged 3 and 4 can tube free with an adult (younger riders will have to wait a few more years before joining).

Ages 5 and Up

Tickets for ages five and up cost around $35 if you tube between Sunday and Thursday and $45 if you tube on a Friday, Saturday, or during a holiday period.

Tubing Sessions & Booking

Tubing sessions last 90 minutes, and the resort recommends booking online well in advance, as tickets sell out quickly.

Snow Zone Play Area

If you’re not ready to leave the mountain after your tubing session, visit The Snow Zone play area. For just $10 per person, guests of all ages can make snow angels and slide across the snow. You can also strap on a pair of skates at the indoor ice rink, which is open throughout the year but is especially magical in winter.

Snow Tubing Season

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Ober Mountain’s snow tubing slope opens the Saturday before Thanksgiving each year, and advance tickets go on sale roughly a month beforehand, in mid-October. Nearly five months later, the season ends in March. Before booking your tickets, check the holiday schedule, as the typical hours change on major holidays.

The ski slopes and Snow Zone are less predictable, so you should frequently visit the Ober Mountain website for the most up-to-date information on conditions and opening hours.

Generally, the slopes and Snow Zone stay open between December and early to mid-March, when temperatures get too warm to keep snow on the hill. But no promises — winter weather is famously fickle in the Southeast.

Other Places to Snow Tube Near Gatlinburg

If an hour-and-a-half of tubing at Ober Mountain just won’t suffice, drive 20 minutes down the road to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. There, you’ll find Pigeon Forge Snow and Rowdy Bear’s Smoky Mountain Snowpark, both excellent spots to continue your snow tubing adventures.

Pigeon Forge Snow

Photo Credit: all_about_people

Pigeon Forge Snow holds the title of America’s first indoor snow park, featuring a snow play place and snow tubing lanes serviced by a Magic Carpet lift 365 days a year. As an added bonus, Pigeon Forge Snow keeps the thermostat at a balmy 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, so you won’t need to bundle up before going in (and yes, that’s real snow inside).

An hour-long tubing session costs around $30 for visitors of all ages, while half an hour in the snow play area costs $10, no reservations required.

Rowdy Bear’s Smoky Mounting Snowpark

Photo Credit: Boyloso

Rowdy Bear’s Smoky Mountain Snowpark also stays open year-round, but since the park is outdoors, visitors can only snow tube during the winter. Though you can still ride on synthetic material in warm months, Rowdy Bear’s snow tubing is well worth the wait. 500-foot-long lanes that drop 70 vertical feet will have your heart pounding by the end of every run, whether you ride solo or in a connected double tube.

After your 90-minute snow tubing session, stop by Sugar Bears Café and Creamery for sweet treats like hot cocoa and homemade ice cream.

Grab Your Snow Tube for the Ultimate Gatlinburg Getaway

Winter is right around the corner, so don’t wait to book your snow tubing tickets — and your stay at Prestige Vacation Rentals, because how else will you get close to all the fun? After a long day of playing in the snow, there’s nothing better than warming up around the fireplace at one of our cabins. We hope to see you on the slopes!

If you’re dreaming of a downhome country holiday or ringing in the New Year Tennessee-style, Gatlinburg is the perfect place to call home for the festivities. Spend your days walking in a winter wonderland among The Great Smoky Mountains and your nights curled up by the fire watching the snowfall from your cozy Prestige Vacation Rentals cabin this Christmas season!

Known as “The Gateway to the Smokies,” Gatlinburg is a top destination for outdoor adventure family fun, and one of the best places to spend the holidays. While Gatlinburg is full of things to do year-round, there’s even more fun to be had with epic light displays, winter festivals, and Christmas parades during the holidays.

If you’re ready for a holiday getaway like no other, here’s your ultimate holiday guide to a Gatlinburg Christmas!

Gatlinburg Winter Weather and Packing Tips

For many, the Christmas spirit is ushered in by holiday decorations, nativity scenes, and a certain kind of weather.

Weather

Photo Credit: Natwick

Gatlinburg is situated on the edge of The Great Smoky Mountains and has its fair share of cold weather. Throughout late December and early January, you can expect average daily temperatures to range from the 30s to the 50s. Occasionally, a cold front will bring temperatures as low as the 20s or warm up as high as the 60s, so it’s best to be prepared for all conditions.

You can expect to see some snowfall around Gatlinburg this time of year, especially in the higher elevations. As a general rule of thumb, the higher up you go, the colder and snowier it will be. This is important to remember if you are planning a day hike up into the mountains.

What to Pack

Photo Credit: New Africa

When heading to Gatlinburg for the holidays, you’ll want to pack some cold-weather essentials like jackets, boots, scarves, and hats, but also plenty of layering items like thermals, long-sleeve tees, and jeans so you can adjust for cooler or warmer weather.

Outdoor Activities

Photo Credit: Sunny studio

This kind of winter magic is perfect for outdoor activities. If you plan skiing, snow tubing, or hiking up to higher elevations, snow pants, and waterproof boots are a must. If you don’t have any, there are places you can rent them.

Lastly, don’t forget to pack a swimsuit so you can enjoy a warm soak in your private cabin hot tub at the end of the day. When the temperature drops — there’s nothing quite like it!

Gatlinburg Holiday Crowds

Gatlinburg is a popular holiday destination for the whole family, but the vastness of the Smokies can make it feel like you’re a world away from the hustle and bustle of the typical holiday season rush.

While you can expect more crowds than usual when heading downtown and longer lines for rides at Dollywood, it’s not unbearable. If you’re attending any holiday events like the Christmas parade or New Year’s Eve Ball Drop, just plan to arrive early to snag a good spot. Otherwise, just relax — you’re on Smoky Mountain time now!

Things to Do in Gatlinburg for the Holidays

Christmas time is one of the best times to visit Gatlinburg. The town is transformed into a winter wonderland with millions of sparkling lights, snowy landscapes, and plenty of fun holiday events. Here are some of the best ways to spend the holidays in Gatlinburg.

Enjoy a Day of Snow-Filled Fun at Ober Mountain Adventure Park

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons via Google Images CCL

Ober Mountain Adventure Park is your ticket to all-day fun in the Smokies. Ride the mountain coaster, soar over the valley in the aerial tramway for epic views, and ski, snowboard, or snow tube to your heart’s content!

There’s also ice skating, shopping, dining, and plenty of activities for children of all ages. Ober Mountain Adventure Park is the perfect spot for family-friendly fun.

Have a Downhome Country Christmas at Dollywood

Photo Credit: Chad Robertson Media

Home of the original Smoky Mountain Christmas, Dollywood is full of rides, attractions, shows, games, and, of course — lots of music and memorabilia featuring the Queen of Tennessee herself, Dolly Parton.

Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas, “America’s Best Christmas Event,” has been a Gatlinburg staple for well over a decade. During December, visitors are treated to a spectacle of lights, special holiday shows, and festive food and drink. Be sure to stop by Santa’s Village to see the big guy himself and stay until the evening when the skies above the park are lit up with their nightly Christmas drone show.

Shop, Eat, Drink, and Be Merry in Downtown Gatlinburg

Photo Credit: Joseph Hendrickson

Downtown Gatlinburg is the perfect place to get into the holiday spirit with an endless array of shops, restaurants, distilleries, live music, holiday lights, and even visits from Santa himself!

You can try some real Tennessee Moonshine at Sugarlands Distillery (the Appalachian Apple Pie flavor is a must-try) and pick up a one-of-a-kind handmade Christmas ornament at Santa’s Claus-et. Be sure to stop by at night to see the millions of twinkling lights downtown Gatlinburg is draped in during the holidays!

Walk Through a Winter Wonderland in The Great Smoky Mountains

Photo Credit: JennLShoots

Winter is a whimsical time at Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You can take a scenic drive through the parkway lined with snow-covered trees, take a hike through a frozen forest, see waterfalls made of ice, and much more. Just be sure to bundle up and be prepared for temperature changes at higher elevations. During times of heavy snow, you can even join a ranger-led snowshoe tour for a one-of-a-kind walk through this natural winter wonderland!

While the park’s famous bears are all in their dens for the winter, you still have plenty of wildlife spotting opportunities. Deer, elk, and wild turkeys still roam the valley in large numbers during winter; you may also get a chance to spot a mink, bobcat, or fox amid the snow.

Have a Holiday Light Night

Photo Credit: Jason Sanderford

You’ll find no shortage of holiday lights around Gatlinburg. The whole city is lit up like one big Christmas tree! While you can see lights pretty much everywhere, some attractions offer a little extra holiday magic.

Take a stroll through Anakeesta Adventure Park’s Light Up The Night event, a dazzling display of lights, dozens of Christmas trees, live music, costumed Characters, and more. It’s the perfect family-friendly outing.

For a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of the city, head to the Gatlinburg Sky Park for their annual Lights Over Gatlinburg event. Walk across the famous sky bridge, covered in thousands of sparkling lights, head up to the sky deck for incredible views of the illuminated city, and marvel at the over 30-foot-tall Christmas tree.

For even more lights, pop over to Pigeon Forge, just about 15 minutes outside of Gatlinburg; this other charming Smoky Mountain town offers even more holiday light displays during its annual Winterfest.

Learn Some Appalachian Holiday History at Winter Tunes and Tales

On special nights in December, costumed performers take to the streets to tell tales of Appalachian history through song and dance and give visitors a taste of an authentic Smoky Mountain Christmas. You can find them strolling through different parts of town, each night presenting a different tale and spreading lots of holiday cheer.

Festive Fun at The Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade

Photo Credit: Tony Moran

A visit to Gatlinburg during the holidays isn’t complete without watching the Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade. Dozens of dazzling floats, lights, marching bands, and, of course — Santa Claus himself all go dashing down the parkway for an evening of festive fun. You can watch the parade from various locations for free or purchase grandstand tickets for special seating.

Ring in The New Year at The Gatlinburg Space Needle Ball Drop

Photo Credit: Robin J. Gentry

Gatlinburg is the perfect place to ring in the New Year. Downtown becomes one big party as revelers take to the streets to enjoy live music, fireworks, food, and drink. When the clock strikes midnight — the highly anticipated Gatlinburg Space Needle Ball Drop takes place. Move over to Times Square!

If you’re traveling with little ones, don’t worry — there’s still plenty of family-friendly fun to be had. During the day, you’ll find numerous kid-friendly celebrations happening around town featuring games, music, face painting, and an earlier countdown complete with sparkling cider toasts.

Staying in Gatlinburg for the Holidays

Between the whimsical winter landscapes, endless Christmas lights, and a full calendar of holiday happenings, there’s no better place to celebrate Christmas and ring in the New Year than in Gatlinburg.

For the ultimate holiday escape, stay in The Smoky Mountains, where you can relax in your own cabin, tucked away from the hustle and bustle of in-town hotels. Enjoy sipping your morning coffee from a rocking chair on your front porch and enjoying hot chocolate by the fire at night.

Prestige Vacation Rentals offers a variety of cabins to choose from, offering all the comforts of home plus amenities like private hot tubs, cozy fireplaces, and unbeatable Smoky Mountain views.

Whether you’re planning a couple’s retreat family vacation or want to bring your four-legged friends along — you’ll find everything you need with Prestige Vacation Rentals. Book your holiday cabin now!

While larger cities like Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg tend to get the lion’s share of visitors to the Great Smoky Mountains, Cosby, Tennessee, deserves some laurels of its own. This town has a population of less than 700 but punches well above its weight when it comes to outdoor recreation, as it’s surrounded by some of the most stunning natural scenery in the southeastern U.S.

To help you plan your vacation here, we’ve put together a handy list of all the best things to do in Cosby, Tennessee. You can see all kinds of exciting sights and have so many new experiences during your visit, as there’s truly something here for every kind of traveler. To name just a few, you can hunt for waterfalls, take scenic drives, hike dozens of trails, and so much more.

Photo Credit: Smoky Dan via Flickr CC 2.0

Once you’ve planned out your itinerary, don’t forget the final step — booking your stay with Prestige Vacation Rentals. With locations all over Cosby and neighboring towns, we’ve got your dreams of a mountain cabin vacation more than covered so you can get down to the business of enjoying and exploring East Tennessee.

About Cosby, Tennessee

Just a 5-minute drive from Great Smoky Mountains National Park and less than 40 minutes away from all the attractions of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, Cosby provides a welcome alternative for a much less crowded mountain getaway. That means that visitors to this peaceful small town can take advantage of all the excitement in neighboring areas without fighting through traffic or packed parking lots.

Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Photo Credit: Margaret.Wiktor

Let’s start our guide to Cosby with its most famous attraction: Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Just a few minutes outside of Cosby town limits, this 522,427-acre national park is a paradise for flora and fauna of all kinds (wildlife includes elk, black bears, and rare bird species).

As such, it’s also a paradise for nature lovers of all stripes, from birdwatchers to backpackers and everyone in between. Come to hike through beautiful forests, explore historic structures, or just eat a picnic lunch as you soak up the fresh mountain air. Certain parts of the park close during the winter, but the Smokies can still be enjoyed year-round, as hikers and cross-country skiers also frequent the park during colder months.

Take an Off-road ATV Adventure

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Meandering dirt roads and gravel paths crisscross the Smoky Mountain foothills, but if you want to tackle them, you’re better off leaving your two-wheel drive at home. Instead, rent an ATV or, better yet, take a guided tour to get some mud on your tires (without worrying about getting stranded in the backwoods somewhere, that is).

Smoky Mountain Adventure Tours, Bluff Mountain Adventures, and Foxfire Adventure Park are just some of the companies offering exciting ATV experiences in the Cosby area, guaranteed to get you some great Smoky Mountain views and a bit of an adrenaline rush along the way.

Hike to Mount Cammerer Lookout Tower

Photo Credit: Joseph Pair

The climb to Mount Cammerer Lookout Tower is just one of many fun hikes within Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but a couple of extra perks set it apart. First of all, the trail culminates in a picturesque and historically significant stone fire tower, and second of all, you’ll get to walk part of the Appalachian Trail, a legendary footpath that stretches all the way from Georgia to Maine.

Like the rest of the A.T., the 11.4-mile hike to Mount Cammerer can get a bit steep in some places, but visitors will be rewarded with an abundance of panoramic views upon reaching the tower. Make sure to snap some photos of the surrounding vistas, and watch out for any chipmunks looking to snag your trail mix.

Drive the Foothills Parkway

Photo Credit: Betty Shelton

If you’re visiting Cosby to avoid crowds and traffic, go for a scenic drive on the literal road less traveled: the Foothills Parkway. Stretching a little more than 30 miles from US-129 and US-321, this peaceful section of highway winds past some of the loveliest spots in the Smokies.

You can drive the parkway in either direction, starting or ending at the famously twisty Tail of the Dragon road and carving through thick forests as you ride. Chances are that with nobody rushing you, you’ll want to take at least a few breaks along the way to admire the scenery and quietude of the area.

Get Your Shine on at Adventure Distilling Company

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The backwoods of East Tennessee have long served as a haven for moonshiners, who have been brewing incredibly strong corn liquor since the earliest European settlers arrived in the Smoky Mountain foothills.

Adventure Distilling Company keeps that tradition alive and well, cooking up white lightning right on site for visitors to sample both in cocktails and in its purest form. You’ll only get the good stuff here — Adventure Distilling Company uses a recipe crafted by moonshiner JB Rader, who assisted the legendary Popcorn Sutton back in the day.

You can take a tour of the distillery and learn more about the history of moonshine in the region, or just settle down at one of the outdoor picnic tables for a drink you won’t forget any time soon.

Soar Through the Trees on a Zipline

Photo Credit: Brocreative

Though the area’s lush forests are among its best features, getting up above the canopy on a zipline will give you a totally new perspective on the Smoky Mountains. As you fly down cables and over treetops, the views and speed will surely take your breath away.

For a safe, fun, and thrilling zipline ride near the Smoky Mountains, book a trip with CLIMB Works Smoky Mountains on the outskirts of Gatlinburg or with Legacy Mountain Ziplines in Sevierville. Serious adrenaline junkies, meanwhile, should look into Legacy Mountain’s famous seven-line zipline experience, which includes two-and-a-half hours worth of cable time at speeds of up to 50 miles per hour.

Enjoy Dinner and a Show at Dollywood

Photo Credit: Michael Gordon

It’s hard to think of East Tennessee without twangy country music coming to mind, and there’s no better place to celebrate the genre than Dollywood. “9 to 5” and “Jolene” crooner Dolly Parton opened the theme park back in 1961 under the name Rebel Railroad. Dollywood is still going strong today as one of the number one attractions in the Southeast.

With roller coasters, a water park, restaurants, and, naturally, plenty of live music performances, Dollywood will keep visitors of all ages entertained from dawn ‘til dusk.

Raft Down the Pigeon River

Photo Credit: Ammit Jack

For a one-of-a-kind outdoor adventure, book a guided rafting trip down the Pigeon River, which runs through the foothills in East Tennessee just outside Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Several companies offer guided trips, including Smoky Mountain Outdoors, Big Bear Rafting, and Five Rivers Adventure.

Whichever company you choose, you can expect to have a great time and plenty of expert assistance while you’re out on the river. Those who prefer a quiet ride should plan to raft the relatively tame Lower Pigeon, while any thrill seekers can get into the splash zone on the rapid-packed Upper Pigeon.

Hike to Hen Wallow Falls

Photo Credit: Theron Stripling III

Looking for a short day trip? The hiking trails just a few minutes south of Cosby offer a tranquil escape. Lined by groves of hemlock and rhododendron trees, the trail to Hen Wallow Falls is only 4.4 miles roundtrip, making it an ideal half-day hike.

Your prize at the end? Views of a gorgeous, 90-foot-tall cascading waterfall, and you might just spot some native salamanders in the pool of water at the base. Try to time your visit shortly after a rainfall to see the strongest flow at Hen Wallow or during winter, when the waterfall freezes into a sparkling pillar of ice.

It’s Time to Visit Cosby, Tennessee

Now that you know all the best things to do in Cosby, Tennessee, get ready for your trip by booking your stay with Prestige Vacation Rentals. Our clean, comfortable cabins will all make you feel right at home. But no matter how comfy our rentals are, just make sure you take at least a little time to get outside and experience everything that Cosby has to offer.

Located on the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, the Great Smoky Mountains are America’s most-visited national park for good reason. But while the majority of tourists flock to the hiking trails, viewpoints, and historic sites during summer and fall, you can beat the crowds and see some unforgettable sights in the Smoky Mountains in spring.

With mild temperatures, wildflowers blooming all over the park, and much more, spring is an excellent time to visit the Smokies. But if you need any more reason to plan a trip, we’re sharing a traveler’s guide to spring in the Smoky Mountains. That way, you’ll have the inside scoop on all the best things to see and do here long before you arrive.

If you want to visit the Smokies during the spring, don’t forget to book your stay with Prestige Vacation Rentals. Our clean and comfortable rental cabins, located right outside the park’s entrance in Cosby and Gatlinburg, Tennessee, will serve as the perfect base camp for all your adventures in the Smoky Mountains.

Getting to the Great Smoky Mountains

Driving

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is located near several major highways, including I-40 and I-75. If you’re flying to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the nearest airport is the McGhee Tyson Airport in Alcoa, just south of Knoxville and less than 30 miles from the park’s Townsend entrance.

Flying

However, you can also fly into the Asheville Regional Airport (42 miles from the park), Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (nearly 200 miles from the park), or the Charlotte Douglas International Airport (145 miles from the park).

Shuttles

Once you arrive at the airport, you’ll most likely want to rent a car. Though some private companies provide shuttle services in the Smoky Mountains for a fee, public transportation and rideshare options are extremely limited in the area.

Rental Car

Having a car rental will allow you to get to and around the park since destinations are spread out across more than 500,000 acres. You’ll need to do a fair amount of driving if you want to see and experience as much as possible.

Parking Tag

You won’t need to pay typical national park fees to enter the Smokies. But a low-cost parking tag is required ($5 per car per day; weekly and annual options available) to park your car for more than 15 minutes within Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Why You Should Visit the Smoky Mountains in Spring

Great Weather

Though the Smokies can be chilly in March, the weather tends to be fairly balmy during the months of April and May. Temperatures typically fall between lows in the 30s and highs in the 60s and 70s, without the sweltering humidity (and bugs) of summertime visits.

Fewer Crowds

Additionally, the Smoky Mountains are often much less crowded in the spring than in the summer and fall. The most popular season by far, summer sees millions of tourists coming to hike, visit overlooks, and take a dip in the streams.

During fall, meanwhile, the park receives an abundance of “leaf peepers” who want to catch a glimpse of the Smokies’ spectacular autumn foliage.

Wildflower Season

The park puts on a different kind of show during spring. As temperatures warm, wildflowers start to appear throughout the Smokies. The streams and creeks also fill with rainfall and snowmelt, making spring an excellent time to see some of the most famous waterfalls in the Smoky Mountains. So, for one-of-a-kind sights and experiences in great weather with few crowds, you can’t beat spring.

What to Do in the Smoky Mountains in Spring

The Smoky Mountains feature dozens of different springtime activities. If you use your time here wisely, you can cover many of the outdoor adventures Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers in one action-packed trip.

With longer, warmer days at hand, there’s no telling what you might find here during the spring.

Visit Cades Cove

Photo Credit: Rob Hainer

One of the most popular attractions in the park, Cades Cove, is a lush valley accessed by an 11-mile loop road.

You can drive the Cades Cove Loop all year round, but on Wednesdays from May through September, the road is closed to vehicular traffic, allowing visitors to explore the area via bicycle or on foot.

During your visit to Cades Cove, you can see historic buildings preserved from the 1800s, eat a picnic lunch, and maybe even catch a glimpse of wildlife like black bears and turkeys.

Take a hike

Photo Credit: Jon Bilous

Hiking trails abound throughout the Smokies, and you could spend countless hours exploring the nooks and crannies of the park on foot.

The Appalachian Trail winds through Great Smoky Mountains National Park for about 70 miles en route to Maine, and the strenuous hike up Mount LeConte culminates in one of the best sunset-viewing areas in the park.

Shorter, more relaxed day hikes include the Little River Trail, the Elkmont Nature Trail, and the Gatlinburg Trail, to name just a few, but there are nearly countless hikes in this stunning national park.

Join the Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage

Photo Credit: JR P via Flickr CC 2.0

This time of year in the Smokies is the perfect time to join the Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage, which includes professionally guided walks, exhibits, and other learning opportunities to explore the region’s rich natural and cultural resources.

The season brings out an abundance of colorful yet delicate flowering plants that can’t be seen here at any other time of year. Take a scenic drive and keep an eye out for columbines, trilliums, mountain laurels, violets, bright yellow trout lilies, and more.

Even the trees blossom in spring, so you could be treated to a show of ivory dogwood flowers or pale pink laurel blooms during your time in the Smokies.

Climb Clingmans Dome

Photo Credit: Sean Pavone

Crowned with an iconic observation tower, the 6,643-foot-tall summit of Clingmans Dome marks the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains.

From the open-air deck atop the tower, you can soak up sweeping, panoramic mountain views, which can stretch more than 100 miles on a clear day. Take some time to identify the sights around you and admire the new spring growth, which should be just beginning to appear at the time of your visit.

Chase waterfalls

Photo Credit: Jeff McCord

With rivers, streams, and creeks flowing fast in the Smokies, thanks to abundant spring rainfall and snowmelt, you can see dozens of waterfalls at full strength throughout the park. Famous cascades like Abrams Falls, Laurel Falls, and Rainbow Falls are all must-visits on any itinerary but try to save some time for less crowded spots like Hen Wallow Falls and Ramsey Cascades.

You may need to set aside an hour or two to hike to these destinations, but that’s just part of their appeal.

What to Pack for a Springtime Visit

Though you most likely won’t need heavy winter coats or snow boots in the spring, you should bring a few versatile items of clothing that you can easily layer, especially if you plan to visit during March. Include a light jacket and a windshield, as well as a waterproof coat in case of unexpected showers.

 Also, make sure to bring sturdy hiking boots with good traction since trails can be a bit muddy at this time of year. Don’t forget binoculars to spot birds and other wildlife emerging after the chill of winter.

See Spring in the Smoky Mountains

Now that you know the best ways to spend spring in the Smoky Mountains, you’re well-prepared to enjoy everything the season has to offer. As you plan your itinerary, make sure to book your trip dates with Prestige Vacation Rentals.

Staying so close to the national park means you can spend less time on the road and more time on the trails!

Though going on a family vacation may sound fun in theory, in practice, it so often becomes a stressful balancing act to satisfy everyone’s tastes and travel goals. Luckily, visiting Gatlinburg, Tennessee, will at least make the planning process a little easier since this Tennessee city is a paradise for both kids and ‘kids at heart.’

That said, we know the sheer quantity of attractions in and around Gatlinburg can be a little overwhelming at first glance.

To help you plan your family’s next getaway to the area, we’ve compiled a list of the ten fun things to do with kids in Gatlinburg, including amusement parks and hikes, museums, and waterslides. No matter what kind of family fun you are interested in, there’s something on this list that they’ll love.

Why Gatlinburg is the Perfect Family Getaway

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Gatlinburg is the gateway to one of the country’s biggest and most popular playgrounds: Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is just a few minutes drive outside city limits.

Kid Friendly Activities

But besides the Smokies, many kid-friendly activities are right within Gatlinburg itself. From Ripley’s Believe It or Not! to the Anakeesta Adventure Park, these attractions will keep the whole family busy for hours or days on end.

Family Friendly Accomodations

To cap off your family vacation plans, book your stay with Prestige Vacation Rentals. Whether you’d like to stay right in Gatlinburg or in one of our nearby Pigeon Forge rentals, our cabins will serve as your home away from home and soothe at least some of the aches and pains caused by traveling with little ones.

Family Friendly Activities in Gatlinburg

1. Play at Anakeesta Adventure Park

Photo Credit: Joseph Hendrickson

Forget your typical theme park experience; mountaintop Anakeesta Adventure Park has something more exciting in store. Kids of all ages (that means adults, too) can enjoy a relaxed walk among the treetops, fly down mountain coasters, or even race family members on the Dueling Ziplines.

When everyone starts getting a little peckish, there’s no need to break out Google and Yelp — just stop by one of Anakeesta’s 11 on-site eateries for a meal or snack with a view. If you’re looking for a little rest and relaxation rather than an adrenaline rush, you can entertain yourself by shopping for souvenirs while you wait for the kids to finish playing.

2. See the Surprises at Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

Photo Credit: Joseph Hendrickson

Right in the middle of downtown Gatlinburg, the sprawling Ripley’s Believe It or Not! encompasses a museum, haunted house, fun park, mini-golf course, aquarium, and mountain coaster.

We could go on, but suffice it to say, Ripley’s has just about every vacation highlight you could imagine and then some. To see multiple attractions during your visit (highly recommended), consider purchasing a combo ticket to save yourself a few bucks. But those who prefer to stick to Ripley’s Museum can still see many fascinating artifacts and exhibits covering everything from space travel to real shrunken heads.

3. Get a Bird’s Eye View at the Gatlinburg Space Needle

Photo Credit: Stephen B. Goodwin

You’ll have to skip the Gatlinburg Space Needle if you’re afraid of heights, but if you hope to get above all the hustle and bustle of the city during your visit, then you’ve come to the right place.

The Needle soars 407 feet into the air, topped with an observation deck that affords 360-degree views of Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and, of course, the gorgeous Great Smoky Mountains.

You’ll take glass elevators all the way up the tower to get to those views, which are sure to impress all year round. A word to the wise: The tower’s gaming arcade will likely sidetrack the kids for a little while, but don’t worry. If you plan your visit right, you should be able to squeeze in some playtime before or after your ride up the Needle.

4. Explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Photo Credit: Weidman Photography

You can’t talk about Gatlinburg without talking about Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This wildly popular park comprises more than 500,000 acres of rolling Appalachian peaks, within which you’ll find opportunities for family-friendly hikes, whitewater rafting trips, historical site visits, and much more.

You could easily spend weeks or even months in the Smokies without exhausting all the things to see and do, so take at least a day or two to cover as much as you possibly can. Highlights include the Clingmans Dome Observation Tower, Cades Cove Scenic Drive, and overlooks like Charlie’s Bunion.

5. Snow Tube Ober Mountain

Photo Credit: AboutLife

Once a humble local ski hill is known as Ober Gatlinburg, Ober Mountain has recently been reinvented as a year-round destination for adventure. Indoors, there’s ice skating, ice bumper cars, and a carousel, all great choices for some rainy-day entertainment. But the great outdoors is where Ober Mountain really excels.

Warm weather, visitors can mountain bike and ride the alpine slide, while fall and winter bring crowds to the ski slopes and snow tubing hill. Available activities can vary by time of year, so there’s something new to experience during every trip. Whenever you plan to visit, reserve your family’s tickets for a ride on Ober’s famous aerial tramway, which connects the mountain complex with downtown Gatlinburg.

6. Spend the Day at Dollywood

Photo Credit: Nicholas Lamontanaro

The candy-colored world of Dollywood represents some of the very best parts of the South: fun activities, beautiful scenery, delicious food, and, naturally, catchy country music. Owned and operated by Ms. Parton herself, this theme park is situated in Pigeon Forge, just a 20-minute drive away from Gatlinburg.

With plenty of rides, restaurants, live entertainment, and much more, Dollywood has a little something for visitors of all ages. That includes teenagers who just want to lounge by the pool – Dollywood’s Splash Country water park is open from May through September, the perfect place to catch a summer-break tan.

7. Check Out the Hollywood Star Cars Museum

Photo Credit: 010110010101101

The Hollywood Star Cars Museum is a must-see for anyone with a Hot Wheels-obsessed kid (or adult, as the case may be). Remember the Ghostbusters’ Ecto-1, the iconic orange Dodge Charger from “The Dukes of Hazzard,” and Marty McFly’s DeLorean?

Well, you can find detailed, life-sized replicas of all those vehicles and more parked under one roof in downtown Gatlinburg. Snag a few family pics in the recreated sets that house the cars, which will allow you to pretend like you’re behind the wheel in several film franchises and TV shows.

8. Use Your Smarts at Gatlin’s Escape Games

Bring the whole family together to solve a mystery at Gatlin’s Escape Games, located in downtown Gatlinburg and on the parkway in Pigeon Forge. Though escape rooms may feel like they’re a dime a dozen these days, Gatlin’s stands apart for its well-crafted rooms and puzzles that will have everyone in the family scratching their heads.

If you have enough time, try your hand at more than one themed escape room, like the haunted Hyde House or the Moonshine Hill Hootenanny. (To discover just what a hootenanny entails, you’ll have to come visit!)

9. Take in the Views at Gatlinburg SkyPark

Photo Credit: Johnnie Laws

As its name implies, Gatlinburg SkyPark is all about the views. Surrounded by the Smoky Mountains, SkyPark offers walks across the longest pedestrian cable bridge in North America; chairlift rides high above swooping green valleys, and more.

If you prefer a more relaxing visit, meanwhile, look no further than the comfy rocking chairs on the SkyDeck. You can even return after dark for aerial views of the city lights — as long as the kids can stay up past their bedtime, that is.

10. Ride the Slides at Westgate Wild Bear Falls Water Park

Photo Credit: Ritu Manoj Jethani

If you visit during the warmer months of spring or summer, a trip to Westgate Wild Bear Falls Water Park is the ultimate antidote to the sweltering Tennessee heat and humidity. But Wild Bear Falls stays open all year round, so if you’re planning a trip for fall or winter, you can still throw on your bathing suit and head to the lazy river, slides, and playground in the park’s comfortable indoor space.

Keep an eye out for water features named after familiar Smoky Mountains landmarks, like Ramsey Cascades, Clingmans Dome, and Laurel Falls.

Pack Up the Kids and Head to Gatlinburg

Regardless of how old your kids are or what they’re interested in, the ten best things to do in Gatlinburg with kids will appeal to a wide range of ages and preferences. This list is just a starting point for your plans, though.

You may want to add activities like the Mysterious Mansion, Hillbilly Golf, and more to your itinerary, so make sure you set aside some time to explore with the family. Just don’t forget to book your stay with Prestige Vacation Rentals and get ready for a trip the whole family will never forget — even if the kids just end up playing in the backyard the whole time.

A bustling city with the welcoming attitude of a quieter mountain town, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, has countless exciting activities for visitors of all ages. But if you’re in the over-21 crowd and you’re planning a bachelor party, girls’ weekend, or just a fun trip with family, you’re in luck — Gatlinburg is known as the “Myrtle Beach of the Mountains” for a reason.

You can sip your way around a mountaintop amusement park, try locally made moonshine, or discover a new side of Dollywood theme park. If partying isn’t your thing, you can also embark on a one-of-a-kind adventure for grown-ups, like ziplining near America’s most-visited national park or rafting down whitewater rapids.

To help you plan your visit, we’ve put together a list of the nine best things to do in Gatlinburg attractions that are built for adults. So pack your bags and book your Prestige Vacation Rentals, we’ve got a bucket list to tackle!

1. Bar-hop at Anakeesta Mountain Park

Photo Credit: View Apart

Attraction-packed Anakeesta Mountain Park is perched high in the trees above Gatlinburg. Visitors of all ages can come by to ride mountain coasters, admire the views, and take a walk among the treetops, but you might want to stick around to imbibe a bit at Anakeesta’s multiple bars.

There’s the Bar at the Top of the World, the Watering Can Bar, and the Tap House; plus, most of the on-site restaurants will also serve some tasty, boozy beverages. If you end up staying past sunset, check out Astra Lumina, a dazzling light show best experienced with friends and family.

2. Go moonshine tasting

Photo Credit: Ritu Manoj Jethani

The Hollers of Tennessee are famous for producing several different, potent alcoholic beverages (like Jack Daniels, for instance), but few of those drinks have garnered the reputation of moonshine.

This infamous corn liquor has a long, strong history in the area, as its production dates all the way back to the 1800s. But these days, you can buy Tennessee’s shine from several sophisticated distilleries around Gatlinburg rather than a questionable still in the backwoods.

Ole Smoky Distillery and Sugarlands Distilling Company both host tastings and tours right in Gatlinburg. You can learn more about the history and making of moonshine and sip some of the region’s finest along the way.

3. Have a ball at Dollywood

Photo Credit: Melissa Herzog

Owned and operated by country music crooner Dolly Parton, Dollywood is a family-favorite theme park located in Pigeon Forge. There are nearly endless things to do in Dollywood, from amusement park rides that will suit all ages to the water slides in Dollywood’s Splash Country, and these attractions aren’t just for kids. But if you’re not really a ride or slide type, there are plenty more activities available.

You can catch live music and other spectacular dinner shows around the theme park and tap your feet with a glass of your favorite drink in hand. Or, swing by Craftsman Valley to watch artisans at work and purchase handmade souvenirs created right on-site.

If possible, try to time your visit during one of Dollywood’s many seasonal festivals, when you can experience a whole different side of the park.

4. Raft whitewater rapids

Photo Credit: James Becker

Adrenaline junkies and more sedate paddlers alike can participate in a whitewater rafting trip in the Gatlinburg area. If you prefer a more relaxed voyage, the Lower Pigeon is where it’s at, featuring plenty of small riffles and scenic stretches of flatwater. But if you’re hankering for something a little more amped up, take a guided trip along the Upper Pigeon, which is packed with Class II – IV rapids.

Can’t get enough whitewater? If you don’t mind putting in a bit of travel time, you can go whitewater rafting along the Nantahala River or the Ocoee River. Both of these waterways are located within a few hours’ drive of Gatlinburg.

5. Hike Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Photo Credit: Margaret.Wiktor

Just outside of Gatlinburg, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is packed with scenic drives, gorgeous vistas, and dozens of hiking trails. While most of those trails will be accessible to all ages, you may want to leave the kids at home before hitting one of these hikes:

Thunderhead Mountain

Starting from the popular Cades Cove area, this lengthy, steep trail will run more than 14 miles in total. But at the first summit along the trail, known as Rocky Top (yes, that Rocky Top), you’ll be rewarded with stunning Smoky Mountain views that appear to stretch endlessly into the distance. Those blue mountains make an excellent backdrop to any photo to celebrate conquering this beast of a hike.

Ramsey Cascades

The Smoky Mountains are filled with incredible waterfalls, but Ramsey Cascades are the tallest, at 100 feet tall. This challenging 8-mile hike is no cakewalk, but the views of the falls might just make you forget about all your aches and pains. Eat some snacks or a picnic lunch while basking in the cool spray, a bonus treat in the heat of summer.

Section Hike the Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Trail winds along the spine of the ancient Appalachian Mountains all the way from Georgia to Maine, a distance of some 2,100-plus miles.

If you have a few days to spare during your visit and some backpacking know-how, you can hike the roughly 70-mile stretch of trail that runs through the Smoky Mountains. Be warned, though — after your first taste of the A.T., you might be tempted to return someday to complete the whole thing.

6. Wine and dine

Photo Credit: View Apart

Moonshine and craft beer aren’t the only beverages flowing freely in Gatlinburg — if you’re looking to sip some quality wine during your visit, you can choose from plenty of vineyards pouring local flavors. Right in downtown Gatlinburg, you’ll find Smoky Mountain Winery, Goodwater Winery, and Elkmont Winery, to name just a few.

Come by these wineries for a tasting and, when possible, a tour of the operations. The Appalachian region has begun cultivating a reputation for producing quality wine, so you’ll want to give it a taste yourself to find out more about this burgeoning industry.

7. Adventure on ATVs

Photo Credit: Perfect Angle Images

If you want to indulge your inner rugged streak in the Smoky Mountains, rent some off-roading equipment for your group and set out on a journey unlike any other.

As one of the most fun things to do around Gatlinburg, several companies, including Southland Car and Jeep Rentals and Off-Road Gatlinburg, rent adventure-worthy vehicles, while companies like Bluff Mountain Adventures give guided ATV tours for an unparalleled insider’s look at local trails.

Get some mud on your tires while exploring local landmarks, or cruise on up to a remote viewpoint to get a new perspective on the Smokies. ATV-ing is also a popular pastime among Appalachian residents, so you’ll get in a true local experience.

8. Fly High in the Sky

Photo Credit: Mike_O

Gatlinburg is home to several different adventure parks that provide a dose of adrenaline and fresh air through ziplining. You can soar through the trees and see some incredible views at several different spots around Gatlinburg, so strap in at any of these family-friendly stops for a ride you won’t forget anytime soon.

Ober Mountain offers a zipline course, as does Anakeesta Mountain Park — three of them, in fact, where you can race your family or friends down tandem lines. Closer to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, CLIMB Works features some of the longest and highest lines in the region, with courses that will take you far above the treetops.

9. Shop for Handmade Local Crafts

Photo Credit: JennLShoots

Looking for a low key fun activity? Little ones might balk at a trip down an 8-mile road packed with craft shops, but if you ask us, wandering through the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon.

The largest independent collection of artisans in the United States, this community showcases some fascinating local crafting traditions, from pottery to basket weaving and soap making to old-fashioned confectionery.

Set aside plenty of time to visit this unique attraction. The more than 96 different artists and craftsmen will likely keep you shopping for quite some time.

There are also a few restaurants and breweries where you can eat and drink (you know, to fuel up for all that shopping). You’re bound to come away with some unique souvenirs and a new appreciation for these handmade works of art.

Experience Gatlinburg Your Way

If you’re planning an adult-oriented trip, you can easily create an itinerary around the nine best things to do when you visit Gatlinburg with adults — or you can simply use this list as a starting point.

Another upside to traveling around Gatlinburg with adults is that there’s nothing stopping you from participating in kid-friendly activities as well. From mini-golf to Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! and everything in between, there are many different things for you to experience all around Gatlinburg, even if you’re just a kid at heart.

Book your Gatlinburg getaway with Prestige Vacation Rentals today!

Nestled in the Tennessee mountains, Gatlinburg is surrounded by some of the nation’s finest indoor and outdoor recreation – and the best part? Much of it won’t cost you a thing.

To help you craft a budget-friendly itinerary, we’ve compiled a list of Gatlinburg’s best free things to do. Some are within city limits, while others are a short drive away. If you stay with Prestige Vacation Rentals, you won’t need to go far for the fun.

1. Tour the town on the Gatlinburg Trolley

Photo Credit: Svetlana Bykova

The picturesque Gatlinburg Trolley runs through town 365 days a year, ferrying visitors and locals around the city. Several different routes are available, each with its own noteworthy stops.

That means you can cover most, if not all, of Gatlinburg aboard the trolley. You’ll see many different attractions along the way, and since there are no fees, you can hop on and off as you please (just make sure you pay attention to that timetable).

2. Explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park

One of America’s favorite green spaces, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a short drive away from Gatlinburg, and unlike most national parks, it’s free to enter. There is, however, a low-cost parking permit for around $5 a day that you’ll have to reserve ahead of time, a way for the Park Service to control crowding in the country’s most popular national park.

Explore famous hiking trails and destinations like Cades Cove and Clingmans Dome, or stop off at one of the many trailheads to check out panoramic views and mountaintop waterfalls for excellent photo ops. Or just pull off into a picnic area and take in the peaceful surroundings. There are countless ways to explore the park, and if you want to avoid that parking fee, you can enter on a bicycle or on foot.

3. Take a walk on the Parkway

Photo Credit: Stephen B. Goodwin

Gatlinburg’s main thoroughfare, the Parkway, is packed with bustling shops and restaurants. But if you’re trying to avoid shelling out extra money, you can just walk down the street and window shop.

As you meander through downtown, you’ll pass several fascinating stops and get to soak up some gorgeous mountain scenery. Of course, if you decide you need a bite to eat or you just have a particular souvenir, don’t hesitate to stop in.

4. Get outdoors at Gatlinburg parks

If you’d rather stay in town than go out to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you can still get a good dose of the great outdoors right in town. Gatlinburg has three public city parks, where you can bring a picnic lunch, your four-legged friend for a game of fetch, or just a blanket to enjoy that fancy charcuterie board you packed.

Make sure to check out these three parks during your visit:

• Mynatt Park
• Mills Park
• Herbert Holt Park

5. Try your hand at disc golf

Photo Credit: Diego Trabucco

While at Mills Park, stop by the disc golf course to play a no-cost round or two. In June of 2021, the course was redesigned and upgraded from 9 holes to 18 holes, including several wooded holes for a little extra challenge. While you play, you can admire the mountain views in the distance.

6. Visit local craftsmen on the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community Loop

The Appalachian mountains are home to a wide range of handicraft traditions, and nowhere is that more apparent than at the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community. Consisting of an 8-mile-long loop, this is a great spot to peruse unique souvenirs and watch artisans hard at work on their crafts.

The Arts & Crafts Community boasts everything from broom stores to needlework shops and homemade candy vendors. But if you’re craving even more art time during your visit, consider taking a tour of the Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts (also free) for another peek at the local scene.

7. Attend one of Gatlinburg’s many free festivals

Photo Credit: Joseph Creamer

If you want to spend a day or a night on the town for free, you’re in luck — Gatlinburg’s yearly calendar is packed with several different events that will suit all kinds of visitors. Whether you want to listen to folk music or ring in the harvest season, there’s a festival, event, or celebration that you can check out.

Here are a few of our favorite annual events in Gatlinburg:

• Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales (Summer and Winter)
• Gatlinburg Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival (Fall)
• Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade (Winter)
• 4th of July (Summer and Winter)
• Veterans Day Celebration (Fall)
• New Year’s Eve Fireworks Show and Ball Drop (Winter)
• St. Patrick’s Day Celebration (Spring)

8. Take a stroll on the River Walk

Gatlinburg’s River Walk follows the banks of the Little Pigeon River, which winds right through town. Though many visitors choose to experience the Little Pigeon on a whitewater rafting trip, you can check it out for free by taking a stroll.

Beautiful in all four seasons, the River Walk always offers something new for visitors to see, especially if they remember to slow down and look around them to appreciate their stunning surroundings fully.

9. Tour a moonshine distillery

Photo Credit: Joseph Hendrickson

Moonshine traditions in the Gatlinburg area stretch back more than a century. Today, tourists can learn more about this unusual local beverage by visiting a ‘shine distillery.

Tastings and drinks will, of course, cost you a little money. But those who just want to learn more about moonshine history and culture can embark on a free, self-guided tour of one of these Gatlinburg distilleries:

• Sugarlands Distillery
• Ole Smoky Moonshine
• Tennessee Shine Company

10. Take a scenic drive

Besides buying gas, it won’t cost you to go for a scenic drive past some of the region’s most spectacular sights (and we daresay that’s worth the gas money). Within the boundaries of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you can cruise the Roaring Fork Motor Trail, a short, but sweet route that covers several landmarks in just a few miles.

Closer to town, you can head to scenic spots like the Gatlinburg Overlook. If you’re into laidback cruising, take some time to ride the Blue Ridge Parkway, one of the most iconic scenic drives in the whole country.

Enjoy Gatlinburg for Free

This isn’t an exhaustive list by any means — you can find plenty of other things to do that we might have missed here. So, get ready to visit Gatlinburg and explore the many free and low-cost activities the city offers.

Book your stay with Prestige Vacation Rentals today!

On the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, Great Smoky Mountains National Park comprises lush greenery, creeks and streams, cultural sites, and more. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that the Smokies are America’s most-visited national park.

You can enjoy that gorgeous Smoky Mountain scenery on one of the park’s dozens of trails. To help, we’ve compiled a list of the best hikes in the Smoky Mountains with a view. Stunning panoramas, 360-degree vistas, and more await.

Book your stay with Prestige Vacation Rentals to be close to all these — and more — exciting hikes.

1. Clingmans Dome Observation Tower Trail

Photo Credit: Zack Frank

• Distance: 1.3 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail map: alltrails.com/trail/clingmans-dome-observation-tower-trail

This short but steep trail leads to one of the most iconic spots in the Smokies: 6,644-foot tall Clingmans Dome. The highest point in the Smokies is further elevated by a striking observation tower, from which you can see sweeping views of seven different states on a clear day.

Since this is one of the most popular landmarks in the park, parking can be limited, so try to arrive as early as possible. Bring a light jacket since the top of the tower can often be breezy, and binoculars to try and identify the landmarks noted at the viewing platform. Note that the parking lot is closed in winter, so you’ll have a longer hike — seven miles each way — at that time of year.

2. Andrews Bald Trail

Photo Credit: Melinda Fawver

• Distance: 3.6 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail map: alltrails.com/trail/us/north-carolina/andrews-bald-trail

Andrews Bald Trail also starts at the parking lot for Clingmans Dome. You’ll descend downhill for about a mile before climbing upward to Andrews Bald, one of the Smokies’ many mountains that are topped by grassy clearings rather than the typical dense tree cover. This will allow for panoramic views of your surroundings (plus, it’s a great location for a picnic).

The trail can be rocky and uneven in many places, so make sure you’re wearing boots with good ankle support. Trekking poles aren’t a bad idea, either. You may see wildlife like black bears and colorful blooms during spring wildflower season.

3. Charlies Bunion

Photo Credit: digidreamgrafix

• Distance: 8 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail map: alltrails.com/trail/us/tennessee/charlies-bunion-via-appalachian-trail

The 2,190-mile-long Appalachian Trail runs from Georgia to Maine, and 70-ish miles of it fall within the borders of Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Hop on this historic trail for an 8-mile round-trip jaunt that will take you to Charlie Bunion, one of the best day hikes in the Smokies and one of the best viewpoints on the whole A.T.

The trail starts with a gradual ascent from Newfound Gap, just 30 minutes away from Gatlinburg. As you hike, you’ll pass numerous spots with good views, but the pièce de résistance is Charlies Bunion, a rocky outcropping that allows for 360-degree views of the Smoky Mountain peaks. If hiking with kids, keep a close eye on everyone in your group, as the drop is steep.

4. Rich Mountain Loop

Photo Credit: Great Smoky Mountains National Park via Flickr CC 2.0

• Distance: 8.3 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail map: alltrails.com/trail/rich-mountain-indian-grave-crooked-arm-trail

Cades Cove, another hugely popular Smoky Mountain landmark, is the starting point for a number of short but beautiful waterfall hikes, including the trails to Abrams Falls and Laurel Falls. But if you’re seeking some more expansive views, put in a little extra legwork on the Rich Mountain Loop.

You’ll pass the historic John Oliver cabin and can glimpse wildlife as you climb up roughly 2,000 feet. When you get to the summit of Rich Mountain, the views of Cades Cove will be well worth the effort. As an added bonus, this trail is typically less crowded than others in Cades Cove.

5. Chimney Tops Trail

Photo Credit: Gabriel Quiles

• Distance: 3.6 miles
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Trail map: alltrails.com/trail/us/tennessee/chimney-tops-trail

Named for the rocky towers on its peak, Chimney Tops is one of the most instantly recognizable peaks in the Smokies. You’ll certainly have to break a sweat to get here—the trail climbs roughly 1,400 feet in less than two miles—but you’ll be rewarded by views of the Smokies and of the chimneys themselves.

The final quarter mile of the trail that leads to the summit is closed to the public at the time of writing, but you’ll still get to see plenty of stellar sights along the way. The trailhead is just a few miles away from Sugarlands Visitor Center on Newfound Gap Road, making it one of the closest hikes to Gatlinburg.

6. Shuckstack Tower

• Distance: 6.6 miles
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Trail map: alltrails.com/trail/shuckstack-tower-via-appalachian-trail

Near Fontana Dam, Shuckstack Tower is one of the first landmarks that A.T. thru-hikers see after crossing into Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You, too, can see it on a bite-sized hike of the famed long trail.

This out-and-back trail isn’t for the faint of heart since its steep climbs will test the mettle of even the strongest hikers. But once you reach the top, you can climb just a little further — up the few flights of stairs that lead to the top of historic Shuckstack Tower — for incredible views of Fontana Lake and the Smokies.

7. Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte

Photo Credit: Theron Stripling III

• Distance: 11 miles
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Trail map: alltrails.com/trail/us/tennessee/alum-cave-trail-to-mount-leconte

Several different trails wind up the sides of Mount LeConte, the third-tallest mountain in the Great Smoky Mountains. Alum Cave Trail is one of the most popular hikes on the mountain, alongside the Trillium Gap and Rainbow Falls Trails.

As you hike up to the summit of Mount LeConte, you’ll pass Inspiration Point, Arch Rock, and the trail’s namesake cave. Take a moment to snap some photos at Alum Cave Bluff, a picturesque rock wall composed of orange clay.

Though the views from the top of Mount LeConte are excellent on any clear day, try to time your hike for either sunset or sunrise for an experience you won’t forget.

8. Mount Cammerer

Photo Credit: Frank Kehren via Flickr CC 2.0

• Distance: 11.1 miles
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Trail map: alltrails.com/trail/us/tennessee/mount-cammerer-via-low-gap-trail

Mount Cammerer is topped by another fire tower, but this is a far cry from the smaller wooden structures seen around the area. This perch is made up of local stone, perfect for a picnic and photo ops. Even more impressive are the views of the sprawling Pigeon River Gorge, which you can soak up from the tower’s outdoor observation deck.

The Low Gap Trail, which you’ll follow for most of this hike, starts from Cosby Knob Campground. Since this is the most-used route to Mount Cammerer, expect to share the parking lot and trails with many of your fellow hikers. Trust us, you’ll understand the appeal when you reach the trail’s end.

9. Baxter Creek Trail

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons via Google Images CCL

• Distance: 15.7 miles point to point
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Trail map: alltrails.com/trail/us/north-carolina/baxter-creek-trail

If you’re looking for a serious leg-burner with views to match, the Baxter Creek Trail is calling your name. It runs along the ridgelines of several of the Smokies’ most notable peaks, including Mount Sterling (which also has a fire tower), ascending and descending several times. When you’re up on the mountaintops, you’ll see amazing vistas that will motivate you to push onward and upward to the next peak.

Note that this trail is nearly 16 miles from end to end, meaning that you’ll need two cars and drivers to complete it in its entirety (unless you can hike 31.4 miles out and back). Consider hiking with two groups that start from either end of the trail and swapping car keys in the middle to avoid difficult carpooling logistics. You can all celebrate together afterward.

Smoky Mountain Views Await

Now that you know the best Smoky Mountain hikes with a view, you can start planning your trip to the area. Everyone from the most skilled hikers to the proudest couch potatoes will surely be impressed by these trails and sights.

Book your parking permit in advance, and try to arrive as early as possible at the trailheads. Even so, you likely won’t have these hikes to yourself. But their popularity is just a testament to their timeless beauty.

Book your stay at Prestige Vacation Rentals today!