Summer vacation in the Great Smoky Mountains has been a long time standing tradition for many folks from all over the country. Maybe you’re visiting for the first time this summer or possibly for the 20th. Regardless of where you stand on the number of times you’ve been to Gatlinburg, there is always something new to do. Below are 3 top things to do this summer but the possibilities are certainly endless. Check them out, book your trip, and get ready for a summer adventure that you’ll never forget.
1. Experience the Appalachian Trail
A great way to beat the summer heat and humidity of the lower elevations in the Smokies is to head up top and experience the Appalachian Trail and other trails in the higher elevations. The Appalachian Trail runs along the spine of the Great Smoky Mountains and weaves in and out of Tennessee and North Carolina. Not only is it a beautiful trail and historical, but it stays quite cool even on the hottest of summer days. The Clingmans Dome runs around 20 degrees cooler on any given day, so if you’re in town and hot, head up top! The views are incredible and the forest is magical so you can’t go wrong.
2. Ride the River
Do you love water and adventure? Our friends at NOC Gatlinburg can hook you up with an adrenaline pumping summer trip down the Pigeon River. Their fully-guided rafting trips offer a ride on the upper portion of the river for those seeking thrills and a lower river ride for families with children 3 years old and up. The NOC is located next to the Gatlinburg entrance of the national park making a stop easy and simple as you’re entering the beautiful Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Their staff can set you up with a rafting trip, a guided hiking trip, any maps or supplies you may need, or even help you plan a hiking trip. Take some time to check all of the great local gifts and items that they have as well; it’s the perfect place to pick up a few souvenirs to take back home to your family and friends. Another great place to go white water rafting is Smoky Mountain Outdoors! SMO offers a variety of trips on the Pigeon River in Hartford, TN, just a short drive from Gatlinburg. Enjoy everything from class 3 and 4 rapids on the upper river, to a scenic float on the lower river.
3. Visit Splash Country
We love Dolly, you love Dolly. Chances are good that you love a fun day at a water park in the summer too. What does that mean? It means that a trip to Dollywood’s Splash Country Water Park is a must if you’re visiting the Smokies this summer! Test your courage on Firetower Falls, kick back and relax on a Downbound Float Trip and soak up every other attraction in between. Combine it with a day at Dollywood for a full experience of all things Dolly and fun in the Smokies.
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