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Home / Things to Do / Outdoor Activities

Outdoor Activities in Gatlinburg Tennessee

Fishing - You've heard about our famous mountain trout. Now come catch one yourself! Whether you're in a national park stream or the Little Pigeon River in downtown Gatlinburg, there's nothing more peaceful than dropping your line in the water and waiting to reel in the big one! Choose from one of our full service fishing outfitters for all your fishing needs.

Bicycling - The Cades Cove loop in the national park isn't just for cars. Seeing this historic community on bicycle is one of the best ways to get in touch with the Smoky Mountains. If your transportation allows, you can even bring along a picnic lunch for the trip.

Camping - We have three local campgrounds in Gatlinburg to choose from. They have many amenities such as electricity, water, cable TV, hot showers, pools, and much more. The national park also has several campgrounds, including Cosby and Elkmont, where you can pitch a tent and rough it for a few days in the wilderness. Some campgrounds accept reservations, but most are accessible on a first come, first served basis.

Golf - If you're a golfer looking for a challenge, how about a game of mountain golf? The rules are the same as golf everywhere, but the course is just a little bit different. It's up and down, up and down, with hardly a flat spot to be found. It'll be an experience to be remembered with a scenic background that is magnificent. Try out your skill on the greens of the Gatlinburg Golf Course or the Bent Creek Golf Course.

Horseback Riding - Saddle up, pardners, and see our beautiful East Tennessee countryside the old-fashioned way. Places like Smoky Mountain Stables & Sugarlands Riding Stables offer guided, back country excursions for kids and grownups alike.

Hiking - The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has over 800 miles of hiking trails that range from easy to difficult. Whether you choose a day hike, overnight or week long trip you are sure to experience the beauty and solitude of the great outdoors. A Guided Nature Service is available for those looking for a more educational and in-depth look at the Smoky Mountains. Need Supplies? Choose from one of our full service outfitters for all your outdoor needs. Always remember to be prepared before entering the backcountry! Visit one of our many visitor centers for information on planning your next hiking trip.

Whitewater Rafting - There's nothing quite as exhilarating as a ride on an untamed river. There are many outfitters that conduct guided trips down the Big Pigeon and other regional rivers.

Winter Sports - Ober Gatlinburg is Tennessee's only ski resort. Its eight ski slopes range from beginning to advanced and lie 3000 feet above sea level. Using a combination of natural and man-made snow, visitors can ski and snowboard. There's even an indoor ice-skating rink that's great fun rain or shine or snow. Even if you don't ski or skate, come up and enjoy the spectacular view or relax over a delicious hot meal at Ober Gatlinburg's restaurant.