5 Ways to Celebrate Father’s Day in Gatlinburg

Known for its abundant trout fishing, celebrate Father’s Day by casting a line in one of Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains’ pristine streams and rivers. Make a pit stop by Fly Fishing in the Smokies or Smoky Mountain Angler to get all you need for the trip, including gear, professional fishing guides, and undoubtable local insight. Still waters run deep, and relaxing on the water may just be the perfect, peaceful setting to make sure your parent knows how truly ‘fly’ they are.

For all the outdoorsy dads, we have you covered. The Great Smoky Mountains is home to over 900 miles of trails including something for every skill and interest level. If a leisurely stroll surrounded by a peaceful stream is more your style, a walk down the Gatlinburg Trail is the perfect way to unwind. For a more adventurous route, the trek to Charlie’s Bunion or to Mt. LeConte is a bit more intense adventure. For an adventure on the water, take your dad on an excursion along the Pigeon River for some whitewater rafting. Outfitters like SMO Rafting, Rafting in the Smokies and Nantahala Outdoor Center offer the options of a relaxing boat trip or the more adventurous trip with big splashes.  From waterfalls to scenic vistas to water rapids, Gatlinburg is a prime basecamp for outdoor enthusiasts.

Gatlinburg is for the fatherly foodies, with everything from Southern BBQ to Italian, All-American Eats to International Cuisine. Treat dad to an upscale dinner at Cherokee Grill or Greenbrier Restaurant. For all craft cocktail connoisseurs, make sure to try “The Dylan”, a specialty old-fashioned with authentic flare at The Greenbrier. For some well-deserved comfort food, dine and unwind at Bennett’s BBQ or with a calming creekside view at Howard’s Restaurant.

For some, dad is the first person to teach you to ride a bike. This time around, make it a tandem experience at Ober Mountain’s new Mountain Biking course. With something for every degree of thrill seeker, the unique attraction offers everything from beginner to advanced courses, with equipment rentals and professional instruction. Families can cruise Mount Harrison in cyclical style, sightseeing the immersive beauty all around them.

Raise a glass to dads everywhere at one of Gatlinburg’s many wineries and distilleries. Stop by Tennessee Homemade Wines or Sugarland Cellars to grab a vino to take back to the cabin or hotel. Cap the night off at Ole Smoky Moonshine with a free moonshine tasting or by dropping by Gatlinburg Brewing Company for a locally made brew.