5 Ways to Get Outdoors in Gatlinburg this Fall

Fall mountain mornings are prime time for fly fishing in clear, cool waters. Gatlinburg invites novice to expert anglers to enjoy the best trout fishing Tennessee has to offer. Veteran local guides Fly Fishing the Smokies and Smoky Mountain Angler are available to lead your outing, whether you’re looking to wade or float.

Up the ante on your water-bound adventure by hitting the area’s white-water rapids. Courageous beginners are welcome in Gatlinburg, where class-III and -IV rapids provide thrilling challenges for all levels. Leave your jitters at home thanks to experienced local guides – including Nantahala Outdoor Center, Rafting in the Smokies and SMO Rafting – who you can count on to prioritize safety.

Cowboy – and cowgirl – up! Saddle up and trot the trails for an only-in-Gatlinburg experience. The Great Smoky Mountains are known for frontier lore, and horseback riding invites the whole family to connect with Gatlinburg history from a new vantage point. Sugarlands Riding Stables offers scenic wilderness trail rides daily through Thanksgiving weekend. 

For a grittier ride, trade the saddle for mountain bike pedals. Ober Mountain now offers downhill mountain biking, available through the fall. Professionally designed trails maximize thrills while minimizing risks, so riders can concentrate on navigating the course and taking in the scenery. Bring your own bike and gear or rent them when you get here.   

Take to the air for a truly levitating experience in Gatlinburg. Autumn’s changing leaves and crisp blue skies beckon you to take a leap on a local ziplining course, mountain coaster or walk among the trees. Banjos begone, in Gatlinburg it’s all about Dueling Ziplines at Anakeesta. Three dual ziplines are available to guests 7 and up weighing at least 70 pounds. You can also walk high among the trees on the Treetop Skywalk or take a ride on the mountain coaster.