The beauty of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg goes far beyond their bustling attractions and entertainment venues. These towns remain surrounded by the stunning, preserved landscapes of the Great Smoky Mountains. Whether you are into hiking, fishing, or simply exploring nature, there is no shortage of outdoor things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.
Hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains
One of the top outdoor activities in the area is hiking through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With over 800 miles of trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging backcountry hikes, there is something for everyone. Some popular routes include the Alum Cave Trail, which offers a rigorous climb featuring log bridges, narrow tunnels through dense rhododendron thickets, and sweeping views from the rocky bluffs. For an easier route, Grotto Falls allows you to safely walk behind a powerful, cascading waterfall.
If you are up for a true challenge, consider hiking to the summit of Mount LeConte, one of the tallest peaks in the Smokies. Be aware that the National Park Service now requires a valid parking tag for any vehicle parked inside the boundary for more than fifteen minutes. You can easily purchase these tags at any major visitor center before hitting the trails.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Sugarlands Visitor Center)
Address: 1420 Fighting Creek Gap Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone: (865) 436-1200
Ziplining Adventures
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, ziplining is a fantastic way to experience the Smoky Mountains. There are several zipline companies operating in the Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg area, offering a true bird’s-eye view of the dense forests and rolling mountains. It is a thrilling way to take in the scenery without dealing with crowded trails.
Many of these commercial canopy tours also include high-altitude rope bridges and rappelling stations, adding an extra layer of adventure to the excursion. Safety is always a priority, and professional guides handle all of the equipment braking and harness checks, allowing you to simply step off the platform and enjoy the ride. Most tours take around two hours to complete.
Smoky Mountain Ziplines
Address: 509 Mill Creek Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Phone: (865) 429-9004
Fishing and Water Activities
The Great Smoky Mountains are home to over two thousand miles of rivers and streams, making fishing a highly popular outdoor activity. Whether you are an experienced angler looking for wild rainbow trout or a beginner hoping to catch stocked brown trout, there are plenty of spots to cast your line. The West Prong of the Little Pigeon River runs right through town and offers excellent wading access.
It is important to note that a valid local or state fishing license is required for all adults, and certain streams operate under strict catch-and-release rules. If you prefer a larger body of water, you can explore Douglas Lake located just north of Sevierville. This massive reservoir provides ideal conditions for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding for a full day of fun on the water.
The Smoky Mountain Angler (Fishing Outfitter & Guide)
Address: 469 Brookside Village Way, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone: (865) 436-8746
Scenic Drives
If hiking is not your thing, you can still take in the beauty of the Smokies from the comfort of your vehicle. The Cades Cove Loop Road is one of the most popular scenic drives in the entire national park system. This eleven-mile, one-way loop circles a lush valley floor surrounded by towering mountains. It offers unmatched views of local wildlife, including deer, wild turkeys, and black bears. You will also pass several historic cabins, churches, and gristmills that showcase what early Appalachian settlement looked like.
Another great option is the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. This narrow, one-way loop takes you out of downtown Gatlinburg and weaves through dense, old-growth forests, passing directly alongside rushing mountain streams. It is an excellent way to wind down and escape the crowds.
Cades Cove Visitor Center
Address: 686 Cades Cove Loop Rd, Townsend, TN 37882
Phone: (865) 436-7318
Book Your Stay with SkyView Rentals
After a day of outdoor adventure, unwind in total comfort at SkyView Rentals. Our affordable, luxury custom-built homes and log cabins are located in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, just minutes from the national park entrance. Conveniently situated near all the area’s hiking trails and fishing streams, yet tucked away for a peaceful retreat, we have a property to suit every traveler. Contact our reservation team today to choose your favorite outdoor things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge and secure your mountain getaway!
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs About Smoky Mountain Activities
Do I need a parking pass for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
Yes, vehicles parking for more than 15 minutes anywhere within the national park boundaries are required to display a valid parking tag, which can be purchased at visitor centers.
What is the best scenic drive near Pigeon Forge?
The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail and the Cades Cove Loop Road are the two most popular and highly recommended scenic drives for spotting wildlife and viewing historic cabins.
FAQs About SkyView Rentals
Are the duck pin alleys open to the public?
No. The authentic duck pin bowling alleys are private amenities reserved exclusively for the guests renting those specific homes.
Do your cabins provide full kitchens for preparing trail snacks?
Yes, every luxury cabin features a modern, fully equipped kitchen, making it incredibly easy to pack lunches and prepare hearty meals before hitting the hiking trails.
Do you provide property management for mountain cabins?
We do! Our professional property management team handles everything from local marketing and dynamic pricing to 24/7 guest support, ensuring maximum ROI for cabin owners.
