The Smoky Mountains along the Tennessee-North Carolina border is the ideal spot to indulge in outdoor activities. It is also one of the top visited places for families throughout the year. In today’s world dominated by technology, places like these have become crucial for time away from screens and technology to step out into nature and divulge in real-world experience. It is also one of the reasons why the Great Smoky Mountains is the best place to seek tranquility and relaxation away from daily stresses.
As per Statistica, the Great Smoky Mountains reached its highest number of recreational visits in 2021, totaling 14.16 million, with 12.94 million visitors in 2022 from all over the States. Moreover, rafting is among the popular outdoor activities of visitors, with 57.8 million people going rafting in the Great Smoky Mountains in 2021. This figure represents a growth of 80.4% within the last decade.
It shows the growing interest of people in physical outdoor activities that are beneficial in many ways. Therefore, enrich your upcoming holidays with many outdoor activities in the Great Smokies.
Go Whitewater Rafting
Whitewater rafting is one of the most exhilarating and adrenaline-pumping family activities visiting the Smoky Mountains. It can also be a family bonding activity that brings everyone together, even kids as little as three years old. In the Little Pigeon River in the Smoky Mountains, you will experience a range of rapids from Class I to IV from a 6.5-mile trip downstream on Class III and IV rapids.
At Smoky Mountain Outdoors white water rafting, you can opt for seasonal packages ranging from spring and fall, Upper River rafting, extreme Upper River, lower pigeon river rafting, or a combo package. Each one comes with a different difficulty level depending on the water rapids. Moreover, you get guided tours with safety procedures and the necessary equipment to make your trip both safe and exciting.
Paddling the untamed rapids and swerving your way downstream and upstream is an experience you do not want to miss. Moreover, the larger your group is, the more fun it will be with everyone getting in different inflatable rafts and navigating it.
Moreover, notice and capture the mesmerizing views, the picturesque backdrop, rugged cliffs along the river, lush greenery, and towering forest trees, immersing you in the natural beauty. You may also witness wildlife, such as eagles soaring in the skies, looking for fish to catch. If you are lucky, you may also come across sea creatures.
Therefore, rafting is a wholesome experience that combines different aspects of nature while letting you immerse and interact with it. You must not miss it during your visit to the Smokies.
Go Hiking
Hiking is the topmost physical outdoor activity visitors love to indulge in during their visit to the Smoky Mountains. There are several hiking trails in the Smoky Mountains National Park, ranging from Alum Cave, Chimney Tops, Laurel Falls, and Little River Trail, scooting across cascading waterfalls, bridges, ancient civilizations, and scenic marvels.
Therefore, make sure that you come prepared with your hiking gear, including hiking shoes, a hat or a cap and sunscreen for sun protection; a tee shirt and a jacket as it gets colder as you climb up; a backpack containing essentials such as a water bottle, snacks, umbrella, phone, and charger, a camera to capture to stunning views, and hiking sticks, etc. It is especially crucial for you to carry these items if you plan to opt for a longer trail. Moreover, make sure you start early in the morning so you can end it before sundown. It can get harder to navigate the trails in the dark, especially if it is your first time.
An outdoor enthusiast may explore all the trails and witness wildlife, such as black bears, red foxes, deer, and squirrels, along with wildflowers, treetops, bamboo trees, and the views of mountain tops. If you opt for a guided tour, you may learn more about the history of the place and its local community.
The Smokys is also a great place to take a nature walk or stroll through the park and find picnic spots, dog-friendly parks, and eateries along the mountainous region.
Ride the Roller Coasters
The Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster is not just one of the most thrilling outdoor activities; it is also North America’s first Alpine flyer and the longest downhill track of 1 mile in the US. It offers the thrill of a roller coaster with natural mountain landscapes with soars, swings, and dips through the mountainscapes.
You will find more roller coasters in Dollywood, a theme park with multiple kid-friendly and family-friendly activities. Each roller coaster is different. Some offer a gaming experience while riding. Meanwhile, others offer a unique and unforgettable experience with wider compartments accommodating up to 8 people.
Hop on the Lighting Rod for a more exhilarating and adrenaline-pumping experience. It is the world’s largest wooden roller coaster that propels from 0 to 45 miles per hour in seconds as you twist and turn through the air.
The Tennessee Tornado is ideal for those who love extreme thrills and adventure. This coaster is made up of steel and takes you through the whirlwind-themed area inspired by the folklore of the Smokys. It jumps through loops and inversions to make it more thrilling.
Ziplining
Exploring zipline courses through the Smoky Mountains would take you and your family on a world of adventure. No matter how skilled or abled you are, you will find zip lines of all levels, ranging from kid-friendly to those who love indulging in extreme sports. It is an excellent activity for those looking to add a dash of uniqueness to their trip.
However, you will get safety and security instructions before beginning and must wait for your turn. Once ready, you will be hooked onto a steel cable, suspended thousands of feet above the ground, and soar through the other side amongst treetops, birds, mountain peaks, and other marvels of nature before landing on the other side. This simple yet exquisite experience inculcates an appreciation of nature and life and offers out-of-this-world experience.
Conclusion
Outdoor activities are the reason most families visit the Smoky Mountains. Whitewater rafting is one of the most exciting and fun family activities the Smoky Mountains offer, with a range of rapids and combinations.
Hiking is another popular activity that most tourists love to indulge in, with many trails to explore. However, make sure that you start early and go prepared. Moreover, do not forget to ride roller coasters, including the Alpine Coaster and the ones in Dollywood. Every coaster ride offers a different experience.
Lastly, go Ziplining with your family and indulge in a life-changing and thrilling experience.
