One of the best things about visiting Pigeon Forge and the Great Smoky Mountains is the variety of outdoor activities you can enjoy with your family and friends! From entertainment on the Parkway to peaceful scenic hikes in the national park, you can definitely find many unique things to do in the Smoky Mountains.
1. Outdoor snow tubing
If you visit during the colder months, experience snow in Pigeon Forge at our outdoor snow tubing hill! We make our own snow during the winter that feels and looks authentic. Rowdy Bear snow tubing is the ultimate winter sports experience, with multiple lanes of fun for the whole family. Go down by yourself or connect up to 3 tubes and soar! Our outdoor hill remains open during the summer, so you can enjoy the tubing experience year-round!
2. Axe throwing
We provide much more than just outdoor tubing at our Pigeon Forge attraction! Try something new by attempting to hit the bullseye at our outdoor axe throwing stations! Children 10 years old and up can participate, and we have friendly, trained staff on-site to show you how to throw properly and ensure the safety of all guests.
3. Wild Stallion mountain coaster at SkyLand Ranch
SkyLand Ranch is our sister attraction just a few minutes away in Sevierville. They have a variety of exciting outdoor activities, including a mountain coaster with breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains! The Wild Stallion ride is over 8 minutes long and can be done during the day or at night, 7 days a week. Children must be 38 inches tall to ride with an adult and 54 inches tall to ride alone.
4. Hike to a waterfall
What’s another fun family activity where you can enjoy the great outdoors and burn off some excess energy? Hiking to a Smoky Mountain waterfall, of course! Short hikes to Laurel Falls and Cataract Falls are great for beginners or families with young children. If you’re up for a challenge, the hike to Grotto Falls is more difficult and a longer trek but very rewarding. It’s even possible to walk behind the 25-foot-high waterfall!
5. Explore the Elkmont area
Another unique thing to do in Smoky Mountains is explore the hidden gems such as Elkmont! The popular campground at Elkmont attracts many visitors throughout the year, but many don’t realize there’s much more to discover. A scenic nature trail draws you in and leads you to the historic Elkmont ghost town and a beautiful troll bridge.
6. Visit the Greenbrier area
Historic sites and other interesting places abound in the national park, and another spot we suggest is Greenbrier. You can hike the family-friendly Metcalf Bottoms Trail, where you’ll find the Greenbrier Schoolhouse and a cemetery. Metcalf Bottoms is also a fantastic picnic spot!
Now you know some unique things to do in Smoky Mountains! Are you interested in learning more about the national park? Check out these fun facts about the Smokies!
