Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Many visitors make their way to Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg to visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This national park is home to approximately 800 miles of hiking trails. Trails range from short, easy-to-hike trails to long trails through rough terrain that may require experience and proper equipment. Additionally, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers anglers more than 700 miles of fishable waterways. Fishermen in the park are likely to catch brown or rainbow trout in the park's streams.
Whitewater Rafting
Pigeon Forge's location in the Smoky Mountains and in close proximity to the Pigeon Rivers gives visitors numerous opportunities to explore the area's waterways. Visitors can choose between routes that allow for relaxing rafting trips to rougher waters that make for exciting whitewater rafting. Outdoor Adventures provides visitors with guided river trips led by trained and certified guides. A variety of trips makes it possible for people of all ages and all skill levels to take part in rafting.
Outdoor Adventures
3635 Trail Hollow Road
Hartford, TN 37753
866-333-7238
www.raftoutdooradventures.com
Dollywood
Dollywood is Pigeon Forge's most visited attraction. This Smoky Mountain theme park offers adventure to the entire family. Visitors can ride any of the adventure rides, including roller coasters, water rides and kiddie rides, see a show, and shop through the many hand-made arts and crafts all within the gates of the park. The park is open from early spring through December. Hours vary based on the season.
1198 McCarter Hollow Road
Pigeon Forge, TN 37862
800-365-5996
www.dollywood.com
Wilderness Wildlife Week
Since 1991, the Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg region has hosted the annual Wilderness Wildlife Week. This weeklong celebration each January includes a variety of outdoor-themed activities centering on the Great Smoky Mountains. Activities include guided hikes and concerts by regional musicians in addition to classes and seminars on subjects such as nature photography, fly casting, using maps and compasses and backpacking in the Smokies.
www.mypigeonforge.com/events_winterfest_wilderness.aspx
Bicycling
Cyclists staying in the Gatlinburg area can take advantage of the opportunity to ride through Cades Cove within Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Cades Cove Loop Road is an 11-mile stretch of paved road that provides a safe area for cyclists to ride while enjoying the wildlife and scenic views in the area. Cyclists can also take advantage of the Gatlinburg Trail. This 1.9-mile trail stretches from the outer edge of Gatlinburg to the Sugarlands Visitors Center. This trail is shared by cyclists and pedestrians.
