Things to Do at Smoky Mountain in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Great Smoky National Park is the most popular park in the country, hosting nearly 10 million people every year. While the park has a number of exciting opportunities for hikers, climbers and other outdoor enthusiasts, a wholly different set of opportunities have emerged in the gateway towns that border the park. One such town is Gatlinburg, Tennessee. While the town's population is under 4,000, it has become a popular tourist destination in its own right. Here are some Gatlinburg activities for those days in the Smokies when you aren't hiking.

Gatlinburg Space Needle

The Gatlinburg Space Needle stands 407 feet tall, a landmark of a remarkable height in a small town. It features wonderful 360 degree views of the Smoky Mountains from its viewing deck. Plus, there are live shows at the Gatlinburg Space Needle during the summer.

Gatlinburg Space Needle
155 Historic Nature Trail
Gatlinburg, Tennessee 37738

Ober Gatlinburg

The only ski area in Tennessee, Ober Gatlinburg has eight tracks and a popular alpine tube slide. The park serves as a resort hotel in the summer. Ober Gatlinburg also features the longest scenic chairlift in the United States.

Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort & Amusement Park
1001 Parkway
Gatlinburg Tennesse 37738
(865) 436-5423

White-Water Rafting

There are also a variety of outdoor opportunities outside of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. One popular opportunity is white-water rafting. Many rafting tours go down the Pigeon River, which has Class IV rapids. Of course, there are also plenty of opportunities for families, with guided tours personalized to each party.

Smoky Mountain Outdoors
453 Brookside Village Way
Gatlinburg, Tennesse 37738
(865) 430-9956

Gatlinburg Golf Course

Gatlinburg's well-manicured golf course is considered to be one of the finest in Tennessee. Recently renovated, the Gatlinburg Golf Course offers a remarkable experience in the middle of rugged wilderness. Teeing off in the middle of the woods is a different experience than most golfers are used to.

Gatlinburg Golf Course
Dollywood Lane off Route 440
(800) 231-4128

Resources

Article Written By Louie Doverspike

Based in Seattle, Louie Doverspike has been a professional writer since 2004. His work has appeared in various publications, including "AntiqueWeek" magazine, the "Prague Post" and "Seattle Represent!" Doverspike holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Hamilton College.

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