Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Gatlinburg is centrally located on the northern edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The 500,000-acre park is filled with hundreds of species of birds, more than 60 varieties of mammals, including black bears and elk, and more than 50 species of fish. Visitors can hike, climb, fish, camp, picnic or take a leisurely drive through the winding mountain roads to view the panoramic landscape. It is open 24 hours a day, all year round.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
107 Park Headquarters Road
Gatlinburg, Tennessee 37738
(865) 436-1200
nps.gov
Whitewater Rafting
Numerous outfitters in the Gatlinburg area take guests on fully guided rafting tours of the Pigeon River. The outfitters provide everything: boat, oars, lifejackets and helmets. The river flows through the heart of the Smoky Mountains, giving guests great views while taking in the action. The class III and IV rapids offer varying levels of excitement and are suitable for just about everyone. For a list of outfitters in Gatlinburg, see Gatlinburg's official website or contact the Chamber of Commerce.
Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce
811 East Parkway
P.O. Box 527
Gatlinburg, Tennessee 37738
(800) 588-1817
gatlinburg.com
Ski and Snowboard
Tennessee's only ski resort is located on Mt. Harrison just outside of Gatlinburg. From beginners to advanced, the eight ski runs at the Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort give visitors thrills, fun and excitement all within the beautiful natural surroundings of the Great Smoky Mountains. The season lasts from about mid-December until March. During the off-season, the resort offers activities such as the Alpine Slide Scenic Chairlift and an Aerial Tramway.
Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort & Amusement Park
1001 Parkway
Gatlinburg, Tennessee 37738
(865) 436-5423
obergatlinburg.com
