Whitewater Rafting
Rafting in the Smokies is a popular activity, with several outfitters, guides and rafting services. On a whitewater rafting trip, you're generally paired with a guide, a boat and enough new friends to fill the empty seats. Group trips are available through some of the outfitters and the season generally runs from March through October. Providers supply life jackets and guides, although for lower river trips, experienced rafters can go without a guide.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has a diverse population of plants and animals, on an ancient landscape. Over 800 miles of maintained hiking and bicycling trails, over 700 miles of fishable streams, 80 historic log cabins and structures, horseback riding, picnicking, waterfalls and wildflowers make this Gatlinburg's local treasure. Bicycle rental facilities are available as well as kayak rentals and other amenities for the outdoorsman.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
107 Park Headquarters Road
Gatlinburg, Tennessee 37738
(865) 436-1200
nps.gov/grsm
Winter Sports
The Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park and Ski Resort is the only ski resort in Tennessee, so the area is a hotspot for winter travelers. Located on the slopes of Mount Harrison, at an elevation of over 3,000 feet in the Great Smoky Mountains. Skiers and snowboarders enjoy 8 slopes from 3 chair lifts, as well as a cozy lodge, ski rental and ski school for beginners. From downtown Gatlinburg, take the scenic aerial tramway for 2 miles up to the lodge. Ober also offers a 400 foot snow-tubing park, with a 50 foot drop and an indoor ice skating arena. In the summer, they offer hiking and mountain biking as well as an amusement park.
Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort & Amusement Park
1001 Parkway
Gatlinburg Tennessee 37738
General Inquiries (865) 436-5423, Snow Report (800) 251-9202
obergatlinburg.com
