Spring is here and summer is right around the corner, which means it’s the perfect time for family bonding in the great outdoors! Ditch your phones (or at least switch them to airplane mode so you can still take photos) and come have an adventure in our beautiful Smoky Mountains instead! We’ve found some great options that could be perfect for your family.

TUBING, BOATING, AND WHITE WATER RAFTING

Need something that will beat that summer heat? Then try a water activity! For a relaxed family getaway, spend the day tubing down one of Tennessee’s river ways or rent a pontoon and enjoy the day on Douglas Lake. If your family is up for a little more excitement, try white water rafting! There are various spots near Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg that offer these fun-filled water activities. Check out some of of our favorites here:
Smoky Mountain River Rat Tubing
Lighthouse Pointe Marina & Boat Rentals
Rafting in the Smokies

HIKING

We couldn’t tell you to come to the Smoky Mountains and not tell you to hike, could we? Best of all, this is a free activity! There are a variety of trials so that whether you have kids in strollers or active teenagers, you can find a path that suits your family’s needs. Need an easy trail? We recommend Laurel Falls! It’s mostly paved and is only a 2.6 round-trip hike. So it’s perfect if you have littles in your life. Plus, you’ll get to see an 80-foot waterfall! No bad for such a short hike!
Nervous about hiking for the first time in the Smokies or searching for challenging new path in the backcountry? Try a guided hike with Smoky Mountain Guides! 

 ZIPLINING

If you’re not scared of heights, then ziplining may be the perfect way to get a unique view of all our Great Smoky Mountains have to offer. We recommend Foxfire Mountain Adventures! From scenic ziplines over waterfalls to “The Goliath” zipline, guests to Foxfire Mountain will have plenty of fun options. And if you have a few in your crew that aren’t up for heights, try out the ATV tours here. Enjoy the scenic beauty of our mountains without having to break a sweat!

No matter what activity you choose to do, your family is sure to have a blast! The best part will be that you’re doing it all together. We can’t wait for you to try one of these and make some sweet new memories!