4 Exciting Ways to Explore the Tennessee Mountains
- March 02, 2023
Each morning the sun inches its way over these majestic mountains, shining light on a world full of unique wildlife, flora and fauna in the Smoky Mountains! Gorgeous green scenery with patches of vibrant colors from wildflowers and vegetation make for views straight out of a dream! You may even have to pinch yourself to make sure it’s all real! When visiting the Smokies, it’s a must to explore the natural beauty offered by these Tennessee mountains we call home. Here are 4 exciting ways to explore the Tennessee mountains:
1. Hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the crown jewel of the Tennessee mountains! The best way to explore the national park is on foot, allowing you to move at your own pace and see as many different unique sights and attractions as possible. The park is full of exciting areas that will blow you away with their beauty and the history lessons that come along with it. Cades Cove, Clingmans Dome, Newfound Gap, Cataloochee Valley and Elkmont are just a few of the popular places in the park worth your time to explore, plus make sure you drop by one of the many incredible waterfalls in the park! Hiking trails in the Smokies range in difficulty level from easy to strenuous, meaning there’s a perfect trail out there for your family!
2. A Scenic Drive
If you’d prefer a more laid back approach to exploring the Tennessee mountains, we suggest taking advantage of one of many scenic drive options! Scenic drives are great for those who may struggle with mobility but still want to enjoy the very best nature has to offer. You’ll find numerous scenic drives throughout the park that allow you to view Smoky Mountain wildlife and natural areas at their finest! So what are you waiting for? Fill up on gas and get the whole family packed in for an unforgettable day exploring the Smoky Mountains!
3. Ziplines
Hold on tight! Soar above the Tennessee mountains and enjoy views normally only reserved for birds! Ziplines are inclined cables featuring a suspended harness and pulley that allows guests to slide down while high above the ground, providing endless fun for the biggest adrenaline junkies! Riding a zipline allows people to “fly” as they enjoy some of the very best views that showcase the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains. Anakeesta, the Gatlinburg adventure park, is home to a Dueling Zipline Adventure, while many Smoky Mountain attractions like CLIMB Works in Gatlinburg offer zip lining excursions!
4. Chairlifts
Another great way to explore the Tennessee mountains from the sky is via a Smoky Mountain chairlift! Slowly ride over the Tennessee mountains and spot attractions and landmarks both close up and far away in the distance! Anakeesta features an open air chairlift with a safety bar plus enclosed gondola cabins that fit up to 4 people. Ride to the top of Crockett Mountain in Gatlinburg at Gatlinburg SkyLift Park. The scenic chairlift at Ober Mountain is the longest chairlift of its kind in the United States, taking guests on a trip over some of Gatlinburg’s coolest attractions!
We’re certain you and the family will have a great time exploring the Tennessee mountains! Take a look at our Smoky Mountain cabins to find the perfect place to stay on your visit!
