Outdoor Smoky Mountain Adventures
Biking in the Smoky Mountains
The Cherokee National Forest is a mountain biker’s heaven, with trails ranging from the 2.3 mile Meadow Creek Mountain to the 100 mile Lemon Gap Road.
Foxfire Mountain – Do it all in one place!
Foxfire Mountain is the largest zip line attraction in the Smoky Mountains. Seven world-class zip lines, America’s longest swinging bridge across Foxfire Gorge and the Little Pigeon River, Lost Mine Falls, and an ATV escorted adventure.
Fishing in the Smoky Mountains
The many rivers and lakes offer fishing for both the novice and the seasoned pro.
River Fishing – The French Broad River, especially the section from Newport to Del Rio from Hwy 70 is known for its smallmouth. The Big Pigeon River has been designated State Trophy Waters by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency.
Fly Fishing – The Cherokee National Forest is home to over 60 species of fish. Some streams are stocked while others are wild. Paint Creek Pond is a popular spot. The Great Smoky Mountain National Park also offers hundreds of streams.
Lake Fishing – Douglas Lake has been known as the region’s largemouth bass producer since 1943.
Some of our favorite Smoky Mountains trails…
Hen Wallow Falls – A short 2 ½ mile walk past creeks, foot logs, and heavy vegetation leads you to a picturesque picnic spot by a waterfall.
Mt. Camerer, known to us locals as White Rock – This is a fairly strenuous 6-mile hike up to a restored fire tower originally built by the WPA. The views from the trail itself are great, but the view from the tower site is simply the best in the Smokies.
Max Patch – You drive a little bit to the trailhead, but the walk is only a mile long to this grass-covered bald at an elevation of 4500 feet. The Appalachian Trail crosses it, and the 360-degree views are like being on top of the world. Our staff says it makes them feel like singing the Sound of Music.
Albright Cove – See the oldest trees in the park, including a 600-year-old Tulip Poplar, on this 3 ½ mile trail.
A Walk in the Woods Guide Service – Tours are geared towards people who are interested in interactive and educational adventures. They range from 2 ½ hours to multi-night backpacking trips. (865) 436-8283 (865) 436-8283 awalkinthewoods.com
Llama Trekking – Lead one of these gentle animals into the Pisgah National Forest and enjoy lunch overlooking the mountains. (828) 622-9686 www.hikinginthesmokies.com
Smoky Mountains White Water Rafting
The French Broad and the lower Big Pigeon Rivers offer gentle float trips through pristine mountain scenery. The Upper Big Pigeon boasts 5 miles of class 2,3, and 4 rapids through spectacular river gorges if you want a bumpier trip. This is one of the most popular activities in the Smokies and only happens on select days each season, so make your reservations early.
Appalachian Outdoors 1-866-723-8277
Nantahala Outdoor Center 1-888-905-7238
Pigeon River Outdoors 1-800-PRO-RAFT
Rapid Descent River Company 1-800-455-8808
USA Raft 1-800-USA-RAFT
Smoky Mountains Canopy Tours and Ziplines
Feel like a kid again and zip through the Smoky Mountains on this newest form of adventure offered. Canopy tours offer an experience you will never forget.
Pigeon River Canopy Tours 1.800.451.9972 www.adventureamericaziplinecanopytours.com/
Smoky Mountain Ziplines 865.429.9004 www.smokymountainziplines.com/
Llama Trekking in the Smoky Mountains
Experience an amazing day trek with friendly pack llamas in Tennessee’s magnificent Smoky Mountains. The Wandering Llamas have been offering llama hikes for over 20 years in Greenville, TN. 423-426-7626 https://thewanderingllamas.com/