Nestled between the picturesque borders of North Carolina and Tennessee, the Great Smokies National Park and its surrounding areas offer an exhilarating array of adventures. From ATV off-roading to backcountry camping, ziplines, scenic drives, and more, these 50 hand-picked experiences provide the perfect blend of nature, thrill, and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a family with children, a solo explorer, or a group of thrill-seekers, you’ll find an activity to ignite your adventurous spirit while discovering the wild and wondrous beauty of the Smokies. Pack your bags, leash your pets, and embark on a journey to explore these top 50 adventurous things to do!

  1. ATV Off-Road Adventure (NC/TN Border)

    Roaring engines, rocky terrains, and heart-pounding excitement await on an ATV off-road adventure. Guided tours and rentals are available, letting you navigate the Smokies’ rugged trails while enjoying scenic views. Kid-friendly for ages 12+ and suitable for most pets. Prices range from $100-$200 per tour, depending on the duration. Bookings can be made through local outfitters or via online reservation. Discover the Excitement of ATV Off-Roading

  1. Backcountry Camping (Smokies, NC/TN)

    For those seeking a wilderness immersion, backcountry camping provides a serene escape. The isolation and natural beauty of the Smokies will test your survival skills while providing a pristine experience. Not suitable for young children or pets due to rugged terrain. Obtain a permit ($4 per person per night) and book online via the park’s website. Experience the Serenity of Backcountry Camping

  1. Bicycling the Cades Cove Loop (Tennessee)

    Cycle through history on the Cades Cove Loop, a scenic, wildlife-rich route lined with historic buildings and picturesque landscapes. This 11-mile loop is perfect for families, and children can ride tandem bikes with adults. Rentals start at $10 per hour, and helmets are required. Book online or rent from the Cades Cove Visitor Center. Cycle Your Way Through Cades Cove Loop

  1. Boating on Fontana Lake (NC)

    Fontana Lake’s crystal-clear waters make it ideal for kayaking, fishing, or a leisurely cruise. Boat rentals, ranging from $25 to $250, are available at marinas around the lake. Suitable for children, but pets should be kept leashed. Reserve boats in advance, especially during peak seasons. Set Sail on Fontana Lake

  1. Disc Golf at Nantahala Outdoor Center (NC)

    Hone your disc-throwing skills across a forested course surrounded by the Smokies. The courses cater to both beginners and pros, and families can rent discs onsite. Prices range from $5-$10 per round. Book through the Nantahala Outdoor Center for a unique outdoor adventure. Hone Your Skills at Nantahala Outdoor Center

  1. Elk Viewing at Cataloochee Valley (NC)

    Get up close with majestic elk at Cataloochee Valley, where reintroduced herds roam freely. Kids will love spotting these gentle giants, and pets must remain leashed. Free to visit, but bring binoculars and visit early morning or late evening for the best sightings. No booking is required. Observe Elk in Cataloochee Valley

    Source: https://maggievalley.org/guide/

  1. Fly Fishing in the Smokies (NC/TN)

    Wade into the Smokies’ cool streams and hone your fly fishing skills in search of wild trout. Guided trips start at $100, and licenses are required for all anglers aged 16+. Suitable for older kids; pets are not recommended on fishing excursions. Book online or through local fishing guides. Hook a Wild Trout Fly Fishing in the Smokies

  1. Golfing at Sequoyah National (NC)

    Test your skills on this scenic 18-hole course with mountain views and varying terrain. Green fees range from $60-$80, and junior rates are available. Suitable for older children; pets are not allowed on the course. Book tee times through the course’s website. Tee Off at Sequoyah National

  1. Hike the Alum Cave Trail (Tennessee)

    Venture up this rugged trail to marvel at unique rock formations and panoramic views. The trail is strenuous and not recommended for small children or pets. The hike is free but requires permits for overnight stays. Check the Great Smoky Mountains National Park’s website for trail updates. Hike the Stunning Alum Cave Trail

  1. Horseback Riding in Cades Cove (Tennessee)

    Experience Cades Cove’s lush meadows and trails on horseback, reconnecting with nature. Kid-friendly for ages 6+; pets should remain at the stables. Guided tours start at $30 per person and can be booked through the Cades Cove Riding Stables. Explore Cades Cove on Horseback

  1. Picnicking at Chimney Tops (Tennessee)

    After a scenic drive or hike, relax at one of the Smokies’ most popular picnic spots. The area’s rugged cliffs and waterfalls create an unforgettable backdrop. Free to access and suitable for families with kids and pets. No reservations are required. Picnic at the Chimney Tops

  1. Scenic Drive along Newfound Gap Road (NC/TN Border)

    Drive along this iconic road, stopping at overlooks to enjoy sweeping views of the Smokies. Suitable for families and pets (on leash). Free to access, with no booking required. Start at the Sugarlands Visitor Center for the best route information. Take a Scenic Drive along Newfound Gap Road

  1. Swimming at Midnight Hole (NC)

    A short hike brings you to a stunning, pristine swimming hole nestled among rocks. Children and leashed pets will love playing in the cool water, but swim with caution. Free to visit, with no booking required. Take a Dip at Midnight Hole

  1. Tubing on Deep Creek (NC)

    Float down the gentle rapids of Deep Creek while basking in the Smokies’ beauty. Suitable for children ages 4+ and pets (leashed). Tube rentals start at $5, and tours can be booked through local outfitters. Enjoy a Lazy Float Down Deep Creek

  1. Whitewater Rafting on the Pigeon River (Tennessee)

    Navigate thrilling rapids or enjoy a calm float through lush landscapes. Suitable for children ages 8+; not ideal for pets. Guided tours start at $30 and can be booked through several local rafting companies. Conquer the Rapids on the Pigeon River

  1. Wildlife Viewing at Clingmans Dome (NC/TN Border)

    Climb to the Smokies’ highest peak for stunning views and wildlife sightings. The paved trail is suitable for families and pets on leashes. Free to access, with no booking required. Spot Wildlife at Clingmans Dome

  1. Winter Sports at Cataloochee Ski Area (NC)

    Ski or snowboard down well-groomed slopes with lessons available for beginners. Child-friendly with a snow-play area; pets are not allowed on the slopes. Lift tickets start at $30, and gear rentals are available. Book through the ski area’s website. Hit the Slopes at Cataloochee Ski Area

  1. Ziplining at Anakeesta (Tennessee)

     

    Soar above the forest canopy with the Smokies as your backdrop. Suitable for children ages 7+, but pets must stay at the bottom. Prices start at $50, with advanced bookings available online. Glide Above the Forest Canopy at Anakeesta

  1. Dollywood Amusement Park (Tennessee)

    Thrilling coasters and live shows await in this family-friendly park. Kid-friendly rides abound; pets can stay in the Doggywood kennel. Tickets start at $84 per day. Book online for discounts. Enjoy a Day of Fun at Dollywood Amusement Park

  1. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies (Tennessee)

    Immerse yourself in the underwater world of fascinating marine life. Hands-on exhibits and tunnels offer educational fun for kids; service animals only. Tickets start at $40, with discounts available online. Immerse Yourself in Marine Life at Ripley’s Aquarium

  1. Forbidden Caverns Tour (Tennessee)

    Wander through intricate cave formations on a guided tour. Suitable for children and well-behaved pets. Tours start at $20 for adults and $10 for kids. Bookings are available onsite. Embark on a Forbidden Caverns Tour

  1. Game Room & Arcade at Ober Gatlinburg (Tennessee)

    Challenge family and friends to classic arcade games or virtual reality experiences. Kid-friendly and suitable for all ages; pets are not allowed. Entry is free, and tokens can be purchased onsite. Score Big at the Ober Gatlinburg Arcade

  1. Gem Mining at the Old Gem Mine (NC)

    Pan for real gems and keep your treasures with help from expert guides. Suitable for kids and pets (on leash). Prices start at $15 per bucket, and bookings are available onsite. Strike It Rich at the Old Gem Mine

  1. Go-Kart Racing at Nascar SpeedPark (Tennessee)

    Race around themed tracks and test your driving skills. Kids can join with tandem carts; pets should be left at home. Day passes start at $25 and can be booked through their website. Race Around Themed Tracks and Test Your Skills

  1. Helicopter Tour over the Smokies (NC/TN Border)

    Get a new perspective on the Smokies’ majestic landscapes from above. Not suitable for children under 3 or pets. Prices start at $40 per person, with bookings available online. See the Smokies from the Sky on a Helicopter Tour

  1. Mysterious Mansion of Gatlinburg (Tennessee)

    Explore the spooky corridors of this haunted house for a spine-tingling thrill. Not suitable for children under 8 or pets. Tickets start at $15 per person and can be booked onsite. Explore this haunted house for a spine-tingling thrill 

  1. Motion Theater at WonderWorks (Tennessee)

    Immerse yourself in a thrilling 4D adventure with motion and special effects. Suitable for children aged 5+; service animals only. Tickets start at $20 and can be purchased online. Immerse yourself in a thrilling 4D adventure 

  1. Titanic Museum Attraction (Tennessee)

    Step aboard a replica of the Titanic and uncover the ship’s tragic history. Suitable for kids and service animals only. Tickets start at $28 and can be purchased online. Step aboard a replica of the Titanic and uncover its history 

  1. Scenic Lift at Ober Gatlinburg (Tennessee)

    Ascend to the amusement park while enjoying panoramic views. Suitable for families; pets not allowed. Tickets start at $20 per person, and advanced booking is recommended. Ascend to the amusement park while enjoying panoramic views 

  1. Indoor Skydiving at Flyaway (Tennessee)

    Experience freefall in a wind tunnel under expert supervision. Suitable for ages 5+; pets should stay home. Prices start at $40 per flight, and reservations are recommended. Experience freefall in a wind tunnel under expert supervision 

  1. Biltmore Estate (NC)

    Tour America’s largest private estate, surrounded by manicured gardens. Child-friendly with stroller access; service animals only. Tickets start at $70 and should be purchased online. Tour America’s largest private estate 

  1. Waterpark at Wilderness at the Smokies (Tennessee)

    Splash around in thrilling water slides and wave pools. Kid-friendly with special areas for toddlers; pets are not allowed. Prices start at $30 per day, and reservations can be made online. Splash around in thrilling water slides and wave pools 

  1. Smoky Mountain Maze Adventure (NC)

    Navigate through intricate paths in this family-friendly, giant corn maze. Suitable for kids and pets on leash. Tickets start at $10 per person and can be purchased onsite. Navigate through a giant corn maze 

  1. The Island in Pigeon Forge (Tennessee)

    Shop, dine, and explore unique attractions like the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel. Family and pet-friendly, with some attractions restricting pets. Tickets vary by attraction; book online for discounts. Shop, dine, and explore unique attractions 

  1. Museum of the Cherokee Indian (NC)

    Learn about the rich history of the Cherokee people through interactive exhibits. Child-friendly with stroller access; service animals only. Tickets start at $12 per adult, and reservations are available online. Learn about the rich history of the Cherokee people 

  1. Alpine Coaster at Goats on the Roof (Tennessee)

    Race through mountain trails on this gravity-driven coaster. Suitable for children aged 4+; service animals only. Prices start at $15 per person. Bookings can be made onsite. Race through mountain trails on this gravity-driven coaster 

  1. Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster (Tennessee)

    Zoom through the forest on this thrilling mountain coaster. Suitable for children aged 3+ (with adult supervision); service animals only. Tickets start at $14. Book onsite or online for deals. Zoom through the forest on this thrilling coaster 

  1. Anakeesta Theme Park (Tennessee)

    Enjoy ziplines, canopy walks, and a scenic chairlift ride to the park’s summit. Kid-friendly with stroller access; service animals only. Tickets start at $35 per person and should be booked online. Enjoy ziplines, canopy walks, and scenic chairlift rides 

  1. Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort (Tennessee)

    Ski, snowboard, or snow tube in the winter; enjoy an alpine slide and wildlife exhibits in the summer. Kid-friendly but not suitable for pets. Lift tickets start at $25. Book online for deals. Ski, snowboard, or snow tube in the winter; summer activities available 

  1. Wagon Rides (NC)

    Smokemont Riding Stables in Cherokee has a wagon ride that travels down the Old Turnpike Road, alongside the Oconaluftee River. It passes fields where guests see wildlife, and they share some historical information with guests along the way. There are no age or weight restrictions on the wagon. Tickets start at $30 per person and can be booked by calling the Stables. Travel down the Old Turnpike Road on a scenic wagon ride 

  1. Biking at Tsali Recreation Area (NC)

    Thrill yourself with rugged mountain bike trails offering stunning lake views. Suitable for experienced bikers and families with older children; pets on leash only. Parking fees start at $5, and rentals are available. Thrill yourself with rugged mountain bike trails offering lake views 

  1. Horseback Riding at Smokemont Riding Stables (NC)

    Explore scenic trails with well-trained horses and experienced guides. Suitable for kids aged 5+; pets are not allowed. Tours start at $30 per person, and booking is available online. Explore scenic trails with well-trained horses 

  1. Wheels Through Time Motorcycle Museum (NC)

    Admire a collection of rare and historical motorcycles. Kid-friendly with stroller access; pets not allowed. Tickets start at $15 per adult. Bookings are available onsite. Admire a collection of rare and historical motorcycles 

  1. Tuckaleechee Caverns (Tennessee)

    Explore Tennessee’s largest cave system with guided tours. Suitable for kids and pets on leash. Tours start at $20 per adult, and booking is available onsite. Explore Tennessee’s largest cave system with guided tours 

  1. Guided Photography Tours (NC/TN Border)

    Capture the Smokies’ natural beauty with a professional guide. Suitable for older kids and service animals only. Tours start at $50 per person and can be booked online. Capture the Smokies’ beauty with a professional guide 

  1. Sunset Jeep Tour at Newfound Gap (NC/TN Border)

    Navigate rugged terrain to capture stunning sunset views. Suitable for older kids but not pets. Tours start at $70 per person and can be booked online. Capture stunning sunset views with a Jeep tour 

  1. U.S. 129 – Tail of the Dragon Scenic Drive (NC/TN Border)

    Feel the thrill as you conquer 318 curves in 11 miles. Suitable for older kids and pets on leash. Free to access; drive carefully and avoid busy times. Conquer 318 curves in 11 miles on this legendary drive 

  1. GSMNP Horseback Adventures (NC/TN Border)

    Ride through scenic trails in the Smokies with well-trained horses. Suitable for kids aged 6+ but not pets. Tours start at $40 per person and can be booked through the stables. Ride through scenic trails with well-trained horses 

  1. Waterfall Hikes at Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail (Tennessee)

    Marvel at scenic waterfalls along this picturesque trail. Suitable for families and pets on leash. Free to access; pack water and wear sturdy shoes. Marvel at scenic waterfalls along this picturesque trail 

  1. Rock Climbing at Looking Glass Rock (NC)

    Scale this iconic rock formation renowned for its multi-pitch climbing routes. Suitable for experienced climbers and families with older kids; pets on leash only. Free to access; guided climbs start at $100 per person. Book through local outfitters. Scale this iconic rock formation renowned for multi-pitch routes