#1 – Hiking up to Clingmans Dome
One of the very first things we did when arriving at Great Smoky Mountains National Park was escaping Tennessee for a couple hours and driving ALL the way up to Clingmans Dome. This is quite the awesome experience and the views are just simply outstanding. I recommend taking the time to enjoy the view along the road as well and just take this as an initial introduction to this beautiful park.
#2 – Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster
In the above video we put in both our adventures at Clingmans Dome and also Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster! One involves a bit of exercise and the other we just relaxed on our way up the mountain and took the quick way down! There are quite a few touristy things to do in the Pigeon Forge area, but we settled on the Smoky Mountain Alpine coaster because neither of us had been on one before. Definitely recommend it!
#3 – Gatlinburg Trail – Dog Friendly Trail!
We didn’t get many photos at Gatlinburg Trail because it was such a cloudy and dark afternoon/evening, but we did attempt to film some of the adventure! This trail made our list because our greyhound Blaze really wanted to get on a hike with us. Luckily within Great Smoky Mountains National Park there are 2 true dog friendly trails you can take your best friend on!
#4 – Exploring Cades Cove
Cades Cove is probably the best place to view wildlife within Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Since we came late in the season all we really saw were some deer roaming the open land, but we’ve heard from some locals that if folks come early enough in the morning they could spot some black bear! Maybe next time, but regardless of the wildlife spotting, the views are spectacular in this area and there is plenty to do!
#5 – Hiking up Chimney Tops Trail
Our most challenging hike by far while visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park was the Chimney Tops Trail. If visiting and endurance is not an issue, we definitely recommend trying this trail out! It isn’t the longest trail at just under 4 miles up and back, but the elevation gain is quite challenging and the views are amazing. Not to mention all the beautiful water features we crossed along the trail!
All of these different locations offered a unique perspective and gave us a sweet set of adventures while visiting the area! Although we only did pick 5 adventures, there is still TONS more to do in and around Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Whether striving for some hiking, coasters, wax museums, go-karting, wildlife watching, name it and this place probably has it. We can’t wait to get back here sometime in the future, but for now, we adventure on.
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Adventure On!
