8 of the Best Outdoor Activities for Warm Weather in Gatlinburg TN
We’ve already gotten to experience some warm temperatures in Gatlinburg, and more warm weather is on its way! In Gatlinburg, weather typically starts getting warmer in March, and temperatures raise as the spring months go on. The average high during spring last year was 71 degrees, with a low of 62. That’s perfect weather to try all the amazing outdoor adventures Gatlinburg has to offer! When spring hits, we want you to enjoy the beautiful weather. We’ve put together a list of 8 of the best outdoor activities for warm weather in Gatlinburg TN:
1. Ziplining
One exciting outdoor adventure to embark on when the weather is nice is a zipline tour! The best place to zipline in Gatlinburg is at Gatlinburg Zipline Adventures. There are more than 9 ziplines and 6 treetop canopy platforms! Your adrenaline will be pumping as you soar through the trees and get a bird’s eye view of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, downtown Gatlinburg and the Gatlinburg Space Needle. If you’ve never been ziplining before, you don’t have to worry! There are experienced guides to teach you how and ensure your safety every step of the way.
2. The Gravity Coaster at Rowdy Bear Mountain
You can ride a mountain coaster all year round, but it’s a much better experience when the weather isn’t cold. We recommend trying The Gravity Coaster at Rowdy Bear Mountain! When you ride The Gravity Coaster, you’ll be in control of your own speed. If you’re feeling like a daredevil, ride top speed at 30 miles an hour around the track. Or, you can go for a relaxing ride down the track and take in the breathtaking scenery. Ride the coaster at night for a special experience you won’t want to miss!
3. Dollywood’s Splash Country
One of the most popular outdoor attractions in the Smoky Mountains is Dollywood’s Splash Country! This premier water park opens in May, so you have a few more months to plan your perfect adventure. You can ride thrilling water rides, relax in a cozy canopy or ride the waves in the wave pool! There are also shops and restaurants for you to explore while you’re there. Bring your swimsuits and get ready for a fun day of splashing around!
4. Spring Hike
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has countless trails for hikers to enjoy. While you’ll be able to see stunning views during all seasons, the Smoky Mountains come alive in the spring. Wildflowers start to bloom and trees start to grow flowers. The wildflowers are so beautiful that they attract a number of visitors to the park. Also, the waterfalls that froze during the winter have started to flow again and provide picture-perfect views!
5. Whitewater Rafting
Whitewater rafting is one adventure you don’t want to miss out on! One of the best rafting experiences is with Smoky Mountain Outdoors. You’ll be able to choose from two different rafting rides: Upper River Rafting and Lower River Rafting. Upper River Rafting is for the adventurous. You’ll take a 6.5 mile raft trip down class 3 and 4 rapids, splashing through giant waves and big drops. It’ll definitely have your adrenaline pumping. For a more relaxing ride down the river, try Lower River Rafting, where you’ll float leisurely!
6. Camping
Warm weather means it’s camping season again! Camping is the perfect way to experience the true beauty of the Smoky Mountains. What could be better than sleeping underneath the stars and breathing in the fresh mountain air? When you go camping in the Smoky Mountains, you’ll be able to choose from camping in a tent, a cabin or an RV! Camping is one of the best outdoor activities visitors enjoy in the Smoky Mountains.
7. Picnicking
When the sun is shining, pack yourself a basket filled with your favorite goodies and head out for a picnic. Enjoy the great outdoors while snacking on sandwiches and delicious fruit. There are plenty of picnic areas in the National Park where you can go to eat a meal, or take a break from hiking to have a snack! Picnic sites in the park have a picnic table and a raised grill for cooking.
8. Horseback Riding
Another great outdoor activity is horseback riding! The National Park has four concession horseback riding stables that open in mid-March and offer guided horseback rides. You’ll ride on scenic park trails and experience the mountains like never before! Two of the concession horseback riding stables offer carriage and wagon rides as well, where you’ll have the opportunity to experience a 20-30 minute horse-drawn carriage or wagon ride.
These outdoor activities are great ways to enjoy the warm weather in Gatlinburg TN! Stay up to date with the weather when you watch our forecast videos from our meteorologist, Paul Poteet, and find out the best time to plan your trip to the Smoky Mountains!
