Some blogs from the official Gatlinburg tourism website highlight the oncoming of the Spring season with ideas and events that are expected to take place soon and we wanted to share them here. If you’re looking to have a Spring Break in the Smokies or venture here for any other reason, we encourage you to read on.
The following is two blogs from Gatlinburg.com adapted and combined into one.
Best Spring Outdoor Activities in Gatlinburg
When the chill of winter melts away, Gatlinburg flourishes with festivals and opportunities to enjoy its scenic wonders. Whether you’re planning for a weekend getaway or a full-blown spring break, we’ve got plenty of activities to keep you busy. Here’s our guide to upcoming spring activities you can look forward to all season long.
Enjoy a Festival or Two
Good weather and good times are synonymous here in Gatlinburg and this couldn’t be truer during our spring festival season. Trip-worthy events like Gatlinburg’s Winefest Weekend bring hundreds of wine lovers to the world-renowned campus of Arrowmont’s School of Arts and Crafts, while Ober Gatlinburg’s MayFest welcomes spring with a family-friendly celebration, complete with free kid’s games and traditional Maypole dance. Anakeesta’s Spring Celebration makes the most of the great outdoors with everything from scenic garden walks to family photo-ops with their new 12-foot long topiary couch beginning April 3. Gatlinburg’s 75th Anniversary, Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage and Smoky Mountain Trout Tournament are just a few more fests that should also be on your radar. Discover a full list of Spring festivals in Gatlinburg.
Take It Outdoors
As a destination surrounded by Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg offers no shortage of ways to get outside and enjoy the flourishing spring landscape. Whether you’re taking in panoramic views at one of the area’s many overlooks or wildflower spotting in Great Smoky Mountain National Park, the beauty of nature is everywhere you look. Take your vacation up a notch with fun activities like our nighttime 5K, Running With the Bears, or zip, scale and bike your way to the ultimate outdoor adventure at CLIMB Works. For a more leisurely way to enjoy the great outdoors, book a guided fly-fishing outing with Fly Fishing in the Smokies or Smoky Mountain Angler or saddle up for a serene trail ride at the nearby Sugarlands Riding Stables.
Take a Hike
Whether you’re an avid hiker or just getting started, with more than 800 miles of trails steps away in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg will get you off on the right foot. Plan ahead, research your route and pack adequate supplies for a safe and enjoyable outing. The Gatlinburg Trail is a fan favorite, as one of just two trails in the park that allows pets and bicycles. For more of a challenge, the moderately difficult Alum Cave Trail will take you up to 1,200 feet of elevation, where you’ll see breathtaking views and geological treasures. Wherever you wander, outfitters such as A Walk in the Woods and Smoky Mountain Guided Hikes can help you get trail-ready and on your way.
Make a Splash on a Raft
Oars up! It’s water adventure time in the Smokies, so buckle that life vest and hold on to your raft. White water rafting opportunities abound in the Gatlinburg area, with several rivers just minutes from town. Local companies SMO Rafting, Nantahala Outdoor Center and Rafting in the Smokies will get you outfitted for a thrilling day on the rapids.
Craft An Experience
For one weekend every spring, Hands-on Gatlinburg highlights the craftsmanship of the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community and offers visitors the chance to learn from artists in a variety of mediums. Classes are limited in space so that participants can learn one-on-one with an expert artist. Classes are open to all skill levels – making it the perfect experiential outing for every member of your party.
Get more ideas on Gatlinburg in the Spring at https://www.gatlinburg.com/blog-link/.
