Top 8 adventure things to do in Gatlinburg

1. Mountaineers Way hike in the Smokies

A casual guided hike through the Smokies focusing on local history, with stops at historic structures and streams.

“I had a fantastic hiking experience with guides who were friendly and extremely knowledgeable about the plants and history, and even suggested additional places to explore. Unfortunately, as a solo traveler, some trips were canceled due to lack of other participants.”— xiaohanj2025

2. Guided night hike to see synchronous fireflies in Great Smoky Mountains

Two-hour guided night hike in Gatlinburg — view rare synchronous fireflies and enjoy nature's sounds and sights.

3. Guided family-friendly hike in the Smoky Mountains

Two-hour guided hike in the Smoky Mountains — explore forest trails and a creek, suitable for families and beginners.

“I had a fun and informative hike on a rainy day in Gatlinburg. Luci, our friendly guide, shared a lot of interesting historical insights about the area. I definitely recommend her! The trail is fairly easy but has some inclines.”— Lori_R

4. Old Growth Forest hike to the highest waterfall in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Strenuous trail hike through an old roadbed to a stunning waterfall, led by a certified naturalist guide.

5. 60-minute escape room adventures in Gatlinburg

One-hour gameplay in family-friendly escape rooms, accommodating up to eight players — choose from five unique themes including underwater and prison escape challenges.

“Caleb provided an excellent experience. I had a fantastic time in the escape room; it was enjoyable and full of energy.”— N4122CGchristianc

6. Zipline adventure with ATV ride in Gatlinburg

Two hours of ziplining over mountains — six side-by-side runs, four aerial bridges, and a controlled rappel at the end, starting with an ATV ride up the slope.

“The six-station zip line adventure was a definite standout of my trip. Each line offered its unique experience—fast, beautiful, and perfectly thrilling—creating a continuous buildup of excitement. The stunning views enhanced the experience, but it was the staff that truly made the day memorable. All the guides were enthusiastic, professional, and prioritized safety while maintaining a fun atmosphere. They ensured that everyone felt at ease and ready for the ride. For anyone seeking an exhilarating, well-organized, and unforgettable experience, this is the ideal choice. I would happily do it again.”— ToddG826

7. Clingmans Dome hike in the Great Smoky Mountains

A guided hike through the highest section of the Appalachian Trail, including a climb to the Clingmans Dome observation tower for panoramic views.

“The view at the top is stunning, showcasing a magnificent landscape. Be ready for a steep walk from the parking lot, and expect it to be windy up there. The area is gorgeous, so make sure to visit the visitor center beforehand to purchase a $5 parking pass. You'll find plenty of informative displays and some interesting shops in the center. Arriving early is advisable; I got there around 9:30 with no parking issues. Also, don't miss Mingus Mill, which is a picturesque old mill worth a brief visit.”— J1010SKkirank

8. Gatlinburg haunted pub crawl

Two-and-a-half hours exploring haunted locations and moonshine lore, visiting several pubs and bars, and hearing local ghost stories for adults 21 and over.

“This experience felt somewhat underwhelming. The ghost stories lacked depth, and the drink stops felt random. While it was fun for the price, it’s certainly not among the best tours I've participated in.”— Jennifer_E