If you’re the kind of traveler who likes a bit of adrenaline with your mountain views, the Great Smoky Mountains won’t disappoint. This area isn’t just about scenic overlooks and quiet cabin mornings—though those are great, too. It’s also a playground for people who love being active, trying new things, and finding excitement in nature.
Whether you're into speeding around corners, hiking up rugged trails, or flying through the trees, there’s something here for every kind of thrill-seeker. This guide breaks down some of the top adventures you can try on your next trip to the Smokies.
Pigeon Forge is full of energy. It’s one of the best places in the Smokies for nonstop fun. If you want to start your trip with something fast-paced, this is the spot to do it.
One of the top activities for adventure lovers here is go-kart racing. With tracks that twist, climb, and drop, it’s an experience that brings out your competitive side—whether you’re racing friends or just yourself. You’ll find several go kart places in Pigeon Forge, each with something different to offer. Some tracks are high up, some are multi-level, and some are designed just for kids. It’s one of those activities that’s easy to jump into and fun for everyone, no matter your age.
Along with go-karts, Pigeon Forge is also home to mountain coasters, ropes courses, arcades, and mini-golf. You could easily spend a whole day hopping from one attraction to the next. After all that activity, there’s nothing better than heading back to a peaceful space where you can relax and recharge. Timber Tops cabin rentals are a popular place to stay in the Smokies because of their seclusion and beauty. Surrounded by mountain ridges, these cabins give you privacy and quiet while still keeping you close to all the excitement.
If you prefer your adventures on foot, there are miles of hiking trails waiting for you in the Smoky Mountains. The park has options for every skill level, but there are a few trails that stand out for those looking for something a little more challenging.
The Alum Cave Trail is a favorite. It’s got a mix of everything—forest paths, rocky outcrops, and views that make the climb worth it. If you’re up for a bit more effort, try the Chimney Tops Trail. It’s steep, but the views from the top are some of the best in the park. Rainbow Falls is another solid pick, especially if you want to see a waterfall along the way.
These hikes aren’t just about exercise. They give you a chance to connect with the landscape, spot wildlife, and feel the sense of accomplishment that comes with reaching the end.
Want to see the Smokies from a different angle? Ziplining is the way to do it. There are zipline parks in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville, each offering its own mix of heights, speeds, and views.
Many courses start on a mountainside and send you soaring through the trees. Some include swinging bridges or treetop platforms for added fun. It’s the kind of activity that feels both safe and daring at the same time. If you’ve never tried ziplining before, the guides walk you through everything. And if you’re a zipline pro, there are longer, faster lines you’ll want to check out.
Aerial parks with rope bridges and climbing elements are also great if you want a mix of climbing and balancing challenges. They’re a good fit for families with older kids or groups of friends looking to push their limits.
If your kind of adventure includes getting a little wet, you’ve got a few great choices nearby. Whitewater rafting on the Pigeon River is one of the most popular ways to enjoy the area from a different perspective. Guided tours make it easy for beginners to try, and more experienced rafters can find sections of the river that move faster.
You can also go kayaking or tubing, especially in the warmer months. The rivers and streams around the Smokies stay busy with people floating, paddling, and cooling off in the water. Some outfitters offer half-day trips, which gives you plenty of time to explore the area without spending your whole day on the river.
Tubing is especially fun if you’re looking for something a bit more relaxing but still adventurous. It’s easy, low-cost, and gives you a fresh way to take in the scenery.
If you want to explore parts of the Smokies most people don’t see, try something a little more off the beaten path. ATV and UTV rentals are available in several spots around the region. You can ride through backwoods trails, splash through streams, and climb rugged hills. These off-road adventures give you a whole new perspective on the Smoky Mountain terrain.
For a completely different kind of thrill, check out one of the area’s cave tours. Forbidden Caverns and Tuckaleechee Caverns both offer guided walks through underground chambers with cool formations and a history that dates back thousands of years. These caverns stay a steady temperature year-round, which makes them a fun option on hot summer days or even in cooler months.
The mix of light and darkness, narrow passageways, and echoing chambers make cave tours a unique kind of adventure. It’s not high-speed, but it’s definitely exciting.
You don’t have to pick just one kind of adventure. The Smokies offer so much variety that you can make a trip that’s totally your own. Whether you pack your days full of go-karts, ziplining, and hiking, or just pick one or two big activities and take your time, the area gives you space to do it your way.
No matter what kind of adventure you’re looking for, the Smoky Mountains have something to offer. From the excitement of racing go-karts to the stillness of a high trail, this is a place where thrill and beauty come together in the best way.
