If you are looking to go beyond the beaten path to explore the beautiful Smoky Mountains, we have the perfect list for you! From white water rafting to hikes, to ATV rides, and more, you are sure to find something that all family members will enjoy. These off-road experiences will provide you with an up-close look at nature and you will make memories that will last a lifetime.
A Walk in the Woods
You can’t go wrong with the oldest tour company in the area! A Walk in the Woods has survived so long for a reason, and that is because this tour offers more than just views. Learn about natural history, the medicinal use of wild plants and mushrooms, the habits of wild animals, and tips for outdoor survival. They offer guided walks, guided hikes, birding treks, salamander treks, classes, and seminars. If you have a special interest that relates to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, this is the place to go!
Bluff Mountain Adventures
With over 6,000 acres to explore, Bluff Mountain Adventures is the place to go if you want a truly 0ff-road experience. They have multiple types of tours available, so you and your crew can select the one that suits your needs. This thrilling experience is only for guests 12 and older, and guests must be at least 57″ to ride. These limitations are not set to spoil any fun, but to make sure that everyone is safe and can have the maximum amount of fun possible.
CLIMB Works
Get a unique bird’s-eye view of the Smokies at CLIMB Works! 9 zip lines, 3 canopy sky bridges, and a surprise ending await guests brave enough to explore nature from the treetops. This experience is for ages 7 and up, and they are open all year! They also have bike ramps for those who want to explore on wheels off the pavement.
Foxfire Mountain Adventure Park
If you want the highest, fastest, longest zip lines in the Smokies, make sure to check out Foxfire Mountain Adventure Park. They also have the 2nd longest free-hanging bridge! Nothing says “off-road” like the tops of trees! If heights aren’t your thing, they also offer ATV rides and camping. This park offers fun for all ages and adventure levels.
Gold Rush Stables and Stage Line
Located across from Dollywood’s Splash Country, Gold Rush Stables and Stage Line offers horseback rides for beginners and experienced riders. This is the first and only riding stable in Pigeon Forge! Explore the Loveday Family Farm that has been passed down for generations since 1909. Seasonal operations begin in March and go through Thanksgiving.
Smoky Mountain Adventure Tours
This off-road experience is sure to show you some of the greatest views in the Smokies, and you will make great memories. Tours with Smoky Mountain Adventure Tours last anywhere from 2 to 2.5 hours, and you are the one in the driver’s seat! If you have never been off-roading before, don’t worry, their guides will teach you everything you need to know. Get amazing photos, see old cabin settlements, explore Foothills Parkway, and see the Smokies up close.
Rafting in the Smokies
Since 1978, rafting experts with Rafting in the Smokies have been providing two different rafting trips on the Pigeon River. They also have a zipline and a ropes challenge course. Choose your path of adventure based on experience and bravery. This is a great way to spend time with family, practice teamwork, and make amazing memories. Any exploration by water is definitely off-road!
Rip-Roaring Whitewater Adventures
Whether you want a scenic float or you want to tackle class 3 & 4 rapids, Rip-Roaring Whitewater Adventures has something for you! This family owned and operated business has been guiding people down the river for over 20 years. If you have ever thought about whitewater rafting, they are ready to teach you. From the tiniest tot to those who can’t swim, they want everyone to experience this amazing activity.
Smoky Mountain Outdoors White Water Rafting
See the Smokies from where only the boats can go with Smoky Mountain Outdoor White Water Rafting. Their Upper Pigeon River Trip was rated a Top Ten Experience in the United States by TripAdvisor. With a variety of trips and well-trained guides, they are more than prepared to help you and your family have fun like never before. They also have a Lost Guide Grille for guests to grab a bite to eat after such a fun trip.
Smoky Mountain River Rat, Tubing and Whitewater
For those who want to visit the peaceful side of the Smokies, take a trip to Smoky Mountain River Rat. Located in Townsend, TN, River Rat is a great place to go if you want to lay back, relax, and float your way down the Little River. With different routes available, you can choose whether you want a smooth or more thrilling experience. Did you forget anything? Their shop has phone holders, sunglasses, sunscreen, and more available to guests. They also offer Whitewater rafting to people who feel extra adventurous.
Now that you have a list of off-road adventures in the Smokies, you can properly prepare for your trip to visit. Whether you want to float, drive, or zip through the mountains, there is definitely something for you. Make sure to share this with your group so they can choose the adventures they think sound the most fun!