Pigeon Forge is full of fun, and some of the area’s best attractions are outside. From adrenaline-inducing rides to relaxing parks, these seven best outdoor activities offer something for everyone who wants to enjoy the area’s beautiful and boundless natural areas.
Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster
One of the top attractions in all of the Smoky Mountains, the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster offers excitement that everyone can enjoy.
The rollercoaster descends a record-setting 363 feet over the course of a mile and can reach 27 miles per hour, but you can customize the ride to your liking thanks to individual cars that have their own brakes. Whip and whirl down the mountain for a truly thrilling ride, or take your time on the curves and spend a moment enjoying the scenic views.
Outdoor Gravity Park
Currently, Outdoor Gravity Park is the only place in the United States where you can go zorbing. Climb into one of the gigantic balls and have the staff start you down the track of your choice (there’s three to choose from) — and you’ll be zorbing for the first time. Protective layers ensure you don’t get hurt as the ball bumps and hurdles downhill, and you’ll be sliding and falling all over the place inside.
Go alone or with up to two others, and try wet zorbing to facilitate your sliding even more. With that version of the sport, 10 gallons of water are thrown into the ball with you — and virtually ensures you won’t stay on your feet for long. Among the many outdoor activities that Pigeon Forge has to offer, this is. favorite for locals and tourists.
Five Oaks Riding Stables
Explore the surrounding Smoky Mountains in a more relaxed fashion at Five Oaks Riding Stables. The premier equestrian center for the area, Five Oaks Riding Stables offers horseback rides along 6 miles of trails that traverse a total of 70 wooded acres. The guided tours are available to anyone age 3 or older regardless of their experience, and you never know what wildlife you might see once you’re in the woods.
Patriot Park
Patriot Park is a quaint park that’s dedicated to wartime veterans and sits along the river’s edge. It’s a perfect spot to go for a picnic, have some time of quiet reflection or respect the county’s veterans. The park isn’t huge, at only 16 acres, but its proximity to nearby shops and restaurants makes this green space perfect for a quick outdoor getaway in the middle of the day.
Bluff Mountain Adventures
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Bluff Mountain Adventures takes riders on guided ATV tours through a 6,000-acre space surrounding Bluff Mountain. Rides range from a novice-friendly introductory tour to a technical ridge run that has immense views but requires substantial experience. ATV options include both individual four-wheelers and multi-person models (for up to four people), so the whole group can ride together.
The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel
Take a break from shopping when you’re at The Island, and go for a ride on The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel. The Ferris wheel rises 200 feet about the city, affording excellent views of the surrounding area. There are climate-controlled gondola cabins rather than seats, so you’ll be comfortable in any weather, and the wheel lights up at night.
Smoky Mountain Ziplines
Fly among the treetops at Smoky Mountain Ziplines, traversing seven lines of cable that run among and above the canopy. The two-hour tour will take you across 4,200 feet of zip lines, bring you 150 feet above the forest floor, and keep your heart racing as you reach 25 miles per hour. As an added benefit, you’ll be treated to an off-road-style truck ride to get to and from the launching point.
Pigeon Forge has lots of great shops and restaurants, but many of the area’s best attractions are outside. Choose whichever of these activities appeals to you, and head outdoors to truly enjoy all that the region offers.
