Eleven Best Outdoor Activities in Pigeon Forge

If you’re looking for a splendid way to spend your summer vacation, look no further than Pigeon Forge, Tennessee! This beautiful town is a place for some of the best outdoor activities in the country. 

From hiking and fishing to zip lining and golfing, there’s something for everyone in this quaint little town. This article will discuss some of the best outdoor activities in Pigeon Forge. 

1. Bluff Mountain Adventures

Situated at the base of the Smoky Mountains, it is a fantastic place to go for outdoor activities in Pigeon Forge. The tour guides will take you on an action-packed ride through the backroads of Pigeon Forge, stopping at several scenic overlooks. 

You’ll see incredible views of the Great Smoky Mountains, and you may even get a chance to spot some wildlife along the way. It’s a great way to explore the area and will surely be an unforgettable experience.

2. Ober Gatlinburg

You can even head towards Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort, just 15 minutes from Pigeon Forge. This all-in-one destination is excellent for those who enjoy tubing, snowboarding, skiing in the winter, or taking a scenic chairlift ride to enjoy incredible views of the Smoky Mountains in the summer. 

You get a change of scenery and a chance to see new spots in the area. In addition, you can explore the wildlife in the ski resort’s rehabilitated aviary or take a ride on the alpine slide. 

3. Zip Lining

If you want a thrilling experience, zip lining in Pigeon Forge is the perfect option for thrill seekers.

Zip lining through the treetops of the Smoky Mountains will give you an adrenaline rush, and you may even spot some local wildlife while you zip around. The best part is you can do zip lining even at night. It is located across Five Oaks Mall in Sevierville, and you can experience the thrill of flying through the night sky in complete safety.

4. Theme Parks and Waterparks

Pigeon forge has no shortage of family-friendly attractions. Spend your day at Dollywood, an amusement park with rides and shows for all ages. You can also take a trip to The Island in Pigeon Forge, which features an incredible 200-foot Great Smoky Mountain Wheel or splash around at Dollywood’s Splash Country.

If you’re looking for more, Rowdy Bear Ridge Adventure Park offers a wide range of exciting activities like mountain biking, disc golf, and even an alpine coaster. 

Remember to visit Rocky Top Mountain Coaster, which features a high-speed coaster with sharp turns and drops. You can also ride on the Gondola Skyride, offering breathtaking town views.

5. Fishing and Kayaking

Pigeon Forge is surrounded by gorgeous lakes and rivers, making it a perfect spot for fishing and kayaking. You can explore the waters at Douglas Lake, stocked with bass, bluegill, and catfish. 

Once here, you can easily rent kayaks and go wild river rafting on the Pigeon River to get your heart pumping. But, if you’re seeking a more relaxing experience, take a tranquil float down the river in a canoe. You’ll enjoy the beautiful scenery while also doing some fantastic wildlife spotting.

6. Outdoor Gravity Park

If you want a unique outdoor experience, head to Outdoor Gravity Park. This park features a giant inflatable water slide, which gives you the sensation of floating in the air. It’s the perfect place to take a break from all the hiking and adventure. 

You can also participate in the park’s other activities, such as obstacle and ropes courses. It’s a perfect spot to get a thrill from the safety of the ground. The parks are open daily from 11 am to 5 pm, and we suggest booking your tickets in advance as it tends to get busy during peak season.

7. Ride a Go-Kart

It’s a fantastic place to experience world-class downhill karting on a giant hillside course. The park contains 11 tracks with varying difficulty levels, so there’s something for everyone. In addition, the carts have adjustable speeds, allowing you to customize your ride depending on how adventurous you feel. 

The park also offers electric go-karts, which are perfect for younger riders. But, of course, kids always love the thrill of zooming around on a go-kart.

8. Patriot Park Riverside Walking Trail

If you’re looking for a scenic and tranquil experience, take a stroll along the Patriot Park Riverside Walking Trail. This 2.3-mile trail winds through the forest and along the Little Pigeon River, providing spectacular views of the Smoky Mountains. 

You can also spot some local wildlife like deer and eagles. If you want to avoid the noise and pollution of the city, this is the perfect trail for you. From thrilling rides to peaceful walks, Pigeon Forge has it all.

9. Take a Tour in Helicopter

Hiking through the trails and kayaking in the river is all well and good, but there’s nothing quite like taking a tour in a helicopter. Pigeon Forge Helicopter Tours offers breathtaking aerial views of the landscape. 

From soaring above the treetops to peeking into the depths of deep-cut gorges, you can experience a unique perspective of the Great Smoky Mountains. 

The journey takes you high above the clouds, and you’ll be amazed by how beautiful the scenery looks from a bird’s eye view. It’s an exhilarating adventure that will take your breath away.

10. Take a Jeep Tour

If you’re looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience, explore the Smoky Mountains with a Jeep tour. First, you’ll traverse rough terrain and bumpy roads, taking in the beauty of nature with every twist and turn. 

Then, take a guided tour that takes you through the winding roads and stunning scenery of the foothills. Finally, you’ll pass by rivers, creeks, and waterfalls as you journey through the forest. It’s around 6 miles of exciting off-road experiences that you won’t forget.

11. Feed the Animals in the Rainforest

You’ll find the Rainforest Adventure Park at the foot of the mountains. It is a beautiful spot for animal lovers, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with creatures such as sloths, lemurs, and parrots. 

You can also feed the birds in the aviary and watch the sea lions. The zoo is around ten minutes from downtown Pigeon Forge and is a great way to learn about the local wildlife.

Conclusion

Endless outdoor activities keep you occupied during your stay in Pigeon Forge. With so many options, you’re sure to find the perfect activity for your group, no matter what time of year it is. 

From hiking and biking to zip lining and horseback riding, there’s something for everyone in Pigeon Forge. So pack your bags and head to the Smoky Mountains for an unforgettable vacation!