For anyone who loves the beauty of nature and wants to be right in the middle of spectacular scenery while engaging in exciting activities, Pigeon Forge is the perfect destination. With miles and miles of trails, rivers, streams, lakes, forests, rolling hills and steep mountain slopes, this area is a haven for outdoorsmen of all ages. You'll find plenty of activities to keep you busy and entertained with a trip to Pigeon Forge. In fact, I'll bet you'll discover something you've never seen before!
Zorb: Pigeon Forge is home the the first Zorb in the United States. Simply put, Zorb is a huge plastic ball in which riders are placed and then rolled down a steep slope. The rider, called a Zorbonaut, rolls head-over-heels, pell-mell down the hill, protected by the cushy ball. There's even a special Zorb for kids under six. This is a unique experience!
Hiking: Pigeon Forge is located just outside the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The park boasts over 800 miles of great hiking trails, and maps can be obtained at any of the visitors' centers or at area outfitters. A popular trail is the five-mile trek to Abrams Falls, beginning at Cades Cove, which is just minutes from Pigeon Forge. Some trails, like the 1.3-mile Laurel Falls path, are paved, which makes a great hike for parents pushing strollers. Another popular, easy trail, especially in the hot summers, is the Cucumber Gap Loop. This path follows the banks of a rushing river and is shaded the entire length. For some serious extended hiking, make reservations for a sleepover in a rustic lodge at the top of the Mt. LeConte-Bullhead Trail loop.
Hunting: Pigeon Forge was once a favorite hunting ground of the Cherokee, and today, black bear, whitetail deer, wild hogs, ducks, quail, grouse, doves, ducks, rabbits, and squirrels still call the mountains and streams home. Expert guides will take hunters on trips to bag their preferred game. The Pigeon Forge Hunting Preserve specializes in quail, pheasant and chuckars, and one price includes everything a hunter will need: knowledgeable guides, trained dogs, bountiful hunting land and ammunition.
Biking: The Pigeon Forge area has several secondary roads perfect for biking. These scenic byways wind through meadows, forests, beside mountain streams and across swinging bridges. The roads often take cyclists by quaint country stores - a great place to take a break and grab a snack. Several rental outfits provide bikes. For some rough-and-tumble mountain biking, make the drive to big South Fork National Recreation Area.
Horses: Several area stables provide guided horseback tours through the gorgeous countryside. Beginners might prefer a half-hour ride through fields and along streams or an hour-long ride along wooded trails. More experienced riders can make the eight-mile trek, taking about two hours. Some stables offer wagon train rides, hayrides, and campfire cookouts with songs and stories. The stable at Cades Cove allows double riders, enabling children under six to ride with an adult.
Fishing: Angling is allowed year-round in open waters. Fish the Little Pigeon River for rainbow trout, brown trout, smallmouth bass and rock bass. Any hooked brook trout must be released unharmed, since conservationists are trying to protect the fish's dwindling numbers. In addition to fishing the nearby rivers, streams, and creeks, the Pigeon Forge area includes 11 lakes, all stocked with largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, bluegill and channel catfish. Licenses are available at any outfitter.
Golf: The area is home to almost 20 manicured courses, including one designed by Gary Player. Choose between a challenging mountain course or a gentle valley course. You'll enjoy stunning views from practically every hole.
Helicopter Rides: Take an aerial tour from a three- to four-passenger copter for some unforgettable views of the mountains. Prices as low as $10 can be found - an amazing bargain!
Llama Trekking: Take a truly unique hike with a llama packing the gear. Day picnic excursions and day-day hikes are available for beginners. For experienced hikers, longer trips deep into the wilderness can be arranged.
Rock Climbing and Rappelling: Local outfitters and guides will hook you up with some awesome rock climbing and rappelling, with a range of difficulty levels. The scenery from the heights will be awesome!
Caving: This area has many mysterious caves, both in the sides of mountains and deep underground. Experienced guides will take you on a cave exploration you'll never forget!
Hot Air Balloon: Take the short drive to Dandridge to go up in a balloon ride. The views from 1500 to 2000 feet are superb. Choose a sunrise or sunset flight, and enjoy a traditional post-flight toast to celebrate this memorable occasion.
Tubing: Take the whole family on a relaxing tubing adventure on the Little River, which flows through a scenic gorge in the Cherokee National Forest. Eight dollars a person will buy you all-day tubing, a life vest and shuttle service.
Whitewater Rafting: From Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, whitewater rafters have 30 rafting options from which to choose. The Upper Pigeon River has thrilling class III and IV rapids, while the Lower Pigeon provides a calm float trip for children as young as 3. Most trips take a half day and are very affordable.
ORVs/Motorcycles: For some mountain motorcycling, check out Upper Tellico and Smith Mountain trails. The 13-mile trail at Buffalo Mountain is a challenging trek for ORVs and motorcycles and is NOT for the inexperienced. Stop at the trailhead at Horse Cove Gap to pay the required $5 fee.
Winter Sports: The higher elevations in the area get between two and three feet of snow every winter - great for outdoor winter sports! Drive to Gatlinburg and board the tram to Ober Gatlinburg for some skiing and snowboarding on eight groomed trails. If Mother Nature doesn't provide enough snow, the machines will. After hitting the slopes, dine at the marvelous restaurant or have a drink in the lounge while enjoying the stunning views of the snow-covered hills.
It's hard to imagine a spot with more outdoor activities than Pigeon Forge. Whether you prefer something relaxing like a slow float down a river, or some adrenaline-pumping action like shooting the rapids, this area offers both extremes - and a lot in between!
This tidbit of real travel advice was contributed by Holly Abee.