Explore the Smoky Mountains
Explore the Smoky Mountains
Outdoor Adventures Near Grandview Lodge
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is just minutes from your door — a place of breathtaking beauty, wildlife, and outdoor discovery. Here are the best ways to explore it, grouped by type of adventure.
Top Hiking Trails
1. Clingmans Dome (Kuwohi)
The highest point in the Smokies with a steep, paved trail to a 360° observation tower.
2. Laurel Falls Trail
A paved, family-friendly 2.6-mile hike leading to a stunning 80-foot waterfall.
3. Alum Cave Trail to Mount Le Conte
A moderate-to-strenuous 11-mile round trip with geological landmarks and incredible views.
4. Grotto Falls
Walk behind a waterfall on this beautiful, shaded 2.6-mile hike.
5. Chimney Tops Trail
Short and steep (4 miles round-trip), with dramatic mountaintop views.
Scenic Drives
6. Cades Cove Loop Road
An 11-mile drive through open fields and historic buildings is great for wildlife viewing.
7. Newfound Gap Road
A stunning mountain pass connecting Gatlinburg to Cherokee, NC, with scenic pull-offs.
8. Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
A quiet, one-way road through dense forest with waterfall trailheads and historic cabins.
Outdoor Adventures
9. Ziplining with CLIMB Works
Zip through mountain treetops on one of the area’s best-rated zipline tours.
10. Whitewater Rafting (Pigeon River)
Seasonal rafting trips with Class III–IV rapids and expert guides.
11. Horseback Riding (Info)
Explore park trails on horseback with several nearby stables.
12. Firefly Viewing (Late May–Early June)
Watch synchronous fireflies light up the forest floor during this magical seasonal event.
Plan Your Park Visit
Ready to Explore the Smoky Mountains?
Make Grandview Lodge your comfortable basecamp for adventure! Book your stay today and easily access the trails, scenic drives, and activities just moments away. Have questions? Contact us for more information.