activities

Information about kayaking and biking in the Smokies, Nantahala River rafting, shopping, attractions, Bryson City mountain music, scenic drives, train rides, museums and more.

Lake Kayaking
Never paddled? Take a sampler with Paddelfish – you'll be hooked. They offer several kayak tours on Fontana Lake; the most popular is the sunset tour. 828-488-8797.
 
Hiking
With the world-famous Appalachian Trail, Tsali Trails and many local favorites, the Smokies are a hiker's dream.
 
Mountain Biking
Miles of biking for the beginner or experienced rider – some of the best trails in the country!

Whitewater Rafting
Whitewater rafting in the Smokies on the the mild and scenic Nantahala – a great family experience. The Nantahala has many great outfitters, including NOC, Wildwater Rafting and Endless River Adventures.

Guided Jeep Trips
Explore the back country and let someone else do the driving!

Horseback Riding
Saddle up for a real adventure! The best way to view the Smokies.

Flyfishing
Some of the best mountain stream fishing in the Southeast.

Boating
Rent a pontoon boat on beautiful Fontana Lake for a day of boating fun.

Jet Boat Rides
Smoky Mountain Jet Boats offers half-hour rides on Lake Fontana.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Enjoy all the Park has to offer – from whitewater tubing, waterfalls and easy walks in Deep Creek (Bryson City) to the view from Clingman’s Dome, and the Mountain Farm Museum (Cherokee). An easy day trip takes you to Gatlinburg and Cades Cove.

Golf
The 18 hole Smoky Mountain Country Club is a true mountain golf course. In nearby Whittier (15 minutes)

Shopping
Bryson City (10 minutes) has art galleries, craft and gift shops, antique stores and souvenir shops. Cherokee (30 minutes) has several Native American arts and crafts stores, souvenir shops and clothing stores. Dillsboro (30 minutes) is a small village of art galleries and gift and souvenir shops.

Cherokee Attractions
Cherokee (30 minutes) has several attractions including The Museum of the Cherokee Indian, The Oconaluftee Indian Village, and “Unto These Hills,” the famous outdoor drama about the Cherokee Trail of Tears. Harrah’s Cherokee Casino has gaming and entertainment.

Scenic Drives
Take a drive through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, on the Blue Ridge Parkway, or the Cherohala Skyway for incredible mountain views, fun picnic spots, and great hiking trails.

Asheville
A unique & beautiful city offering shopping, antiquing, restaurants and the famous Biltmore Estate – a one hour drive.