Wears Valley Recreation: Find Outdoor Family Fun in Tennessee

Located deep in the Great Smoky Mountains, Wears Valley offers plenty of outdoor activities — especially in the summer. Tubing, ziplines, hiking, kayaking, horseback riding, fishing, biking, whitewater rafting – families will enjoy playing outdoors in the fresh mountain air. If visiting the summer, read about the Wears Valley recreation scene and find things to do.

Wears Valley Recreation: Family Fun in the Summer

Biking, hiking

In the summer, cool forests in the Smoky Mountains beckon hikers and bikers. A twist in the path sometimes reveals a sparkling waterfall, the remnants of a historic cabin or a glimpse of deer foraging in a sunny meadow. Great Smoky Mountains National Park has over 800 hiking trails suited for all skill levels. Popular bike trails include the Townsend Bicycle Trail and Cades Cove loop. Horseback riding is also a top activity in the valley with horse rentals readily available throughout the area.

Cool Off in the Water

Rivers draw kayakers and rafters who paddle along waters watching wildlife until they move down rocky rapids in wet and exhilarating rides. Several companies in the area offer white-water rafting excursions, such as Big Creek Expeditions and Smoky Mountains Outdoors.

Tubing offers a quieter way to explore the valley’s waters. In nearby Townsend, families will see stacks of tubes for rent in front of corner stores. For a few dollars, spend a refreshing afternoon floating down a lazy stream.

Anglers should acquire a fishing license and enjoy over 2,000 miles of streams. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park allows fishing year-round, and guests are welcome to fish from the banks or fly fish in the water.

Nearby Attractions

Dollywood amusement park, located in Pigeon Forge, provides entertainment and thrills. Home to roller coasters, live shows and a large water park, Dollywood ranks as one of the top amusement parks in the U.S. Additionally, families will find adventure miniature golf courses, ziplining, bungee jumping and wind tunnel body surfing in Gatlinburg.

Due to their proximity to Wears Valley, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge offer easy access to top-rated attractions and family fun. A typical drive to the areas last 20 to 40 minutes, so pack some snacks and get ready for a scenic ride.

It’s time to visit the mountains! Browse Wears Valley family-friendly vacation rentals.