Outdoor Activities in the Smoky Mountains
Embark on an adventure in the North Carolina Smokies!
Welcome to the North Carolina Smokies, your gateway to the stunning Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the breathtaking Blue Ridge Parkway. Explore the great outdoors and immerse yourself in nature’s wonders in this outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Haywood County offers an unforgettable outdoor experience for all adventure seekers. Whether you’re an avid mountain biker, a hiking enthusiast, a fishing fanatic, a motorcycle lover, a golf aficionado, or simply someone who appreciates scenic drives, our diverse range of activities and natural wonders will leave you in awe. Plan your outdoor getaway in Haywood County today and let the adventure begin!
Explore the Interactive Map
Discover our interactive map app, designed to enhance your experience and make planning your trip a breeze. You can choose to access the map online or simply enter your phone number, and we’ll send you a link to download our app. With just a few clicks, you can access a wealth of information about the region’s best hiking trails and scenic viewpoints. But the adventure doesn’t stop there. Our map also features a curated selection of delightful dining experiences, from charming country cafes to upscale restaurants, where you can savor the flavors of the NC Smokies. And for those seeking a bit of retail therapy, we’ve got you covered too. Explore our shopping section to find unique souvenirs, local crafts, and one-of-a-kind treasures. With our user-friendly interface, you’ll have no trouble navigating through the picturesque towns that make up Haywood County. From Maggie Valley to Canton and every town in between, our app will guide you seamlessly through the region, ensuring that you don’t miss a single gem along the way.
We are so grateful to call the beautiful NC Smokies home, and just like any home, we want to keep it clean! Haywood County has partnered with “Leave No Trace” to support efforts of conservation and sustainability. Keep reading to discover the 7 Principles for helping protect the wilderness around us.
- Plan ahead and prepare
- Travel and Camp on durable surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly
- Leave what you find
- Minimize campfire impacts
- Respect Wildlife
- Be considerate of other visitors
FUN Ways to Enjoy the Outdoors
There are so many things to do in NC—it can be difficult to know where to start. For those staying in Western North Carolina, the Blue Ridge Parkway and Great Smoky Mountains National Park are among the top places to visit. No matter which one of our five mountain towns you stay in, we’ve got so much in store for you. Check out our highlighted activities below to help you plan your Great Smoky Mountains Adventure!
Hiking
Hiking in the NC Smokies is a must-do activity, with countless trails that lead to majestic waterfalls, panoramic views, and tranquil forests.
Scenic Drives
The scenic drives in the Smokies and along the Blue Ridge Parkway showcase stunning mountain vistas, winding roads, and charming small towns along the way.
Water Sports
The NC Smokies offer a plethora of water sports options, from kayaking and paddleboarding to tubing down the Pigeon River.
Motorcycling
Motorcycling enthusiasts will find their paradise here, with scenic routes that twist and turn through the mountains, offering breathtaking views at every turn. Motorcycle lovers will also enjoy visiting Wheels Through Time – the museum that runs!
Mountain Biking
Mountain biking enthusiasts will find an array of trails here including the new Chestnut Mountain Nature Park, with varying levels of difficulty and stunning natural
surroundings.
Golfing
Golfers can enjoy their favorite sport amidst stunning mountain backdrops, with several golf courses that offer challenging layouts and breathtaking views.
Fishing
Fishing in the Smokies is a popular activity, with abundant trout streams and serene lakes that provide the perfect setting for anglers to cast their lines.
Swimming Holes
Swimming holes are abundant here, with crystal clear waters that invite visitors to cool off and relax in nature’s beauty.
Guided Tours
Guided tours in the NC Smokies provide an enriching experience, whether it’s exploring waterfalls, visiting historic sites, hopping on a UTV, or learning about local culture and traditions.
Outdoor Fun, Captured by You!
As you wind your way through Haywood County, taking in the heights, hikes, sights, and sounds, there’s always more to do—on day two. From dining and shopping to arts and crafts, explore the experiences that await you here in the Smoky Mountains. Wherever your path takes you, don’t forget to share your Haywood adventure and be sure to tag @VisitNCSmokies and #HayNow for a chance to be featured in our upcoming marketing materials.
