Outdoor Adventures in Tennessee

• Kick off your fishing adventures in Tennessee with fantastic mountain views and calm waters at the 43-mile-long Douglas Lake.
• It's often considered one of the best fishing spots in East Tennessee.
• With 12 marinas and 16 boat ramps, you can bring your own boat or rent pontoons on site.
• A guided fishing trip is also available for newcomers of all ages or those interested in finding the best spots on the lake to cast off.
• Accessibility: the lake offers numerous easy-access points for bringing your own boat or renting accessible pontoons.
• Seasonal Highlights: Spring and fall offer the best conditions for bass and crappie fishing, while summer provides warm, calm waters perfect for family outings.

• More trophy smallmouth bass have been caught at Dale Hollow Lake than any body of water in the world.
• In fact, Dale Hollow holds the record for the largest smallmouth bass ever caught.
• The crystal clear waters and record-breaking reputation make it a premiere spot for those looking to land the catch of a lifetime while enjoying the scenic beauty of the highlands.
• Accessibility: Several marinas offer ADA-compliant docks and accessible fishing piers to accommodate anglers of all mobility levels.
• Seasonal Highlights: Spring and fall provide peak conditions for record-breaking smallmouth bass, while summer is ideal for night fishing and recreational boating.

• You’ll find ideal fly-fishing for trout in the scenic wilderness of Lamar Alexander Rocky Fork State Park in Flag Pond or in the South Holston River in Kingsport
• Accessibility: Both locations offer convenient entry, with Lamar Alexander Rocky Fork featuring roadside access to stocked waters and the South Holston providing easy-to-reach wading spots near the TVA Weir Dam.
• Seasonal Highlights: Cast for wild brook trout in the cool mountain streams of Rocky Fork during spring and summer, or experience the world-class sulphur hatches on the South Holston from late spring through autumn.  

• Nashville Shores is located on J. Percy Priest Lake, less than 20 minutes from downtown Nashville.
• Features a massive wave pool, lazy river, high-speed slides, and the Kowabunga Beach interactive water treehouse.
• Offers shoreline ziplines, a lake obstacle course, a full-service marina with boat rentals, and lakeview cabins or RV sites.
• Accessibility: Provides wheelchair rentals, accessible restrooms, and zero-depth entry for the wave pool and lazy river.
• Seasonal Highlights: Primarily open during the summer season for peak waterpark and lake activities.

• Adventure Off-Road Park spans 500 acres in the South Pittsburg mountains for ATVs, dirt bikes, and 4x4 vehicles.
• Features over 120 trails ranging from easy dirt paths to extreme natural rock climbs.
• Includes on-site camping facilities and a dedicated RV campground.
• Hosts year-round events, including off-road races and festivals open to spectators.
• Accessibility: Offers a variety of "green" trails suitable for beginners and stock vehicles.
• Seasonal Highlights: Open for year-round riding with major competitions held during the summer months.

• Doe Mountain Recreation Area spans 8,600 acres of protected mountain terrain near Mountain City for ATVs, UTVs, and mountain bikes.
• Features specialized trail systems including dedicated hiking and equestrian paths.
• Offers 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding peaks from the historic Kettlefoot Fire Lookout Tower.
• Operates seven days a week from sunrise to sunset.
• Accessibility: Multi-use trail system includes wider paths designed for low-impact ATVs and side-by-sides.
• Seasonal Highlights: June features vibrant rhododendron blooms, while October provides prime views of peak autumn foliage.

• The Ocoee River features exhilarating Class III rapids.
• Offers guided half-day or full-river expeditions led by expert outfitters for all skill levels.
• Provides diverse recreational opportunities including canoeing, fishing, hiking, and nature photography.
• Many outfitters available to guide your expedition and provide a safe trip on the river.
• Accessibility: Many outfitters offer adaptive equipment and specialized guides for paddlers of varying abilities.
• Seasonal Highlights: Rafting season runs April through October, with guaranteed water release days in late spring and summer.

• The Pigeon River features 70 rapids over 6.5 miles, consistently ranked among the top whitewater rafting destinations in the country.
• Offers high-energy Class III and IV expeditions through the upper sections for thrill-seekers.
• Provides a relaxing Lower Pigeon River alternative with gentle rapids and swimming holes perfect for families.
• Includes convenient launch points and expert guided trips starting from outfitters in Hartford.
• Accessibility: Select outfitters provide adaptive equipment and trained guides to assist paddlers of all abilities.
• Seasonal Highlights: Prime rafting runs from spring through October, with scheduled water releases during the peak summer months.

• The Nolichucky River roars through a 9-mile-long gorge featuring turbulent rapids and steep canyon walls.
• Offers a challenging whitewater experience set within the lush, rugged forests of Northeast Tennessee.
• Provides some of the most scenic and remote river views in the state.
• Accessibility: River access is generally better suited for intermediate to advanced paddlers due to the technical nature of the rapids.
• Seasonal Highlights: Spring snowmelt and rainfall offer the highest water levels for a more intense rafting experience.

• The Ghost River winds through a nine-mile section of the Wolf River, transitioning from narrow forest channels to expansive wetland meadows.
• Features a hauntingly beautiful landscape of ancient cypress trees and bottomland hardwoods ending at Spirit Lake.
• Offers a technical and rewarding paddling experience best suited for intermediate and advanced skill levels.
• Showcases mostly untouched natural scenery and unique shrubby wetlands in West Tennessee.
• Accessibility: Includes boardwalk sections that provide views of the wetlands without requiring rugged off-trail navigation.
• Seasonal Highlights: Winter serves as a premier window for spotting migratory bird species, while summer provides a cool, shaded canopy.

• Tannery Knobs Mountain Bike Park spans 40 acres of heavily wooded terrain with professionally designed trails just a short ride from downtown Johnson City.
• It features trail categories ranging from green (easiest) to black (hardest) to accommodate all skill levels.
• Offers a paved pump track for a variety of wheeled sports and skill-building.
• Provides beautiful mountain views from well-maintained paths perfect for solo or group adventures.
• Accessibility: Paved pump track is designed for all ages and skill levels, including those using adaptive cycles or scooters.
• Seasonal Highlights: High elevation offers cool breezes in the summer and clear, long-range mountain views during the winter.

• Looking for outdoor adventure ideas for your family? Look no further than Dollywood where you can experience world-class entertainment and award-winning thrill rides.
• Explore a wide array of artisan shops, high-energy roller coasters, and a dedicated Dolly Parton museum.
• Enjoy daily live music performances and high-production stage shows set against a picturesque mountain backdrop.
• Accessibility: Offers a specialized Ride Accessibility Center, a dedicated Calming Room for sensory needs, and front-gate wheelchair rentals.
• Seasonal Highlights: Transforms throughout the year for the Flower & Food Festival in April, Summer Celebration in June, and the iconic Smoky Mountain Christmas in November.

• The Island in Pigeon Forge anchors the Pigeon Forge Parkway with a massive 200-foot-tall observation wheel and choreographed show fountains.
• Features a vibrant mix of over 80 shops, diverse restaurants, and family-friendly attractions.
• Offers free park admission with the option to purchase flexible day passes for rides and games.
• Entertains guests of all ages with daily live music performances and an immersive retail environment.
• Accessibility: Provides ADA-compliant gondolas on the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, allowing wheelchair users to roll directly onto the attraction.
• Seasonal Highlights: Showcases a year-round fountain spectacular and transforms with massive holiday displays and festive decor during the winter.

• Discover a secluded woodland oasis featuring historic buildings that blend seamlessly into the Smithville landscape at Evins Mill.
• Traverse string-lit wooden pathways that connect guest accommodations to a gourmet restaurant and event facilities.
• Enjoy specially crafted, allergy-friendly meals prepared by a dedicated culinary staff.
• Explore private hiking trails on the property, including a scenic path leading to a hidden waterfall.
• Accessibility: Features ADA-compliant guest rooms and paved surfaces providing access to the main lodge and dining areas.
• Seasonal Highlights: Summer invites guests to swim at the base of Carmac Falls, while fall provides cozy fireside dining and vibrant mountain views.

• Escape the daily grind at the Cottage at Stillwater Farm nestled on 150+ acres of rolling Henderson countryside.
• Immerse yourself in farm life by joining daily activities or meeting resident animals like Holly the cow and Cisco the donkey.
• Explore a network of nature trails perfect for wildlife watching and quiet reflection.
• Admire breathtaking sunsets over the expansive horse pastures and open fields.
• Accessibility: Offers a peaceful, low-impact environment for nature lovers, though the historic cottage itself currently has limited accessibility.
• Seasonal Highlights: Spring brings the excitement of new farm births and garden plantings, while the on-site winery hosts special events during the fall harvest.

Discover Tennessee's other charming small towns like Henderson and Smithville in our 10 Small Town Day Trips article. 

• Continue your Tennessee adventures as you explore over 7,800 acres of rugged terrain renowned for world-class backcountry camping and challenging gorge hikes at Fiery Gizzard State Park.
• Discover a landscape filled with dramatic sandstone rock formations, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic cliffside overlooks.
• Pitch a tent at well-maintained campsites that serve as the perfect base for exploring the diverse trail system.
• Experience one of the most diverse ecosystems in the region, featuring rare plant life and unique geological features.
• Accessibility: View the 60-foot Foster Falls via a paved, accessible overlook path, or opt for the more moderate terrain of the Grundy Forest Day Loop.
• Seasonal Highlights: Visit in spring for peak waterfall flows and rare wildflowers, or trek through the gorge in late October for long-lasting autumn colors.

• Navigate 125 miles of free-flowing water along the Buffalo River, the longest un-impounded river in Middle Tennessee.
• Enjoy a mellow current that is perfectly suited for relaxed canoeing, kayaking, and family-friendly float trips.
• Cast a line into waters teeming with aquatic life, offering consistent action for both casual and dedicated anglers.
• Discover a peaceful natural corridor that remains largely untouched, providing a scenic escape into the heart of the region.
• Accessibility: Multiple public access points and local outfitters provide easy entry and exit, making the river ideal for beginners and children.
• Seasonal Highlights: Visit in the spring for peak water levels and lush greenery, or head out in the summer for a refreshing way to cool off.

• Plan a peaceful outdoor getaway at the tranquil Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area tucked deep within the Great Smoky Mountains, featuring 122 secluded picnic sites equipped with tables and charcoal grills.
• Explore local history by crossing the bridge to hike the Metcalf Bottoms Trail, home to the Little Greenbrier School and the historic Walker Sisters’ Cabin.
• Reserve the large picnic pavilion for group gatherings, available from April through October for a small fee.
• Enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the flowing river and the surrounding dense hardwood forest.
• Accessibility: Standout accessible destination in the park with paved parking lots and ADA-compliant restroom facilities near the water.
• Seasonal Highlights: Experience beautiful wildflower blooms during spring picnics or find a cool refuge by the river during the peak of July.

• Explore over 300 acres of scenic waters perfect for a relaxing family getaway or a quiet afternoon picnic at Glenn Springs Lake.
• Settle in at one of the onsite fishing piers or relax along the banks to watch boats sail across the lake.
• Utilize the convenient park amenities, including picnic pavilions, a clubhouse, and full restroom facilities.
• Discover a premier local spot for shoreline angling and peaceful nature viewing.
• Accessibility: Features an ADA-compliant fishing pier and accessible restrooms, ensuring a comfortable experience for all visitors.
• Seasonal Highlights: Experience the best shoreline fishing during the spring months or enjoy picturesque, golden sunsets over the water in the fall.

• Shelby Farms Park, one of Memphis's top outdoor adventure travel destinations, spans 4,500 acres and ranks as one of the largest urban park systems in the world.
• Explore nearly 40 miles of trails and diverse recreation including horseback riding, BMX biking, and ziplining.
• Participate in high-energy activities like paintball, laser tag, and axe-throwing across the expansive green space.
• Rent boats or fish on the park’s many lakes, then refuel with snacks and frozen treats from on-site outposts.
• Accessibility: Features the fully paved, 2.75-mile Chickasaw Trail and the inclusive, multi-sensory Woodland Discovery Playground.
• Seasonal Highlights: Admire massive sunflower fields during the summer months or drive through the spectacular "Starry Nights" holiday light display in winter.

• Spans 3,100 acres of diverse landscape just nine miles from downtown Nashville, encompassing both Edwin and Percy Warner Parks.
• Navigate a vast network of well-marked hiking trails, mountain bike paths, and dedicated horse trails.
• Utilize scenic roadways and paved running courses popular for walking, jogging, and taking in the varying topography.
• Discover tranquil ponds, babbling brooks, and a dedicated dog park within the expansive green space.
• Climb the historic stairs at Percy Warner Park to reach a hilltop with panoramic views.
• Accessibility: Features paved and accessible sections including the loop around the historic Allée and parts of the Harpeth Woods greenway.
• Seasonal Highlights: Visit in late March for vibrant cherry blossoms or during October to see the hardwood forest transform into autumn gold and orange.

• Challenge yourself on over 350 "sport" or permanently bolted climbing routes at Obed Wild and Scenic River, a world-renowned outdoor adventure destination near Wartburg.
• Discover a diverse range of vertical terrain suitable for both first-time climbers and elite athletes from around the globe.
• Experience the rugged beauty of the Obed Wild and Scenic River while navigating sandstone cliffs and deep river gorges.
• Connect with a vibrant outdoor community in one of the premier rock climbing hubs in the Southeast.
• Accessibility: Features the Point Trail, which offers relatively level terrain for hikers to reach bluff-top overlooks and watch climbers in action.
• Seasonal Highlights: Visit during the crisp fall months for "sending temps" and peak autumn foliage, or explore in late spring for lush greenery and rushing river views.

• Navigate hundreds of miles of sandstone bluffs featuring permanently bolted routes for daring rock climbers at Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area.
• Discover a sprawling plateau of scenic gorges, sandy beaches, and river valleys shaped by centuries of erosion.
• Explore over 200 miles of horse trails and 138 miles of fishing streams hidden within the rugged landscape.
• Witness spectacular natural stone arches and caves alongside historic remains of early settlers and American Indians.
• Encounter native wildlife including wild turkey, white-tailed deer, and black bears in their natural habitat.
• Accessibility: The Leatherwood Ford area features accessible boardwalks and overlooks providing views of the river and dramatic cliff faces.
• Seasonal Highlights: Spring brings rushing whitewater and blooming wildflowers, while the high elevations offer crisp air and vibrant foliage in the fall.

• Experience some of the best outdoor adventure travel in Tennessee with a hike of the 9-mile round-trip trail through rugged terrain to witness Virgin Falls.
• Discover a series of cascading waterfalls along the route, including Big Laurel Falls and Sheep Cave Falls.
• Witness the main attraction where the river plunges 110 feet over a limestone cliff directly into a massive cave mouth.
• Accessibility: This trail is considered strenuous and is best suited for experienced hikers due to steep elevation changes and rocky crossings.
• Seasonal Highlights: Late winter and spring offer the most powerful water flow, while the cave air provides a natural cooling effect during the humid summer months.

• Witness the spectacular 256-foot drop of Tennessee’s tallest waterfall, Fall Creek Falls at Fall Creek Falls State Park in Spencer.
• Explore a diverse network of over 56 miles of trails ranging from easy strolls to strenuous gorge scrambles.
• Experience panoramic views from multiple cliffside overlooks or hike down to the base for a close-up perspective.
• Discover a sprawling 29,800-acre landscape filled with cascades, deep chasms, and dense hardwood forests.
• Accessibility: Features a paved, accessible path to the primary Fall Creek Falls overlook, making the view reachable for all visitors.
• Seasonal Highlights: Visit during the spring thaw for peak water volume or in October for a stunning backdrop of autumn colors across the plateau.

• Hike a moderate 2.6-mile round-trip trail through a lush hemlock forest to reach Grotto Falls, a unique 25-foot waterfall.
• Experience the rare opportunity to walk directly behind a wall of falling water along the Trillium Gap Trail.
• Discover a cool, moist environment that serves as a premier habitat for native salamanders and unique mountain flora.
• Encounter the famous llama trains that occasionally use this path to deliver supplies to the LeConte Lodge.
• Accessibility: The trail features a wide, well-worn path with a steady but manageable incline, though the area behind the falls can be slippery and rocky.
• Seasonal Highlights: Late spring offers a vibrant display of wildflowers like trillium and violets, while the mist from the falls provides a refreshing escape during the summer heat.

• Embark on an unforgettable underground adventure tour at The Lost Sea, the home of the largest sub-surface lake in the United States.
• Glide across four acres of crystal-clear water on a glass-bottom boat while observing the lake's resident rainbow trout.
• Explore a unique subterranean environment that maintains a constant, refreshing temperature throughout the year.
• Learn about the fascinating history of this Registered National Natural Landmark through guided tours of the cavern system.
• Accessibility: The tour involves a 3/4-mile round-trip walk on a sloping path that may be challenging for those with mobility concerns.
• Seasonal Highlights: Experience a steady 58-degree atmosphere that offers a perfect retreat regardless of the weather outside.

• Explore one of America's most spectacular caverns at Forbidden Caverns
• Walk along a well-lit trail that follows an underground river once used by Eastern Woodland Indians and later by moonshiners during the Prohibition era.
• Experience a unique subterranean world filled with calcite formations including stalactites, stalagmites, and rare flowstone.
• Enjoy a guided educational tour that utilizes state-of-the-art sound and lighting to highlight the cave's natural history and local legends.
• Accessibility: The tour involves a 1/2-mile walk with some stairs and narrow passages, which may not be suitable for wheelchairs or strollers.
• Seasonal Highlights: Maintain a constant 58°F (14°C) year-round, making it a perfect destination for any weather during their operating season from April through November.

• Explore "The Greatest Site Under the Smokies" at Tuckaleechee Caverns.
• Marvel at the "Big Room," a massive subterranean chamber that could fit an entire football stadium, decorated with towering stalagmites and stalactites.
• Witness the double-cascade of Silver Falls, one of the tallest underground waterfalls in the country, which flows year-round.
• Discover the history of the cavern's sensitive seismic station, which is so secluded and still that it can detect movement from across the globe.
• Accessibility: The tour covers about 1.25 miles of walking with several sets of stairs and damp walkways; it is not wheelchair or stroller accessible.
• Seasonal Highlights: The caverns maintain a consistent 58°F (14°C) temperature, providing a natural escape from the summer sun during their operating season from March through November.

Did you know you could catch a concert in a cave in Tennessee? Check out The Caverns in Pelham and discover other unique spots to hear your favorite artist in our Outdoor Music Venues article.  

• Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited national park in the United States.
• Traverse the 11-mile Cades Cove loop by car or bicycle to discover historic homesteads, churches, and abundant wildlife.
• Hike the scenic Porters Creek Trail, a 4-mile roundtrip journey featuring spring wildflowers, moss-covered streams, and a historic farm site.
• Summit Kuwohi (formerly Clingmans Dome), the highest point in Tennessee at 6,643 feet, offering 100-mile views spanning seven states on clear days.
• Challenge yourself with a trek up Mount LeConte to experience the unique "natural AC" of Arch Rock and the high-altitude Fraser Fir forest.
• Accessibility: Features the Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail, a flat, paved path with tactile exhibits, while Cades Cove provides an ideal vehicle-based viewing experience.
• Seasonal Highlights: Witness the rare synchronous firefly display in late May or early June, or visit in mid-to-late October for world-class autumn foliage.

• Ascend the rebuilt Pinnacle Fire Tower on Buffalo Mountain to experience unmatched 360-degree panoramas of Northeast Tennessee’s highest peaks.
• Discover a historic sentinel that has overlooked the Cherokee National Forest for 75 years, standing at an elevation of 3,520 feet.
• Hike a well-maintained, 4.8-mile trail that serves as a popular route for mountain bikers and hikers seeking wide-range mountain views.
• Utilize the tower’s observation platform for world-class photography and bird-watching opportunities above the canopy.
• Accessibility: While the trail to the tower is a steady incline, the Pinnacle Mountain Trail is gravel-surfaced and wider than typical backcountry paths, though not ADA-compliant.
• Seasonal Highlights: Visit in October for a spectacular bird's-eye view of the fall colors or on clear winter days for maximum visibility across the Unaka Range.

• Experience the Kuwohi Observation Tower, the highest point in Tennessee and along the entire 2,190-mile Appalachian Trail.
• Walk the steep, half-mile paved path to the summit to reach the iconic concrete spiral ramp and 360-degree viewing platform.
• Take in extraordinary vistas that, on clear days, extend over 100 miles and into seven different states.
• Accessibility: While the trail is fully paved, it is very steep (330+ foot gain); it is generally not considered wheelchair accessible, though some power chair users may find it manageable.
• Seasonal Highlights: Access via the seven-mile Kuwohi Road is available from April through November; arrive at dawn for world-class sunrise photography above the clouds.

• Explore the Nickajack Cave Wildlife Refuge, a partially flooded grotto that serves as a summer sanctuary for an estimated 100,000 endangered gray bats.
• Among the most unique outdoor adventure tours, you can book a guided canoe or paddleboard trip at dusk to witness the spectacular sight of thousands of bats emerging from the cave for their nightly feeding.
• Take the 1,000-foot boardwalk from the Maple View Area to a dedicated observation platform if you prefer to watch from the shore.
• Accessibility: A flat, 1,000-foot boardwalk leads directly to the observation platform, providing an accessible vantage point for all visitors.
• Seasonal Highlights: The "bat flight" occurs daily at dusk from late April through early October while the colony is in residence.

• Explore a secluded bottomland forest at  Big Cypress Tree State Park  in Greenfield, once home to a national champion bald cypress that lived for over 1,350 years.
• Walk the 0.40-mile Tree Identification Trail, an easy paved path featuring native wildflowers and trees like yellow poplar and dogwood.
• Traverse the 1,142-foot boardwalk that leads directly into the seasonally flooded hardwood forest for premier birdwatching and nature photography.
• Accessibility: The Tree Identification Trail and the paved 0.15-mile approach to the boardwalk are fully ADA-compliant; however, some stairs connect the boardwalk to the natural-surface portions of the park.
• Seasonal Highlights: Visit in late spring or early summer to see blooming showy evening primrose and black-eyed Susans; note that natural-surface trails are typically closed from January to April due to high water and swampy conditions.

• Explore the  Devil’s Backbone State Park & Natural Area, a 950-acre wilderness located along the historic Natchez Trace Parkway.
• Hike the 3-mile loop trail that follows a high ridge—the "backbone"—offering dramatic views of the surrounding hollows and creek valleys.
• Accessibility: The trail is a natural-surface path with significant elevation changes and rugged terrain; it is not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers.
• Seasonal Highlights: Visit in late October for sweeping views of the fall canopy from the ridgeline, or in early spring to see native wildflowers blooming along the forest floor.

• Explore 15,590 acres of rugged wilderness at Savage Gulf State Park, home to one of Tennessee's most dramatic landscapes featuring sheer sandstone cliffs and deep canyons.
• Traverse the Great Stone Door, a impressive 10-foot-wide, 100-foot-deep crack in the cliff line that serves as a natural staircase to the gorge floor below.
• Discover a network of over 50 miles of hiking trails that lead to spectacular sites like Greeter Falls, Boardtree Falls, and the ancient hemlock forests of the gorge.
• Accessibility: The 0.9-mile trail from the Stone Door Ranger Station to the primary overlook is a paved, easy-access path, though the descent through the "Door" itself is steep and rocky.
• Seasonal Highlights: Visit in early May for peak wildflower displays along the rim trails, or in late October to see the expansive forest canopy erupt in brilliant autumn colors.

• Experience the incredible biodiversity of the Conasauga River Snorkeling Hole, where you can spot dozens of colorful species in one of the most biologically diverse river systems in the temperate world.
• Immerse yourself in a world of freshwater snorkeling near the Tennessee-Georgia line, a unique activity that requires only a swimsuit, mask, and snorkel.
• Prepare for your visit with water shoes and a towel, and consider a wetsuit if visiting outside of the warm summer months.
• Accessibility: The Conasauga River Trailhead provides access to a flat, easy path leading to river access points and deep pools, making it approachable for families.
• Seasonal Highlights: Visit between late April and June to see the vibrant colors of spawning fish, or in July and August for the warmest swimming temperatures.

• A top nature thing to do in Tennessee, explore the 15,000-acre Reelfoot Lake State Park, a unique "flooded forest" created by historic earthquakes in the early 1800s.
• Witness thousands of American bald eagles and golden eagles during the peak winter months, or visit in the fall to see the massive white pelican migration.
• Join park naturalists for specialized excursions, including eagle tours in January and February, deep swamp canoe trips in the spring, and scenic pontoon tours all summer.
• Accessibility: The Park Office and Visitor Center feature wheelchair-friendly boardwalks, and the Reelfoot Lake State Park Kirby Pocket Area offers an ADA-accessible kayak launch. All-terrain wheelchairs are also available for reservation.
• Seasonal Highlights: Visit in February for the annual Reelfoot Eagle Festival, or arrive in October to catch the vibrant cypress fall foliage and the arrival of migrating waterfowl.

• Discover the Lower Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge, a sprawling 17,000-acre sanctuary that preserves one of the longest free-flowing tributaries of the lower Mississippi River.
• Hike through the thriving bottomland hardwood forest that serves as a critical habitat for white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and rare songbirds like the Cerulean Warbler. T
• Take advantage of diverse recreational opportunities beyond hiking, including world-class waterfowl hunting and fishing along the Hatchie River.
• Accessibility: The refuge is designed for easy exploration with a dedicated viewing tower for accessible wildlife observation and a network of maintained roads perfect for vehicle-based auto-touring.
• Seasonal Highlights: Visit during the winter months to witness spectacular concentrations of ducks and geese from the observation tower, or arrive in the spring for peak migratory birdwatching.

• Delve into history at the Davies Manor Historic Site in Bartlett, which features the oldest log home in Shelby County still on its original foundation.
• Discover a variety of historic outbuildings across the property that provide a glimpse into 19th-century Tennessee life.
• Visit the Hillwood Event Center, a versatile space on the grounds used for community gatherings and special events.
• Accessibility: The grounds and the Hillwood Event Center are accessible; docent-led tours of the manor house provide access to the ground floor.
• Seasonal Highlights: Visit in the spring to see the gardens in full bloom and catch outdoor Shakespeare performances, or attend the annual Quilt Show, a cherished fall tradition.

• Make a trip to Fort Pillow State Historic Park, a 1,600-acre site situated on the strategic First Chickasaw Bluff overlooking the Mississippi River.
• Discover the park's Civil War significance through an artifact-filled museum and a meticulously reconstructed fort.
• Traverse over 20 miles of hiking trails, many of which follow the historic earthwork fortifications used during the conflict.
• Enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including boating, paddling, and fishing in a landscape defined by steep river bluffs.
• Accessibility: The visitor center and museum are fully accessible, and paved walkways around the main facilities offer clear views of the historic grounds.
• Seasonal Highlights: Visit in the spring for premier birding along the Mississippi Flyway, or attend during the fall for immersive living history events.

• Discover all the different experiences that can be had on Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga.
• Check off a box on your Tennessee adventure bucket list and soar over the valley at the Lookout Mountain Flight Park for world-renowned hang gliding and paragliding that offers tandem flights and professional training.
• Journey 1,120 feet underground at Ruby Falls to witness a stunning 145-foot subterranean waterfall illuminated by a colorful light show.
• Walk through the ancient geological formations and botanical displays at Rock City Gardens, where you can "See Seven States" from the famous Lovers Leap overlook.
• Experience "America's Most Amazing Mile" on the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway and take a train car which climbs a 72.7% grade—one of the steepest in the world—to reach the summit.
• Accessibility: Ruby Falls provides a "Gentle Walking Tour" with elevator access, while Rock City Gardens features many paved paths leading to major sights like the Blue Heron overlook.
• Seasonal Highlights: Visit during the winter for Rock City’s "Enchanted Garden of Lights," or explore the caverns of Ruby Falls by the glow of a hand-held lantern during special fall tours.

• Experience the thrill of flight at the Tennessee Tree Toppers in Dunlap.
• Take in breathtaking 360-degree views of the Sequatchie Valley while participating in a local gliding tradition that has spanned over 25 years.
• Choose from several other world-class skydiving centers if you prefer a tandem freefall, including Skydive Tennessee in Tullahoma, Music City Skydiving in Waverly, or the Chattanooga Skydiving Company.
• Watch experienced gliders launch from the ridgeline or join a flight school to begin your own journey into the clouds.
• Accessibility: A paved access road leads directly to the primary launch site, providing easy viewing access for visitors who want to watch the gliders from the ground.
• Seasonal Highlights: Visit during the spring and summer months for the most consistent flight conditions and the most active schedule of hang gliding launches.

For even more adrenaline-pumping fun, check out our Guide to Having an Extreme Vacation in Tennessee.

• Experience the longest zip line in America at the MegaZip at WildSide Pigeon Forge, featuring a breathtaking 4,500-foot descent.
• Reach speeds of up to 50 miles per hour as you soar high above the tree canopy with panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains.
• Pair your high-flying adventure with a side-by-side UTV tour or explore the park's expansive mountain bike trail system for a full day of adrenaline.
• Utilize the custom-designed braking system that allows for a smooth and safe finish, even at high speeds, making it accessible for a wide range of thrill-seekers.
• Accessibility: While the zipline itself requires physical mobility to harness and land, the base area is accessible and offers prime viewing spots to watch riders descend.
• Seasonal Highlights: Visit in October for a bird's-eye view of the vibrant fall foliage, or book a summer morning flight to enjoy the mountain breeze and maximum visibility.

• Experience the thrill of flying through the forest at Adventureworks Nashville West in Kingston Springs, which features nearly 1.5 miles of zip lines.
• Traverse a series of nine zip lines tucked away in a scenic old-growth forest, reaching heights up to 80 feet above the ground.
• Enjoy professional instruction and state-of-the-art equipment designed for safety and excitement, whether you are a first-time flier or an experienced adventurer.
• Accessibility: While the zipline tours involve walking between platforms and some physical exertion, the base facilities are generally accessible for spectators.
• Seasonal Highlights: Visit during the fall for spectacular views of the changing leaves from the canopy, or take a summer tour to enjoy the shade of the dense forest.

• Challenge yourself at Navitat Knoxville, a premier aerial adventure park nestled within the 315-acre Ijams Nature Center. Navigate six distinct adventure trails that range from beginner to advanced, featuring a mix of ziplines, wobbling bridges, elevated swings, and climbing nets.
• Experience Navitat at Night where you can soar through the illuminated treetop canopy under a blanket of stars for a completely different perspective of the forest.
• Enjoy a family-friendly environment designed for ages seven and up, with varying difficulty levels that allow everyone to find their own pace and comfort zone.
• Accessibility: The Ijams Visitor Center and select porch viewing areas are accessible; however, the aerial trails require significant physical mobility and the ability to navigate uneven forest terrain to reach the starting platforms.
• Seasonal Highlights: Night climbs are particularly popular during the summer months to enjoy cooler evening temperatures, while the fall offers a stunning backdrop of changing colors within the hardwood forest.

• One of the country's most unique outdoor adventure travel destinations, don't miss the Outdoor Gravity Park in Pigeon Forge, the only zorbing destination in the United States, featuring three distinct tracks on a 1,000-foot hill.
• Choose your adventure with the H2OGO wet experience, where up to three people can slip and slide inside a giant inflatable orb filled with water, or opt for a dry roll.
• Navigate different course styles, including the "Zig-Zag" for a slower, more tactical descent or the "Speed Demon" for those looking to reach maximum velocity down the foothills.
• Accessibility: The park is spectator-friendly with easy-to-navigate viewing areas; the zorbing experience itself provides a low-impact way to feel the pull of gravity.
• Seasonal Highlights: The park is open year-round; during the winter months, the water in the "H2OGO" orbs is heated to 90 degrees to ensure a warm and comfortable ride. 

Discover even more outdoor adventures in Tennessee on your next vacation.