Outdoor Adventures in Tennessee

What to know about fishing in Tennessee: Tennessee is known for its wide variety of fish. More trophy smallmouth bass have been caught at Dale Hollow Lake than any body of water in the world. The winding Hatchie River in Southwest Tennessee is rich with big-game fish. Enjoy fantastic mountain views and calm waters while fishing the 43-mile-long Douglas Lake, 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. 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. July is a terrific night-fishing month for black bass at Center Hill Lake. Fort Loudoun Lake has plentiful fishing ground for big catfish. Quick tip: Whether you’re a resident or just visiting Tennessee, make sure you have a Tennessee fishing license before fishing in the state.

• Accessibility: Many local marinas offer ADA-compliant docks and accessible fishing piers. Boat rentals can include pontoon options with wider entries for better mobility.
• Seasonal Highlights: Spring and fall offer peak fishing conditions for bass and crappie, while summer provides ideal water temperatures for recreational boating.  

Things to know about Nashville Shores: Who knew you could catch some waves in Music City? Complete with a wave pool, lazy river, water slides and so much more, Nashville Shores is a fun outdoor waterpark located less than 20 minutes from downtown Nashville. Situated on the beautiful shores of J. Percy Priest Lake with views to match, Nashville Shores features a first-class waterpark, rope/zipline courses, obstacle course on the lake, marina, boat rentals, lakeview cabins and RV campground. A fan-favorite is Kowabunga Beach, a huge water treehouse jungle gym with water sprayers, buckets, and slides.

• Accessibility: The park features wheelchair-accessible restrooms and stroller/wheelchair rentals. Key attractions like the wave pool and lazy river offer zero-depth or easy-entry access points.
• Seasonal Highlights: Open during the summer season

What to know before visiting the Adventure Off-Road Park: Set on a 500-acre expanse of land in the mountains of South Pittsburg, the Adventure Off-Road Park is a premiere location for off-roading vehicles, ATVs, dirt bikes and more. Coupled with dense wooded landscape, this off-roader’s paradise features more than 120 trails, each marked with a difficulty level, that you can attempt in your vehicle. Explore easy dirt trails for beginners and extreme natural rock trails for seasoned off-roaders. In addition to the trails, Adventure Off-Road Park also offers space for camping and a RV campground. Quick tip: Check out their events throughout the year, like off-road races and festivals; spectators are welcome.

• Accessibility: Features a variety of green (easy) trails that allow stock 4x4 vehicles and beginners to enjoy the rugged terrain from the comfort of their own vehicle.
• Seasonal Highlights: Year-round trail riding is available; the park hosts major off-road events and competitions during the summer months.

Things to know before going to Doe Mountain Recreation Area: Open sunrise to sunset seven days a week, Doe Mountain Recreation Area outside Mountain City features 8,600 acres of protected mountain terrain and trails perfect for ATVs, UTVs and mountain bikes and even has separate hiking and equestrian trails. Be sure to stop at historic Kettlefoot Fire Lookout Tower located high atop Doe Mountain with panoramic 360-degree views of the surrounding peaks.

• Accessibility: The multi-use trail system includes wider paths suitable for low-impact ATVs and side-by-sides.
• Seasonal Highlights: June brings stunning rhododendron blooms across the ridges, while October offers 360-degree views of the fall colors.

What to expect when rafting the Ocoee, Pigeon and Nolichucky Rivers: Get ready for an exhilarating whitewater rafting experience on the Ocoee River. Available for beginners and seasoned rafters alike, the outfitters along the Ocoee River have a number of knowledge and friendly guides to lead your expedition and provide an incredible and safe trip on the river. There are several different experiences you can book which will take you on different parts of the Ocoee River, or you can book full river experiences. The 23-mile Ocoee Scenic River State Park has Class III rapids in addition to canoeing, rafting, fishing, hiking and nature photography. Start your adventure at the Nantahala Outdoor Center in Hartford. The Pigeon River in the Smoky Mountains, which has 70 rapids over 6.5 miles. It gathers strength from mountain streams and has been named one of the top rivers in the country for whitewater rafting. Nearby outfitters offer exhilarating Class III & IV whitewater expeditions. The Lower Pigeon River moderates to the perfect float trip with gentle rapids and swimming holes. The Nolichucky River roars through a 9-mile-long gorge in the northeast corner of the state. It’s a challenging run of turbulent rapids through the rugged beauty of steep canyon walls and lush forest.

• Accessibility: Select outfitters provide adaptive equipment and guides trained to assist paddlers of varying abilities; it is recommended to call ahead for specific accommodations.
• Seasonal Highlights: Rafting seasons typically run from April through October, with guaranteed "water release days" in late spring and summer.

Things to know before going to Wolf River: This nine-mile section of Wolf River begins in a narrow forest channel and opens into beautiful wetland meadows and bottomland hardwoods before ending at Spirit Lake. This portion twists and turns through some incredible scenery; cypress trees, open shrubby wetlands and bottomland hardwoods give the waterway a hauntingly beautiful quality. Some parts of the river are a difficult ride, making it a better choice for intermediate and advanced paddlers, but the mostly untouched natural scenery makes it worthwhile.

• Accessibility: Sections of the trail system include boardwalks that allow for easier viewing of the wetlands without navigating rugged terrain.
• Seasonal Highlights: Winter is prime time for birdwatching as migratory species visit the swamp; summer offers a cool, shaded canopy under the ancient cypress trees.

What to know before you head to Tannery Knobs: Grab your mountain bike and head on over to Tannery Knobs Mountain Bike Park for a unique riding experience only a short ride from downtown Johnson City. Featuring beautiful mountain views and well-maintained trails covering over 40 acres of heavily wooded terrain, there are plenty of paths for beginners and experts alike. Fun for family, friends, or solo adventuring, the professionally designed and built trails are broken into several categories based on difficulty level including green (easiest), blue, and black (hardest). There is even a paved pump track available.

• Accessibility: The paved pump track is designed for all skill levels and ages, including those using adaptive cycles or scooters.
• Seasonal Highlights: The park's high elevation provides a cool breeze in the summer and clear, long-range mountain views in the winter.

Things to know before visiting Dollywood: Recognized as one of the world’s best theme parks and known for its award-winning shows, rides and special events, visit Dollywood in Pigeon Forge for a fantastic East Tennessee experience. Enjoy seasonal celebrations with special activities like fireworks in the summer, glowing pumpkins in the fall, over 5 million sparkling lights during “Smoky Mountain Christmas” and the bloom festival during the spring. A picturesque landscape sets the stage for a wide collection of quaint shops, rides and roller coasters. Numerous live music performances and shows also occur throughout the day. There is even a Dolly Parton Museum featuring tons of Dolly memorabilia.

• Accessibility: Dollywood offers a Ride Accessibility Center, a dedicated Calming Room for sensory needs, and ECV/wheelchair rentals at the front gate.
• Seasonal Highlights: The park transforms for the Harvest Festival in the fall, the world-renowned Smoky Mountain Christmas starting in November, Flower & Food Festival in April and the Summer Celebration starting in June.

What to know before visiting The Island in Pigeon Forge: Located just off the Pigeon Forge Parkway, The Island in Pigeon Forge is a retail and entertainment center in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, a 200-foot-tall observation wheel and the Island Show Fountains anchor the park’s main attractions. Guests of all ages can enjoy a mix of retail shops, restaurants and eateries, rides and games, live music, attractions and much more. Admission to the park is free and you can purchase day passes to access the rides.

• Accessibility: The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel features ADA-compliant gondolas that allow wheelchair users to roll directly onto the ride.
• Seasonal Highlights: Features a year-round choreographed fountain show and festive holiday decor throughout the winter months.

Things to know about Evins Mill in Smithville: For a secluded and charming woodland oasis hidden away in the backwoods of Smithville, book a stay at Evins Mill. Beautiful buildings that blend with the landscape are scattered around the property and wooden pathways lit by string lights connect you to the restaurant and other facilities. Delicious food served at the restaurant will be a highlight and for those with food allergies or restrictions, the staff cooks specially crafted meals to accommodate your needs. There are also opportunities to hike, including a private trail leading to a waterfall. Perfect for a simple weekend getaway, group retreat or even a proposal or wedding, Evins Mill provides excellent service in a charming and relaxing space.

• Accessibility: The lodge offers ADA-compliant guest rooms; while the waterfall trails are rugged, the main lodge and dining areas are accessible via paved surfaces.
• Seasonal Highlights: Summer is perfect for taking a dip in the swimming hole at the base of Carmac Falls; fall offers cozy fireside dining and mountain views.

What to know about the Cottage at Stillwater Farms: Get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and stay at the Cottage at Stillwater Farm in Henderson. Set in a quiet and peaceful 150+ acre piece of land, you can hike, explore nature and watch the wildlife. And, if you’re interested, the farm offers you the chance to interact with the number of farm animals located on the property. Take a tour, jump right into daily farm activities and meet some new friends like Holly the cow, Mike the rooster, Cisco the donkey, and Skeeter the farm dog. Witness spectacular sunsets with the backdrop of the farm’s horse pastures and fields. It will surely be a relaxing and unique experience you’ll never forget.

• Accessibility: While the historic cottage stay is not currently handicap accessible, the farm offers a peaceful, low-impact environment for nature lovers.
• Seasonal Highlights: Spring is the time for farm births and garden plantings; the on-site winery hosts seasonal events throughout the harvest season.

Things to know before you visit Fiery Gizzard State Park: Pitch your tent and enjoy living in the outdoors at a campsite in Fiery Gizzard State Park. Formerly South Cumberland State park, the park is composed of approximately 7,811 acres and boasts some of the best hiking and backcountry camping in the region. Featuring incredible beauty from a variety of waterfalls, rock formations, trails and some spectacular views, Fiery Gizzard provides the perfect setting for a camping trip.

• Accessibility: The Foster Falls overlook provides a paved, accessible path to view the 60-foot waterfall. For those staying near the trailheads, the Grundy Forest Day Loop offers more moderate terrain compared to the strenuous interior gorge.
• Seasonal Highlights: Spring offers peak flow for the numerous waterfalls and a display of rare wildflowers. The deep sandstone gorge retains vibrant autumn colors well into late October and early November.  

What to know about the Buffalo River: If you’re looking for a relaxing weekend outdoors surrounded by nature, Buffalo River is the place. It’s the longest un-impounded river in Middle Tennessee; the waterway is 125 miles of mostly flat water. Its mellow flow makes it the perfect place for canoeing and fishing, and it’s rich in aquatic life, so you’re almost guaranteed to get a nibble. 

• Accessibility: The river is highly accessible for beginner kayakers, families with children, and those seeking a low-intensity outdoor activity. Many public access points and local outfitters provide relatively easy entry and exit for canoes and kayaks.
• Seasonal Highlights: Spring is the best time for higher water levels and vibrant greenery along the banks, and the river is a great cool off spot during the summer months.

Things to know about the Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area: Looking for a quiet and peaceful spot tucked away deep within the Smokies for a picnic with family or friends? Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area located right outside the Metcalf Bottoms Trailhead is the perfect spot. There are 122 secluded sites with tables and charcoal grills available as well as accessible restrooms, water fountains and plenty of parking. Enjoy the relaxing sounds of the river and take in the beautiful, wooded scenery. Cross the bridge from the picnic area and hike the Metcalf Bottoms Trail which features the historic Little Greenbrier School and the famous Walker Sister’s Cabin. The Curry Mountain Trail is also nearby. Quick tip: A picnic pavilion for larger gatherings is also available for reservation from April to October for $25.

• Accessibility: This area is one of the more accessible spots in the Smokies, featuring ADA-compliant restrooms and paved parking near the riverside.
• Seasonal Highlights: A favorite for riverside picnics in the spring and cooling off by the water during the heat of July.

What to know about Glenn Springs Lake: The Glenn Springs Lake is over 300-acres and is a perfect getaway for enjoying the outdoors on a picnic. Settle in at one of the fishing piers or sit on the banks and watch the boats go by sailing. With picnic pavilions, a clubhouse and restrooms for your convenience, you can spend a whole day relaxing with the family.

• Accessibility: Features an ADA-compliant fishing pier and accessible restrooms, making it a convenient spot for all-day outings.
• Seasonal Highlights: Visit in the spring for the best shoreline fishing or in the fall for peaceful, picturesque sunsets over the water.

Things to know before visiting Shelby Farms Park in Memphis: With 4,500 acres of green space and nearly 40 miles of trails, Shelby Farms Park which is located in the heart of Memphis, stands as one of the largest urban parks in the world. Plan your day around fishing and ziplining, horseback riding lessons, BMX biking, axe-throwing, paintball, playgrounds, boat rentals, cycling, laser tag, hiking, picnicking and so much more. Bring your own food and set up on one of the many open grass areas or grab some snacks, cold drinks and frozen treats from the Shop at Lake’s Edge or Pine Lake Outpost.

• Accessibility: The 2.75-mile Chickasaw Trail is fully paved and stroller-friendly; the Woodland Discovery Playground is designed for inclusive, multi-sensory play.
• Seasonal Highlights: Summer visitors can enjoy massive fields of sunflowers; winter features the massive "Starry Nights" holiday lights display.

What to know about the Warner Parks in Nashville: Visit the Warner Parks in Nashville for winding paths, hiking trails, and great views within a 3,100-acre area. Featuring picnic areas, a dog park, scenic roadways, hiking/mountain bike trails, horse trails, running courses, babbling brooks, ponds, and more, the Edwin and Percy Warner Parks are located only nine miles from downtown Nashville. Well-marked trails are a hit with visitors and a popular place for walking and jogging due to the varying topography and available paved trails. Quick tip: Renovations recently finished on the famous steps located at Percy Warner Park; once to the top of the hill, there are some great views.

• Accessibility: Portions of the trail system, including the loop around the historic Allée and sections of the Harpeth Woods greenway, are paved and accessible.
• Seasonal Highlights: Late March brings cherry blossoms and spring blooms, while October transforms the dense hardwood forest into a gold and orange landscape.

Things to know about Obed Wild and Scenic River: Looking for an incredible shared experience? Grab your belay buddy and reach new heights. In Tennessee, avid climbers and first-timers can rock. Climbers from around the globe hang at Obed Wild and Scenic River near Wartburg, which has some 350 “sport” or permanently bolted routes ranging from easy to difficult.

For beginners, Stone Fort (Little Rock City) in Chattanooga has the best spots in the Southeast for bouldering (rock climbing that doesn’t use ropes). At Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area, more daring rock climbers seek out bolted routes on hundreds of miles of sandstone bluffs. The deeply carved plateau is a network of scenic gorges, sandstone bluffs, sandy beaches, rocky ridges and river valleys. Historic remains of American Indians and early settlers dot the hills and valleys, secret places to be explored by hikers and horse lovers. Water and erosion have carved out stunning stone arches and caves. Additionally, the park boasts over 138 miles of fishing streams and 212 miles of horse trails. Wildlife includes wild turkey, deer and black bear. Big South Fork is a delight for adventure lovers.

• Accessibility: The Lilly Bluff Overlook Trail is a 0.3-mile gravel and boardwalk path that is negotiable for wheelchairs and strollers with minimal assistance.
• Seasonal Highlights: Winter and spring bring the high-water levels required for expert whitewater paddling; fall is the peak season for rock climbing.

What to know about Waterfall hikes in Tennessee: Whether traveling alone or with a group of friends and family, discovering waterfalls is a popular pastime in Tennessee, with over 500 to explore on the Cumberland Plateau and in the mountains of East Tennessee. The journey provides a glimpse of unique plants and animals in the moist, protected gorges. Virgin Falls, south of Cookeville, is a hidden treasure – a 9-mile round-trip hike with several waterfalls enroute to the steepest drop, where the falls plunge into one cave and emerge from another. Of course, Fall Creek Falls is the state’s highest at 256 feet and a sight to behold. Grotto Falls, a moderate hike in the shadow of Mount LeConte, is the only waterfall in the Smokies you can stand behind.

Things to know about caving in Tennessee: With 8,500 caves to explore, caving in Tennessee is an adventure in a class all its own. Ride a glass-bottom boat into the cave at The Lost Sea in Sweetwater, the largest underwater lake in the U.S. From May to November, venture on a ranger-led tour of Lost Cove Cave, also known as Buggytop, part of the Carter State Natural Area and South Cumberland State Park near Sewanee and Sherwood. See sparkling formations, natural chimneys and more at Sevierville’s Forbidden Caverns or Townsend’s Tuckaleechee Caverns.

Things to know before you visit the Great Smoky Mountains: Great Smoky Mountains National Park, known for its mountains, streams, waterfalls and biodiversity, is the most visited national park in the country. Bike the 11-mile loop at Cades Cove, full of historic settlers’ farm sites tucked away in the forest on hiking trails like Porters Creek, a 4-mile roundtrip wooded hike that passes waterfalls, streams, spring wildflowers and crosses a single log footbridge. The park boasts an amazing 20,000-plus species of plants and animals, including more than 1,500 black bears. At 6,643 feet, Kuwohi is the highest point in Tennessee. On clear days, views expand more than 100 miles and into seven states.

For a more secluded mountain view, prepare for a challenging bushwhack on remote Mount Guyot (6,621 feet), the fourth-highest summit in the eastern United States. Or, take the path more traveled and complete one of the 5 Mount Leconte (6,593 feet) hikes, where you’ll want to stop at Arch Rock (a cave-like section with natural AC), Inspiration Point and the Fraser Fir zone.

• Accessibility: The Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail is a flat, paved path with tactile exhibits; Cades Cove offers an 11-mile one-way loop ideal for vehicle-based viewing.
• Seasonal Highlights: Late May to early June is the window for the synchronous fireflies; mid-to-late October is peak for some of the best fall foliage around. 

Things to know about fire towers in Tennessee: Fire towers in East Tennessee provide unparalleled views of the surrounding area. The rebuilt Pinnacle Fire Tower on Buffalo Mountain near the town of Unicoi offers stunning 360-degree views of the region’s highest peaks in Northeast Tennessee. At 3,520 feet, the fire tower has been sentinel of the forest for 75 years. Other towers worth the climb include Kuwohi – the most-visited tower in the Smoky Mountains – Bays Mountain, Mount Cammerer, Look Rock and Bluff Mountain, to name just a few.

What to know about Nickajack Cave: Explore Nickajack Cave, a partially flooded grotto which houses thousands of gray bats during the summer months. Gray bats are on the endangered species list and are one of more than a dozen species of bats in Tennessee. During their stay at Nickajack Cave from April to October, an estimated 100,000 bats emerge every evening to feed on insects and other bugs. Book a guided canoe or paddleboard trip to Nickajack Cave at dusk to watch the bats exit the cave to start their nightly feeding. If paddling the lake isn’t your thing, a 1,000-ft boardwalk leads from the Maple View Area to an observation platform where you can view the bats exiting cave entrance.

• Accessibility: A boardwalk leads to a dedicated observation platform, providing an accessible vantage point to watch the bats emerge.
• Seasonal Highlights: The spectacular "bat flight" at dusk occurs daily from late April through early October.

What to know about Tennessee's hiking trails: Tennessee is an outdoor paradise for those seeking wildlife wonders, offering hiking trails in state parks and natural areas from the Mississippi floodplains to the Appalachian Mountains. Join one of five annual ranger-led hikes in a state park or celebrate Natural Areas Week each April, when you can explore ecologically significant areas. Discover rare plants and animals on guided hikes and tours across the state. Take a kid-friendly walk at West Tennessee’s Big Cypress Tree State Park or marvel at the steep slopes of Devil’s Backbone in Lewis County, Stone Door in Savage Gulf State Park – and lots of other places in between.

Things to know before visiting the Conasauga River: Tennessee offers a unique activity to best experience the incredibly biodiverse Conasauga River - freshwater river snorkeling. Located in Ocoee on the Conasauga River near the Tennessee-Georgia line, there is a pool known as the Conasauga Snorkel Hole where several thousand fish will be present on any given day. For snorkeling, all that is needed is a swimsuit, snorkel and mask. Other useful items to take with you include water shoes, dry towels and a wetsuit depending on water temperature (summer months are the best time to snorkel; during fall, winter and spring months, the water can be cold and will require a wetsuit).

• Accessibility: The Conasauga River Trail is a flat, easy path that leads directly to river access points and deep pools, making it approachable for families and children.
• Seasonal Highlights: Late April through June offers peak color for spawning fish, while July and August provide the warmest water temperatures for swimming.

What to know before you visit Reelfoot Lake: Reelfoot Lake State Park is a beautiful 15,000-acre lake created by a series of earthquakes in the early-1800s that caused the Mississippi River to flow backward. The park's ecosystem is a flooded forest with numerous sunken Cypress trees that rise above the water. The lake is also home to golden and American bald eagles. During January and February, Reelfoot Lake is home to thousands of American bald eagles. Experienced park naturalists lead daily bald eagle and waterfowl tours in January and February with the annual Reelfoot Eagle Festival in February being a premiere bird watching opportunity. Deep swamp canoe trips in March and April and scenic pontoon boat tours May-September are offered. Every fall, hundreds of white pelicans stop at the lake on their seasonal migration.

• Accessibility: The park features wheelchair-friendly boardwalks at the Visitor Center and Eagle Basin, along with an ADA-accessible kayak launch at Kirby Pocket and all-terrain wheelchairs available for reservation.
• Seasonal Highlights: Winter is the premier season for guided bald eagle tours, while October draws crowds for the massive white pelican migration and vibrant cypress fall foliage.

Things to know before you visit the Lower Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge: The 17-mile Lower Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge is home to a diverse and largely intact ecosystem. Waterfowl and white-tailed deer are common sights, and you may even spy birds like Cerulean or Swainson's Warblers. In addition to phenomenal hiking and birdwatching, the site also offers fishing and hunting.

• Accessibility: The refuge features a viewing tower for accessible wildlife observation and maintained roads that allow for vehicle-based auto-touring throughout the diverse bottomland habitats.
• Seasonal Highlights: Winter offers spectacular views of large waterfowl concentrations from the observation tower, while spring is the prime time for neo-tropical migratory birdwatching and quota turkey hunts.

What to know about the Davies Manor Historic Site: The Davies Manor Historic Site in Bartlett is a popular destination for history buffs, but it also features an official Backyard Wildlife Habitat. The site has several gardens and an arboretum walking trail you can explore on your own, along with the historic outbuildings on the property.

• Accessibility: The grounds and Hillwood Event Center are accessible; docent-led tours of the manor house include ground-floor access.
• Seasonal Highlights: Spring brings blooming gardens and outdoor Shakespeare performances; the annual Quilt Show is a fall tradition.

Things to know before visiting Fort Pillow State Park: Another site rich with history, Fort Pillow State Historic Park covers 1,600 acres on the first Chickasaw Bluff. Steep bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River made this area a strategic location during the Civil War. In addition to the artifact museum and reconstructed Fort, the park offers over 20 miles of hiking trails, many that follow the site’s earthwork fortifications, boating, paddling and fishing.

• Accessibility: The visitor center and museum are fully accessible; paved walkways around the main facilities provide views of the historic grounds.
• Seasonal Highlights: Spring is the best time for birding along the Mississippi Flyway; the park hosts living history events in the fall.

What to know about Lookout Mountain, Tennessee: Have the urge to take to the skies? Glide over the valley with panoramic views that will take your breath away. Head to Lookout Mountain, where adventure seekers go to hang glide. Exceptional wind currents, easy drop-offs from atop the mountain and area flight schools can help you spread your wings.

• Accessibility: Ruby Falls offers a "Gentle Walking Tour" and elevator access; Rock City features paved paths to many major overlooks like the Blue Heron.
• Seasonal Highlights: Rock City’s "Enchanted Garden of Lights" is a winter staple, while Ruby Falls offers special lantern tours during the fall.

Things to know about the Tennessee Tree Toppers: More experienced gliders can take to the skies at Tennessee Tree Toppers in Dunlap, the "Hang Gliding Capital of the East." Take in scenic views of the Sequatchie Valley while gliding through a 25-year-old local tradition. Alternatively, if you want to tandem skydive, you can feel as free as a bird with Skydive Tennessee in Tullahoma, Music City Skydiving in Waverly or Chattanooga Skydiving Company just to name a few.

• Accessibility: A paved access road leads directly to the primary launch site, providing easy viewing access for those wishing to watch the gliders.
• Seasonal Highlights: Spring and summer offer the most consistent flight conditions and the most active schedule of hang gliding launches.

What to know about ziplining in Tennessee: Ever wonder what it feels like to fly? Soar through forests on the many ziplines throughout the state. Sevierville’s Foxfire Mountain Adventure Park has the Goliath, said to be the highest, longest and fastest zipline in the Smokies. Choose between 8 thrilling ziplines and 3 sky bridges at Ocoee Ziplines. Navitat aerial adventure park in Knoxville offers a thrilling, family-friendly experience on 6 adventure trails. Each trail has ziplines, bridges, swings, and nets. For an added thrill, experience Navitat at Night. You can play in the treetops under a blanket of stars, which is a unique adventure you won't want to miss. Additional zip line courses can be found at AdventureWorks in Kingston Springs and Pigeon Forge; Ocoee Ziplines and Canopy Tour in Copperhill; and Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park at Shelby Farms Park in Memphis.

• Accessibility: While naturally rugged, some locations offer ground-based "mini-zips" or tandem experiences; many have accessible base camps and spectator areas.
• Seasonal Highlights: Leaf-peeping from the canopy in mid-to-late October provides a unique perspective on the autumn season.

What to know before you visit the Outdoor Gravity Park: For the thrill-seeker who’s seen it all, try zorbing. Invented in New Zealand, the “sport” of rolling down a hill in a giant plastic orb has made its way to Pigeon Forge and can be done on three tracks at the Outdoor Gravity Park. Go wet or dry; alone or with friends, zigzag slowly or shoot full speed down the park’s 1,000-foot hill. Bonus: The tracks are in the picturesque foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. 

• Accessibility: The site is spectator-friendly with easy-to-navigate viewing areas; the activity itself is a low-impact way to experience speed and gravity.
• Seasonal Highlights: Open year-round; during the winter, "H2OGO" rolls use 90-degree heated water to keep participants warm.  

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