One of the wonderful things about a summer vacation in the Smokies is the warm weather that makes it perfect for outdoor activities! If you are looking for a fun way to cool off after a morning hike in Great Smoky Mountains National Park or a stroll through downtown Gatlinburg, you will find plenty of fantastic options in the area! Here are the top 5 ways to stay cool during a summer vacation in the Smoky Mountains:
1. Go Tubing at Pigeon Forge Snow
You will be pleasantly surprised to know that you can go snow tubing all summer long at Pigeon Forge Snow, even if it is 90 degrees outside! This indoor snow tubing facility features a whole hillside of tubing action and the temperature inside the building is always between 60 and 70 degrees! Unlike outdoor snow tubing, there is no need to make a reservation so just show up when you are ready to hit the slopes! Pigeon Forge also features a Snow Play area where kids can build snowmen and forts, so bring the whole family along to this unique attraction!
2. Play in the Splash Pad at Anakeesta
Another top way to stay cool during a summer vacation in the Smoky Mountains is to play in the Splash Pad at Anakeesta! This fun water play area features mountain-themed water spouts and geysers, so your kids will have a blast splashing around in the water! The Splash Pad is located in the Black Bear Village section of Anakeesta, where you will also find exciting dining options at the Cliff Top Restaurant and all types of cool souvenirs at the Mercantile general store!
3. Visit Dollywood’s Splash Country
Dollywood’s Splash Country is a 35 acre water park that offers countless ways to keep cool on a hot summer day, ranging from thrilling speed slides to a relaxing lazy river attraction! If you have toddlers in your family, don’t miss the Little Creek Falls section with a children’s pool, small slides and a fun activity center! For those craving some serious water slide action, check out the Mountain Twist, Raging River Rapids and the Slick Rock Racer! Whether you want to hop the waves in the Mountain Waves pool or kick back on the Downbound Float Trip, you will find a full day of activities at this splashtastic park!
4. Go White Water Rafting with Big Creek Expeditions
When it comes to staying cool during a summer vacation in the Smoky Mountains, one of the best options is white water rafting with Big Creek Expeditions! The Lower Pigeon River Rafting Scenic Float trip is the perfect choice for those who want to enjoy a calm journey on the water with a few class I and II rapids. If you are craving a bit more adventure, join the Upper Pigeon River White Water Rafting trip for a classic Southeast white water experience featuring class III and IV rapids!
5. Stay in Our Cabins with Swimming Pools
Make the most of your summer vacation by staying in one of our cabins with a private swimming pool! These unique cabins allow you to enjoy the privacy of swimming in your very own indoor pool, and you don’t even have to worry about getting a sunburn! As if that doesn’t sound good enough, these cabins are packed with other incredible amenities too, including fully equipped kitchens, bubbling hot tubs, game rooms, home theater rooms and more!
Are you considering other times of the year for your trip? Find out why a winter vacation in the Smoky Mountains is a great idea!
Check out all of our cabins in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge today to plan the perfect summer vacation in the Smoky Mountains! We look forward to welcoming you to the Smokies!