Maybe a mountain trip isn’t your first thought when planning a vacation—but trust me, that’s only because you haven’t discovered all the incredible outdoor activities waiting for you up there! What if I told you the great outdoors in the mountains is packed with fun things to do that you never even considered?
Whether you’re traveling with the whole family, escaping for a romantic getaway for two, or just chasing some fresh air and adventure, I’ve rounded up 5 awesome outdoor activities you absolutely have to try before leaving the mountains. Keep scrolling to see just how much fun mountain travel can be!
1. Soar High on a Hot Air Balloon Ride
Hiking is great, but let’s be real—your views are limited by where you stand on the trail. If you want to see the mountains from a whole new perspective, a hot air balloon ride is the way to go!
Summer is the perfect time for this activity (it’s when it’s most popular, and for good reason!). Imagine floating gently above the mountains, taking in a bird’s-eye view of the landscape stretching for miles around. Pro tip: Book a sunset ride for the most magical, romantic experience—trust me, the golden light over the peaks is unforgettable.
Not a fan of heights but still craving that adrenaline rush? No problem! Zip lining is an amazing substitute. It’s just as exhilarating, and you’ll still get to enjoy stunning mountain views as you fly through the air.
2. Race the Rapids with River Rafting
River rafting is hands down one of the best family-friendly outdoor activities out there—and there’s nothing quite like rafting through dramatic canyons and lush valleys. These are the kinds of adventures that become stories you’ll tell for years!
The type of rafting you’ll do depends on which mountain area you’re visiting. Some rivers offer half-day quick adventures, while others let you camp overnight for a full immersive experience. One of my top picks? The Pigeon River—it’s the third most rafted river in the US, and for good reason!
It has two sections to choose from: the Lower Pigeon River and the Upper Pigeon River. The Lower Pigeon has Class 1 and 2 rapids, which are gentle enough for families (no prior experience needed!) but still have some fun mild falls to keep things exciting. If you’re a more experienced rafter looking for a challenge, the Upper Pigeon River is for you—it features thrilling Class 3 and 4 rapids that will get your heart pumping!
3. Explore the Trails on Horseback
Mountain ranges like the Smoky Mountains are massive—there’s so much ground to cover that it’s almost impossible to see everything in just a few days. Want to explore more without wearing out your feet? Hop on a horse!
The best part? No prior riding experience is required! Horseback riding lets you cover more terrain in less time, and it’s such a unique way to connect with nature. Most mountain areas that offer this activity have well-trained horses that know the trails like the back of their hooves, making it another perfect activity for the whole family to enjoy together.
4. Unwind with Golfing (or Mini Golf!)
Not every outdoor activity in the mountains has to be high-octane adventure—sometimes, relaxation is the best kind of getaway! If you’re looking to slow down and soak in the scenery, why not spend a day golfing?
Many mountain ranges have stunning golf courses with panoramic views of the peaks and beyond. It’s the ultimate relaxing golf experience—playing a round while surrounded by nature’s beauty. Not a pro (or even close to it)? Don’t stress!
There are plenty of mini golf options too, and some of them are seriously fun and unique—like indoor blacklight mini golf on rooftops! It’s a great way to have fun with the family (or your partner) without breaking a sweat.
5. Hike to Clingmans Dome (a Classic Mountain Must-Do)
Let’s wrap things up with a classic outdoor adventure: good old-fashioned hiking. If you’re staying in the Smoky Mountains, a hike to Clingmans Dome is non-negotiable—it’s one of the best views in the entire area!
The hike takes you up 6,643 feet to the observation tower, which sits at the highest point in Tennessee. From the top, you’ll get spectacular 360-degree views of the Smoky Mountains. If you’re lucky enough to visit on a clear day, you can see for over 100 miles—trust me, it’s worth every step!
Heads up, though: the trail to the observation tower gets steep, so wear comfortable hiking shoes. The tower is open year-round, but the road leading to the trailhead closes at the beginning of December. Make sure to keep that in mind when planning your Smoky Mountain trip!
Ready to Tackle These Mountain Adventures?
I know these 5 outdoor activities have you already packing your bags—and rightfully so! Keep them in mind for your next mountain trip, and make sure to add at least one (or all!) to your mountain bucket list.
Can’t decide which one to try first? Why not do all five and pick your favorite? Either way, you’re guaranteed to have an amazing time exploring the great outdoors in the mountains. Happy adventuring!
