The Great Smokies are full of adventures. Whether you prefer trails, rivers or rails, the trip is often its own reward. You can enjoy a game of mountain golf, a mountaintop trek, rafting through a mountain gorge, or skiing down snow-covered slopes. The Great Smokies offer outdoor adventures for every age and interest.

Rock Lovers Rock
While stone-faced cliffs present challenges for climbers, the precious stones inside the mountain inspire many visitors. Gem mining in the Smokies is not only fun for the family, it's a very rewarding experience. Some of the world's largest sapphires were discovered near Canton. Rubies, garnets and sapphires are found in Cowee Valley near Franklin.