Have you been to the Great Smoky Mountains in the springtime yet? Well, what are you waiting for?
The weather is lovely and unpredictable – sometimes there’s even a bit of all four seasons in one day, no joke. The trees are greening, the wildflowers are blooming, the days are longer and sweeter. And, there is SO much to do!
If you’re planning a Smoky Mountains spring break, here’s a list of some of the top family-friendly fun to get into while visiting.
The Entire Mountain Package in One Spot
For the outdoor adventure seekers, the Nantahala Outdoor Center in Bryson City actually offers Spring Break specific tours – whitewater rafting, mountain biking, kayaking courses, the Mountaintop Zipline tours, not to mention a 500-acre campus to explore and enjoy.
Horsing Around
If your clan is more into equestrian activities, definitely check out Stokemont Riding Stables in Cherokee, NC. The types of trails you can ride are as diverse, and fun, as the horses themselves – like Scooter (below). Whether it is “River Crossing Trail”, a “Waterfall and Riverside Trail” or a wagon ride, all ages and skill levels will enjoy the experience here. Spend an hour or five hours seeing the Smokies like the good ole days.
LocoMotion
Sometimes it’s nice to slow it down during Spring Break. Try a ride on the rails, and let the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad do the driving. Departing daily from Bryson City, this 4.5 hour train ride follows the Nantahala River. It includes an hour layover in the Nantahala Gorge for some land adventure before heading back to Bryson City.
Or, stop by Waynesville Recreation Center in Haywood County to wear out those kiddos, especially if the weather takes a turn. This 64,000 sq ft center features a water play park, lap swimming pool, indoor walking track, basketball courts, even weight-lifting.
Critter Lovin’ Crew
Maybe your crew loves the zoo, but you want to show them something more natural. How about a “walk in the woods” to see wildlife in the Great Smokies. On any given day, a good hike can have your family meeting some deer, turkey, fox, and yes, some crazy bugs too. There are great hikes all over the Smokies for all ability and experience levels.
Maybe you want some wildlife in a little more organized fashion? Then visit a tamer variety of critters at the Winchester Creek Farm in Waynesville, NC. This 20-acre family farm raises alpacas, mini-horses, mini-donkeys, mini-cows, sheep, Juliana pigs and more! Cuteness overload warning!!! Take a 45-minute educational tour and meet the sweet animals. These are the memories that will last!
Cruisin on a Sunny Afternoon
And of course, the Great Smoky Mountains are famous for the epic drives where it’s extremely difficult to keep your eyes on the road because of the magnificent mountain and valley views. This road, though, is one you will definitely want to keep your eyes ON. US 129 / The Dragon is an 11-mile stretch of 318 curves bordered by both the Great Smoky Mountains and the Cherokee National Forest, and is a “destination” for motorcyclists and sports car enthusiasts from near and far.
But here’s the thing about driving in the Smokies, every single route is scenic! But, if The Dragon isn’t close enough, check out this collection of scenic drives. Guaranteed beautiful sights that will make you want to leave the city for good
A Real Gem of an Experience
One more kid-approved option and could pay off big for the adults. Gem mining. Yep, it’s a one-of-a-kind thing. Franklin, N.C. is known as the “Gem Capital of the World” with a gem and mineral mining heritage dating back to 1870. (Did you know that New York’s world-famous Tiffany & Co. had a mine here?) Whether you and the fam want to pan for rubies and sapphires, or shop Main St. for jewelry handmade with these native gems, you’re sure to walk away with treasure in this perfect small mountain town.