Tips For Enjoying A Morning In Gatlinburg
Many people, especially Americans, have Gatlinburg on their bucket lists because of its breathtaking natural splendor. The town is among the most picturesque places in the US, according to many people. It embodies the idea of utopia on Earth with its captivating scenery. But there are many ways to appreciate this lovely town that sits in close proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains.
You can arrange a weeklong trip or even just a weekend break with your loved ones, but if you just have a short stay in the city, you’ll need to make meticulous plans. Especially beautiful are the mornings in Gatlinburg as you watch the sunrise over the mesmerizing natural landscape. This is a time to truly embrace the local experience.
Here’s how you can make the best of your mornings in Gatlinburg:
- Start the day with a hearty breakfast
They say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and when you are in a place as awe-inspiring as Gatlinburg, you wouldn’t want to miss the opportunity to enjoy one of the greatest meals you will ever have. This beautiful mountain town offers a wide variety of options you can enjoy while taking in some scenic views of nature.
For the best breakfast in Gatlinburg, you can pick between delectable upscale options, the classic diner experience, or even a wholesome southern meal. Either way, you are in for a treat you will cherish for a long time. Eateries, including Atrium Pancakes, Crockett’s Breakfast Camp, and the Pancake Pantry, are famous in the city for their filling options.
- Plan a sunrise hike
Are you more of an adventurous soul? Well, you have the choice to take your breakfast on the go, sit right amid all that stunning natural beauty and enjoy your breakfast while you watch the sun slowly pop out from behind the Great Smoky Mountains. Since Gatlinburg is the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, there are several hiking options fit for both novice and experienced hikers.
One important thing to consider before taking on this adventure is to plan carefully. Look at the weather forecast so there aren’t any surprises on your way up. Pack appropriate clothing, carry ample water, and keep a trail map so you don’t get lost. Here are a few popular trails that you can explore around Gatlinburg:
- The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail: This 5.5-mile trail takes you through the very heart of the majestic Great Smoky Mountains. Located at a scenic 8-mile drive from the town’s center, the trail is moderately challenging but one of the favorite trips for visitors to Gatlinburg,
- Gatlinburg Trail: The easiest of them all, this hiking route is a relatively modest 2.9 miles long. The round-trip trail runs alongside an old rail bed and winds through the dense forests that make up the Smokes.
- Chimney Tops Trail: This hiking trail embodies the saying that the best views come after the hardest climbs. It takes you to a mountaintop which unparalleled views, but the route is extremely challenging. It is 4 miles in total but is a journey that is absolutely worth every trouble,
- Rainbow Falls Trail: If you are looking for a true “Blue Lagoon” experience, this is the trail for you. Winding for a long 5.4 miles, this route ends at one of the most beautiful waterfalls you will ever see. It is also moderate in terms of hiking difficulty.
- Go horse riding early in the morning
One of the best things about a morning in Gatlinburg is that there are endless possibilities for things to do. The numerous stables in and around the town offer guided trail rides on horseback, allowing you to experience nature from a completely different perspective. Depending on your experience with horse riding, you can choose between beginner and advanced levels.
Every stable in Gatlinburg can have varying parameters and types of trips they offer. These can range from hour-long horseback trips to the forest or a thorough half-day ride to explore the Great Smoky Mountains. Inquire with the stables close to you and carefully evaluate how you want to spend the morning.
While you are at it, ensure you are prepared. Wear strong shoes with closed toes as you run the risk of injury otherwise. Also, since you’ll be riding through forests, ensure you are dressed for the occasion. Some stables can also have height or weight restrictions, another thing to ask about before heading in for a ride.
- Drive through the scenic landscape
Another amazing way to start the day in Gatlinburg is to simply jump in your car and take a drive exploring the Great Smoky Mountains. The town offers some of the most intriguing scenic drives with breathtaking scenery all around you that will give you the early morning rush you need to begin the day refreshingly.
The Newfound Gap Road, in particular, is among the most popular routes for early morning drives from Gatlinburg. It traverses the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, stretching for a spectacular 33 miles, providing breathtaking views of the terrain and streams. You can also stop anytime you want and explore the various points that come along the way. Remember to bring your camera!
- Enjoy some adrenaline-pumping activities
In case you want a morning where the adrenaline just shoots through the roof, don’t worry! Gatlinburg will not disappoint! Two of the most common options you have at your disposal are white water rafting and ziplining. With most facilities opening early in the morning to offer these activities, you can start your day with your heart full of adventure.
There are several rafting spots just a short trip away from Gatlinburg. Similarly, a number of zipline places offer you the experience of enjoying the views of the Great Smoky Mountains while flying through the air. Whichever activity you go for, you will have a great time and build up an excess of energy to spend the rest of the day.
Conclusion
Mornings in Gatlinburg can be soothing or filled with energy, depending on what you like and prefer. There are an almost unlimited amount of experiences for you to choose from, so whether you are on a solo trip, a friend’s weekend, a romantic getaway, or a family vacation, you will have the perfect way to start the day.
