When was the last time you heard about US travel destinations on a list of must-see places? For far too long, locations in mainland America have been ignored and forgotten. This article aims to remind US citizens (or visitors) that the states have many opportunities as far as travel and outdoor activities are concerned. In this piece, we will solely be talking about the Tennessee Mountains and a little town called Pigeon Forge nestled in the Smokies. 

Let’s think inside the figurative box this time and consider all the things that the southern mountains have to offer. Not only are you saving a ton of money compared to international travel, but there is a raw American charm concerning these mountains. It’s always a great idea to see what your country has to offer before traveling abroad. With that said, keep an open mind, and let’s get down to why you should visit Pigeon Forge.

Here are some fun outdoor activities to keep yourself occupied in the Smokies. 

Visit the Rowdy Bear Amusement Park 

When it comes to fun in the mountains, an amusement park might be one of the best ways to spend your time. Not only does it give you a chance to unwind, but it’s a great way to keep the kids occupied if you are on a family vacation. The park has been rated the number one amusement park in the mountains and continues to attract thousands of visitors from around the country.
That’s one thing you can check off your list when it comes to things to do in pigeon forge.  A nature retreat doesn’t always have an action-filled itinerary, but something like this can change things up and make the entire trip that much more fulfilling. 

When visiting the park, it would be best if you maintained all covid-related protocols to ensure that your trip doesn’t get cut short. Other than that, we all have a civilian duty to help curb the virus; therefore, even though you are on vacation, play your part and protect your own and others’ safety. 

Hiking in the mountains

The mountains are entirely at your disposal. It would be a shame if you let this time go to waste and didn’t explore everything nature had to offer. There is a special mundane charm of the mountains that you can only experience if you are willing to traverse the landscape.
An overwhelming sense of peace is what you can expect when hiking through the mountains, and a newfound appreciation for nature will soon follow. 

However, when hiking or walking through a natural path, make sure you have safety gear on you. A stick, knife, or any other emergency defense item is a must when you are this close to nature. Also, never make the mistake of leaving your phone at your resort. You never know what can happen when you are out in the great outdoors, so make sure you always have a means of communication. 

A drive through the winding roads

Mountains always have winding roads which have forever intrigued visitors. The twists and turns may cause motion sickness in some, but it’s a chance to experience the mountain up close and personally for others. A mere drive in the Smokies is all it takes to clear your mind and appreciate the greater things in life.
Rent a nice comfortable car, fill it up with a few gallons of gas and drive as far and long as you want. Let the fresh mountain breeze encompass the car. These are special things that you might never get to experience in the big city. 

The entire thing about a nature retreat in the mountains is to keep It as naturally authentic as possible. Very few people know what nature has to offer, and you happen to be one of them. This is also a great time to teach your children about the importance of climate change and natural preservation. 

White water rafting 

White water rafting in the Smokies is an extremely thrilling experience. Of course, nature retreats have a certain somber vibe to them, and the fast-paced action of white-water rafting doesn’t always tie in. Who says you can’t change things up a bit? Rafting in the Smokies will be one of the most thrilling experiences you have ever experienced.
However, it is important that you make sure all your belongings are kept safe before entering the raft. The number of cell phones and cameras that fall in the water on trips like these will surprise you. 

Moreover, it Is important that you follow the guide’s instructions and always maintain safety protocols. This is an extremely dangerous adventure if you don’t follow instructions. Make sure you have all the relevant gear required and listen to what the guides say. 

Sit back and enjoy the sunset

Passively digesting the natural environment and landscape is also a great way to enjoy yourself on this trip. Sometimes we undervalue how profound and awe-inspiring it can be to digest nature while passively sitting around.
Imagine sitting with a cup of tea or coffee and watching the sun disappearing over the mist and mountains. Not only is that a momentarily grounding experience, but it’s also one you will probably remember for the rest of your life. 

Just because you aren’t walking, hiking, or actively doing things in the mountains doesn’t mean you can’t have a fun time. Make sure you take time out to appreciate the little things and passively digest the environment. 

Conclusion

With travel season fast approaching, now would be the perfect time to book your tickets and reserve your rooms. You don’t know when you might get the chance to experience something like this, so seize the opportunity while you have the chance. 

From visiting theme parks to driving to the mountains and watching the sunset, we have talked about several ideas that can make your trip to the mountains worthwhile. Remember, you set the pace of your trip and are the center of this entire activity. Don’t get stressed out, don’t let anyone dictate anything (unless it’s your tour guide), and enjoy nature to its fullest. 

Always stay safe. The mountains are, in essence, raw nature. Respect it that way.