Adventure

Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area Explore 125,000 acres of mountain wilderness on the Cumberland Plateau, including dramatic gorges, waterfalls, and sandstone bluffs; hike or mountain bike back-country trails, ride horses, raft whitewater rivers, and fish; attend the annual "Haunting in the Hills" storytelling festival. 4564 Leatherwood Rd., Oneida, TN; +1 423 286 7275.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Hike more than 800 miles of maintained trails—from beginner paths to challenging treks—in one of the U.S.'s most popular national parks; take a ranger-guided tour to view some of the park's wildflowers, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife (bears, deer, and more); fish for trout, horseback ride, or picnic at one of the many picnic areas. 107 Park Headquarters Rd., Gatlinburg, TN; +1 865 436 1200.

Nantahala Outdoor Center Don rafting gear for whitewater excursions along the Pigeon, Ocoee, French Broad, or Nolichucky Rivers; learn how to canoe and kayak, hike woodland trails, mountain bike, challenge yourself on a ropes course, go fly-fishing. 13077 Hwy. 19 W., Bryson City, TN; +1 888 905 7238. Fee.

Pigeon River Rafting Master the whitewater of Upper Pigeon River or drift along the quieter currents of Lower Pigeon River outside Gatlinburg with such certified outfitters as Rafting the Smokies. 2470 E. Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN: +1 865 436 5008.