Sun rays beating down, sand in every nook and cranny, limited real estate for your towel, noisy chatter overpowering the waves, lines out the door…the beach might be the most popular place to spend spring break, but it certainly has its downsides. Why not change things up a bit this year? It’s time to say bye to the beach — and hello to your new spring break in the Great Smoky Mountains!
Get ready for wildflower hikes, spotting bear cubs, and finding the Fairy House in the national park, plus Appalachian springtime events, Parkway attractions, seasonal dishes at local restaurants, and exciting nightlife. There are plenty of things to do with family, college friends, or your partner in the Smokies. Plus, we’ll recommend budget-friendly and amenity-loaded cabin rentals for your memorable spring break in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
Spring Wildflowers + Nature Hikes
As snow melts, waterfalls awaken, bear cubs play, herds graze, birds soar, and tree groves put on their spring best, enchanting wildflowers bloom in the Great Smoky Mountains. According to the National Park Service, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is “a world-renowned preserve of wildflower diversity” — boasting a collection of 1,500+ kinds of flowering plants. That’s more than any other national park in the country! It’s no wonder this park has been nicknamed the “Wildflower National Park.”
Spring Blooms in the Smokies
Tons of flowers open their petals for all to see with the arrival of spring in the Smokies. Visit the national park to see common flowering shrubs and wildflowers up close — including Solomon’s seals, foamflowers, violets, lilies, wild strawberries, fire pinks, orchis, and flame azaleas.
And be sure to keep an eye out for showy trees, like silverbells, dogwoods, tulip trees, and red maples! Whether you’re here for a spring break trip or for a just-because spring getaway, you’ll feel refreshed by these blooming beauties.
Scenic Springtime Hikes in the Smokies
Want to see these gorgeous petals up close? Opt for a walk along a variety of wildflower hiking trails in the Smokies at your leisure. Below are a few roundtrip hikes we recommend for great views of not only the blooming wildflowers but also breathtaking mountain scenes, foraging wildlife, and rushing waterfalls along the way.
- Andrews Bald — 3.5 miles | moderate climb
- Chestnut Top — 8.6 miles | moderate to strenuous
- Deep Creek Loop — 4.6 miles | moderate (3 waterfalls)
- Kanati Fork — 4 miles | moderate
- Rich Mountain Loop — 8.5 miles | moderate to strenuous (most wildflower variety)
Pro tip: protect wildflowers by staying on designated trails and reporting any sightings of others digging for plants (aka plant poaching) to a park ranger.
Hiking Safety Tips
- Never hike alone — stay with your group at all times.
- Tell someone where you’re going and when they can expect you back — if you’re familiar with the area and hike alone.
- Carry a map of the park — taking pictures of maps at trailheads is helpful too!
- Always stay on marked trails for your safety and the preservation of the land.
- Bring a flashlight, first-aid kit, non-perishable snacks, and plenty of water.
- Check the weather before you head out and plan your time accordingly — start early.
- Take layers in case the weather changes — especially for higher elevations.
- Do NOT feed or approach wildlife — DO learn bear safety (below) before heading out!
Where to Spot Black Bears + Adorable Cubs
When winter melts away and springs bursts forth, critters stir, rivers flow, and flowers bloom. Along with bringing animal offspring in abundance, springtime offers plenty of opportunities to see the great symbol of the Smokies: the American black bear.
Adventure with binoculars as you go black bear viewing during your spring break in the Smoky Mountains — safely (tips below)! You may even spot a few raccoons, white-tailed deer, river otters, turkeys, salamanders, and birds of all kinds while you patiently wait to see these majestic creatures.
Adventure with binoculars in the national park, visit Ober Gatlinburg’s Wildlife Encounter, and spot cubs from your cabin as you go black bear viewing during your spring break in the Great Smoky Mountains — safely (tips below)! You may even spot a few raccoons, white-tailed deer, river otters, turkeys, salamanders, and birds of all kinds while you patiently wait to see these majestic creatures.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- Little River Road — an 18-mile stretch that follows the Little River from Gatlinburg to Cades Cove where black bears enjoy fishing
- Cades Cove — a lush valley area where you can easily spot wildlife in the open meadows and clearings from your car, bike, or feet
- Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail — a 1-lane road that takes you from Gatlinburg to Roaring Fork with tons of trees where bear cubs play
Ober Gatlinburg’s Wildlife Habitat
For those wishing to view black bears up close, the wildlife encounter at Ober Mountain is a must-visit. Open 7 days a week from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., it’s a great place to meet and greet with animals. Not only can you see a lovely black bear family mere feet from yours, but there are also many other animal friends to be made — including flying squirrels, turtles, raccoons, bobcats, and owls!
YOUR Cozy Cabin
Many Cabins for YOU guests report black bear sightings in spring — now it’s your turn at one of our cozy cabins in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge. Featuring tons of indoor and outdoor amenity options, you’ll have comfort and entertainment while you wait for the stars of the Smokies to arrive.
Splash in a private indoor pool, soak in a steamy hot tub, watch movies in a home theater, play arcade games, or sip sweet tea in rocking chairs. Pro tips: roll up your windows, keep all food inside, remain indoors for the show, and snap loads of pics!
Check out this adorable black bear mama and her sweet cubs at Creekside Manor!
Tips for Viewing Black Bears
There are currently around 1,900 bears estimated to be in the national park, with additional bears in the Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg areas. For the best black bear viewing experience, follow our tips!
- Bring a pair of binoculars and a camera to zoom in at a safe distance.
- Black bears like to den in tree cavities, so keep an eye on the canopy as well as the forest floor.
- Late spring is best to see little bear cubs (moms usually have 1-4 in winter and bring them out of the den around May).
- Rise and shine as one of the best times to see black bears roam is between 6:00 & 10:00 a.m.
- If you’re not an early bird, opt for afternoon sightings between 3:00 & 7:00 p.m. when it’s cooler and quieter.
Black Bear Safety First!
While black bear viewing in spring is indeed fun, it’s most important to stay safe with our top tips.
- Stay at least 150 feet away from wild black bears — if a bear changes behavior, you are too close.
- Never approach black bears as you are in their territory…it’s quite rude to intrude.
- Do not feed black bears! Becoming comfortable with humans is dangerous for them.
- If a bear follows you, change direction. If it persists, shout and make yourself as big as possible (move to higher ground) and throw non-food objects (like rocks) to scare them.
- NEVER turn away, run, or play dead — fight back!
Fun Outdoor Activities in Spring
Hike to stunning waterfalls, through flower-filled meadows, across subtle streams, and past wondrous wildlife along 800+ miles of trails. Take a scenic drive through Cades Cove or opt for a traditional ride and take in the mountain scenery on horseback.
You can also trek with llamas; ride bicycles; kayak the Little Pigeon River; zipline with mountain vistas; go birdwatching; have a picnic in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park; and fish for all kinds of trout!
2025 Springtime Events in the Smokies
Plan to attend Smoky Mountain events on your spring break in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge when sunlight melts snow, flowers blossom, and wildlife stirs. Springtime in the Smokies brings annual favs and new fun to Appalachia. From arts and crafts to friendly (and fierce) competitions to car shows and themed festivals, the Smokies presents entertaining events for every age and interest when spring is in full bloom!
- Great Smoky Easter Arts & Crafts Show — paintings, candles, baskets, etc. | March 18-23
- Pigeon Forge Spring Rod Run — hot rods, vendors &entertainment | April 10-12
- Annual Mountain Man Memorial March — march/run honoring our heroes | April 12
- Dollywood Flower & Food Festival — flowers, seasonal food & music | April 18 – June 8
- Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage — classes, guided hikes & workshops | April 23-26
- Hands-On Gatlinburg — classes focused on local crafts | May 2-4
Family-Friendly Things to Do
When we think of spring break, the first image to mind typically shows tons of youngsters flooding the beaches and going (to put it mildly) out of control. And for those of us with kiddos and teens, that’s the last thing we want them to experience, whether on vacation or not. Breaking away from the beachy tradition — play at family-friendly attractions in Appalachia on your spring break in Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg!
Explore Anakeesta Mountain
A magical place in the Smokies, Gatlinburg’s Anakeesta is a mountaintop adventure park! Journey to the tippy top of Anakeesta Mountain aboard the innovative chondola (chairlift + gondola), then explore Firefly Village — featuring shops, eateries, and stunning views of the Mt. LeConte range.
Race your bestie on the dueling ziplines, zoom downhill on the mountain coaster, stroll through the treetops 40-60 feet in the air, and teach your kiddos how the American Goldfinch builds its home with a visit to Treehouse Village!
Spend a Day at Dollywood
Constantly rolling in guests and out great big smiles, Dollywood is a staple theme park in Pigeon Forge, TN. Take a VIP tour, visit an interactive museum, ride the Dollywood Express, greet bald eagles at the Eagle Mountain Sanctuary, and scream at the top of your lungs on wild roller coasters!
Between all the excitement, jam to live musical performances, savor traditional Southern flavors around every corner, pick out special souvenirs from one-of-a-kind shops, and watch master craftsmen in their element.
Play at Ober Gatlinburg
Get ready for outdoor adventures and indoor fun at Ober Mountain, a mountaintop amusement park in Gatlinburg, TN. Ride the scenic aerial tram to the top, then let the good times never end! Skate or bump cars on the year-round ice rink, soar down the mountain coaster, glide on the 1,800-foot Alpine Slide, shop until you drop, and dine with majestic mountain views…for starters.
The kiddos will have a blast no matter where you explore, and they’ll really love rides just their size (even a train!) plus Kiddie Land — a FREE playground!
Ooh & Aah at Ripley’s Aquarium
While you may not be heading to the beach, you’ll still have an ocean view at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies — featuring 2 levels brimming with sea life and cute critters from around the world! Gaze as sharks glide past overhead, see schooling fish sway, look closely for the elusive octopus, come face to face with adorable penguins, and help your littlest find Nemo…and Dory.
There are also many interactive experiences, such as the Glass Bottom Boat Adventure over Shark Lagoon and the Discovery Center, where you can pet horseshoe crabs and moon jellies!
Peruse The Island
Home to The Escape Game, Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen, and The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, The Island in Pigeon Forge is worth a full day’s exploration. Browse 35+ boutiques and quaint shops, snack and dine to your heart’s content with 18 restaurants and small eateries, and enjoy 27 possible activities.
From climbing a ropes course to snapping an old-time photo to solving cases at the Alcatraz East Museum, this is just the beginning of the family fun in store at The Island!
Stroll Parrot Mountain & Gardens
For another outdoor attraction that’s full of flowers, plants, trees, and tropical birds by the hundreds, visit Parrot Mountain and Gardens in Pigeon Forge. This unique attraction is like walking through a live scene from one of Thomas Kinkade’s paintings — they even offer a replica of his “Stairway to Paradise.”
Psst…be on the lookout for the secret garden and a chance to feed baby birds!
Shop, Shoppe, Shopping!
Add to your teenager’s bedroom collection with Smoky Mountain souvenirs, grow your style with pieces from country-chic boutiques, and enjoy spending quality time browsing and chatting through local shops in downtown Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.
- The Village Shops — European-style shopping village with 27 shops
- The Island — shopping & entertainment complex with 40+ experiential stores
- Pigeon Forge Factory Outlet Mall — quaint shops under the red roof!
- The Mountain Mile — home to 33 themed shops & thrill rides
- The Old Mill — country-style complex with shopping & food
More Family-Friendly Options
While our top attractions and shops above will provide more than plenty to do with your whole family this spring break in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, we understand they may not be everyone’s cup of tea. So, we’ve compiled a bonus list of family-friendly spring break attractions!
- Dig’n Zone Theme Park — heavy equipment rides, food trucks & kiddy playground
- Dolly Parton’s Stampede — horse-riding stunts & live entertainment with a hearty Southern meal
- Flyaway Indoor Skydiving — free-fall simulator & adrenaline-filled experience
- Foxfire Mountain Adventure Park — ziplining, swinging bridges & hiking trails
- FunStop Family Action Park — go-karts, thrill rides & arcade games
- Gatlinburg Space Needle — observation tower with stunning Smoky Mountain views
- Lumberjack Feud Show & Adventure Park — action-packed lumberjack show & obstacle courses
- MagiQuest — interactive role-playing game with magic wands!
- Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show — swashbuckling adventure, acrobatics & a pirate-themed feast
- Rowdy Bear Mountain — adventure park with mountain coasters & a laser gun coaster
- TopJump Trampoline & Extreme Arena — indoor trampolines, a ninja course & climbing arena
- WonderWorks — hands-on science exhibits, laser tag & upside-down fun
College Fun on Spring Break
Sip and laugh at wineries, breweries, and distilleries. Go axe throwing in downtown Pigeon Forge. Plan outdoor adventures with tons of hiking trails. Race go-karts, beat high scores at arcades, and shop for hours at Appalachian outlets…for starters. Paired with great mountain vistas at Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg cabins — loaded with game tables, big screen TVs, hot tubs, indoor pools, and full kitchens for meals, drinks, and late-night snacks — the Great Smoky Mountains is the perfect place for a college spring break!
Daytime Playtime
Now that finals are over, let loose and have some fun on your spring break in the Smokies. Downtown Pigeon Forge has laser tag, country chic shops, indoor skydiving, the Hollywood Wax Museum, the Titanic Museum Attraction, The Escape Game (try breaking out of prison), and Outbreak – Dread the Undead, a haunted house where you run from zombies!
If you love the great outdoors, head for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to hike, bike, picnic, fish, or go horseback riding. Splash at water parks, kayak rivers, or go whitewater rafting! With more things to do in Gatlinburg, Sevierville, and Wears Valley, there’s no shortage of fun activities for your group.
Nightlife in Town
By day, Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg are all attractions. At night, bars serve specialty drinks for those 21 and over, and breweries have live music and late-night food fit for spring break in the Smoky Mountains.
- Dude’s Daiquiris at The Island in Pigeon Forge — offers outdoor seating to hang out and sip cocktails
- Loco Burro — boasts a rooftop patio to party with your friends
- Margaritaville — features island-inspired food and a giant blender that starts every time “It’s 5 O’clock Somewhere” plays
- No Way Jose’s in Gatlinburg — the ideal place when you’re in the mood for Mexican and margaritas!
- Puckers Sports Grill — plays sports non-stop on HDTVs and offers pool tables, darts, and a DJ!
Fun at the Cabin | Pool, Hot Tub & More!
Cabins for YOU has tons of Smoky Mountain cabin rentals to keep you comfy and entertained on your getaway. Whether you’re on a road trip with a few friends or planning your spring break vacation with a huge group, a cabin in the Smokies is a great option to keep everyone together, save cash on dining out, and enjoy a memorable experience.
Hop in a bubbly hot tub, chat around a firepit, splash in a private indoor pool, relax in rocking chairs on the decks, toss some veggie burgers or steaks on a grill, or host movie nights in a home theater. Many of our Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge cabins also have game tables, and some feature huge rec rooms with air hockey, pool, foosball, shuffleboard, arcade games, and more!
Budget-Friendly Entertainment
Ready to leave winter behind and finally get out of the house and explore this spring? If yes, but I can’t afford… is the start of your answer, stop right there! YOU deserve a memorable cabin stay in the Great Smoky Mountains — and we can help.
Imagine sipping coffee with mountain views, soaking in a bubbly hot tub under the stars, playing at in-town attractions, snapping pics of wondrous wildlife, and getting loads of freebies — on a budget! Here’s the scoop on affordable accommodations plus inexpensive and free things to do in beautiful Appalachia.
Budget Cabins — Our Top Tips!
How can you enjoy a spring vacation in the Smoky Mountains on a budget? Start with budget-friendly cabins that offer more than just a place to stay.
- Take advantage of starter kit items (toilet paper, dish soap, etc.) — included with every stay!
- Cook in the fully equipped kitchen instead of going out to eat for every meal.
- Skip the laundromat and use the washer/dryer as needed — most cabins have this.
- Keep everyone entertained with game tables and movies on a big screen TV.
- Relax with soaks in a hot tub, baths in an indoor jetted tub, or tranquil views from decks.
- Pick a cabin near downtown or the national park to save on gas or walk to town.
- Get a discounted stay, free attraction tickets, and more — with Vacations for YOU Rewards.
Affordable Things to Do in Appalachia
While you could spend your spring vacation playing and relaxing indoors and outdoors at your budget-friendly cabin, we do recommend heading into town for a little fun too. And the best part is it’s affordable! From perusing unique shops and checking out local crafts to walking through a tree canopy and dining with a show, exciting attractions in town are well within your reach.
Visit The Old Mill Square
Take in the historic Old Mill and enjoy window shopping, homemade candy, a wishing fountain, and affordable Southern-style meals at The Old Mill Restaurant. The Old Mill Square is free to explore and photo friendly!
Meet Locals in the Crafts Community
Home to the largest group of independent artisans in the country, the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community has plenty of galleries, boutiques, live demos, and eateries to keep everyone entertained all day on this 8-mile loop.
Stroll The Island
Enjoy mesmerizing fountain shows for free, browse 40+ shops (one offers a magic trick for those who enter), watch the kids smile around The Flying Carousel (just $6 per person), enjoy free wine tastings, and sample 13 different shades of moonshine for only $5.
Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The most-visited national park in the country offers entry at no charge and only $5/day for parking with Park It Forward. Lace up your hiking boots, spot eagles at Clingmans Dome, bring your bicycle from home, browse the mini museum at the Sugarlands Visitor Center, lead Fido along a dog-friendly path, or pack a picnic for a spring meal riverside.
Freebies in the Smokies!
What’s better than affordable pricing and discounts? Freebies! Yeah, when something’s FREE…it’s somehow more enjoyable. And there are plenty of no-cost things to do in the Great Smoky Mountains in spring — including riding the Gatlinburg Trolley!
Enjoy Free Wine Tastings & a Gift
The Rocky Top Wine Trail features 4 wineries and a cider house in the Pigeon Forge and Sevierville area — some even offer free wine cellar tours. Collect stamps at all 5 locations for a free wine glass!
Attend Appalachian Events
Many spring events don’t cost a dime, including car shows, a chuckwagon competition, a trout fishing tournament, an Easter arts and crafts show, the Mountain Man Memorial March, and parades.
Play at Patriot Park in Pigeon Forge
This peaceful spot with walking trails, grassy space to play with the kids, and picnic areas is located along the Little Pigeon River — great for a no-cost outing that pairs perfectly with takeout from a local restaurant.
Cruise with Mountain Views
Skip paying for parking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park — with free driving tours like Cades Cove Loop, Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, and Newfound Gap Road. These routes feature stunning views, historic sites, and wildlife, providing unforgettable experiences for visitors at no cost.
Romantic Diversions
The scent of wildflowers all around, a glimpse of a heartfelt smile, genuine laughter mixed with captivating conversation, candlelit dinners, and spa nights…love is in the Smoky Mountain air! As winter recedes and spring blooms forth, you and your dearest will be itching to get out of the house and away from it all.
So, why not enjoy a romantic spring getaway together? From outdoor activities and indoor attractions to entertaining dinners and romantic cabin nights, the Smokies is the perfect spring vacation destination! Need a few romantic ideas for your spring break vacation in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge, TN? Easy.
Hold Hands on a Scenic Stroll
Enjoy the enchanting sights and sounds of the Smokies with a professionally guided hike through the forest, courtesy of A Walk in the Woods. You can experience the immeasurable beauty of local wildflowers in full bloom along the Spring Wildflower Walk with your partner.
Go Wine Tasting Together
Perhaps you and your sweetheart would prefer another kind of trail…off nature’s path, like a wine-tasting walk downtown on the Rocky Top Wine Trail. With 70+ wines to sample, complimentary wine cellar tours at select locations, and a free gift, extend your “hike” over a few days and enjoy delectable meals in between.
Visit Picturesque Spots
Start slow with a roundtrip ride to the top of Crockett Mountain on the Gatlinburg SkyLift — complete with panoramic, breathtaking views of the entire city and the Smokies beyond. Pull a classic romantic move with a sunset ride and sweet kiss atop the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel at The Island. And throw in a bit of excitement with Scenic Helicopter Tours, offering one-of-a-kind views of the national park, local cities, and more!
Plan a Classic Mini-Golf Date
Turn to yet another time-honored classic with a round of mini-golf indoors — or on the roof this time of year — at Crave Golf Club. Afterward, grab a tantalizing treat to go from the Sweet Shop. They even offer miniature bowling, so cute!
Spice Up Dinner with a Show!
Why not make dinnertime exceptional with a dinner show downtown? From Southern meals and delicious desserts to endless grins and belly laughter, it’s a perfect way to end the night. Try Dolly Parton’s Stampede, Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show, or the Great Smoky Mountain Murder Mystery.
Romance Each Other at a Cozy Cabin
Pull up to a secluded cabin in the Smokies, where romance is on a whole other level. Enjoy morning coffee and heart-shaped pancakes with sunrise mountain views. Book midday in-cabin massages or a dinner for 2 prepared by a personal chef. In the evenings, soak in the hot tub, sip champagne with a romantic comedy, or plan a candlelit spa night in the jetted tub.
Spring Break Cabins for YOU
Whether you want to spend quality time with the whole family, catch up with a group of friends, or sneak away with your sweetheart, Cabins for YOU has you covered with a comfortable place to relax in the Smokies on spring break.
With 450+ options of all shapes and sizes — ranging from 1-16 bedrooms and including budget rentals, luxury lodges, pet-friendly cabins, and large group vacation rentals — we would love the opportunity to help plan your spring stay. Plus, we offer top-notch amenities to make your stay extra relaxing and fun — from rolling mountain views and an outdoor hot tub to a fully loaded rec room and a private indoor pool!
Need help planning your memorable Smoky Mountain spring break vacation? Fill out our easy Options for YOU form to have cabin options sent straight to you or chat with your personal Vacation Specialist at 1.800.684.7865 to get the ball rolling…before summer takes over!
Don’t miss out! Bump the beach tradition and make this spring break one to remember — with wildflowers in the most-visited national park, free events, exciting attractions, chic shops, wine tasting, and ace amenities at your Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg cabin rental — in the Great Smoky Mountains today!