The Closest Beach To Knoxville, TN: Know The Best Getaways

Sep 20, 2023

Last Updated on: Jun 10, 2025

Travel Guides

Does Tennessee have a beach? No, it does not. 

For the longest time, I have been planning a long beach holiday. And something or else will always turn up ruining the plan. 

The kids have their exams and there are family commitments. So, our beach vacation was always limited to Douglas Lake or Cherokee Lake. 

However, I had done my research on the closest beach to me and this time, we had a long weekend. 

So our road led to Sullivan’s Island, the closest beach to Knoxville, TN. Having said that, there are many beaches near Knoxville TN. 

For example, Myrtle Beach in South Carolina is one of the most popular ocean beaches near Tennessee. We also have Folly Beach in South Carolina and Oak Island in North Carolina. 

In today’s Tour and Travel blog, we will talk about the beaches close to Knoxville TN, and tell you why they are most suitable for the ultimate Tennessee beach vacation.

What Is The Closest Beach To Knoxville Tennessee? 

What Is The Closest Beach To Knoxville Tennessee? 

Our journey to the closest beaches to Knoxville TN will start from Sullivan’s Island, as promised. 

However, before taking you on a tour of these beaches, I wanted to share the best time to visit the closest beach from Knoxville TN. 

Knoxville primarily has two tourist seasons. You can visit the closest beach to Knoxville, TN between March and June and September to November. 

So, let’s begin the ultimate Knoxville beach journey. Here we go! 

1. Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina

Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina
  • Distance from Knoxville: 380.4 Miles
  • Travel Time: 6 Hours

I was looking for ocean beaches within 6 hours of me, and I found out Sullivan’s Island. It is a barrier island with an area of around 8.91 km². 

Further, Sullivan’s Island, the closest beach to TN, stands out with its local history. It has Fort Moultrie, built in 1776 and it still tells the story of how it protected the city from the cannonball attacks of the warships. 

Moreover, Sullivan’s Island is important in the history of literature. Edgar Allan Poe was stationed at Fort Moultrie between November 1827 to December 1828.

2. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
  • Distance from Knoxville: 412 Miles
  • Travel Time: 6 Hours 46 Minutes

Sitting in Knoxville, I was looking for beaches within 7 hours of me. I found the name of Myrtle Beach in South Carolina. 

Myrtle Beach is nothing short of a fantasy island and it was once the hub of pirates. Further, Myrtle Beach is associated with the Indigenous people and roaming ghosts. 

A visit to Myrtle Beach is incomplete without exploring the Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach. Further, you must spend some time at the Myrtle Beach State Park, and Myrtle Beach Pinball Museum. 

3. Folly Beach, South Carolina

Folly Beach, South Carolina
  • Distance from Knoxville: 383 Miles
  • Travel Time: 6 Hours 35 Minutes 

Folly Beach, one of the closest beaches to Knoxville, is the ultimate destination to stay, eat, play. and explore! 

Further, life on Folly Beach revolves around outdoor activities. From a casual stroll on the beach to more adventurous activities like surfing, boating, kayaking, and biking, Folly Beach offers you the opportunity to enjoy the best beach vacation. 

Moreover, Folly Beach is a wonderful melting pot of modern entertainment and exploring wildlife. You can attend the Annual Folly Festivals and take part in birdwatching and exploring wildlife. 

Blu Restaurant And Bar, Bert’s Market, and Bounty Bar are some popular places to eat on Folly Beach. 

4. Kiawah Island, South Carolina

Kiawah Island, South Carolina
  • Distance from Knoxville: 396.5 Miles
  • Travel Time: 6 Hours 30 Minutes

Kiawah Island with a majority of marshland, is located at a distance of 6 hours and 16 minutes by car from Knoxville. 

To emphasize the adventure, let me tell you that the beach is often used for native wildlife watching!

Several locations across the beach are perfect if you are looking for wildlife spotting! The two locations popular for this purpose on the beach are Canvasback Duck Pond and Marsh Island Park.

What’s more, there are two scenic observation towers in Kiawah where you will get a 360-degree view of the sea and land! 

If you are a hiker or like to bike, this beach is perfect! They have natural paths for these types of adventures.

For accommodation, there is a private 2nd story deck that you can rent to enjoy some stunning ocean views. 

There is one popular restaurant called Jasmine Porch where you can splurge on good food, especially the Low-country favorites such as shrimp and grits, she-crab bisque, fresh seafood, po’boys, and burgers!

5. Isle Of Palms, South Carolina

Isle Of Palms, South Carolina
  • Distance from Knoxville: 383 Miles
  • Travel Time: 6 Hours 30 Minutes

There is a playground for children, so this is the perfect destination if you have kids. 

There is also a picnic area, so if you plan to spend the whole day out, you can go to this beach. For accommodation, there is a single-family cottage which is well decorated!

Food is another important part of the vacation, so I suggest the Sea Biscuit Cafe! Try out the seafood omelets, shrimp, and gravy because these are the low-country options.

6. Hilton Head, South Carolina

Hilton Head, South Carolina
  • Distance from Knoxville: 411 Miles
  • Travel Time: 6 Hours 32 Minutes

You have to visit this beach for the best sunsets across the water! In a distance of 6 hours, 26 minutes from Knoxville, the coastal paradise is someplace to be visited. 

If you are planning on staying the night, there is a resort rental that you can book. You can enjoy the outdoor and indoor pool, a tiki bar, etc.

You must catch the coastal area food, especially crab cakes, sandwiches, shrimp, grits, and salads. 

7. Oak Island, North Carolina

Oak Island, North Carolina
  • Distance from Knoxville: 441.5 Miles
  • Travel Time: 7 Hours 14 Minutes

If you are looking for a scenic beach, Oak Island is the place to visit for all adventurous activities. 

Water sports are quite famous here, along with that, you can see Fort Caswell, used in the 1800s and 1900s. This is one of the beaches near Knoxville TN!

You will take 7 hours and 8 minutes to reach the beach and can visit the island lighthouse, which is situated just beside the fort. 

There is a perfect walk to enjoy Oak Island Nature Center at the beach, so if you are a nature lover, you know where to go!

Further, adventures such as kayaking are the thing to do as an outdoor adventure sport. Many family homes and rentals are at a distance of the March beach, providing incredible views across the beach.

If you visit the beach, you must try out scrumptious food items such as steak, chicken, and pasta, apart from the delicious seafood.

8. Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina

Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina
  • Distance from Knoxville: 442 Miles

The beach is a little farther from Knoxville, TN, as it takes about 7 hours and 23 minutes. 

There are three beaches in Wilmington: Kure, Carolina, and Wrightsville. All the beaches qualify as some of the best beaches near Knoxville.

Apart from common activities such as shopping and dining, there are interesting activities to perform, such as going on catamaran cruises, visiting the History Museum, and attending fairs and seasonal festivals.

The Fred and Alice Stanback Coastal Education Center organizes educational programs and treasure hunts for children. 

IIn terms of food, you will find some of the best cheeseburgers at this closest beach to Knoxville, TN! If you are a picky eater, you will find various options, from steaks to seafood platters.

9. Kure Beach, North Carolina, Closest Beach To Knoxville, TN

Kure Beach, North Carolina, Closest Beach To Knoxville, TN 
  • Distance from Knoxville: 449.5 Miles
  • Travel Time: 7 Hours 30 Minutes

The beach at Kure is beautiful, apart from the North Carolina Aquarium, which is situated at Fort Fisher. 

Significant features are located at the beach, such as a nature play area, an adventure reef, and touch tanks.

This beach is located at a distance of 7 hours and 31 minutes. 

Apart from the beach, you can also visit places such as the historical site of the Civil War Museum, the Fort Fisher State Site, beach cruises, a dog park, and a playground in front of the beach.

You cannot miss the food such as burgers, sandwiches, seafood and pasta! I am already drooling!

10. Tybee Island, Georgia: Closest Beach To Knoxville, TN

Tybee Island, Georgia: Closest Beach To Knoxville, TN
  • Distance from Knoxville: 434 Miles
  • Travel Time: 7 Hours

The beach is located at a distance of 6 hours and 55 minutes by road from Knoxville. Some of the place’s main attractions are the restaurants and the quaint little shops. 

The beach is popular for people finding their relaxing haunt near Tennessee. Considering, it is the closest beach to Tennessee!

It is a low-key beach situated just outside of Savanah! Apart from relaxing on the beach, you can also access different amenities in Savanah, such as museums, historic architecture, upscale shops, ghost tours, and other attractions perfect for family outings.

Beautiful rentals are close to the beach and a 1-minute distance from where you can enjoy some stunning visuals. 

The food available in and around the place is quite popular! One such restaurant is located near the waterfront called Bubba Gumbo.

The seafood Gumbo is their signature dish! You can also order fried fish, jambalaya, burgers, and crab cakes. They also popularly serve shrimp.

11. Simon’s Island, Georgia: Closest Beach To Knoxville, TN

  • Distance from Knoxville: 491.2 Miles
  • Travel Time: 7 Hours 32 Minutes

The beach is situated at a distance of 7 hours and 42 minutes from Knoxville, TN! The beach Oasis is a perfect place to relax, especially with all the amenities present to make your life easier. 

The Neptune Park Fun Zone here is for family attractions.

You can also find a store to rent accessories for water sports restaurants, and several shops provide you with good food and the necessary equipment for the beach vacation, such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and others.

There is one family beach rental along with its private swimming pool. The rental can host a family, which is pretty close to the lighthouse. 

You cannot miss the delicious food available on this closest beach to Knoxville, TN! Once such a restaurant opens, Porch offers fried catfish, shrimp, and fried chicken.

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Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!

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READ MORE can you bring cologne on a plane

Can You Bring Cologne On A Plane? – Let’s Find Out!

BY  sagnika Jun 26, 2023

Have you recently traveled via airplane? Do you want to know can you bring cologne on a plane? This article will list the rules the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) established regarding carrying perfume or cologne. You can read the rules and regulations of the TSA related to carrying Cologne on airplanes and the reasons for the specific restrictions. Staying aware of the information is important because cologne comes in different forms, such as aerosols, gels, and liquids. The facts related to carrying cologne are important because it is not just about bringing it for your personal use. At times, if you are holidaying or on a work trip, you can buy new cologne for yourself, family, and friends for gift purposes. It is because some cologne is specifically available in specific countries. Following these rules and regulations ensures that you will not face any issues while boarding or in the screening process. It also provides that there are no risks inside the aircraft due to carrying cologne. Can You Bring Cologne On A Plane? Let's Discuss The reason due carrying cologne is identified as a risk is because cologne is inflammable. It can be of any form, such as liquid, gel, lotion, or aerosol; however, if it leaks and comes into contact with any flammable substance, it poses a significant risk for all passengers and crew members. When there is a question, can you bring perfume on a plane? yes, but with restrictions. It is due to the alcohol content in cologne that there is a high probability of risking catching fire in the aircraft. Considering the plane is an enclosed space, there are high probabilities of risks. It is, therefore, important for all passengers and crew members to be careful, aware, and vigilant. You must be careful as a traveler to use containers protected by caps or other means to prevent any accidental leakage. It applies to nasal sprays, sanitizers, massaging liquor, aerosol and fluid medication, and nail polish. Rules By Transportation Security Administration (TSA) For Cologne The rule of 100 ml bottles in carry-on bags applies to most countries, such as the USA, Europe, China, Canada, India, The United Kingdom, New Zealand, and Australia. If you want to carry a lot of perfume or cologne, especially as a gift, you must split it into different containers. The original packaging of the cologne must also be carried so that the officers do not raise any issues during the security screening. At times, carrying a lot of liquid, gel, lotion, or aerosol can raise suspicion; hence, limiting the amount of cologne you have is important. Can you bring perfume on a plane? Is there another question you must have? Perfume and cologne both come under the same category. All types of colognes are allowed on the plane. However, there are limits to how they must be carried. The TSA officers should be confident regarding the quantity of perfume you carry. Can You Bring Cologne On A Plane? According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), the rule for carrying any liquid, including cologne, in a carry-on bag or handbag is that the liquid must be 3.4 ounces. 3.4 ounces means 100 ml, which applies to all liquids, aerosols, lotions, and gels. The rule is called 3-1-1, where the 3.4 ounces of liquid should be carried in 1 transparent quart-sized bag, which applies only to one passenger. There are no specific requirements regarding carrying the cologne in the checked baggage. However, cologne in liquid, aerosol, gel, or lotion form can be risky; therefore, it must be within the limit of 17 ounces or 500 ml in one container if it is in liquid form. If the form is in gel or lotion, the quantity must not exceed 18 ounces or 0.5 kg. According to the TSA, you cannot carry more than 2 kg of gel or lotion or 2 L of liquid of the aggregate quantity of cologne in the checked baggage. Can The Cologne Be Used During The Flight? The rules for flying internationally and domestically are the same except if you travel domestically to New Zealand or Australia. New CT scanners in New Zealand and Australia make it easier for passengers to follow one rule of carrying 500 ml containers. The smaller container of 100 ml is only sometimes implemented in these countries overall, helping the passengers to follow the TSA rules. It also does not matter in which type of container you carry the perfume, be it glass, plastic, or metal. It is important to declare if you are returning to your home country while buying a lot of cologne or perfume from a foreign country for security and screening purposes. During the flight, perfume or cologne can be used. It is, however, necessary to remember not to spray on other passengers. So, It is better to apply the perfume in the bathroom. It is better to wait a bit in the bathroom so that the airplane can cycle out. You can also wipe your skin with a paper towel and water so it is not overpowering. It also saves you from the risk of catching fire in a crisis! Packaging Tips For Cologne In Plane Avoid any cologne-related issues, especially such as spillage leading to severe risks. As a traveler, you should be cautious and follow the rules and regulations established by the TSA. When packing a cologne or perfume bottle, you must put a lid on the bottle's nozzle. You can also put the fragrance bottle in a zip-lock bag and try to remove all air from the zip-lock bag. Put the cologne inside the zip-lock. In soft clothing, you must also cover or wrap the zip-lock bag with the fragrance bottle. Sealing the bottle or the cologne container in the checked baggage is important. Please carry a cologne bottle that is travel size and be observant with regards to putting the cologne bottle near a hard object. There are refillable containers available on Amazon that can be used to carry cologne. Even the small test samples for cologne are also applicable when carrying perfume on a trip via airplane. Read More: Can You Bring Deodorant On A Plane? – Read This Blog To Know! Bringing Duty-free Cologne On A Plane There are no restrictions on duty-free cologne on a plane; hence, it can be carried effectively. It is also important to remember that it might not apply to the handbag rule but to the rule of checked baggage. Can I take Cologne on a plane? Yes, you can. Duty-Free products can be carried in shopping bags allowed by the airlines; hence, you would not face any issues regarding that as long as you follow the rule of the quantity of the checked baggage for liquids, aerosols, gels, and lotions. Conclusion In the article, you have been made aware of the rules maintained by the TSA regarding cologne carrying on the plane. It also has information about the risks and how to be mindful. Let us know in the comments regarding your experience of carrying cologne on a plane. Read Also: Can You Bring A Razor On A Plane? Find The Answer Here! Can You Bring A Lighter On A Plane? Know It All Here! Avelo Airlines Reviews You Were Looking For!   Is Spirit Airlines Safe? Get Your Answer Here!

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The Glaciers of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park: Experience The Magnificence Of Nature 

BY  Sibashree Aug 9, 2024

Wrangell-St. Elias, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an icy wonderland. It is a place where active volcanoes and the largest glaciers, like Malaspina, coexist, making it “A Song of Ice and Fire.”  It also has some of the greatest mountain ranges in the world and mighty rivers. Further, unique geological features and weather conditions have made the national park a land of biodiversity and wilderness with a lot of mammals, birds, fish, and plants.  Let me take you on a tour of the Wrangell-St. Elias glaciers and everything the national park has to offer.   What Are The Notable Glaciers In Wrangell-St. Elias?  Nabesna Glacier, Malaspina Glacier, and Hubbard Glacier are the most notable ones in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.   Along with these glaciers, you can also see glacier features like glacier caves, Jökulhlaups, and ice falls. Let’s briefly discuss the major glaciers and glacier features.   Malaspina Glacier Did you know that Malaspina Glacier is the “largest Piedmont glacier in the world?” Designated as a National Natural Landscape in 1968, it spans across 1,075,409 acres.   Further, its glacial mechanisms and fluctuations have made it a favorite of explorers. The glacier is also a favorite of space travelers as it looks vibrant from space.   In an article published by NASA Earth Observatory on 27th October 2023, we can find,  “The dark blueish-purple lines on the ice are moraines—areas where soil, rock, and other debris have been scraped up by the glacier and deposited along its edges. The zigzag pattern of the debris is caused by changes in the ice’s velocity. Glaciers in this area of Alaska periodically “surge” or lurch forward for one to several years. As a result of this irregular flow, the moraines can fold, compress, and shear to form the characteristic textures seen on Malaspina.”  Hubbard Glacier  Hubbard, “the sleeping giant,” is the largest when it comes to the tidewater glaciers in North America (75 miles long). The glacier gets its name from Gardiner Hubbard, National Geographic Society’s first president.   Also called the “Galloping Glacier,” it comes with tranquil blue ice. You can explore Hubbard Glacier through a cruise trip.   Visiting the Hubbard Glacier becomes more exciting as you meet the sea otters, whales, sea lions, and bears along the route.   Nabesna Glacier  With a length of 53 miles, Nabesna Glacier is the “longest interior valley glacier” in the world. However, there are concerns regarding the loss of ice mass in the glacier. A 2007 report says,  “Nabesna, the largest glacier in this region (˜1056 km2), lost mass four times faster during 2000–07 than during 1957–2000. Although accelerated, the mass change over this region is slower than in other glacierized regions of Alaska, particularly those with tidewater glaciers.”  Glacier Features In Wrangell-St. Elias  You will come across many fascinating glacier caves in Wrangell-St. Elias, especially near the Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark.   Further, ice falls, or the fountains of the glacier, move very fast, and it’s fascinating to see how they form seracs or blocks.   Also, there are Jökulhlaups, or flooded glacier outbursts, adding to the various glacier features of the national park.    Amazing Glaciers of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park Facts  Mount  St. Elias, the largest peak of the national park, is the second-highest in the world.  Mount Wrangell, the only active volcano here, is one of the largest active volcanoes in North America.  It has Nabesna Glacier, Malaspina Glacier, and Hubbard Glacier, three of the largest in the world.   It is a part of the “world's largest international protected wilderness.”  Mid-May to mid-September is the best time to visit this park.   Wrangell-St. Elias: A UNESCO World Heritage Site  Home to countless glaciers and many high mountains, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park enjoys the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with Kluane, Glacier Bay, and Tatshenshini-Alsek.   Also, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is a part of the “largest non-polar icefield in the world.” You will find Dall's sheep, grizzly bears, caribou, and many other animals roaming in this part of the world.   Further, certain geographical and biological factors and “protection and management requirements” make this national park a place of outstanding universal value. Let’s discuss them in detail.   Rich In Biodiversity  The scenic beauty and geological diversity in the park are outstanding. It has sea mammals and other aquatic animals. Further, you can see many land mammals, birds, and different types of trees in this park.   The table below mentions some of the most popular birds, trees, and animals you can see here.   Land Mammals Brown Bears Polar Bears Black Bears Mountain Goats Dall Sheep Bison Coyotes Wolverine Porcupine Sea Mammals and Other Marine Creatures Whales Sea Lions Porpoises Harbor Seals Sea Otters Plants (936 Vascular Plant Species) Sedge Family Grass Family Sunflower Family Trees Willows Various Introduced Species Birds Bald Eagles Canada Geese Trumpeter Swans Wilson's Warblers American Robins  Home to boreal forest, Wrangell-St. Elias has one of the largest ecosystems in the world. Diverse geological features and unique weather conditions support this sprawling ecosystem or biodiversity.   Comes With Topographical Diversity   This national park is one of the most diverse in its topographical features. It has glaciers, rivers, river canyons, volcanoes, snow-capped mountains and whatnot!   Geomorphological features like hanging valleys, moraines, craters, and calderas also make this national park unique.   A Hub Of Active Tectonic, Volcanic, Glacial, And Fluvial Natural Processes   Like the entire Alaska, Wrangell-St. Elias is also in an area where tectonic, volcanic, glacial, and fluvial natural processes are common.   So, it has active and inactive volcanoes, the largest glaciers, and some prominent fluvial landforms. It has the mighty Copper River, Rivers of Life, and braided rivers formed of glacier water.   Final Words   Wrangell-St. Elias National Park has the highest glacier coverage among all national parks in America. It also has the active Mount Wrangell volcano, rivers, and wetlands, making it a place of geological interest.   Exploring the glacier caves and the ice falls here is a one-of-a-kind experience, and it’s wonderful to see how the richest biodiversity with mammals, birds, aquatic animals, and trees thrives here.   So, come and experience the brilliance of nature as you explore the largest glaciers of the world’s largest glaciers, such as Malaspina and Hubbard.   Or have you already been to this land of volcanoes and glaciers? Don’t forget to share your experience of the glaciers of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park tours.    Wrangell-St. Elias National Park FAQs   How Many Glaciers Are In Wrangell-St. Elias National Park?  Like the entire Alaska, Wrangell-St. Elias is filled with glaciers. According to the latest count of the National Park Service (NPS), the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park has 3,121 glaciers. Further, these glaciers cover a whopping “6,757 square miles of land.”  So, Wrangell-St. Elias has glaciers that cover 60% of all the glacier coverage in American National Parks. Glacier Bay in Alaska is the distant second to Wrangell-St. Elias. The glacier coverage at Glacier Bay is just 1/5th of Wrangell-St. Elias.  In addition, Malaspina, Hubbard, and the Bering glaciers, located along the park’s southern margin, are three of the largest glaciers in the world.   Having said that, glacier coverage in Alaska is shrinking, and  Wrangell-St. Elias is not an exception. From 1985 to 2020, it has already experienced a 5% reduction in its glacier coverage.   How many People Visit Wrangell-St. Elias National Park Each Year?  The National Park Service has a record of visitors to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park since 1982. Since then, this park has been enjoying thousands of footfalls every year.  2023 was one of the topmost years in terms of number of people visiting  Wrangell-St. Elias. It had 78,305 visitors in 2023.  In 2020 (the Covid-19 era), the park had 16,655 visitors. From 2021, the number of visitors has increased consistently. (Source)  What Is Unique About Wrangell-St. Elias National Park?  With the largest glaciers and volcanoes in the world, Wrangell-St. Elias is unique because of its geographical features. It is also one of the most prominent hubs of biodiversity. Thanks to its extensive glacier and volcanic coverage and rich wildlife, it has earned the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Among glaciers, Hubbard (one of the largest in the world and the largest tidewater glacier in North America) and Malaspina Glacier demand a special mention.   The Mount Wrangell volcano in this park is still active, and some other volcanoes here are Mount Drum, Capital Mountain, Skookum Creek Volcano, etc.  Further, it has an endangered sea mammal, Steller Sea Lion, and other marine animals. Bears, mountain goats, and sheep are common land mammals roaming here.   Also, you will find birds like the American robins, Wilson's warblers, and dark-eyed junco in this national park.   What Is The Highest Peak In Wrangell-St. Elias?  Mount St. Elias is the highest peak in Wrangell-St. Elias. With a height of 18,008 feet, it is also the second-highest peak in North America.   Having said that, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park celebrates the presence of four major mountain ranges in the world. It has the eastern part of the Alaskan Range, St. Elias, Chugach, and Wrangell.   Why Is Wrangell-St. Elias Protected?  Wrangell-St. Elias is protected to “preserve and protect ecological integrity and heritage resources of a vast ecosystem in south-central Alaska, while providing for public use in a wilderness setting.”  So, it is protected to preserve the local geology and diversity of the landscape with glaciers, volcanoes, and wetlands. It is also a measure to preserve wildlife and its inhabitants. Also read Ultimate Guide to Your Next Family Vacation in Israel. Paris Transforming Historical Sites Into Olympic Venues. Whales And Sea Lions! Exploring Wildlife At Kenai Fjords National Park.

READ MORE Pigeon Forge

Top 7 Outdoor Adventures In Pigeon Forge You Can’t-Miss

BY  Ankita Nov 29, 2023

Nestled amid stunning Appalachian Mountain landscapes, Pigeon Forge provides endless options for adrenaline-filled outdoor recreation beyond notable music venues and dinner shows. From outdoor snow tubing to towering ziplines, this destination proves ideal for thrill-seekers craving gorgeous panoramic settings across adventures. Here Are Seven Best Outdoor Adventures In Pigeon Forge You Can't Miss The area offers outdoor activities for all interests, skill levels, and ages beyond regional tourist draws. This comprehensive guide showcases seven exciting outdoor pursuits enticing any visitor to deeply experience Pigeon Forge’s admirable natural splendor legacy from new awe-inspiring angles. 1. Pigeon Forge Snow: Year-Round Indoor Snow Tubing In the heart of Pigeon Forge lies a unique attraction that promises year-round winter fun: Pigeon Forge Snow. This one-of-a-kind facility brings the excitement of snow tubing indoors, allowing visitors to enjoy the thrill of sliding down snowy slopes regardless of the season. The magic of this place is in its ability to maintain a winter wonderland atmosphere all year, offering an excellent escape from the summer heat or a winter adventure without the chill. What sets Pigeon Forge Snow apart is its climate-controlled environment and suitability for all ages, making it an ideal destination for family outings or even a snow tubing birthday party. Imagine celebrating a special day whizzing down snow-covered lanes, followed by laughter-filled snowball fights, without worrying about weather conditions. This venue merges the joy of snow sports with the convenience of an indoor setting, ensuring every visit is filled with memorable and exhilarating experiences. 2. Hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains The crowned jewel of Pigeon Forge’s wealth of outdoor adventure options is undoubtedly the magnificent Great Smoky Mountains National Park, covering over 500,000 protected acres filled with rugged Appalachian Mountain landscapes and terrain. Choose from over 800 miles of diverse scenic trails spanning tranquil lush rainforests, panoramic mountain peaks, and breathtaking roaring waterfalls perfect for hikers of every age and skill level. Both casual travelers and avid peak baggers find plenty of hiking adventure in the park. Classic routes like the Laurel Falls Trail, Abrams Falls, and a walk to historic Cades Cove showcase stunning nature payoffs available after just a few miles. Meanwhile, fitness die-hards can challenge stamina by hiking 16 long miles roundtrip to summit impressive Mount LeConte's towering 6,593 feet. Wandering through this environmentally rich biodiverse wonderland area never disappoints in terms of sweeping views. From plentiful wildlife sightings across fields to stumbling upon hidden wildflower meadows, the diversity continues impressing visitors for decades and decades to come through well-maintained trails. 3. Ziplining Adventures For high-flying thrills, experience Pigeon Forge's gorgeous vistas alongside steep vertical descents across the thick verdant tree canopies with area ziplining adventures. Strap securely into climbing harnesses and helmets to safely soar down elevated steel lines, allowing you to masterfully navigate multiple adrenaline-pumping ziplines showcasing glorious Smoky Mountain forest, river, and ravine landscapes 2,000 feet up through breathtaking unobstructed panoramic angles. Between ziplines, elevated sky bridges transport you effortlessly between courses across jaw-dropping scenic platforms surrounded by mountainous valleys as expert guides share fascinating details about the ecology and terrain. The result feels daring yet comfortably smooth under the assurance of trained climbing professionals dedicated fully to maximizing your rich environmental views and exhilarating emotive sensations sliding with regulated speeds. 4. White Water Rafting on the Pigeon River For those bold, adventurous souls still seeking extra extreme outdoor thrills during their Pigeon Forge getaway, consider facing 12 miles of rowdy swelling Class III and Class IV rapids by signing up to tackle rafting daily expeditions along the winding Pigeon River! Groups of 6 to 12 participants paddle inflatable rafts as teams work together across the gorgeous river terrain, bobbing and weaving between spectacular boulder outlooks and stunning Blue Ridge Mountain backdrops. This water activity lets you dive right into the action, witnessing East Tennessee's natural majestic mountain waters from engaging new low-altitude angles. While providing a thrilling ride, reputable rafting tour companies like Raft One employ only the most experienced, fun-loving guides to man the paddling commands and expertly steer rafts straight through the most challenging rapids and tight passages along the cliffs safely with their knowledge of the river. 5. Horseback Riding For travelers desiring more gentle and intimate interaction experiencing Pigeon Forge’s exquisite wilderness independently, saddle up for a delightful afternoon escaping into the forests and countryside by horseback. Various local outfitters offer visitors guided horseback riding exploration trips winding at calming paces through sun-dappled alpine forests, verdant meadows, and the sprawling foothills of the glorious Smoky Mountains to feel completely transported, experiencing iconic Appalachian nature at smooth equestrian speeds. From beginner-friendly wilderness rides in secluded oak woodlands like those gently offered by Blanton Forest Horseback Rides to hour-long weekend Smoky Mountain guided tours better suited for intermediate-level riders and equestrians, Pigeon Forge stables like Five Oaks Ranch provide quintessential smoky mountain vacations centered on 40+ years respectfully showcasing the region's spectacular environmental legacy and local horsemanship at its finest. Related: Exploring Pigeon Forge As A Weekend Getaway 6. Mountain Coaster Rides A uniquely exhilarating alternative to traditional rollercoasters, round up your family or circle of friends visiting Pigeon Forge to experience tackling the staggering 4,000-foot precipitous near vertical elevation drop racing straight down alongside rocky scarps and beautiful streams aboard the impossibly fun mountain monster thrill coaster located directly within town limits. Riders feel intensified coaster forces directly by manually “driving” individual coaster cars completely independently, personally controlling faster acceleration speeds or braking cautiously through each sharp turn's plunging dips, numerous 360° corkscrews, and countless free-falling camelback moments all dictated by your selected adrenaline-chasing comfort across 3,500 cumulative thrilling feet of gravity-driven monorail track hovering through the dense forest. Mountain coasters like this bring many nonstop grins across most age groups and orientations. 7. Dollywood Lastly, no extensive guide of quintessential iconic attractions found within Pigeon Forge itself feels entirely complete without discussing the enormously popular thrilling theme park Dollywood located just minutes from downtown. People travel incredibly far distances just to experience their award-winning outdoor rides like Tennessee Tornado, Mystery Mine, and Dragonflies rollercoasters, deliberately designed masterfully to whip riders daringly through the authentic towering Smokies themselves! With additional shows, art demonstrations and concerts continually happening routinely across the park, even long waits next to various roller coasters continue rousing fun and local connections. Neighboring water park Dollywood’s Splash Country provides necessary summer heat relief while continuing friendly Appalachian-themed thrills through numerous towering slippery slides slicing through refreshing waterfalls. Combined, both flagship Dollywood parks offer families and outdoor thrill-seekers nearly endless amounts of entertainment possibilities fully immersed just steps away from the gorgeous natural forests and wilderness that have characterized the signature Smoky Mountain region since the frontier days. It's no wonder crowds return happy year after year! Conclusion In conclusion, Pigeon Forge and the surrounding vista-rich Appalachian Mountain landscapes deliver unlimited options supporting active thrill-seeking and challenging outdoor recreation rivaling any major global destination. From tranquil wildflower-lined hiking trails to daring whitewater rafting expeditions navigating Class 4 rapids, this eastern Tennessee vacation hub offers exhilarating excursions featuring renowned southern hospitality. Ultimately, balancing these physically demanding adventures with equal amounts of relaxing downtime, enjoying stellar comfort foods, regional arts and crafts demonstrations, plus live music performances, all reflecting local cultures and traditions. Pigeon Forge continues growing into the ideal quintessential family outdoor vacation destination that visitors return to faithfully enjoy year after year as annual traditions, always finding new hidden gems and welcoming surprises along the way. Start planning your own Smoky Mountain adventures exploring untamed wilderness now while basking in expedient modern conveniences! Read Also: Your Guide To The Perfect Pigeon Forge Vacation 6 Tips For Experiencing The Best Of Pigeon Forge 4 Tips To Enjoy A Comfortable Stay In Pigeon Forge