Take a break from the hustle and bustle of larger towns like Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, and step into the quiet area known as Wears Valley TN. Known as the “quiet side of the Smokies,” Wears Valley is located between Pigeon Forge and Townsend, and is a small mountain town packed with lots of things to do for any family or group retreat. Here is everything you can do in Wears Valley:
1. River Tubing
For individuals wanting the fun of riding down a mountain stream, but at a more relaxed pace than whitewater rafting, we suggest you check out the different river tubing options in Wears Valley TN. A shuttle service will take you from the tube rental station to the drop off point. From there, you and your family will each have your own tube to float down the river in at a leisurely pace. The Smoky Mountain River Rat offers tubing adventures in and around Wears Valley.
2. Fishing
Fun in the water doesn’t stop once your tubing trip does. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to over 2,000 miles of streams, some of which are located in Wears Valley. These fishing holes are ideal for anglers of any experience level, and offer a variety of fish including rainbow trout, smallmouth bass and brown trout. Just remember to pick up a Tennessee fishing license before dropping line in the river.
3. Horseback Riding
There’s no better way to get in touch with your rustic side than on a horseback riding adventure. Lucky for you, Wears Valley is home to some of the best horseback riding stables in East Tennessee. For instance, Next to Heaven Stables, located off Wears Valley Road, offers self-guided tours where people can experience the beauty of the region first hand. Next to Heaven also offers ziplining tours if you want to take in the scenic views of the mountains from a higher view.
4. Eating
Family owned and operated, Hillbilly’s Restaurant is the perfect pit stop for anyone visiting the area looking for a down home southern meal. Open for breakfast and lunch, menu items range from Aunt Bessie’s Rolled Up Eggs to Whole Hawg BLT. Don’t forget about the Southern style sweet tea that will compliment any meal. With most menu items under $10, Hillbilly’s Restaurant is sure to feed your whole family without breaking the bank.
After exploring all the great things to do in Wears Valley, you and your family can settle in to one of our awesome Smoky Mountain cabins. Our rentals can sleep anywhere from 2 to over 22 people, which makes them perfect for any size group visiting the Smokies. Check out all of our cabins and find the one that best fits your needs!
