Custom Search

Gatlinburg Offers A Unique Spring Break Experience

The Great Smoky Mountain National Park
Of course the park offers camping and some of the best hiking in the United States, but there is so much more. History buffs will love driving trails through Cades Cove and Roaring Fork, taking a step back in time. These trails are lined with historical home places just waiting to be explored, and the scenery is unmatched. Be warned however that the weather in the upper elevations can be tricky, and some trails may still be closed if snow is too deep.
If that is the case of if history is not what you are in to, simply pick a trail that is open and start driving. Wear hiking gear or at least comfortable shoes, even if you do not plan to hike as there are numerous streams and trails to explore. Remember to bring a jacket too. The temperature can drop as much as 20 degrees or more as you head up. If the weather is right, you can even float one of these mountain streams or grab a pole and catch some fish.

Shops, Museums, and Attractions
"The Strip," as it is called locally, is home to a host of restaurants, quaint shops, and tons of attractions. If you are staying in one of the many family resorts on The Strip, simply head out the front door and start walking. If not, come prepared to pay to park and walk the street. Visit shops, buy a ticket to the Ripley's Believe it or Not Museum, Ripley's Haunted Mansion, Ripley's Aquarium, or one of the many other Ripley's attractions including miniature golf courses and a mirrored maze.
For lunch, there are several chains ranging from fast food to standard sit down restaurants, and there is local fare as well. Fannie Farkle's homemade corn dogs and arcade is not to be missed, nor is the Smoky Mountain Trout House, serving since 1975.

Ober Gatlinburg
This ski resort and amusement park has enough to fill more than one day of spring break. When the weather is right for snowmaking, hit the slopes on skis or a tube. Even in warmer weather however there is indoor ice skating. The Aerial Tramway that takes passengers on a 2.1 mile ride up the mountain for a breathtaking view. Enjoy the slopes without skis or a tube on an Alpine Slide. Take a ski lift up the mountain and then ride down in what is basically an open air sled with wheels. The two 1800 foot concrete paths wind and weave down the hill through the woods for a gorgeous view all the way down.

Relaxation
What would the mountains be without a cabin? Of course there are plenty of hotels available, but for those who want quiet seclusion at the end of the day, a host of options are available. Cabins range in size from a modest one bedroom to huge multiple bedroom homes ready to sleep a whole group. Many with patios, grills, fireplaces, hot tubs, and even game rooms mean that staying in could be just as much fun as going out. Sip a cup of coffee as the sun rises over the hills or enjoy the night mountain air as the world settles down for the night. You might even catch a glimpse of some mountain wildlife as you do.

By: Brad Hart

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

The beach only offers the beach, but Gatlinburg offers nature, skiing, unique shopping and dining, museums, and much more. With all there is to offer for spring break, there is no need to go anywhere else. There are also many Gatlinburg resorts to choose from minutes from all the attractions.

© 2005-2011 Article Dashboard