3 Ways to Entertain Young Thrill Seekers This Summer Break

The Smoky Mountain National Park is all about relaxing, bird viewing and communing with nature, right? Wrong…that may be what some demographics like about the Smokies, but that’s not to say there aren’t plenty of thrill sports for the young and young-at-heart who love to get their heart racing. There are at least three, if not more, high-energy sports to check out this summer.

1. Rock Climbing

Rock climbing is not only a thrill sport—it’s downright dangerous to go at it alone for people who don’t practice and train beforehand. Rock climbing and rappelling are for the most daring outdoor adventurers and there are numerous trails in the national park, the wilderness and the deep forest. One of the most popular locations is the Nantahala National Forest and the Whiteside Mountain. The elevations can be anywhere from 2,000 to 5,000 feet above the forest.

But don’t despair if you’re in between newbie and experienced rock climber—there are also safe but still exhilarating tours, where you follow the lead of rock climbing teachers. These tours are appropriate for families, large groups or individuals. Companies offering guided tours include Fox Mountain Guides and Mountain Adventure Guides.

2 .Zip-Lining

Zip-lining takes away the safety of the roller coaster and lets you soar through the sky, like you’re on an aerial runway. From a pulley suspended on a cable, you can soar over the tree tops and see the majesty of the world below. This activity gives you a bird’s eye view of the forest, and in some cases, the mountains themselves.

3. The Gatlinburg Roller Coaster

The Gatlinburg Roller Coaster is the fastest coaster in the mountains and the one that gives you the most breathtaking views of the tree tops, mountains and rivers. The coaster lets you view the Great Smoky Mountains from afar, going at fast speeds. Unlike rock climbing, no special risk or training is needed, except that children be at least three years old and at least 37 inches tall. (Fifty six inches to ride alone) The coaster is built to accommodate single or double riders and has safety harnesses and lap belts like any other regulation roller coaster. Don’t worry, you don’t have to walk uphill just to get to the top. The lift system takes you there. Even cooler, you get to adjust how fast you want to go as you glide down the mountain so if the idea of zooming down a track on the scary mountain terrain upsets you, remember, you always have the power to slow things down.

In addition, you can always look up race car driving, horseback riding and white water rafting in the vicinity. There are always plenty of thrill sports in the Smoky Mountains to provide the “spice” you need for your otherwise relaxing mountain vacation. The region has something for everyone.