The Perfect Thanksgiving Day in the Smoky Mountains

With a little fall foliage still clinging to the trees, harvests abound and a crisp chill in the air, the Smoky Mountains feel like the perfect setting for a Thanksgiving getaway.

Even if you’re not used to spending this tradition-filled holiday away from home, you’ll find the scenery in the fresh mountain air a wonderful change. Also, you’ll no doubt appreciate liberation from the kitchen and leaving that daunting cooking job to others.

But you still have a whole day to enjoy the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg, and the picturesque surrounding area. Follow our suggested itinerary to fill your day with activity, so that you can indulge without (too much) guilt later on.

Itinerary for Thanksgiving in the Smoky Mountains

Hike in the Smoky Mountains National Park

Start your day early with an invigorating hike in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You may want to keep this outing somewhat short, five miles or less roundtrip, especially if you’d like to do a few other things before the big feast.

Cades Cove would be a great option, as you can view wildlife or learn a little settler history from its primitive sites. You can also make the hike as long or as short as your like. 

Here’s a list of other short-distance trails you might consider.

Soar at Ober Gatlinburg

If there’s just one thing that you do when you visit Gatlinburg’s local ski resort, take the tramway or lifts for a spectacular view of the Smokies and the town. 

You can also ice skate, ride the ski mountain roller coaster, or shop. Grab a snack or light lunch here, just enough to stop a grumbling stomach. 

About the one thing you likely can’t do yet is ski since there will be little to no snow on the ground. But the vistas will more than makeup for that.

Shop for unique gifts

Throughout the year, downtown Gatlinburg is an epicenter for artisan works and boutiques. During the holiday week in November, you can browse their unique creations and perhaps get some of your Christmas shopping done at the Great Smoky Thanksgiving Arts & Crafts Show.

Your friends and family will appreciate these handmade gifts that aren’t mass-produced and sold in a mall. Of course, feel free to get something for yourself, too.

Get more into the holiday spirit

After checking a few items off your Christmas list, keep it going by visiting the Festival of Trees at the WL Mills Conference Center. You’ll love the dazzling array of decorated trees, holiday music, food, and crafts. 

If you’re in Gatlinburg at 6:30, take the first run of the Trolley of Lights, which will take you around the town’s famous and amazing display of Christmas lights, scenes, and structures.

Finally, enjoy your delectable Thanksgiving feast in the Smoky Mountains

Whether you want to enjoy a chef-prepared Thanksgiving meal at one of the best Smoky Mountains restaurants or you want to prepare your own meal at your Smoky Mountains cabin rental, there’s nothing better than gathering around a bountiful feast with the ones you love!