Some people just aren’t hikers. When you’re looking for things to do in the Smoky Mountains, you don’t have to be an an avid hiker to enjoy the beautiful scenery that fills the green space. Even though there’s many miles of hiking trails for exploring, there’s nothing boring about a nice little hike-free day trip in the national park. We’re going to show you 4 ideas for enjoying the Smoky Mountains if you’re not one for much walking.

1. Park at the Overlooks and Enjoy the Views

When you’re entering the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you’ll notice a number of parking areas alongside the road that offer spectacular view of the mountains. These overlooks by themselves are great things to do in the Smoky Mountains for those that don’t want to hit the trails. The views are simply fantastic and shouldn’t be missed by anyone who wants to visit the area. It doesn’t matter which season you visit; each time gives you a different image worth a thousand words.

2. Enjoy the Visitors Centers

The informative visitors centers are great things to do in the Smoky Mountains that don’t put much dirt underneath those shoes. These places serve as a warm welcome to the area, giving you plenty of information from the past, present, and future. You can sit in a room for a history lesson, or gather information on sites to see in the park from one of the employees. You can also purchase souvenirs that make great memories from your visit.

3. Drive the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

Not only does this trail offer some peaceful roadside views, it’s also not very far from the center of Gatlinburg. What also makes the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail one of the excellent things to do in the Smoky Mountains for non-hikers is the presence of historical markers. When you want to get out of the car to explore, these sites are excellent stopping points for you to wander through old cabins and get a glimpse of the pristine green of this lush forest that’s full of life.

4. Take Pictures at Newfound Gap

Located right in the middle of the national park is one of the most historic — and most scenic — things to do in the Smoky Mountains. Newfound Gap Road bisects the park, leading to Cherokee, North Carolina, and you’ll be halfway there when you reach Newfound Gap. President Roosevelt made a speech here dedicating the national park in 1940 and there are tons of fantastic views and historic markers, making it a desired place for many visitors to stop and admire the incredible scenery.

Now you should have a pretty good guide on things to do in the Smoky Mountains without breaking a sweat. This area is filled with beautiful colors and interesting features that can be seen in plain sight without straying far from the road. Our hotel is located right on the doorstep of all these great sites in the national park. Find your happy place by booking a room at Reagan Inn for a relaxing vacation your way!