Winter may be in full swing, but spring is just around the corner. Of course, when the weather starts warming up, you are going to want to start getting outside as well. The best place to get outside in the spring is in the Smoky Mountains. The Smoky Mountains are full of many great outdoor activities that are perfect for all ages. Here’s a few of our favorites:

1. Hiking

One of the best ways to experience the Smoky Mountains in spring is by getting up close and personal with nature by taking a hike. There are many great hiking trails in the Smoky Mountains that are perfect for you to explore this spring. Some of the best spring hiking trails include Alum Cave Trail or Chimney Tops which are perfect for seeing beautiful mountain views and wildflowers. You can also go enjoy breathtaking waterfall hikes at Mouse Creek Falls or Rainbow Falls.

2. Visit Cades Cove

One of the most popular places to visit in the Smoky Mountains is Cades Cove and for a good reason. Cades Cove is full of many great activities to do with people of all ages. You can just take a drive along the 11-mile Cades Cove Loop Road or you can get out and explore during your journey. During your visit to Cades Cove, you can explore the homes and buildings from the settlers who were here before the Smoky Mountains became a national park. You can also get out and explore the many amazing hiking trails throughout the Cades Cove region. You may even run into some wildlife during your drive so don’t forget to get out and take some pictures of your gorgeous surroundings.

3. See Clingmans Dome

During the winter, Clingmans Dome is closed due to snow, ice and other winter weather. This region is only open to winter hikers and cross-country skiers. However, once the snow melts, Clingmans Dome is the best place you can visit in the Smoky Mountains in spring. Clingmans Dome is the highest peak in the Smoky Mountains and the highest peak along the famous Appalachian Trail, so you are guaranteed to see some of the best views in the country during your visit to this overlook. Also, during your visit to Clingmans Dome, you can hike to Andrews Bald for even more amazing views.

4. Wildflower Pilgrimage

One of the perks of visiting the Smoky Mountains in spring is that you get to experience all the colors of spring. One of the best ways to view all of these beautiful colors in by taking part in the annual Wildflower Pilgrimage through the Smoky Mountains. This pilgrimage is a 5-day event that takes wildflower and historic tours through the national park.

While you are taking part in all of these great things to do in the Smoky Mountains in spring, don’t forget to check out all of the other great Smoky Mountain attractions during your visit to the area this spring.