Feb 14, 2025

Have a Family-Friendly Spring Break on the Peaceful Side 

Written by: Emily Huffstetler

Looking for the perfect spring break destination? The Peaceful Side of the Smokies is just the place. With a wide range of outdoor activities, educational experiences and opportunities to unwind, there’s something for everyone in the family. 

Take a guided tour of the Smokies. 

Smoky Mountain Guides offers a variety of full-service tours for all ages and abilities. 

3-hour small group tours: 

  • High Points Tour: Ride in a luxury high-top van to the park’s highest peaks, including breathtaking scenic vistas and a visit to Kuhowi (formerly Clingman’s Dome). 

¾ and full-day tours:  

  • Over the Top: Cross the crest of the Smokies and visit the Oconaluftee Visitor Center to explore the region’s history and wildlife. 

They also offer a variety of hikes, ranging from easy to strenuous, whether you’re looking to stretch your legs or take on a challenge. If you want to spend time on the water, try flatwater kayaking or guided fly fishing (ages 12 and up). 

Explore Tuckaleechee Caverns. 

Known as the “Greatest Site Under the Smokies,” Tuckaleechee Caverns is the highest-rated cave or cavern in the Eastern United States. Formed within one of the world’s oldest mountain chains, the caverns are estimated to be 20 to 30 million years old. 

Highlights of the tour include the Big Room, a massive chamber large enough to fit a football stadium, and Silver Falls, the tallest subterranean waterfall in the Eastern U.S. Along the 1.25-mile round-trip journey, you’ll see millions of stunning formations and hear fascinating stories about the cave’s history. 

In March, Tuckaleechee Caverns will be open daily from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Admission is $26 for adults, $14 for children ages 5-11 and free for children 4 and under. 

Visit a local museum. 

Spend the day in Townsend learning about local history, culture and wildlife. 

At the Great Smoky Mountain Heritage Center, connect with the history and spirit of Townsend, Cades Cove and the Great Smoky Mountains through hands-on activities, tours of original 19th-century buildings and the Cherokee Native American Collection. 

Dive even deeper into local history at the Little River Railroad & Lumber Company Museum, where you can explore restored locomotives, historic logging equipment, and exhibits showcasing the impact of the lumber industry on the region. 

If you’re interested in wildlife, visit the Appalachian Bear Rescue Visitor and Education Center. Watch videos of rescued cubs, learn about bear conservation and coexistence, and explore the gift shop. 

Shop and dine at Apple Valley. 

While you’re in town, stop by Apple Valley Mountain Village. Enjoy southern hospitality and cuisine at their cafe, bistro, coffee shop and fudge shop. Or find a souvenir at the general store, stocked with jams, jellies, butters, home decor, clothing and more. 

Go for a scenic bike ride. 

Start your adventure by renting bikes at Smoky Mountain Outdoor Center. From there, head to the Townsend Historical Trail, a paved path stretching 4.5 miles on both sides of US 321/Lamar Alexander Parkway, for a total of 9 miles. This scenic trail runs alongside Little River and includes a 0.3-mile unpaved River Walk. 

For a more immersive experience, make your way to Tremont Road, a 2.1-mile route that connects the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont to the Middle Prong Trailhead. 

Even better, go for a scenic horseback ride. 

Davy Crockett Riding Stables opens daily starting March 15 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Similarly, Cades Cove Riding Stables opens for guided trail rides, carriage rides and hayrides beginning March 3, with hours from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 

Stargaze at Look Rock. 

A trip to the Smokies isn’t complete without visiting Kuwohi, the park’s highest peak. A short hike up to Look Rock Tower in the evening will reward you with panoramic views of the sunset and an excellent vantage point for stargazing. 

Looking for a place to stay? Check out our guide to camping and glamping on the Peaceful Side. 

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Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and passionate storyteller of the Greater Smokies region.