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Spring Break in the Smoky Mountains: Things to Do, Planning Tips & Ways to Save

spring break in the smoky mountains
February 18, 2025

If you’ve never visited during spring in the Smoky Mountains, you’re missing out on some gorgeous weather and affordable, exciting activities. Ditch the beach this year and see how fun a mountain getaway can be! Here’s everything you need to know about planning a fun and budget-friendly spring break in the Smoky Mountains:

Things to Do

1. Explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park

what to do in the smoky mountains

  • Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage: this annual event in April is one of the best ways to experience spring in the Smokies! Learn about nature, wildlife, and the national park through guided hikes, exhibits, and workshops!
  • Scenic drives: While some roads, such as Roaring Fork and Kuwohi, open in late March or early April from being closed for the winter, plenty of scenic routes are open year-round, including Cades Cove Loop Road and Newfound Gap.
  • Wildflower hikes: A few of the best Smoky Mountain trails for spring wildflowers include Elkmont Nature Trail, Porters Creek Trail, Middle Prong, Schoolhouse Gap, and Cosby Nature Trail.

Other family-friendly hikes include Cataract Falls, Cades Cove Nature Trail, and Little River Trail.

2. Walk or Bike Along the Little Pigeon River

Don’t have time to visit the national park? You don’t have to leave Pigeon Forge to enjoy the peaceful Smoky Mountain scenery! The Riverwalk Greenway is a beautiful walking and biking path over 4 miles long from the old City Park loop behind the Pigeon Forge Community Center, along the river through the Island in Pigeon Forge, and then behind the LeConte Convention Center and along Butler St before connecting to the trail at Patriot Park.

3. Get a Park Hopper Pass

Another great thing to do during your spring break in the Smoky Mountains is to play games and bring on a little friendly competition, and what better way to do that than mini golf? Enjoy all-day access to multiple miniature golf attractions in Pigeon Forge, as well as a massive trampoline park with this Park Hopper Pass! It’s the best vacation package for families wanting to save money and have fun.

4. Experience Our All-You-Can-Eat Supper Show

lumberjacks log rolling at paula deen's lumberjack feud

A family feud, high-stakes competition, highly skilled athletes, family-friendly comedy, crowd participation, and fantastic food– what more could you want from a Pigeon Forge show? Don’t miss our axe-citing supper show, the only one of its kind in the Smokies!

Before the show starts, enjoy a feast approved by Paula Deen herself! Our Southern supper buffet consists of warm chicken and dumplings, tender and juicy BBQ pulled pork, thick and creamy mac and cheese, savory baked beans, fresh dinner rolls, dessert, and drinks.

Read more: “A Pigeon Forge Itinerary: How to Have the Perfect Day in the Smokies

Planning Tips

  • Be aware of heavy traffic if you want to avoid the crowds from Pigeon Forge car shows in the spring.
  • Have a backup activity or restaurant in case wait times are too long.
  • Check coupon and brochure racks (usually found at most local restaurants and attractions) for discounts!
  • Don’t forget to purchase a parking tag if you plan to stop for longer than 15 minutes inside the national park.

Ways to Save

crowd shot at Lumberjack Feud in Pigeon Forge

Spending spring break in the Smoky Mountains doesn’t have to break the bank. You’ll find plenty of cheap things to do in Pigeon Forge, as well as additional ways to save! As one of the least expensive dinner shows in the area, our lumberjack supper show already offers incredible value for the price. Plus, kids under 3 are free, and military, veterans, and first responders get a discount!

If you’re ready to plan the ultimate spring break in the Smoky Mountains, be sure to include our Pigeon Forge show in your vacation plans. You can get Lumberjack Feud tickets in advance online, bypassing the line at the box office and receiving our exclusive online rate!