Few destinations offer as many opportunities to experience the great outdoors as the Great Smoky Mountains area near Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

As the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg puts you on the doorstep to an amazing array of outdoor recreation. Try your luck fishing for a mountain trout in one of the many lakes, rivers, streams and ponds. Hop on your bike and experience the quaint and historic mountain village of Gatlinburg or zip into the national park and tour the Cades Cove loop.

While in the park, look around for wildlife in the extensive and diverse habitat. Or look to the trees for some amazing bird watching. The crest of the Smoky Mountains towers nearly a mile above the foothills, creating a range of elevations and topographies and microclimates ideal for nearly 250 species of birds.

The park also offers more than 800 miles of scenic hiking trails that range from difficult to easy. There’s no better way to experience the vast solitude of the national park land.

The Gatlinburg area offers a special challenge for golfers. The mountain terrain not only provides a magnificent backdrop, it creates an up and down layout that will test golfers of any skill level.

Another outdoor adventure the family can enjoy is a fun-filled horseback ride, so saddle up for a back country excursion or a guided tour. And for those seeking extra adventure, there’s nothing quite as exhilarating as a whitewater rafting trip down an untamed river like the Big Pigeon.

Now is a great time to visit the Gatlinburg area and experience the outdoor opportunities. For additional information on Gatlinburg, the Great Smoky Mountains area and accommodations like Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort, visit http://www.gatlinburgvacationstore.com/ or http://www.westgatereservations.com/.