Kick off the summer with an incredible weekend getaway in the Smoky Mountains. Memorial Day sizzles with the promise of long weekends, lazy afternoons, and the freedom of the open road. Take advantage of the gorgeous weather, warm sunlight, and fresh mountain air to start your summer off right with these top 10 things to do in the Smoky Mountains!

  1. Explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park this Memorial Day Weekend

The biggest draw for visitors who come to Maggie Valley is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and it’s easy to see why. The most visited national park in the country, GSMNP is filled with ancient natural beauty, a deep storied history, and rich mountain cultures, including Southern Appalachia and the Cherokee Indians.

  1. Take a Bike Ride

Spend your Memorial Day getaway cruising on two wheels down breathtaking bike trails with gorgeous Smoky Mountain views. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist looking for a heart-pumping adventure filled with challenging climbs and thrilling descents, or you just want to take the family on an easy bike ride along paved paths, the trails near Maggie Valley offer something for every rider and skill level. Click here to learn more about the scenic bike trails that our Meadowlark guests rave about.

  1. Go for a Scenic Hike

Hiking is one of the most popular things to do in the Smoky Mountains, and Memorial Day is the perfect time of year to spot the vibrant colors of blooming wildflowers. Snap some great photos of wildflowers along the Oconaluftee River Trail or Blue Ridge Parkway. Or hit the trails in search of thrilling waterfalls. Located just a short walk off of Soco Road, the twin Soco Falls are nestled in between Maggie Valley and Cherokee, NC. Hang out on the viewing deck for stunning sights. Or if you want to get closer to nature, there’s a short, steep trail that leads down to the base of the waterfalls. (This section is slippery, so hang onto the ropes that are set up along the way.)

  1. Drive Down the Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the world…AND it’s just minutes from Maggie Valley Town Center. Slip behind the wheel, roll the windows down, and hit the road! The high elevation of the stretch between Maggie Valley and Asheville mean you get unimpeded scenic views that never seem to end.

  1. Enjoy a Sunset Picnic at Waterrock Knob

If you’re on the Blue Ridge Parkway in the early evening, take advantage of those wide-open vistas and catch a spectacular sunset. One of the most stunning sunsets visible along the Parkway is just a short way up from the Maggie Valley entry point at Waterrock Knob. Don’t forget your camera because you’ll have incredible, long-distance views from both the east and the west. There are picnic tables and a gorgeous meadow right off the parking area, just perfect for a one-of-a-kind sunset picnic.

  1. Go Trout Fishing

Expert anglers and novice fishermen alike name fishing in the local mountain heritage trout streams as one of the top things to do in the WNC Smoky Mountains. Filled with wild trout, these waters are teeming with opportunities to finally catch the big one. And relaxing on the riverbanks is a great way to spend Memorial Day weekend. Picture it now: you cast your line into the clear waters of a rippling stream, where the only sounds are the burbling of the water and the soft wind blowing through the trees, when suddenly you feel the tug on the end of your line. Perfection!

  1. Zoom Across a Zipline

If you’re looking for a real thrill, try a ziplining adventure through the forest canopy. Perfect for adrenaline junkies and nature lovers alike, hook into a harness and traipse through the treetops. Swing from limb to limb, taking in breathtaking views with the wind in your face and the world at your feet. Explore the 500-acre adventure campus at the Nantahala Outdoor Center, or click here to check out more ziplining adventures for your Memorial Day weekend.

  1. Go Whitewater Rafting

Experience nature in a truly up close and personal way when you take on one of the Smoky Mountains’ most popular outdoor activities – whitewater rafting! There’s everything from heart-pumping Olympic-level rapids to relaxing stretches of calm ripples that are great for family-friendly excursions. Try whitewater rafting on any of the area’s major rivers for an unforgettable day of outdoor fun.

  1. Discover Great Memorial Day Shopping

Stroll down the streets of Maggie Valley or any of the charming towns throughout the WNC Smoky Mountains and you’ll come across delightful shops filled with unique treasures. Stores like Jelly Bellies Mountain Gift Shop or Maggie Mountaineer Crafts have an amazing selection of souvenirs, jewelry, and sweet treats. Or discover five inspirational stops on the Blue Ridge Craft Trail that are located right here in Maggie Valley. Explore amazing handmade arts and crafts created by local artisans and take a piece of the Smoky Mountains home with you.

  1. Celebrate Memorial Day at the Meadowlark Motel

Here at the Meadowlark Motel, we’re serving up free BBQ and live music on Saturday night of Memorial Day Weekend for guests, plus karaoke on Friday night. Then we’re officially kicking off the summer season with a pool party on Sunday afternoon. Visit our website or call today to book your room and get 30% off on Monday, May 30th to extend your holiday weekend getaway in the Smoky Mountains!