I am thru hiking the Appalachian Trail. Once I finish getting through GSMNP, I have a friend coming to visit. I am going to take two zero-mile days. I am trying to plan an itinerary. We are going to explore GSMNP for one day, and I am looking for recommendations for unique ways to explore the park.

I found a Ziplining Adventure in Gatlinburg, which is exactly the type of thing I am looking for in terms of adventures. I am thinking of things like quadding, sky diving, scenic picnic spaces, white water rafting, etc. Seeing as though I will have already hiked the park, I will want to enjoy my days off doing little generic hikes.

Also, I know Gatlinburg is very touristy. Are there any niche places I should look into staying at that better encapsulates the genuine culture of the Smokies? We are suckers for the hidden gem types of stays.

Thank you in advance!!!

And for the record, the first day my friend visits we are going to explore GSMNP and the second day we will spend in Asheville.