Your Guide To The Best Outdoor Stores in Gatlinburg
Experience the wonders of nature when you come to Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Nestled right within the Great Smoky Mountains, the city of Gatlinburg is a mecca for outdoor activities like camping, white water rafting, water skiing, and more. There are so many outdoor attractions to see — like waterfalls, historical sites, shopping, and much more. So, if you’re ready for an adventure like no other, come and experience it in Gatlinburg!
There are several magnificent outdoor stores to choose from in Gatlinburg. They have everything needed to ensure your vacation is a memorable one. You can find everything from clothing, gear, food, and other supplies.
If you are looking for an outdoor adventure in Gatlinburg or Great Smoky Mountains National Park, here is a listing of some of the most frequented outdoor stores.
1. Nantahala Outdoor Center
Nantahala Outdoor Center is rated the best of all outfitters in the Gatlinburg area. With over 18,000 square feet of camping gear and apparel, you can find anything you need with a wide range of brands, like Columbia and The North Face. Located right on the Parkway just outside of Downtown Gatlinburg, NOC Gatlinburg carries a wide range of equipment and great gifts. The staff can even help you with cabin rentals and rafting trips! While you’re shopping, the kids can treat themselves to the 25-foot climbing wall or the kid-friendly bear cave. The massive fireplace is a treat for those cold winter days. The store’s hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Sunday.
2. The Day Hiker
If you’re planning a nice hike, The Day Hiker has it all. Located in The Village Shops, this veteran-owned establishment is considered a classic in the area. It carries a huge variety of hiking gear, like poles, hats, maps, and more. There is a big area just for pets. Get a lot of great souvenirs like t-shirts, books, and patches. The store hours are Sunday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
3. Uncle Lem’s Outfitters
Located just outside the Gatlinburg area, Uncle Lem’s Outfitters has a wide choice of brand-name gear, apparel, and gifts. Get top brands like Patagonia and KAVU. You can also pick up tasty jars of honey. Store hours: Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 11 a.m to 6 p.m., Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday from 2 to 6 p.m.
4. GSM Outfitters
GSM Outfitters is one of the outdoor stores near Gatlinburg that has all the outdoor gear you need. Whether it’s hiking boots, maps, hats, sweaters, jackets, and more, you can find it at GSM Outfitters. They also have their own line of clothing. While you’re looking, grab a nice cup of gourmet coffee or a snack. They also have a gift shop where you can pick up items to take home. Store hours: Monday, Thursday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
5. Columbia Factory Store
Located in Sevierville’s Tanger Outlets, this store carries some of the best and most innovative outdoor sportswear in the area. They have a wide array of winter gear, boots, rain or snow jackets, and anything else you need to keep you warm. But they also have items for the warmer seasons as well. You will be impressed by their giant inventory. Store hours: Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m and 10 a.m to 7 p.m on Sunday.
6. Hikey Mikey
Hikey Mikey is a great little store that is highly recommended by visitors and locals. This store carries predominantly hiking gear and apparel. Opened in 2015, this shop has everything you need to make your hiking excursion a comfortable and productive one. They have a long line of apparel brands to choose from. You can also get maps, backpacks, and other fun items. The owners are very friendly and knowledgeable about the area. Store hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
7. Dick’s Sporting Goods
This national chain is a warehouse of outdoor goods for fishing, hunting, hiking, skiing, boating, river rafting, and more. It is massive, but the items are easy to find. If you can’t find it, one of their friendly staff members will help. They also have a gift shop if you want to bring back a t-shirt, hat, or other souvenirs. Dick’s Sporting Goods store hours: Monday through Friday from 9 a.m to 9:00 p.m. and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sundays.
8. Lock Stock and Blade
If you need tools like knives, tactical gear, compass, and more, you’ve come to the right place! Located in nearby Pigeon Forge, Lock, Stock, and Blade is an outdoor store that will not disappoint. You name the gadget; chances are they will have it. They carry modern goods as well as items from the past. The customer service is also top-notch. Call them today. Store hours: Monday through Sunday from 11 a.m to 5 p.m.
Get Geared Up in Gatlinburg
Once you get to Gatlinburg, you will find a wide range of outdoor activities for your enjoyment, like fly fishing, biking and kayaking. Breathe in the wonderful, clean mountain air while you hike, take a trek to one of the many waterfalls on the Pigeon River, or walk the streets to explore the town’s historical sites. There are so many outdoor activities to take advantage of in Gatlinburg. It’s no wonder the area is called “The Great Outdoors.”
To find out everything to do in Gatlinburg, indoors or out, head over to Relax Gatlinburg! That’s where you’ll learn about everything that Gatlinburg has to offer!