Bridges are more than just practical objects that connect one place to another. Sometimes they live in literature, like in the Bridges of Madison County, where they serve as a jumping-off point for romance. Bridges also create an aesthetic beauty all their own, through their architecture and the specific details about a single bridge that can impart a sense of place. Bridges throughout the Smokies offer unique opportunities for rest, reflection, and proximity to calming waters that make them well worth a visit.
Check Out the Swinging Bridges
On Old State Highway 73, you’ll find a piece of Eastern Tennessee history. The Dark Island Swinging Bridge was once one of about 20 swinging bridges over the Little River, when it was used by lumber company and railroad workers at the turn of the 20th century to connect the land used for mills and manufacturing with homes on the other side of the banks.
Nowadays you can stand on the bridge and watch people tubing down the river. Some days the water is clear enough that fish can be spotted, just by looking down from the bridge. The bridge is also a romantic destination, too – couples hang padlocks with their initials carved on them onto the bridge, and throw away the key into the rushing river, as a gesture of eternal fidelity.
There’s reportedly another swinging bridge in the area, but the location is a closely guarded secret. You’ll have to make connections with an “old timer” of the Smokies to find it!
Another Secret Bridge
Just like the famed lost city of Atlantis, the Abrams Creek Underwater Bridge near old US Highway 129, in Chilhowee Lake (no, not on Chilhowee Lake) only appears when the water level in the lake is quite low. You can find it when the dam undergoes scheduled maintenance, and possibly in times of extreme drought. Despite its constant soaking, when the bridge does appear it’s apparently quite safe and walkable.
Cades Cove Bridges
The bridges of the famously scenic Cades Cove live up to the area’s picturesque reputation. Both built in 1948, the Laurel Creek Bridge on Cades Cove Road and the Middle and West Prong Little River Bridges are moss-covered stone bridges open to traffic. The water level below each of them varies with the seasons, but they’re all generally calm, charming places to step away from the Cades Cove Loop Road, relax, and take in the ambience.
Grab Your Camera, The Bridges Will Wait
Next time you’re looking for a unique way to spend the day out and about, grab your camera, hunt down these bridges, and snag a few shots for posterity (or maybe just for social media!). Don’t be afraid to take a selfie, either – you’ve got a great backdrop!
Author: dstech
Vacationing on a Budget? Great Smoky Mountains National Park is Free to Enjoy
Did you think that it was only the “Free Entrance Days” in the United States National Park system that let you get into the 400+ parks and enjoy it all for free? This year, National Park Week is April 20 through April 28th, when you can get into all of the parks entirely for free. There are a few other dates, too and you can find them at the National Park Service website, here.
Yet, The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an entirely unique entity because, as the NPS explains, “Entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park is free. The park is one of the few national parks where no entrance fees are charged.” Why? Well, it has to do with the stipulations that Tennessee insisted on when it transferred the land now known as the park to the federal government in the 1930s.
Back then, the state insisted that no toll or fee would be imposed on those who needed to travel the Newfound Gap Road, and so that is why everyone who wants to visit the park is welcome to do so entirely for free. There are some activities with fees attached (such as camping or hiring horses from the providers within the park), and donations are always welcome, but if you have almost no budget for a vacation, this gorgeous paradise is yours to enjoy for free!
What to Do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
And what sorts of things can you do in the park? Firstly, you should know that people of all ages and capabilities can enjoy the park because it has some truly amazing roadways. If you have a car, motorcycle or even a bicycle, you’ll love planning journeys on the following roads:
- Roaring Fork Motor Trail – This is only six miles, is a loop road and promises amazing views of the mountains, the valleys and two stunning waterfalls. Pack a picnic and plan some hiking because the trails here are also remarkable and let you see the remains of old villages, a cemetery and more.
- Newfound Gap Road – Be sure you drive the road that lets you get in for free! With an amazing number of notches and scenic vistas, it is worth a full day of your time. Stop and explore different points along the 31-mile stretch that takes you from Gatlinburg to the Sugarlands Visitor Center. Be sure to bring your camera!
- Cades Cove – Described as one of the most famous spots in the park, it is surprisingly peaceful and often isolated. It is a gorgeous valley that was once a large settlement, and though you can drive it, you may want to give yourself the delights of a full day of exploration on foot. There are old churches, a grist mill, scores of cabins dating back to the 1700s and 1800s, and all kinds of wildlife to see. It is a loop road and is a real favorite of those who enjoy bicycling (you can rent a bike here, too!) Don’t miss the visitor center.
You can also enjoy a hike to Clingmans Dome, or hike different trails to waterfalls like Grotto Falls, Abrams Falls and Laurel Falls. If you are in good shape and experienced in hiking, a day trip up to Chimney Tops is also an amazing, free activity to enjoy!
Forget the “staycation” when you can head to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and enjoy days of free activities set in one of the most beautiful spots in the country.
Visit Blount County's Farmers Markets and Experience the Flavors of the Region
Farmer’s markets are enjoying a resurgence, and there are very few communities in which at least one farmer’s market is not operating regularly. This allows farmers to access a much broader market and find buyers for an increasing amount of produce or food, but it is also even more beneficial to shoppers. After all, once you taste a locally-grown, vine fresh tomato or savor the potent flavors of fresh herbs, you may begin to change the way you look at your diet and food supplies.
If you are traveling to the Great Smoky Mountains area and want to explore options for farmers markets, be sure you block out a few hours on your Saturday morning schedule. This is the most common time for the markets to occur, though there are many that operate daily and also all year long. This includes the large Gatlinburg Farmers Market, among others. The Sevierville Farmers Market operates every Friday and is another popular option.
An Authentic Producer Only Market
Saturday morning is also when the amazing Maryville Farmers’ Market occurs. Emphasizing a “producer-only” model, they ensure that everything you buy is grown and/or made by the vendors themselves. This is not a market in which you have to worry about the authenticity of “local” goods. Instead, everything is baked from scratch, grown in the local soils, and transported from a farm nearby!
With a slogan that reads, “From East Tennessee Hands,” it is a fantastic way to enhance even the briefest visit to the area, and the market is active right through the winter. The Saturday markets run from April through November and hours are 9-12, rain or shine. Their November calendar also includes their “Holly Day Arts & Crafts Market,” making it the perfect way to pick up some truly amazing holiday gifts and goodies, while supporting local artisans and farmers. The dates for 2018 are 11/3 and 11/10 with hours from 9 AM to 1 PM.
With its quieter location and emphasis on local farm goods that “improve the freshness, taste, and nutritional value of produce available, encourage more social contact between the consumer and farmer, educate the public as to the agricultural traditions of East Tennessee, and celebrate and help preserve family farms,” it is the perfect win-win choice in terms of Saturday morning farmers markets.
What to Buy
If you do opt for the Maryville Farmers Market, their vendors include Turner Holler with its abundance of fresh eggs and homemade soaps and lotions that use their fresh goats’ milk as a main ingredient. The Holder Family Farm also appears regularly and sells only the finest fruits and vegetables from their generations-old family farm in the foothills of the Smokies. You can also grab delicious breads and baked goods from Marlow Bread Co. and enjoy goods from Bees’ Needs Art Farm, Smokey Ridge Apiaries, and more.
Visit These 3 Picnics Spots in the Smoky Mountains This Spring
There is nothing better than taking your family out for a picnic in the Great Smoky Mountains on a warm spring or summer day. The scenery is never short of breathtaking, and there are so many places you can go to. Heck, some folks here pack their basket, grab a blanket, and then pull over when they find a spot they like. While this might sound like a good idea, there are advantages to visiting one of the many designated picnic spots. These typically include having picnic tables and no traffic passing right beside you. Some of the picnic areas in the park have grills and restrooms. Others are more primitive and offer only tables and trash receptacles.
Here are three of the best picnic spots in the Smoky Mountains to take the family, your loved one or even just yourself.
The Chimney Tops Picnic Area
Chimney Tops Picnic Area opens in early March and closes at the end of November. Here you will find 68 picnic spots including several with tables that look out over the river. The picnic area sits at the trailhead for the Chimney Tops Trail. Eat first to charge your batteries before making the hike or hike first and work up, and appetite, either way, the trail will give you a good workout and offers some incredible views along the way. This is one of the most popular picnic areas in the park.
Cades Cove Picnic Area
You can take your family for a picnic here all year round (nothing like a picnic in the snow). This area offers 81 picnic spots and tends to be very busy when the weather is nice. The Cades Cove Loop covers 11 miles and is one of the most popular places for tourists in the park. Many of the picnic tables set along Laurel Creek and all tables have barbecue grills for your use. (barbecuing in the snow sounds like fun). There are several historic buildings along the loop for you to explore, and the Cades Cove campground is just down the road where you can buy everything you need for your picnic if you don’t feel like packing your own lunch.
Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area
Like the Cades Cove picnic area, Metcalf Bottoms is open year-round and offers 122 picnic sites, making it the second largest picnic area in the park. Each site has been leveled and has a charcoal grill for your convenience. There is also a large pavilion on-site with space for up to 70 people, restrooms, a place to fill your water bottles, and you have direct access to the Metcalf Bottoms trailhead. Once you’ve finished your meal, why not take the 1.2-mile hike to the log cabin at the other end of the trail. Built-in 1882 this cabin saw life as a school and church for over 50 years and still contains the desks and chalkboard used by Little Greenbriar School students decades ago.
Visiting on a Tuesday? Join Us Tuesdays at 2 and Learn More About Our Amazing Appalachian Heritage
Looking for something fun and educational to do when visiting Townsend, TN on a Tuesday? Don’t be fooled into thinking there can’t be anything going on just because it’s the second day of the week. Instead, take a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center and enjoy their “Tuesdays @ 2 informal “coffee talk” with an incredible array of guest speakers.
Stories that Need to Be Told
The Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center is dedicated to protecting and preserving the rich culture and incredible history of both the Native Americans who once lived here and those who came after.
Every Tuesday the center hosts a fun and informative event in the auditorium. Each event covers a different topic ranging from folk music to history and folklore to nature. These events are free to museum members and open to guests with paid admission.
Upcoming Tuesdays@2 Events
March 19 – Ben Jarrett- The American Chestnut Foundation
The American Chestnut Foundation is dedicated to restoring the chestnut to its proper place in the Appalachian hardwood ecosystem. Ben will be here to talk about the efforts being made to bring this important hardwood tree back to the Smokies.
March 26 – Dr. Aaron Astor – Isaac Anderson
Dr. Astor has two books and numerous articles published in the New York Times “Disunion” series. He will be here to talk about the history of Isaac Anderson the founder and first president of Maryville College.
April 2 – Mark Davidson Trails and Turnpikes
Mark will talk about the area and what there is to see as you hike the many miles of trails or drive the turnpikes that take you through the peaceful side of the Smokies.
April 9 – Missy Kane – Smoky Mountain Hiking
Missy offers a presentation covering the many trails in the Smoky Mountains to hike, the conditions to expect, what you might see, how to prepare for hiking and more.
April 16 – Jeff Hunter – Wildlife and Roadways
Jeff will be here to talk about the growing amount of wildlife crossing the roads and highways, and what is being done to help reduce the number of accidents, death, and injuries to both humans and animals. He will talk about the concept of building animal crossing bridges over I-40 where most of the accidents occur.
April 23 – Mary Beth Lima – Proper Canning Techniques
Mary Beth will be here to discuss and demonstrate a variety of canning methods, explain the proper techniques, cover safety, and offer a wealth of tips and information on the subject. The perfect Tuesday afternoon for anyone wanting to learn how to can and those who already do to spend time learning from an expert.
April 30 – Libby Weitnauer – Appalachian Music with a Jam Session Afterward
Libby is both a classical violinist and a fiddle player. She has played with numerous local orchestras including the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra and the Maryville College Community Orchestra. Today she finds herself more at home playing the fiddle and the more traditional sounds of Appalachia. Once the meeting is over, there is to be a jam session, if you play bring your instrument with you for fun!
Visiting the Smokies with Your Sweetheart? Snuggle Up for a Carriage Ride through Cades Cove
The leaves are turning all through the Great Smoky Mountains, there is a nip in the air, and the snow has yet to arrive. What could be better than snuggling up with that someone special in your life in a horse-drawn carriage under a warm blanket while you are taken on a guided carriage ride that takes you on a tour of Cades Cove? If you love the great outdoors, there is simply no better way to see the breathtaking scenery. It is the perfect way to see it all as a couple, or you can bring the kids with you.
A Guided Tour of Cades Cove
The best way to see all that Cades Cove has to offer is seated comfortably in a carriage, hauled through the park by one or more horses. The horses all know the way, but more importantly, so do the drivers! They know more about the Cades Cove area than just about anyone, including the Park Rangers.
Kick back and relax while the carriage conveys you along some of the most scenic trails in the park in peace and quiet. The only sounds you will hear are the clip-clop of the horse’s hooves and that of the wheels on the trail. While you are comfortably sitting back and enjoying the scenery, your guide will tell you about history of the area. And, more than just a detailed history of the area, they will regale you with tales of the old days in this most beautiful part of the state.
Your guide will tell you about what things were like here in the old days, how people lived, their lifestyles, how they fed themselves, about the log cabins, and so much more. Along the way, as you cruise gently through the park, your guide will tell you about the local flora and of course the many animals and birds who call this part of the Smokies home. If you are fortunate, you will have the opportunity to see many of the local residents, both four-legged and winged.
A Carriage Ride for Two—or More
Depending on the carriage you choose, there is room for more than just two. Most have room for up to six people, depending on the size of those who will be occupying the carriage. This way, you can bring the kids along and let them see all of the beauty of the Smokies and, of course, of Cades Cove. Most of the carriage rides last less than an hour, but along the way, there are mountain streams, towering peaks, and majestic trees to see, along with bears, deer, and wild turkeys. The carriage rides are safe for everyone and make an outstanding way to spend a little romantic time together as a couple or as a family.
Do keep in mind that these rides are extremely popular, and the proprietors do not take reservations; all rides are on a first come, first serve basis. You may have to wait for an available carriage, but you will find the wait to be worth it. Be sure you take a carriage ride through Cades Cove this fall; you can’t afford to miss out on the ride of a lifetime!
Want to Warm Up from the Inside Out? These Distilleries Will Do Just That
The state of Tennessee is known for many good things. The Grand Ole Opry and country music, Bluegrass music, barbecue and “hot chicken,” good old Davy Crockett (born in East Tennessee), Goo Goo Cluster candy, moon pies, and the stunning rolling hills and Smoky Mountains are part of Tennessee, as well. Mention the words whiskey, bourbon and moonshine, and most people know these belong to Tennessee, also.
That means that anyone who is paying a visit has to take a sip or two, or three, of some of the region’s finest spirits. And if you are headed to Blount County, we suggest a visit to any of the following distilleries to warm you up from the inside! Most do taste-testing and some even have food pairings or full-blown restaurants attached, so go ahead and enjoy a few samples, eat a nice meal and take a few bottles home for holiday gifts or to get you through until your next visit to Tennessee.
Old Forge Distillery is located at 170 Old Mill Ave in Pigeon Forge and is famous for its small batch spirits that include moonshine, bourbon and vodka. It takes its name from the town’s historic iron forges and is even located next to an old forge and mill. This brand is made with grains ground by the producer and it has won many awards for its signature 1830 Original Moonshine.
The Sugarlands Distilling Co is located along 805 Pkwy in Gatlinburg and is known for its whiskey, moonshine and other spirits. Opened only in 2014, it promises to offer “a story in every jar” and includes a surprising number of award-winning concoctions. From a peppermint moonshine to seasonal specialties, it offers tastings of the latest offerings.
Ole Smoky Holler rates as the most frequently visited distillery in the nation, and is home to the Ole Smoky brand with locations like the Ole Smoky Moonshine Barn at The Island in Pigeon Forge and the Barrelhouse in Gatlinburg. A $5 sample fee lets you enjoy a few varieties and there is usually music to entertain.
Don’t forget to try the other famous stops, like Doc Collier Moonshine, too. Each stop has something unique and you’ll learn a lot about the history of Tennessee when you visit any one of these establishments to warm up and savor unique beverages.
We Have Smoky Mountain Activities Even a Dog Will Love
Keeping busy in the Smokies region isn’t difficult – there are tons of things to do, all year ‘round – but finding activities the whole family, including canine members, can enjoy is a little more challenging. Here are 5 of our favorites.
Maryville-Alcoa Greenway and the PetSafe Pistol Creek Dog Park
There’s nothing like a day out in the park with your dog, is there? Especially when the parks are this nice. The Maryville-Alcoa Greenway is a 9-mile-long paved trail that connects the two cities, passing through a number of scenic areas and public parks, including the Bicentennial Park area, which also includes the PetSafe Pistol Creek Dog Park. Imagine hopping on your bike, riding down the trails with your dog running alongside, only to lounge in the dog park while your best friend burns off the rest of their four-legged energy. Pretty perfect, right?
Smoky Mountain River Rat Tubing
Whether you’re squeezing in a trip downriver before summer disappears or planning one for the next time warmer months roll around, you won’t want to miss an opportunity to go tubing with your dog. They tube for free, so strap on their doggy life jacket, rent a $2 tether, hook up your own tube, and prepare for one of the most entertaining trips down the Little River you can imagine. It’s not every day that you get to go sailing with such a cute first mate, is it?
Fishing the Local Waterways
Bank fisherman have long known the virtues of recreation alongside a (relatively) silent best friend, but did they know that dogs can also be quite seaworthy? Whether you’ve rented, borrowed, or bought a boat and taken it out on Chilhowee Lake or any of Tennessee’s famous tailwaters, the right dog can keep you great company when your free time takes you offshore.
Brewster’s Bark & Bed
You may know that there are great spas in the Smokies region that cater to humans, but did you know that there’s one that’s fully gone to the dogs? Brewster’s Bark & Bed offers everything: coconut and aloe deep-conditioning wraps, skin-soothing mud treatments, “pawdicures” with paw massages, and, should the worst happen, a “smell-u-later” de-skunking treatment.
They also are planning to offer training classes in their private indoor training area, which is a great way to further bond with your pet and give everyone some refreshers when it comes to the basics.
Parkway Drive-In Theater
Interested in catching a movie? Unlike most movie theaters, the Parkway Drive-In in Maryville doesn’t have to follow the rules about not allowing dogs indoors, because, well, they’re not! Well-behaved dogs on a leash are welcome to join their human movie fans and catch a flick out under the stars, even if those canine family members might be more interested in the smells coming from the concession stand, where hamburgers and patty melts (as well as popcorn and the basics) are on offer.
Why You Should Get Married in the Smokies
If you are planning to take the plunge and get married in 2019, you should be looking for somewhere spectacular for your wedding ceremony and honeymoon! After all, you only get one wedding day; why not celebrate your special day surrounded by some of the most incredible scenery in the country? The Smokies are considered by many to be one of the most beautiful settings for a wedding in the nation, offer breathtaking views, numerous chapels, plenty of places to hold an outdoor ceremony, and much more. The best place in the country to say, “I do!” is right here in the heart of the Smokies.
The Great Smoky Mountains
It all starts with the Great Smoky Mountains. There are many reasons to visit the Smokies — from the incredible views to outstanding hiking opportunities. But, when it comes to getting married, the mountains offer one of the most spectacular backdrops for weddings in the country. Why wouldn’t you want to celebrate the most important day of your life with the Smokies in the background?
Location, Location, Location
From a quiet, secluded cabin or lodge deep in the woods to hosting the ceremony on a mountaintop, you won’t have a problem finding the best possible location for your special day. There are so many locations to choose from, you may want to start looking now as many of them book up months in advance.
Cost-Effective
No one really wants to have to sit and count pennies as they make their wedding plans, but this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be conscious of costs. Along with being voted as one of the top 5 wedding locations in the country, the area has one of the lowest marriage license fees. Out of town couples can purchase their marriage license for as little as $38.50 (based on method of payment).
As a bonus, out of town couples do not have to take the mandatory 4-hour marriage counseling class that is required in Tennessee, nor do they have to take a blood test. Plus, you won’t need any witnesses to make the marriage legal.
And When the Celebration is Over…
It is becoming more and more popular for newlyweds to take their honeymoon in the same location their wedding took place. What better place to spend your honeymoon than at one of the many cabins, hotels, or B&Bs right here in the Smokies? Not only will spending your honeymoon here save you money, but it gives you and your new husband/wife a chance to explore all that the Smokies have to offer while you enjoy life as newlyweds.
From hiking to whitewater rafting — and horseback rides deep into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park that take you into meadows filled with an amazing array of colorful wildflowers that start to bloom in spring and remain bright and beautiful all summer — the Smokies are a wonderful place to spend your first few days together as a married couple.
Everything you need to enjoy an unforgettable wedding in the Smoky Mountains can be found right here in Blount County. Be sure you book your wedding location and honeymoon suite early as this is a very popular wedding destination with people coming in from all over the country and the world to celebrate their nuptials!
Wineries, Breweries and Distilleries in the Smokies: Create Your Own Tour in Blount County
For those of you who are over 21 and looking for something a little more “adult” to do while you are touring the Smokies, why not follow a local tradition and check out some of the fabulous local breweries, distilleries, and wineries to be found in the area. From a frosty glass mug of Windy Gap Wheat Beer to Moonshine Cherries and Blackberry wine, the local beverages truly showcase this area’s history of making alcoholic beverages. One thing to keep in mind as you go along on your tour, someone has to be the designated driver, or you might need a taxi. Consider these fantastic watering holes as part of your journey to taste the best of the best in the Gatlinburg area.
Start at the Sugarland Cellars Working Winery
For the wine connoisseur, the Sugarland Cellars Winery offers tours through this working winery complete with live music playing on the Spirit Stage, a stop in the gift shop for a few souvenirs, and then on to the tasting room. All of the wines made here are crafted from local grapes grown in the shadow of the Smokies by families who have been producing these incredible grapes for many generations. Don’t forget to take a bottle or two of their delicious wine home with you.
Time for a Microbrew at the Smoky Mountain Brewery
This area of Tennessee may have earned a reputation for making moonshine, but in recent years the number of microbrews made locally might surprise you. When you drop in for a visit at the Smoky Mountain Brewery, you can order any one of several local microbrews to sample, or better yet, order a “flight,” and your server will bring you a sample of four different local beers. They also offer pizza, burgers, and more for when you need a little food to absorb the beer.
Sample Genuine Tennessee Moonshine at the Sugarlands Distilling Company
You can’t vacation in Tennessee without sampling the alcoholic beverage that helped to make the area famous. Of course, we are talking about moonshine, and if you want to sample some the best in the area, you need to stop in at the Sugarlands Distilling Company and taste their unique flavors. One of the most popular is the apple pie flavor, made using caramel and Granny Smith apples. While you are sampling the many flavors, take a moment to listen to stories about the Appalachians, take the tour, check out the live music and stock up on your favorite flavors.
The First Licensed Distillery in East Tennessee – The Ole Smoky Distillery
The Ole Smoky Distillery enjoys the distinction of being the first distillery making moonshine in East Tennessee to receive a federal license allowing them to produce their own moonshine and sell it to the public. It’s also come a long way from the days of “running shine” in a 1940 Ford with a flathead V8 and a trunk load of “white lightning” while trying not to get pulled over by the “man.” Today, the distillery produces a selection of superb moonshine in assorted flavors for you to sample. Take the tour, try the moonshine infused foods, and take a look back at where NASCAR got its start.
Come to East Tennessee for the fun, the family-friendly atmosphere, and the many things to do in the Gatlinburg area, but whatever else you do, make sure you leave plenty of time to tour the local breweries, distilleries, and wineries along the way.
Winter Activities Abound in the Smokies: Here are Our Top 5 Favorites
Are you eager to experience The Smokies in every season? While the springtime is truly glorious and full of beautiful blooming trees, wildlife and lovely weather, the summer is tough to beat with its seemingly endless days of great conditions and nights of twinkling stars. Many would argue that the autumn is the best because of the weeks and weeks of foliage and the different harvest events.
What about winter? There is actually just as much to see and do in the winter months as there is at any other time of year. We’ve listed our five favorite activities, and maybe a few extras!
#1 Skiing
Lots of people don’t realize that The Smokies are home to great skiing, particularly that at the Ober Gatlinburg. Close to the cities of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, it is a year-round attraction with an alpine slide, ice skating, lots of restaurants, and activities for kids. Yet, the winter is when it really shines, offering skiing, snowboarding and tubing. You can even learn to ski here!
#2 Hiking
While most of us don’t like to head outside and into the wilderness during the cold of the winter months, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has some amazing hiking options open and available. In fact, it is one of the few times the park is nearly crowd-free so you can enjoy some stunning views and even trek into some of the waterfalls, frozen over for the season. Check with the park’s website for information about open trails and roads. NOTE: Cades Cove is usually open and winter is a great time to spot some local wildlife.
#3 A Train Ride
This sounds unusual, but the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad operates all of the way to January 1st and provides a lovely ride along the river and through the woods. In fact, you can even hop aboard the “Polar Express” and savor a holiday stop at the North Pole! Visit the railroad’s website for a full schedule.
#4 Big Events
From the Gatlinburg Winter Magic Trolley Ride of Lights to the Pigeon Forge Winterfest Driving Tour of Lights, there is a tone of Christmas activity beginning in November and lasting through the end of the year. Townsend has a Christmas Parade, a Reindeer Run and more.
#5 The Peace
It is impossible to argue that the area has an entirely different sort of peacefulness that settles over it along with winter’s snows. There are a lot of cozy cabins and chalets available in the mountain areas and down in the towns, and a stay booked at one of them can be an unforgettable experience. Imagine cozying up by your fireplace, gazing out at the snow-covered mountains and enjoying time with family, friends or just on your own during this remarkably peaceful time of the year.
Of course, the many amazing restaurants, shows, parks and museums of the area remain open year-round, and are a reason to head here for the winter months. You can also warm up with a wine or whiskey sampling tour or spend your day shopping in the Arts and Crafts Community over at Gatlinburg or the different areas of the towns. There’s much to see and do, and winter is a great time of year in the Smokies.
Your Group will Love the Campgrounds in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
With the summer coming to a close faster than you expected, there’s never been a better time to get in that last-minute camping trip to the Smokies! Here on the peaceful side of the Smokies, you’ll find plenty of camping opportunities that you and your family will love. Easy access to the Little Pigeon River, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and many other natural attractions make camping in the Smokies perfect for your summer getaway.
Where to Go Camping in the Smokies
Blount County is perfect for camping in the Smokies, for many reasons. Here on the peaceful side of the mountains, we have many family-friendly attractions that are ideal for a relaxing, leisurely vacation. Bring your RV to Whispering River RV Resort, or try staying at Carpenter Campground in Maryville. Many of the local campgrounds have park-like settings with playground equipment, access to streams where you can fish, and other activities right there in the campground.
Glamping, Cabin Rentals, and Other Camping Alternatives
If you prefer something a little more stylish for your camping adventure, Blount County campgrounds do also offer “Glamping” tents and cabin rentals. You can stay in luxury and enjoy a unique camping experience, while still getting to be close to all the beautiful natural sights in the area. The Little Arrow Outdoor Resort is the prime location to check out glamping tents, tiny homes, and luxury cabins. The area also has a dog park, so you can bring the whole family along for the fun.
Easy Access to the Exciting Fun All Around the Smokies
One way that camping in Blount County will excite your entire group of campers is the easy access to the nearby fun of places such as Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. You can enjoy the beauty of the mountains, the small-town atmosphere, and the peaceful pace of Blount County – and they can check out Dollywood, or many of the other fun activities just a short drive away. Don’t forget to take a hike through the many walking trails in Blount County that lead you through the beautiful mountains.
Leisure and Wanderlust Come Together When You Go Camping in the Smokies
This area is perfect for scratching your itch to travel, while still having a very pampered vacation. You can absolutely get close to nature with camping fun, and still have plenty of luxury. From delicious local fine dining, luxury amenities in many of the campgrounds, to nearby spas and resorts, and lots of other relaxing or romantic things to do all around, you won’t find a better place to combine your sense of adventure with your desire to relax.
Pack up your family today and head to the Smokies for a fun camping adventure that will please everyone!
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