Author: Rachel Coffman

Hidden Treasures in the Peaceful Side

Posted on April 11, 2022 by Rachel Coffman - Blog

If you are a curious tourist, there are many unique hidden treasures in the Peaceful Side. While you’re visiting, don’t miss out on these local gems such as the Faerie Knoll, Rutherford’s Farm, the Townsend Abbey, Hot Rods 50’s Diner, and much more. See the full list below.

The Bird & The Book

Hours: 4:30pm – 10:00pm (Wed-Sat)

Address: 1509 E. Broadway Ave, Maryville, TN 37804

Quoted as “Blount County’s home of Counter Culture,” The Bird & The Book is a great place to find unity through diversity. This friendly neighborhood pub offers a fantastic menu, a variety of craft beers, and a wine list that won’t break the budget. Check out their Facebook page to see what’s on the calendar when you are in town. It could be a drag show, live music, a comedy show, trivia night, wrestling, community theater, or a book release…the possibilities are limitless.

The Bird and The Book Mural — The Bird and The Book

The Bird and The Book KFW Wrestling — The Bird and The Book

Richy Kreme Donuts

Address: 2601 E. Broadway Ave, Maryville, TN 37804

Hours: 6:00am – Donuts Run Out (Tues-Sat)

Ricky Kreme has been a staple in Blount County since 1939. Their doughnuts offer a variety of new flavor combinations, as well as everyone’s favorites, but you need to get there early because they don’t last long.

Townsend Abbey

Address: 7765 River Rd., Townsend, TN 37882

Hours: 11:00am – 10:00pm (Thurs-Sun)

Townsend Abbey is a renovated wedding chapel located on the Little River. Their outdoor seating area overlooks the river, allowing customers to watch tubers lazily float their summers away. Most weekends, the outside area offers entertainment like cornhole, Connect-4, and live music (cover free). They offer the finest local craft beers paired with pizza, sandwiches, small bites, and shareable medium plates. They also offer dinner specials each weekend and have been voted “Trip Advisor Top Ten Percent of Restaurants in the World” in 2020 and 2021. This hidden gem is the perfect stop for some refreshments after a day of hiking the Smokies.

Hot Rods 50’s Diner

Address: 373 Hannum St., Alcoa, TN 37701

Hours: Open Daily 11:00am – 9:00pm

Hot Rods is a throwback to simpler times, with its 50’s style decor, including neon lights, pinball machines, and superb service. This family-owned and operated diner offers over 80 different burgers cooked and prepared daily, including vegan options. Click here to see a full menu.

Smoky Mountain “Faerie Knoll“

Where: Hidden off of Twin Creek Trail

Twin Creek Trail is a reasonably easy 4.5-mile hike out and back and takes approximately 2 hours to complete. Unfortunately, because of our promise to the faeries, we can’t tell you exactly where their home is, so you’ll have to do a little exploring to find it.

Rutherford’s Farm | Pick Your Own

Address: 337 Mint Rd, Maryville, TN 37803

Hours: Produce available April – December (Mon-Sat)

Rutherford’s Farm started in 1976 with one produce field but has grown to four and offers some of the freshest produce available. They estimate strawberries will be ready to pick 3 to 4 days around April 20th. In addition to strawberries, their Spring season should have green onions, broccoli, cauliflower, green and purple cabbage, various lettuces, beets, zucchini, and yellow crook-neck squash. They also provide beans, tomatoes, and corn during the Summer season, and greens and sweet potatoes in the Fall. For more information, click on their name above for their Facebook page.

Studio 212

Address: 934 E. Broadway Ave, Maryville, TN 37804

Hours: By Appointment

If you are looking for something a little different on your trip to the Smokies, we recommend trying a pottery class. Studio 212 offers one-time Saturday classes called “Try A Pot,” allowing a spin at the pottery wheel. They also offer private parties where you create and take home one piece of handcrafted pottery. Private parties must include a minimum of 6 people but no more than 16. Click on their name above to get info to schedule classes before your visit.

Studio 212 Faerie House hand thrown pottery — Studio 212

Rocky Top Rage Room

Address: 1813 E. Broadway Ave, Maryville, TN 37801

Hours: By Appointment

Need a break from the family while visiting the Peaceful Side of the Smokies? Why not embrace your extreme side and get rid of some of that frustration by smashing things? Click on their name above and see which of their six Rage Packages fits your needs.

Rocky Top Rage Room smash in progress — Rocky Top Rage Room

Cades Cove Cellars

Address: 7126 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN 37882

Hours: – Thurs 10:00am – 5:00pm, Sat 10:00am – 6:00pm, &

Sun 11:00am – 5:00pm

Two generations of the Birkholz and Reed families founded Cades Cove Cellars, offering 80 years of combined experience in the winemaking industry. The team has been working together for 12 years, keeping fresh fruit and trusted recipes at the heart of their process. The tasting room was crafted with all local materials, and their hospitality offers a sense of home away from home. The very popular Icewater Springs is April’s wine of the month, which is a blend of locally grown Seyval Blanc grapes and sweet strawberries. Click on their name above for more information.

Cades Cove Cellar Spring Wine — Cades Cove Cellars

Cades Cove Cellars Tasting Room — Cades Cove Cellars

Birch & Twine

Address: 161 Painted Trillium Way, Townsend, TN 37882

Hours: Mon-Sat 10:00am – 5:00pm, Sun 1:00pm – 5:00pm

Birch & Twine is a fairly new addition to the Peaceful Side. They offer many unique gifts, allowing visitors to take a little piece of the Smoky Mountains home.

The Golden Age 1942

Address: 316 Court St, Maryville, TN 37804

Hours: Mon-Sat 11:00am – 8:00pm

The Golden Age 1942 is a comic book store for everyone. They stock comics of all types, host events to celebrate the genre, have a game room available for D&D adventures, and offer memorabilia of all kinds. This place is a must-do when you are in the area.

The Golden Age 1942

Hoo La La Vintage

Address: 564 N Foothills Plaza Dr, Maryville, TN 37801

Hours: Mon-Fri 10:00am – 5:30pm, Sat 10:00am – 4:00pm

Hoo La La Vintage started with three friends in a garage turning unloved pieces of furniture into one-of-a-kind treasures. And that’s what you will find, a unique gift and home décor destination that exemplifies the southern hospitality you expect from the Peaceful Side.

Hoo La La Vintage Easter home decor — Hoo La La Vintage

Hoo La La Vintage Showroom — Hoo La La Vintage

Bigfoot Popcorn

Address: 8215 TN Hwy 73, Townsend, TN 37882

Hours: Tues-Sat 11:00am – 5:00pm, Sun 1:00pm – 5:00pm

Bigfoot Popcorn is the brainchild of two high school friends, looking to make some money while still in college. Since Bigfoot is known to avoid crowds, it only makes sense that they made their home on the Peaceful Side. Try their signature flavor, Bigfoot Poop, when stopping in for a vintage soda or looking for their retro candy selection.

Bigfoot Popcorn overlooking Smoky Mountains — Bigfoot Popcorn

Bigfoot Popcorn T-Shirt — Bigfoot Popcorn

The Shoppes at Homespun

Address: 1410 Sevierville Rd, Maryville, TN 37804

Hours: Mon-Sat 10:00am – 6:00pm, Sun 1:00om -6:00pm

Located in the Old Cherokee Lumber Company, this nostalgic building with its different angles, beams, and open structural layout was the perfect location. The Shoppes at Homespun creates an ideal home for the wonderful vintage and country primitives, antiques, and home decor found inside.

The Shoppes at Homespun Spring Showroom — The Shoppes at Homespun

The Shoppes at Homespun Maryville location — The Shoppes at Homespun

For more exciting things to do, check out a few upcoming events in the Peaceful Side of the Smokies.

Bigfoot in the Smokies

Hops in the Hills

Taste of Blount

International Beer Day

Posted on August 4, 2022 by Rachel Coffman - Activities, Townsend

It is #InternationalBeerDay, and in celebration, we put together highlights from some of our favorite watering holes on the Peaceful Side. We’ve also listed some of the local Maryville breweries so you know what to look for while visiting.

Townsend Abbey

Address: 7765 River Rd., Townsend, TN 37882

Hours: 11:00am – 10:00pm (Thurs-Sun)

Townsend Abbey is a renovated wedding chapel located on the quaint Little River. Outdoor seating overlooks the river, allowing patrons to watch tubers lazily float their summers away. Most weekends, the outside area offers entertainment like cornhole, Connect-4, and live music (cover free). They offer the finest local craft beers paired with pizza, sandwiches, small bites, and shareable medium plates. The Abbey also offers dinner specials each weekend and has been voted “Trip Advisor Top Ten Percent of Restaurants in the World” in 2020 and 2021. Bring your thirst for fun and beer to this little piece of heaven.

Little River Pub & Deli

Address: 7503 W. Old Hwy 73, Townsend, TN 37882

Hours: 12:00pm – 9:00pm (Every day, BUT Thursday)

The Little River Pub & Deli sits at the front of the Strawberry Patch Inn on the Little River. This family-owned business boasts a casual, relaxed atmosphere with an outdoor beer garden overlooking the rambling river. Sit and enjoy the sights and sounds of the Great Smoky Mountains while sipping craft brews from the local Maryville and Knoxville areas. Besides drinks, they also provide a creative dining menu, including gluten-free, vegetarian, and kid-friendly selections. The hardest decision you will have to make here is who will pick up the tab.

Peaceful Side Social Brewery + Craft Kitchen

Address: 7967 E. Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN 37882

Hours: 11:00am – 8:00pm (7 Days a Week)

Nothing says International Beer Day like a cold german beer on a warm summer afternoon. The Peaceful Side Social offers guests an upscale, fast-casual environment to pop in for a quick beer and a bite. Their in-house brew selection brags traditional German principles, with their own IPA 1.0 and IPA 2.0 and a variety of local micro-brews on tap. The chef-driven menu includes Stone Hearth oven-baked pizzas, sandwiches, and small plates, keeping all allergy or ethically sensitive patrons in mind. They are dog-friendly, offering water bowls, leash hooks, treats, and greenspace for your furry family. Sip + Savor + Support is a program that allows Peaceful Side Social to give back to chosen local non-profits who work hard to impact the community and environment.

Peaceful Side Social Brewery + Craft Kitchen

Maryville Breweries

Round 6 Brewing – 427 Whitecrest Drive, Maryville
Tri-Hop Brewery – 205 Court Street, Maryville
Blackberry Farm Brewery – 106 Everett Avenue, Maryville
Smoky Mountain Brewery – 743 Watkins Road, Maryville

For more adventures on the Peaceful Side, check out the blog links below:

Kid-Friendly Activities on the Peaceful Side

Best Views for Sunrises and Sunsets

Kid-Friendly Activities on the Peaceful Side

Posted on May 31, 2022 by Rachel Coffman - Activities, Blog

kid-friendly vacations - daddy and daughter hiking

Are you ready to reconnect and relax on your family vacation? If you’re looking to get away from theme parks and crowds- we have the family vacation for you. Float down the Little River, stand in awe of an underground waterfall, learn about East Tennessee history and nature, and maybe spot a bear or two- here on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies.

Kids running in a creek in the Smoky Mountains

The Institute at Tremont

The mission behind the Institute at Tremont is to offer hands-on outdoor discovery experiences accessible to everyone. They have succeeded and flourished with programs for everyone from young children to adults and educators to the curious public. Check out all of the kid-friendly activities they plan yearly.

Summer Camps

Leave the planning to the Tremont Institute and experience the Great Smoky Mountains in a structured and educational environment. Camps start as young as age four through high-school ages, along with family and adult camps, with themes like discovery camps, science camps, and backpacking camps. They even host a Firefly camp that allows a parent or grandparent to accompany children four to nine for a one, two, or three-night adventure.

Citizen Science Programs

Tremont offers volunteer programs throughout the year like monarch tagging, bird-banding, salamander monitoring, phenology tracking, and otter spotting. These programs allow the public to gather hands-on experience with actual scientific research.

Spending the Day at Tremont

Tremont Institute is located inside the Townsend entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, near Cades Cove. Visitors are welcome to hike the trails in the area any time the park is open. Please stop by the Tremont Visitor’s Center at 9275 Tremont Road for helpful information about the valley, and check out our selection of Smokies and Tremont merchandise. Proceeds from purchases in the gift store support Tremont’s mission to connect more people with nature.

For more information on the wealth of programs, camps, and volunteer opportunities, check out the Institute at Tremont’s website.

Monarch butterfly tagging. Photo by Stephanie Bowling.

Tubing on the Little River

Add a lazy little adventure to your family vacation by tubing down the Little River. Beat the summer heat and create memories your kids will never forget as you spend an epic day letting mother nature guide you through her gorgeous waterways. The Peaceful Side offers several tubing businesses that provide various packages, including drop-off and pick-up. Click on the links below to learn more about kid-friendly activities at each location.

Kid-Friendly Hikes

Laurel Falls

This trail is one of the most popular in the national park and is excellent for younger children because of its paved path to the waterfall. The hike is only 2.5 miles up and back and has an 80-foot high Laurel Falls named for mountain laurel, an evergreen shrub that blooms along the trail and near the falls in May. There is a small pool at the bottom of the falls, so remember to watch your adventurous kids.

Schoolhouse Gap Trails

This 3.8-mile trail is a gentle climb that runs along a creek and is a visual feast for wildflower lovers. The stream is a perfect way for the kids to cool down as parents catch glimpses of the mountain peaks through the forest of trees.

The Trail to Abrams Falls

Abram Falls Trail starts in Cades Cove and covers 5.2 miles by the time you make the trip. The trail takes you across several footbridges until you reach the falls that drop 20 feet down a rocky slope. Listed as a moderate hike, this is perfect for older children but easy enough for parents to backpack the family’s youngest members.

Townsend River Walk and Arboretum

Because of the hard work of the Tuckaleechee Garden Club, this 1/2 mile nature trail is well-maintained, highlighting flowers, trees, and the Little River. Join us for free, guided tours on Wednesday, June 8, 2022, and Saturday, June 11, 2022.

Maryville-Alcoa Greenway

This greenway runs close to the city and winds its way through schools, shopping centers, parks, and places to stop for a picnic. There are plenty of places to take a break from the trail, perfect for when your kids need something new to keep them occupied. The trail passes through vast expanses of greenery and over several tiny hills, which are sure to delight the younger members of your family as you walk along. It’s the perfect hike for those who want to enjoy a nice walk without having to be out in the woods.

Tuckaleechee Caverns

Voted the highest-ranking cave or cavern in the Eastern United States, Tuckaleechee Caverns is a great all-weather option for your Smoky Mountain Vacation. The cave is open from March to November and will give your family a great escape from the summer heat or one of those pesky pop-up thunderstorms for which East Tennessee is known. It will provide you with a break from the weather and give you a unique glimpse beneath the mountains and into a national treasure.

Cades Cove

Consider adding Cades Cove to your kid-friendly activities in the Great Smoky Mountains. Cades Cove offers a visual historical experience of the Peaceful Side, allowing exploration of churches and cabin sites of Appalachain life dating back to the European settlers when the Cherokee were inhabiting the area. You can also bring along your bikes or drive around the loop, stopping to check everything out along the way. If you get lucky, you may see the park’s treasured black bears. But if you do, remember to keep your distance and admire their majesty from afar.

For other kid-friendly activities on the Peaceful Side, check out the blog posts below:

Vee Hollow Mountain Bike Trails

Gourmet S’more Ideas

Leaf Peeping Season in the Smoky Mountains

Posted on October 21, 2022 by Rachel Coffman - Blog, Smoky Mountains

Changing Fall Foliage in the Smokies dirt road

We’ve finally made it to that much-awaited time of year when the weather cools down and the fall foliage hits its climactic changes. Peak leaf peeping season is in full effect. The Smoky Mountains are bursting into wondrous red, orange and yellow hues – a must-see for locals and visitors alike.

Best Times to See Fall Colors

Click here for an interactive 2022 Foliage Map & Nationwide Peak Leaf Forecast.

Fall color changes begin as early as mid-September at higher elevations, maintaining their beauty through mid-November. In the Smokies, you can expect peak fall foliage to occur in late October.

The Smoky Mountains’ long colorful season exists because of the different weather patterns found in the region’s various altitudes. Things cool down much more quickly at higher elevations, causing the leaves to transform earlier, like at Clingman’s Dome. Meanwhile, places at lower el

Fall is one of the park’s busiest times of the year, so we suggest making a game plan ahead of time. Here are several family-friendly trails we recommend hiking.

Laurel Falls Trail, which is a 2.3-mile round-trip hike that begins at a parking lot near the top of Fighting Creek Gap.

Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Smokies, and it’s accessible via a ½-mile-long paved trail. It is a reasonably steep climb, but the panoramic views at the top that extend nearly 100 miles are worth the effort.

Rich Mountain Loop Trail is located in Cades Cove and is only mildly challenging, so it should be acceptable for all family members. Because it is a very popular trail, you should park in the campground and make the short walk to the trailhead.

If a country drive is more your speed, enjoy the changing foliage from your car by cruising the Cades Cove Loop, the Foothills Parkway or Balsam Mountain Road.evations, like Cades Cove, take a bit longer to kick into gear.
For a unique peek into fall in the Smoky Mountains, check out this video by our good friends at Visit My Smokies.

Planning Your Leaf Peeping Adventure

Fall is one of the park’s busiest times of the year, so we suggest making a game plan ahead of time. Here are several family-friendly trails we recommend hiking.

Laurel Falls Trail, which is a 2.3-mile round-trip hike that begins at a parking lot near the top of Fighting Creek Gap.
Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Smokies, and it’s accessible via a ½-mile-long paved trail. It is a reasonably steep climb, but the panoramic views at the top that extend nearly 100 miles are worth the effort.
Rich Mountain Loop Trail is located in Cades Cove and is only mildly challenging, so it should be acceptable for all family members. Because it is a very popular trail, you should park in the campground and make the short walk to the trailhead.

If a country drive is more your speed, enjoy the changing foliage from your car by cruising the Cades Cove Loop, the Foothills Parkway or Balsam Mountain Road.

Leaf Peeping Cheat Sheet

We’ve put together a cheat sheet to help you identify leaves by their fall colors. Once you’ve narrowed down the possibilities, you can reference this leaf identification guide created by the UT Institute of Agriculture to distinguish between them by shape.

American Beech: yellow
Birch: bright yellow
Black Cherry: yellow
Black Maple: glowing yellow
Dogwood: deep red
Hickory: golden bronze
Mountain Ash: yellow
Oak: red, brown, or russet
Red Maple: bright scarlet or orange
Shining Sumac: red
Sourwood: brick red
Sugar Maple: orange-red
Tulip Poplar: golden yellow

Leaf peeping season only comes once a year, so be sure not to miss it! Plan your trip to the Peaceful Side of the Smokies today!

For More Fall Fun in the Smokies, Check Out These Links:

Kid-Friendly Activities on the Peaceful Side

Smartphones and Tablets help leaf peepers make the most of a Fall Smokies Visit

Our Majestic Black Bears

Posted on July 24, 2021 by Rachel Coffman - Blog, Smoky Mountains

One of the prominent tourist intrigues of the Great Smoky Mountains is our majestic black bears. It is not an uncommon sight to see a mama bear and her cubs playing in the park during spring, and it is a precious sight indeed. But don’t be fooled by the innocence of this fun-natured scene or the excitement of seeing your first bear because these creatures can be dangerous when threatened.

A typical adult male bear weighs approximately 250 pounds, and while the adult females are smaller, there have been females documented weighing over 100 pounds. The black bear’s weight can double in the fall, growing to 500+ pounds. They have a keen sense of smell, see in color, are good climbers and swimmers, and run up to 30 miles per hour.

What to Know About Black Bears

Bears are most active early in the morning and late in the evening hours during spring and summer.
Mating usually takes place in July.
During the winter, they chose to den in hollow stumps high above the ground in the Smokies. They enter extended periods of sleep but will leave the den if disturbed or on unusually warm days.
Cubs are born during the mother’s winter sleep around late January or early February.
Females and newly born cubs begin to venture from their dens around late March and early April.
Cubs are often born in pairs and will remail with their mother for about eighteen months.
Bears are omnivores. Plants, nuts, and berries make up around 85% of their diets, and the remaining is protein gained from insects and animals.

Black Bear lounging in a tree — Black Bear resting after a hard day.

Garbage Kills Bears

When bears have constant exposure to human food, it changes their behaviors and causes them to lose their natural fear of humans. This exposure can lead to unpredictable and dangerous behavior.
Bears unafraid to approach humans teach this behavior to other bears and become a threat to the public, which often leads to euthanasia.
Bears who lack fear of humans have shorter life spans and become easy targets for poachers.
When you visit the Great Smoky Mountains, be sure to use the provided bear-proof dumpsters and garbage cans. Never leave food scraps or containers unattended. If camping in the backcountry, hang your food and garbage on the provided food storage cable systems.
If you bring it into the park, make sure you take it out with you.
NEVER feed bears; that is a sure way to ensure their demise.

Black Bear in the Great Smoky Mountains — Photo by Randy Ratliff

What To Do if You See a Bear

Check the “Bear Closures” and “Bear Warnings” section of the Temporary Closures page before planning a hike in the park.
Remain aware, do not approach the bear, or let the bear approach you.
Approaching a bear within 50 yards (150 feet) or any distance that disturbs or distracts the bear is illegal in the park.
If a bear gets aggressive (running toward you, making loud noises, or swatting at the ground), he demands more space.
Throw rocks or non-food objects at the bear or use a large stick as a deterrent.
Please DO NOT RUN, instead slowly back away, watching the bear, and shout to intimidate it. If it does attack – fight back with any available object; do not play dead.

Black Bear in the Smokies — Photo by Randy Ratliff

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the largest protected areas in the eastern United States where black bears can live wild and free. Biologists estimate roughly 1500 bears live in the park and inhabit all elevations of the park. Their instinctive behavior is shy, elusive, and solitary by nature unless in family units. Our community mourns the euthanization of any single black bear, especially when it is because of behaviors created by careless humans. Please do your part to keep our majestic black bears safe and their habitats and instincts wild.

Black Bear Cub in a tree — Black bear cub climbing tree.

For more information on wildlife in the Great Smoky Mountains, check out these posts:

Wildlife Viewing and Safety Tips

Springtime in the Smoky Mountains

Our Summer Playlist | This Summer’s Peaceful Side To-Do List

Posted on May 10, 2023 by Rachel Coffman - Activities

We’ve assembled the perfect Peaceful Side Playlist for your Summer trip to the Smokies. Check out our Summer To-Do list full of some of our favorite spots, events, and activities happening this summer in Blount County.

“Hot Fun In The Summertime” by Sly & The Family Stone (1969)

Hiking the Smokies

There are over 900 miles of hiking trails, 150 different trails, including 71 miles of Appalachian trails in the Peaceful Side. Whether you are looking for a day trip with the family or love the challenge of backpacking through the mountains, we have the hiking experience.

Vee Hollow

Vee Hollow offers 14 miles of adventure bike trails, a skills course for beginners, XC trails, downhill mountain trails, and a one-of-a-kind jump zone through the woods. Enjoy a unique mountain biking experience designed for beginners and experienced riders alike.

Tremont Institute

In partnership with Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tremont Institute’s mission is to deliver experiential learning for youth, educators, and adults through programs promoting self-discovery, critical thinking, effective teaching, and leadership. Click on the link above to see which program speaks to you.

Bigfoot Popcorn

Bigfoot Popcorn is a family-owned and operated business crafting in-house gourmet flavored popcorn. They pride themselves on different, intriguing flavors that create happiness for your taste buds.

Cades Cove

Step back in time to rediscover life as a settler in the 1820s. You’ll find log homes, churches, mills, barns, smokehouses, and more. Cades Cover offers visitors opportunities to hike, drive the winding Cades Cove Loop, picnic, bicycle, ride horseback, or camp under the stars.

“Summer Nights” by John Travolta And Olivia Newton-john (1978)

Sunset Concert Series

Unwind with music at the Sunset Concert Series at the Great Smoky Mountain Heritage Center. The 350-seat outdoor covered amphitheater hosts the Friday night concert series. Concerts begin at 7 pm, last about two hours, and feature some of the best new and established musical groups – bluegrass, jazz, blues, Americana, and country. Click on the link above to see the concert schedule.

Peaceful Side Social

Peaceful Side Social brews memories with a Smoky Mountain Purpose in the heart of Townsend Town Square. Welcoming locals & travelers alike, they offer respite from the crowds with flavorful plates, their own craft beer, uncluttered mountain views, and fresh air. Kick back, relax, play corn hole with friends, and enjoy delicious Farm-to-Counter fare.

The Townsend Abbey

The Townsend Abbey proudly showcases local Craft Beer in the unique setting of a remodeled chapel. We pride ourselves on offering the finest local brews and tasty bites. Watch your favorite sports event with us, or sit by the river and enjoy the Smoky Mountain atmosphere!

Dancing Bear Lodge

This Townsend resort is on a 38-acre property and features 26 charming and rustic accommodations and an award-winning restaurant. “Dancing Bear Lodge is home to the Appalachian Bistro, where comfort food classics paired with the breathtaking beauty all around will make you want to sit a spell and soak it all in,” as featured on the Travel Channel’s hit series Food Paradise: Hotel Hot Spots.

Little Arrow Outdoor Resort

Little Arrow Resort is steps away from the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the closest resort to Cades Cove. Their luxurious accommodations include perks like wood-burning fireplaces, plush bedding, fully stocked kitchens, and more. They offer RV sites, cabins, glamping tents, tiny homes, airstreams, and vacation homes. Other amenities include a spa-like swimming pool, easy river access, hiking trails, and other exciting onsite activities.

Hops in the Hills Craft Beer Festival - Summer's Peaceful Side To-Do List

“We’re Gonna Save The Summer” by The Pearlfishers (1999)

Smoky Mountain Scottish Festival

May 20th – 21st from 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Welcome to East Tennessee’s premier celebration of Scottish culture and history, the Smoky Mountain Scottish Festival and Games. The Townsend Visitor Center is the host, offering 30-plus acres, including adjacent parking. This event features clans, vendors, and local and national performers. Festival attendees will be treated to vibrant cultural and educational presentations. Competitions include the hammer throw or caber toss, a medley of bands including bagpipes and drummers, and clan challenges like the kilted mile run or the battle axe competition. At the same time, Scotch-tasting seminars will feature a bit of history and humor, and the Border Collie demonstrations will showcase their herding abilities.

Burger Master

Once known as “The Chalet” to locals, Burger Master Drive-In has been a staple in this gorgeous Smoky Mountain valley for generations. Over 50 years later, the original iconic lit ice cream chalet sign is still shining bright on our rooftop to let old and new friends know it’s finally summertime in Townsend. They proudly serve Braveheart Black Angus Beef® in each of our delicious burgers. Beef this tasty can only come from U.S. family ranches that raise their cattle with care. The Mayfield® soft-serve ice cream makes its sweet debut in classic shakes, swirled and dipped cones, flurries with all your favorite fixings, banana splits piled high, and so much more.

Summer on Broadway

June 23rd – 24th

Come to the Peaceful Side of the Smokies in Blount County for Summer on Broadway, a series of outdoor events to celebrate the region and season. Events include Smoky Mountain Dock Dogs, Headphone Silent Disco, Big BBQ Bash, Farmer’s Market, Craft Vendors, Food Trucks, and Kid’s Area.

Hops in the Hills

June 24th from 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Hops in the Hills Craft Beer Festival, set against the backdrop of the Smokies, returns for its seventh celebration. This festival allows attendees to sample regional craft beer from the best breweries in the area. This year’s festival will take place at the Maryville Greenway Amphitheater, allowing extra space for games, lounging, and live music. Festival price includes tastings, food, and an official event t-shirt.

Company Distilling

The second Company Distilling location—and first newly-constructed distillery for Company Distilling—is located on 13.5 acres on the Little River in Townsend, TN. With a production area, bottle/retail shop, and bar with portfolio tastings and a signature cocktail menu, you can spend some time with your best company in The Peaceful Side of the Smokies. Grab a bite to eat and sip on whiskey and bourbon cocktails as you enjoy one of our scheduled programs, or join us at a quieter time and enjoy the sounds of nature outside. The Townsend Greenway passes right by this location (perfect for walkers and bicyclists). We also have plenty of parking for those driving to and from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Gather Around indoors or outside on the patio area and enjoy ample seating, cornhole boards, and other activities.

Great Smoky Mountain Hot Air Balloon Festival

“Summertime” by Dj Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince (1991)

Buggin’ the Dragon

June 3rd from 10:00 am – 7:00 pm

Once again, Air-cooled VWs will attack the Dragon, starting in Townsend, TN. 318 Curves in 11 miles – Designated US129, the road is bordered by the Great Smoky Mountains and the Cherokee National Forest.

Air-cooled Volkswagens are more than “just a car” to the enthusiasts that own them. We want to see the individuality in every one of them! They put time, money, and a lot of love into these little cars daily.

Taste of the Smokies

June 3rd from 4:30 pm – 9:30 pm

Celebrate the Tastes of Appalachian culture with regional food, music, and history at Tastes of the Smokies, an annual community event benefiting the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center. At a leisurely pace, guests can see what’s current, new, and on the drawing board at the GSM heritage center. While mingling with living history demonstrators, attendees may meander through the galleries and Appalachian Village. At the same time, they enjoy artfully prepared food and drink provided by respected local restaurants known for their quality regional Appalachian fair. At 7:00, we will gather at the Heritage Center amphitheater for a wonderful concert from the Driftboat Cowboys.

Freedom Fest

June 24th from 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm

Held at the Duck Pond in Alcoa, Freedom Fest features food vendors, crafters, and a Kid’s Cove with various activities for the entire family. There will be live music and a fireworks show at approximately 9:30.

Hot Air Balloon Festival

August 19th from 3:00 – 9:00

Join us this August for a summertime spectacle when professional balloonist light up the evening sky with a beautiful balloon glow and spectacular tethered rides. The atmosphere will be filled with a kaleidoscope of color against a backdrop of a breathtaking Tennessee Smoky Mountain sunset in beautiful Townsend, Tennessee.

Tubing on the Little River in Townsend, TN - Summer's Peaceful Side To-Do List

“Cool For The Summer” by Demi Lovato (2015)

Tuckaleechee Caverns

Voted the highest-ranking cave or cavern in the Eastern United States, Tuckaleechee Caverns is a great all-weather option for your Smoky Mountain Vacation. The cave is open from March to November, offering families a great escape from the summer heat or one of those pesky pop-up thunderstorms for which East Tennessee is known. It will not only give you a break from the weather but will also give you a unique glimpse beneath the mountains and into a national treasure! What better place to cool down than the “Greatest Site Under the Smokies,” where the average temperature is a comfortable 58 degrees year-round?

Tubing the Little River

In the heat of summer, there’s no better way to cool off than tubing in the Little River at the entrance to Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Parts of the river are calm pools of cool water, while other parts are fast rapids and swirling pools. The water is clean, clear, and refreshing. Tubing on the Little River is fun for the whole family. To schedule your summer tubing trip, contact one of Townsend’s tubing companies: River Rage Tubing, Smoky Mountain Outdoor Center, and Smoky Mountain River Rat.

Waterfalls

The national park has over 2,000 miles of rivers and streams, resulting in over 100 cascades and falls. We have picked out a handful of beautiful hikes in the Peaceful Side of the park for every experience level. Meigs Falls is one of the most accessible waterfalls to visit. The trip to Spruce Flat Falls is only two miles roundtrip, but it can get significantly steep, making it a more challenging hike. If you want a more strenuous adventure, check out the Ramsey Cascades. Abrams Falls is one of the “Waterfall Quartet,” a group of four waterfalls, including Abrams, Laurel, Grotto, and Rainbow Falls. Don’t forget the Indian Flats Falls is beyond Toms Branch Falls, another half-mile, turning right onto Indian Creek Trail.

Fly Fishing

Smoky Mountain Fly Fishing is an ideal way to spend an afternoon with over 2100 miles of rivers and streams running through the Great Smoky Mountain National Park and year-round open waters. We welcome everyone to come and enjoy the solitude and peace of a bit of fishing on the river. Fly fishing is more than just an adventure for experienced anglers. Several local businesses offer lessons and guided tours. A great place to start your search for local guidance is through our friends at Little River Outfitters.

If you enjoyed our Summer’s Peaceful Side To-Do List, check out similar posts below:

Summer’s Peaceful Side To-Do List

Vee Hollow Mountain Bike Trails

Peaceful Side of the 2022 Smoky Mountain Events

Posted on January 30, 2022 by Rachel Coffman - Blog, Events

Welcome to our 2022 Smoky Mountain Events! We are thrilled to bring the Peaceful Side of the Smokies a year of inviting events from the Bigfoot Festival to Grains and Grits. Check out all of this year’s events below and book your trip now.

Bronco Truck Show (April 20 – 23)

Bronco Driver Magazine presents Super Celebration at Townsend Visitor Center. It has been hosted annually since 2006 in the quiet Smoky Mountain Town of Townsend, Tennessee (Just outside of Pigeon Forge).

This four-day event – is the world’s largest bronco enthusiast gathering: on-site activities, daily drives, awards, product giveaways, and more. Click here for Registration Info.

Bigfoot Festival (May 7, 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm)

The Smoky Mountain Bigfoot Festival offers live music, vendors, food trucks, a bigfoot calling competition, oral history, famous bigfoot researchers, and so much more.

The festival kicks off with a 5K and fun run.
The Cryptopunkologist himself, Kenny W. Irish, author of AMERICAN CRYPTIDS In Pursuit of the Elusive Creatures, shares his knowledge.
East Tennessee Bladesmith Christy Whitaker, featured in the Netflix show “Forged in Fire,” will be showcasing her skills.

Smoky Mountain Scottish Festival & Games (May 21-22, 9:00 am – 9:00 pm)

Scottish or not, this event will give you and your family a glimpse into the rich traditions and history of our area’s Scottish and Scots-Irish settlers.

Vibrant cultural and educational presentations
Scotch tasting seminars
Border Collies herding demonstration
Kilted athletes compete in traditional Scottish competitions.
Dozens of colorful Pipe and Drum band competitions
Traditional and Modern International Celtic entertainers
Specialty selected vendors offering Scottish, Irish, and Celtic goods and foods
Highland dance demonstrations
Clan tents with genealogical information

Click here for a complete Schedule of Events

Summer on Broadway & Big BBQ Bash (June 24-25, 10:00 am – 9:00 pm.)

The weekend-long Summer on Broadway celebration, set against the backdrop of the Smokies, offers exciting outdoor festivities such as a sanctioned BBQ Cookoff, Farmer’s Market and Craft Fair, and Hops in the Hills Craft Beer Festival. You can also enjoy the Car Show, Dock Dogs, Kid’s Zone, Food Trucks, as well as live music downtown. This summer festival offers a hometown atmosphere while attracting visitors from surrounding cities and states.

Hops in the Hills Craft Beer Festival (June 25, 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm)

Warm summer nights, good music, friendly conversation, and local craft beer – what else could you ask for from an evening in the East Tennessee Mountains? Our Hops in the Hills Craft Beer Festival isn’t just another regional beer fest; it’s an event planned with both patron and brewer experience in mind. Limiting ticket sales for the Hops in the Hills event helps keep lines short and allows brewers to discuss their process and product distinctions with an engaged crowd. Ticket prices get you beer tastings, food, an official event t-shirt, and great live music.

Great Smoky Mountains Hot Air Balloons in Townsend, Tennessee

Hot Air Balloon Festival (August 20, 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm)

Against the backdrop of a Tennessee Smoky Mountain sunset, watch as professional balloonists light up the sky with a kaleidoscope of color. Then, during the onset of dusk, the tethered balloons begin to inflate and glow through sundown into the night sky. You can expect a day of live bands and entertainment, activities for all ages, food trucks, a beer tent, and the grand finale at sunset.

Taste of Blount (September 8, 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm)

Taste of Blount is a collection of savory food favorites from local restaurants, caterers, food trucks, and gourmet grocers who offer samples to event attendees. This friendly competition is back for its 20th year at the Theater in the Park in Maryville.

Smoky Mountain Half-Marathon (September 10, 7:00 am – 11:00 am)

Escape to the “Peaceful Side of the Smokies” with a gorgeous race through the woods. The race starts at 7:00 am in Maryville, TN, and ends at 11:00 am in Townsend, TN. This is a 13.1-mile course in Townsend, TN, United States. The route has a total ascent of 727.48 ft and has a maximum elevation of 1,156.23 ft. It will be an “open course,” meaning there will be cars on the road, as well as runners.

Townsend Fall Festival & Old Timers Day (September 23-24, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm)

The foothills of the Smoky Mountains come to life with Bluegrass music, arts and crafts, time-honored traditions, and Appalachian cooking at the Townsend Fall Festival. This free community event provides an atmosphere where family and friends of all ages can partake in time-honored Appalachian traditions.

Grains and Grits Festival (November 5, 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm)

This event celebrates the legendary prohibition liquor distillers at our annual Grains & Grits Festival in Townsend, TN. It will be a festival of regional craft spirits and local gourmet cuisine tucked into the Peaceful Side of the Smokies. Along with a variety of seasonal gourmet foods, you can also enjoy live music, and the raved about “Ring of Fire.”

For More Info on Fun Places in the Smokies:

Snow in the Smokies

Tennessee Winter Beer Fest

Peaceful Side Spotlight | Millennium Manor Castle

Posted on July 17, 2023 by Rachel Coffman - Blog

If you have ever dreamed of life in a fairytale, we have an awesome treasure for you. Alcoa is the home of a true Roman architecturally inspired castle called Millennium Manor Castle. It is truly an amazing feat of dedication, faith, and an impressive amount of hard work.

Humble Beginnings

Millennium Manor Castle Revelations 20:6

The original castle, built by William Nicholson and his wife, Emma Fair, was intended as a private residence. Nicholson was a staunch Christian and believed the biblical Armageddon would take place during his lifetime, leaving him and 144,000 righteous souls to live on earth with Jesus for another 1000 years. Revelations 20:6 – “Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection. Over such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.” The couple moved to Alcoa from Pickens, GA, where William was a mason and a carpenter when he got a job with Aluminum Company of America (Alcoa, Inc) in 1937. William was 61 years old when he started construction on Millennium Manor Castle while working full-time at the Alcoa plant. Construction began in June 1937 and was completed in December 1946.

William had originally predicted Armageddon would happen in 1959, using his own biblical math, but when it didn’t happen, he changed his prediction to 1969. Unfortunately, his wife died of cancer in 1950 at 72, and William followed in 1965 at 88, so neither would see another prediction fail. After his wife of over 50 years passed, William said of Emma Fair, “It was hard to be parted from her after so many years. My wife believed in me, but her faith in eternal life was weak. She tried to believe, but she had her doubts. There came a time when she talked of dying.” Then, during his own final trip to the hospital, he told his pastor, “If God doesn’t intervene soon, I will die.”

The Nicholsons left ten children behind, but none came to live in the stone castle after William’s death. The manor eventually fell into abandonment and neglect because he never left a will (since he didn’t plan on dying). It became a local party spot for teenagers and squatters, who eventually stole or trashed anything left of value inside, but because of the house’s grit, they couldn’t dent the structure.

Millennium Manor Castle Photo of William and Emma Fair

Construction History

All the original construction work was done by hand, using levers, pulleys, and round ramps to drop the stone and move it forward. They used almost no nails or wood in the original structure to avoid rust and decay. The original Roman architecture used an “Arch and Keystone” design. This design is present throughout the house but is most visible over the doors and windows. They started with a wooden frame, laid a rubber tarp over the wooden form, then stacked stone on top of the frame and inserted a keystone. (At this point, even with the removal of the wooden structure, the roof would stand still without any mortar.) They poured cement over the stacked marble rock, allowing the cement to sift through to the rubber tarp and harden. Then they moved the wooden form and began the process again until the structure was complete. In theory, the function of the mortar was only to fill the gaps, allowing the castle to stand without the cement.

The exterior walls are more than two feet thick, while the interior walls are at least 19 inches thick. The floors are more than four feet of stone, and during construction over 4000 bags of cement were utilized, substituting agricultural lime instead of sand, when needed, to avoid water seepage. The roof alone weighs more than 400 tons. The castle consists of 14 rooms and a two-car underground garage, totaling around 3000 square feet under roof. The manor sits on six lots equaling roughly an acre, including a small white house built from an old Sear’s home kit sitting on the back lot. A six-story deep well sits on the property, measuring five feet in diameter. A stone wall surrounds the entire property. Overall, the castle was 250% overbuilt. In fact, during World War II, the military tried to buy Millenium Manor for $150,000 to use as barracks and armory, but William refused to sell.

Millennium Manor Castle Vintage Photo 1947 — 1947

New Owners

Millennium Manor Castle Karen and Dean Fontaine — Karen and Dean Fontaine

An amateur historian, Dean Fontaine, purchased the manor at auction on February 21, 1995, for $39,000. Dean is a firefighter intrigued by the idea of a house that wouldn’t burn down. Because he often worked nights and was looking for something quiet, it made him an ideal place to sleep during the days. The structure was so sound in 2006, a tornado passed directly over the castle, and he slept through it. Dean and his wife, Karen, have gradually worked to restore the manor over the years. Donations, funding, and incoming supplies dictate projects and workload.

The couple offers public guided tours on summer weekends by appointment only and educational field trips to the castle. It will soon be available to rent for weddings, family reunions, and other social gatherings, and eventually, they hope to turn part of the manor into a local Coffee House.

Millennium Manor Castle Restorations

Trash Removal & Roof Restoration

Trash removal was the first major project they tackled. It took nine truckloads to haul away all the trash, brush, and debris left over the years of neglect – one truckload per week. Because of the junk, water couldn’t drain and caused major roof damage, so restoration was the next step. The Fontaines drained all the water and added another four inches of concrete to eliminate leaks. They still have a tiny area of drainage issues, but they hope to have that fixed soon.

Redoubt (Fortress within a Fortress)

The redoubt is a covered patio area to the side of the castle. The couple is replacing the 78-year-old cedar wood with a 50-year shingle. It took one solid steel post to hold up the chimney and nine hollow steel posts to hold up the stonework. After the roof and gutter installation, they will lay travertine tile flooring. (As a fundraiser, they allow supporters to engrave their names into the floor tiles.) The redoubt renovation includes a small fireplace with outdoor cooking space, granite shelves, and an onyx sink. It also houses 13 electrical outlets, including a couple on the roof for lighting options and alcoves lit with electric candles. An Air Force National Guard leadership class built a new carriage for the small cannon out of recycled milk jugs from Friendsville, which replaced the original red oak carriage. The “murder hole,” traditionally used to pour boiling water or grease on intruders as a last defense, remains intact. They added a small black iron door to house all the plumbing and electricity for the redoubt, which they doubled up for backup purposes. They also included a small plaque with a bible quote from William Nicholson. When everything is complete, a 48’x7″ sidewall wall will house a guard shack, including a bulletproof banker’s window to provide security for guests utilizing the manor for private events.

Front Courtyard

After a year and a half of renovations, Fontaine discovered the perimeter fence. The exterior front wall had to be built twice because of road construction. The footstone at the bottom of the existing ten-foot wall is from the original structure. Last year they added crenulations along the front wall. The two-bay garage is noticeably squared off, instead of the arch and keystone design throughout the rest of the manor. This is because when Nicholson originally parked in it, he could not open the doors of his “model A” car enough to get out of the vehicle, so he used a sledgehammer to get out. Nicholson planned for Millennium Castle Manor to be a self-sufficient property and originally included large gardens, apple, walnut, and bitter orange trees. The original firepit remains, along with the bitter orange tree. To integrate a piece of Dean’s humor, a Latin plaque along the exterior wall reads, “If you can read this, you are overeducated.”

Side Courtyard

Plans for the completed side courtyard include a completely walled-in outdoor space. It took the Fontaines four years to build the perimeter wall along the adjoining property for privacy, including eyelets, to secure a grand tent for future events. The back wall creates a starburst window, surrounded by a stone fireplace and enclosed by a new gate door. Outdoor electricity is being run throughout the courtyard walls for convenience during outdoor events. Dean also built a wooden ladder during roof renovations to maintain the aesthetic, which will remain as a decorative feature.

Castle Interior

Wood-burning stoves supply heating throughout Millennium Manor Castle, and Army field phones communicate between the upper and lower levels.

Upstairs Rooms
- Museum Room/Gold Room: This room possibly originally served as a dining room, but as a tribute to William Nicholson, the Fontaines have filled this room with donated medieval weapons, and it serves as a teaching tool for visiting groups.
- Office Nook
- Upstairs Kitchen: The original kitchen sink is open underneath to allow access to the plumbing. This space will eventually become a bathroom.
- Upstairs Bedroom: This space will transition into the upstairs kitchen because of the small hole that allows for future plumbing. A Dutch door will replace the existing entrance into the courtyard. Dean originally power-washed the ceiling, disturbing much of the concrete, which will be patched and repainted.
- Copper Room: This small bedroom can also serve as a dressing room. It showcases pink marble mined from Friendsville and a wood stove.
- Bathroom: The current porcelain sink, salvaged from the side of the road, updated the space. It is currently only a half bath but will ultimately include a shower.
Dungeon/Downstairs Rooms
- Dining Room: Includes a large dining table and chairs; it took the couple several years to collect the table setting. They are still looking for authentic marble silverware. The blue and white crest in this room is the Fontaine Family Crest.
- Downstairs Bedroom: This is the bedroom William Nicholson stayed in after Emma Fair died. Because the original structure did not include a downstairs bathroom, they’ve even included a chamber pot for authenticity.
- Star Chamber Room: This bedroom decor is all black and decorated with glow-in-the-dark stars on the ceiling. There is no window in this room, making it the perfect place for Dean to sleep during the days when he worked nights as a firefighter.
- Downstairs Kitchen: The original sink in this room is completely concreted in, so a PVC pipe had to be used to create working plumbing. This is also the location of the downstairs field phone.

Millennium Manor Castle Downstairs Dining Room

Millennium Manor Castle Contact Info

This gorgeous piece of history can be found at 500 N. Wright Rd., Alcoa, TN 37701. To get more info on reserving this unique location for your next event or to schedule a private tour, please contact the Fontaines at 865-255-6970. They offer Public Guided Tours on summer weekends from 12 PM – 5 PM. Tours are $15 per person or a maximum of $40 for up to eight people. Tours are by appointment only.

Millennium Manor Castle Emma Fair and William Nicholson at the top of the south stairwell in Aug 1947

For more fun things to do while you visit the Peaceful Side of the Smokies, please check out the blog posts below:

Blount County Guide to Antiquing

The Company Distilling Tasting Experience

Hidden Treasures in the Peaceful Side

Peaceful Side Spotlight: Bubba Daniel

Posted on September 21, 2022 by Rachel Coffman - Activities, Blog, Townsend, Uncategorized

Bubba Daniel is a unique and authentic chainsaw artist creating something special in Townsend, TN. You can currently find him and many of his creations on the plot of land behind Cades Cove Jeep Outpost and beside Bigfoot Popcorn. Although presently a work in progress, Bubba has big dreams for the property. He envisions an Art Park named Bubbatown USA, honoring the old traditions like leatherworking, blacksmithing, woodworking, glass blowing, and metalworking, but with a new, modern take. He wants to offer artists and craftspeople the ability to open their minds and play with their art.

Mr. Daniel’s path to chainsaw carving was a meandering and fascinating journey. He was born in Cleveland, TN, and he wasn’t very interested in the traditional school model, but he excelled in two classes, Art and Shop, because of their hands-on approach to learning. He eventually found his way to Austin, TX, and jumped into the music scene, constantly traveling and looking for the next gig. He even toured with guitar player Ryan Bingham, which you may recognize from his role as Walker on the hit TV show Yellowstone. Around this time, he met the talented singer-songwriter Clay Blaker, who taught him to surf. Bubba credits Clay as the person who “gave him the sea.” In fact, he followed Mr. Blaker on a two-month surf trip to Panama, where he ended up staying for eight years.

It was also around this time in his life when he met a fiddle player named Doug Moreland, who also happened to be a skilled chainsaw artist. Intoxicated by this art form, Bubba repeatedly tried to get Doug to train the skillset, but he blew him off, saying it was not an art form you could teach. It wasn’t until Halloween night in 2000 when he finally convinced Doug to give him a chance. He asked Bubba what his first three major cuts would be, and after Bubba demonstrated his ideas, Doug explained he had the visual knack, and beyond those cuts, he needed to embrace his creativity. That opportunity sparked his love for chainsaw art and inspired a career.

The next step in his career took place in Anahuac, TX, which he still calls his adopted hometown. He was actively involved in the community, and they embraced him and his artwork. The city gave him work and confidence to spread his wings and he eventually moved to East Tennessee, where Jason Benson encouraged him to carve at Creative Carvers on Wears Valley Road. Finally, he hungered for something of his own, a place he could spread his wings and experiment with his art form, and landed in Townsend. You can find his art all over town. Still, he credits the opportunity for his most enormous creation (along with many other projects) to Carmen Simpher, the CEO of Little Arrow Outdoor Resort, which houses a monstrous sculpture of Bigfoot. It is a breathtaking feat that he completed over the process of a single winter. If you haven’t seen this piece, I suggest you make those plans as soon as possible.

I have met many people writing for the travel blog, but I have to say Bubba is one of the most fascinating and fun guys I’ve ever met. Bubba’s ultimate vision for Bubbatown USA is to create a destination venue where visitors can stay for a while, enjoying a beverage, some good company, and local musicians while submersing themselves in creative energy and a one-of-a-kind artistic atmosphere. He hopes to foster awareness of the local art scene in Townsend and make it accessible to everyone. He plans to call this sanctuary Bubbatown USA, and we can’t wait to be a part of the process.

For more information on the peaceful side, check out the links below:

What to Know About Snakes in the Smokies

Wildlife Viewing and Safety Tips

Search for Veterans Buried in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park

Posted on July 13, 2020 by Rachel Coffman - Blog, Smoky Mountains

When Joe Emert agreed to a speaking engagement at Blount County’s Tennessee Veterans Business Association, he probably didn’t realize the amount of change it would create in the community. After finishing his lecture on Sam Houston’s youth in Maryville, Mary Childress, president of the Veteran Heritage Site Foundation, inquired if a list of all veterans buried in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park existed. Emert’s search came up empty, which ultimately lead to a project that has currently identified 163 veterans buried in the park, spanning both Tennessee and North Carolina sides.

Putting Together the Team

After initial discussions, GSMNP Spokeswoman Dana Soehn connected Emert to Frank March, co-author of A Field Guide to Cemeteries of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. March then introduced him to the key folks who would lead the effort in the identification. Sheila Evans of the Daughter of the American Revolution in Cocke County, Tennessee, and Don Casada with Friends of Bryson City Cemetary in Swaine County, North Carolina, pulled their resources together to get this project started.

Finding Our Veterans

Before becoming a national park, many small communities lived and died throughout the property. Cemeteries on the property are the resting place for veterans spanning the Revolutionary War, the Civil War, and the Vietnam War. Many grave markers are nothing more than fieldstone in the older cemeteries, leaving behind no engravings or ways to identify the dead. Even with careful research and the assistance of local sources and organizations, the team realizes they’ve missed veterans.
Of the one hundred sixty-three veterans buried in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, the team has identified one hundred and three buried in Tennessee: twenty-six in Blount County; thirty-eight in Sevier County; and thirty-nine in Cocke County. There are sixty known veterans buried in North Carolina: forty-nine in Swain County and eleven in Haywood County.

Database Development

The team is currently working to develop a publicly available interactive database of all the veterans buried in the national park. They hope to include biographical data, cemeteries locations, and the wars and unit records where they served. Listed separately will be cenotaphs (headstones in a location with no buried body) and cremated veterans whose ashes have been registered and scattered in the park. They will also include bodies that were initially buried in the park and later moved to a new location before the Fontana Lake flooding.

How You Can Help

“Our goal is to honor and protect the valor of those who served and not let their memory be erased because of where they are buried,” Emert said in a release. “We are putting this initial list out for review by the public to ensure we are not missing any veteran who is buried in the national park.”
The list can be viewed on the Great Smoky Mountain Heritage Center website and on the Friends of the Bryson City Cemetery website. The group asks anyone with information on a veteran buried or whose remains are scattered in the GSMNP to contact Don Casada at [email protected].

If you are interested in learning more about Smoky Mountains history, check out these blog posts:

Learn About the History of the Region with a Tour of Cades Cove

Learn About the Peaceful Side’s Native American Heritage

Smoky Mountain Coffee Houses

Posted on July 24, 2020 by Rachel Coffman - Blog, Drinking

Almost every vacation, no matter how relaxing or well planned, needs the occasional pick-me-up. There is no easier and more delicious energy boost in the world than an expertly made coffee. When we travel, it is easy to find coffee from the nationally marketed chains, but one of the joys of experiencing new locations is trying out the local flair. We want to introduce you to several of our local favorite Smoky Mountain Coffee Houses for your jolt of caffeine.
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Liquid Hug in a Mug

The Artistic Bean, located in Townsend, TN, offers an in-house, small-batch roastery, guaranteeing a quality roast on every bean. Using only top of the line, fair trade, organic coffee, they provide chemical-free selections to ensure unparalleled flavor. This Smoky Mountain coffee house not only serves excellent coffee, but they also pride themselves in helping out the local community. Your coffee money goes a long way here. They have partnered with the A21 Campaign, which helps rescue girls from sex trafficking and helps them find hope again. They have also stepped up during the Covid-19 pandemic by raising over $13,000 to help support those financially affected.
If you want to make a difference in the world while purchasing a top-notch brew and homemade pastries, check out Artistic Bean’s website for a full menu. Or visit them at 8027 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN 37882.

Experience a Coffee Cocktail

Located in Townsend, TN, Dancing Bean Coffee House is working hard to demystify the coffee world. Their goal is to make everyone feel welcome and comfortable while educating guests on all of their different coffee selections and offering suggestions based on preferences, including caffeine-free options like frozen lemonade and bubble tea.
Their hospitality extends beyond their human customers, as well. As a pet-friendly establishment, they also offer complimentary pup cups to their four-legged friends. To top off their unique atmosphere, they offer a selection of coffee cocktails. Manager, Amie Wendel, came from a bartending background and having access to Dancing Bear’s liquor license sparked her creativity. As she said, “Beautiful things happen when a bartender becomes a barista.” All baristas have basic bartending skills, and a small bar gives patrons a place to sit and watch their drinks be made, while their cocktail menu changes from hot to cold as the season dictates. Right now, they are offering a standard Irish Coffee, a Royal White Russian, and a Cold Brew Mountain Man.
To see a full menu, go to their website, or feel free to stop in at 7142 East Lamar Alex Pkwy, Townsend, TN 37882, and let their baristas help you make the right decision.

Southeast Market Leader in Craft Coffee

Vienna Coffee is one of the OG Smoky Mountain coffee houses. John Clark, Vienna’s Roastmaster, started Vienna Coffee Company in his garage over ten years ago and has grown to be one of the Southeast’s premier craft coffee roasters. The coffee house, located in Maryville, TN, offers a wide variety of house-roasted coffee options and a delicious dining menu. Their location provides easy accessibility, allows ample space for social distancing (including two patio areas), and is walking distance from Maryville College and Downtown Maryville. You can find their coffee in many local restaurants and stores. Their most recent acquisition, a heritage brand founded in Chattanooga in 1925, including Stone Cup Coffee Roasting Company and Fleetwood Coffee Company, allows them to now supply 23 local convenient stores.
To see this Blount County staple’s menu, go to their website or stop in for a visit at 212 College Street, Maryville, Tennessee 37804.

Additional Local Smoky Mountain Coffee Houses

Also, be sure to visit our other local coffee houses like Southern Grace Coffee Company and Little River Coffee Company for their individual takes on southern coffee house hospitality.

For more dining options in the area, check out the following articles:

Eat Your Way Through the Peaceful Side at These Local Restaurants

Celebrate St. Patty’s Day with a Visit to One of Our Local Breweries

Smoky Mountain Fly Fishing

Posted on June 16, 2020 by Rachel Coffman - Activities, Blog

What You Need to Know

Permits – Obtain a fishing license to fly fish in the Smokies. Anyone over the age of 13 can find a license that can be purchased in nearby towns or purchased online. The park allows fishing on all streams from thirty minutes before official sunrise until thirty minutes after official sunset.
Quantity Limits – Five (5) brook, rainbow or brown trout, smallmouth bass, or a combination of these in possession, whether fresh, stored in ice, or otherwise preserved.
Size Limits – Brook, rainbow, and brown trout must be a 7-inch minimum. Smallmouth bass must be a 7-inch minimum.
Safety – Because of changing water levels and currents, slippery rocks, and water temperature, standing and wading in streams can be dangerous. Pay attention to the changing water conditions to avoid hypothermia and slick footing.
Water Temperature – The water temperature is the single most defining condition to determine the level of fish and aquatic insect activity. Because most insect activity decreases during colder months, few fish are feeding. Most experienced anglers agree when the perfect conditions for great fishing are once the water temperatures reach 58 degrees.
Manners – Be a clean fisherman by taking everything you brought into the park back out with you. Moving rocks to form channels and dams is illegal and harmful to both fish and aquatic insects living in our streams.

Equipment Needed

The best rods to use in the Smokies are 3wt, 4wt, 5wt, or 6wt rods in 7′ to 8.5′ in length. A longer length rod will make controlling your line less difficult.
Only permitted to use artificial flies with a single hook, either nymphs or dry flies. You can use dropper flies and can only have up to two flies on a leader.
Most anglers choose not to use waders but instead use felt-soled wading boots, or sandals because of slick and uneven stream beds.
Dress in colors like green and brown to blend in with your environment and prevent skittish trout from avoiding your fishing spot. We also recommend a light rain jacket due to the wet nature of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, regardless of the forecast.
Wearing polarized sunglasses (in amber, copper, or brown) will help cut the water glare and improve your chances of catching a fish.

Where to Fish

You can find miles of quality fishing readily available, from remote, headwater trout streams to large, cool-water smallmouth bass streams. The Little River is one of the largest streams in the Smokies and is right off of Little River Road, connecting Townsend and Gatlinburg. Little River splits into five distinct sections: Little River above the Elkmont Campground, Little River above Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area, Little River below the Sinks, Little River through Townsend, and Little River below Townsend. Once the river leaves the boundaries of the park, it takes on a different nature, and fishing regulations change.
Middle Prong, along Tremont Road, is an active stream to fish and is easily accessible. West Prong is a smaller stream but offers lots of eager rainbow trout. It is usually one of the first streams available after a heavy storm. Abrams Falls is also a popular stream for fly fishing and can be found just inside Cades Cove. Another popular section is the “Horseshoe” but takes a full day to fish, so you will need to prepare for at least 8 hours and will not be able to bail out midway through.
Extensive maps and guidebooks can be found in most local outfitters in the area, or you can look online. Check out the following guide for more ideas: Fly-Fishing Guide to the Great Smoky Mountains by Don Kirk.

Just Learning

Smoky Mountain fly fishing isn’t just an adventure for experienced anglers. Several local businesses offer lessons and guided tours, but because of the ongoing pandemic, limited times and attendance vary among businesses. A great place to start your search for local guidance is through our friends Little River Outfitters.