Nestled in the foothills of the scenic Smoky Mountains with a quaint yet vibrant downtown, it’s no wonder Maryville, Tennessee, is recognized for its quality of life.
Situated in a prime locale, this East Tennessee city is just 30 miles from picturesque Cades Cove in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, providing hiking trails, stunning waterfalls, over 1,500 kinds of flora and diverse wildlife. Yet it still has the convenience of a regional airport less than five miles away and access to major interstates
The beauty of the area and convenience draws a wide range of businesses with an abundance of job opportunities. Headquartered in Maryville are companies like national restaurant chain Ruby Tuesday, women’s apparel chain Altar’d State, DENSO – a manufacturing company with 3500 employees, Clayton Homes and Newell Rubbermaid, just to name some.
Now is an exciting time for Downtown Maryville. At the end of 2016, the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development announced Maryville’s achievement of a Main Street accreditation. The designation has opened the city up to grant opportunities that will aid in the downtown’s revitalization and economic development efforts—an initiative begun in 2007.
As the area grows and the development efforts gain traction, businesses are attracted to historic Downtown Maryville, with its charming character and bustling activity. The streets of downtown have a wealth of fantastic dining and shopping choices, providing residents and visitors alike with diverse options.
For those desiring fresh, made-from-scratch recipes and a fine dining experience, Sullivan’s Fine Food on West Broadway Avenue has delectable steaks and southern favorites like farm-raised, hand breaded catfish, shrimp and stone-ground grits and fried green tomatoes. Dinner can be polished off with light and creamy peanut butter pie or French vanilla bean banana pudding.
Winning the Blount Partnership New Business of the Year, Roost is a clever home furnishings store with interior design services on Broadway Avenue. The store is owned by Paula Osborn, a Maryville native since the age of three. It’s unique with a flair for timeless and causal style. Osborn finds many benefits in the Downtown Maryville location.
“I love being in the heart of my hometown and working in the upper level of my building and hearing the noises of our little city,” said Osborn. “By locating my business downtown, I have gotten to know so many wonderful people in our community. I have also had the opportunity to be a part of some committees that are working to promote and grow our downtown. I’m excited for the future of Maryville.”
One street over on East Church Avenue, the staff of Dandy Lions brings the best combination of gifts to the area. Their friendly, welcoming service, and unique, sought-after gifts and stationery provide an instant smile.
Downtown Maryville is often buzzing with activity and entertainment. Friday Night Lights, held the last Friday of every month from April through October, has something for everyone with family-friendly activities, music, food trucks and games. Local businesses often host mini-events within their businesses on the evenings of Friday Night Lights, attracting patrons.
Music enthusiasts will find many options. Barley’s Taproom & Pizzeria, located on Broadway Avenue, offers bands most nights of the week, delicious pizza and a comprehensive craft beer selection.
For those seeking the best blues music in the region, Brackins Blues Club, also on Broadway, has live music every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday nights. While kicking back to music at Brackins, customers can enjoy a menu of delicious pub-style food, craft beer and fine bourbon.
Brackins General Manager Christina O’Rourke finds there is something special in being a downtown business.
“We are in one of the oldest buildings in Downtown Maryville, and the history is pretty cool,” said O’Rourke. “We enjoy being at the center of it all and watching the downtown grow. We try to contribute to that growth, and it’s a pretty great feeling.”
The Main Street accreditation is in its infancy, but change will soon come. For downtown businesses, it’s a valuable title.
“Just having the recognition of being a Main Street can only do great things for all of us here in Downtown Maryville,” said O’Rourke. “Foot traffic has been picking up. We’re looking forward to the future.”
Blount Partnership Director of Tourism Kim Mitchell has been an integral part of the accreditation progress and was chosen as the program’s director.
“The accreditation was made possible by the wonderful downtown businesses and community events,” Mitchell said. “We’re excited to see the downtown become a thriving community, and to be part of Main Streets across the country. This is an honor and will aid in the revitalization and economic development efforts.”
The Main Street designation is an honor for the city, which will continue its efforts to attract business and tourism to the area, making it a vibrant place for residents to call home.
Category: Activities
Museums and Heritage Centers Give History Buffs a Thrill on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies
The Peaceful Side of the Smokies may be quite peaceful at the moment, but at different points in history it’s been a crossroads for conflicts, and played home to a raucous community of frontier loggers and businessmen. There are plenty of places in Blount County to learn about the region’s history, and here are a few that history buffs and their families are likely to love.
The Little River Railroad & Lumber Company Museum
Once upon a time (let’s say, oh, 1901), a man named W.B. Townsend founded the Little River Railroad and Lumber Company, which eventually operated for 38 years and sawed 560 million board feet of timber. Far from legend, the actions of W.B. Townsend and the loggers he employed shaped the region, and in 1982 the museum was created to explain their legacy.
Visitors can expect a restored Shay train engine, other vintage train cars, restored buildings, and ephemera, like photographs and tools, that tell the story of the Railroad & Lumber Company.
Cades Cove and The Cades Cove Museum
There’s plenty of history to be had in Cades Cove. The Cades Cove Loop Road offers both motorists and hikers a chance to experience history firsthand, as visitors can drive through the scenery or park and hike through historic structures, some of which, like the Cable Mill, are still in operation. There’s also a Cades Cove Visitors’ Center, offering ranger-led programs and a bookshop.
The Cades Cove Museum is run by the Cades Cove Preservation Association, a community of those dedicated to preserving the history of the pioneers who once settled Cades Cove, and who moved to make way for Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The museum celebrating these frontier lives is free and open from 10 AM to 3 PM, Wednesday through Saturday, at the historic Thompson-Brown House at 1004 East Lamar Alexander Parkway in Maryville.
Blount County Historical Museum
Keeping those same hours and located in the very same historic home as the Cades Cove Museum, the Blount County Historical Museum also offers plenty to keep history buffs entertained. The Museum features Civil War artifacts, including uniforms and women’s clothing, as well as personal items and other equipment, a model railroad display, and information on Cherokee settlement in the region.
The Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center
This heritage center offers more than just a museum – their facilities play host to local concerts and other events, their grounds feature a veterans’ honor garden, and they also have a historic village with 13 buildings, including cabins, a chapel, a granary, two barns, a smokehouse, and buildings used by other historical businesses, like a wheelwright’s shop.
In the museum itself you can find permanent exhibits on the Native Americans who once lived in the region, as well as the European pioneers who settled in Eastern Tennessee and developed their own culture and way of life. Expect lots of real and replicated tools, utensils, and other equipment, plus the museum is also home to a collection of 19th and 20th century vehicles.
Next to Heaven Ranch Offers Horseback Rides and Zipline Adventures
If you are looking for a great family adventure or two while vacationing on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies, look no further than the Next to Heaven Ranch. You can find this spectacular ranch between Pigeon Forge and Townsend on Wears Valley Rd. They have a nice big sign out front; you can’t miss it. Here you will find fun activities for everyone in the family from the youngest to the oldest!
Breathtaking Views
Perhaps one of the reasons so many visitors to the area visit the Next Heaven Ranch, is the breathtaking views as your horseback ride takes you up to the lookout point oat the top of the trail. You never know what you might see on your ride, people report seeing bears, deer, raccoons, and numerous other critters scurrying around in the woods.
What better way to take in all this beauty than from the back of a horse? An outfitter will match each member of your party with a horse and from this point on you’re in the hands of your equine companion for the one-hour long unguided tour. Not to worry, all the horses know exactly where they are going (they have built-in GPS) and won’t let you get lost.
Enjoy the gentle pace, the fresh air, and the chance to let everything go as you take in the beauty of the Smokies. Bring your camera and be sure you take lots of photos to put in your scrapbook or family photo album. When you get stressed-out at home, bring out the pictures and let them take you back to that feeling of complete relaxation!
Let’s Pick Up the Pace a Little
The horseback ride to the top of the mountain is relaxing and should leave you ready for something a little more adventurous. The Next to Heaven Ranch has not one, not two, but no less than nine ziplines for you to check out. Their trained staff will kit you out with all required safety gear, explain how it all works and send you on your way.
In no time at all, you will be soaring out through and over the trees as you fly along one of the longest ziplines in the Smoky Mountains. The views as you zoom along between mountains are spectacular. Depending on which line you take, you may see horseback riders as you cruise over the trail.
If there is one common thread in the comments made by those who have visited the Next Heaven Ranch, it has to be how much they love the staff here. Everyone who works here from the people in the office to the ranch hands helping with the ziplines and horses is very friendly and seems to have an endless supply of patience, especially when it comes to working with the younger guests.
While the horseback rides are unguided, a guide does check in on you during the ride to make sure everything is okay. This is one of the top-rated activities in the Pigeon Forge and Townsend area and somewhere you should plan to visit while you are here.
Once Closed to Public, RT Lodge in Maryville Now Welcomes Guests
Gary Doyle didn’t want this treasure to remain hidden.
For 20 years, RT Lodge in Maryville, Tenn., hosted corporate retreats, weddings and other events in its elegant, secluded setting next to the Maryville College Woods. But by 2016, demand had climbed high enough to justify opening the Ruby Tuesday-owned deluxe hotel and restaurant to the public.
“It seemed to us that there was a great opportunity to provide a downtown Maryville option for hotel accommodations that provided quick access to the airport and surrounding business community for those needing a home base,” said Doyle, RT Lodge’s general manager.
The Lodge began welcoming personal diners and lodgers to its restored 1930’s-era campus last August, and so far the move has been a resounding success.
“It is extremely rewarding to provide a public restaurant and hotel to individuals without the restrictions of being part of a retreat or wedding event,” Doyle said. “This diversity of group and individual venues and services we provide might drive others batty, but we enjoy the mix.”
Those services include lush accommodations featuring custom-crafted furniture in a classic lodge environment, as well as a gourmet restaurant led by Executive Chef Trevor Stockton. RT Lodge also remains a prized local destination for special events and corporate retreats.
“Our isolated location adjacent to Maryville College Woods in the middle of Maryville gives the feeling of being at a remote, natural and elegantly rustic hotel and restaurant, while being only 30 minutes from downtown Knoxville and 10 minutes from the airport,” said Doyle.
All guest rooms at RT Lodge are furnished with a king or two single beds, each topped with down comforters and made up with the elegant, country-house comfort of Ralph Lauren linens. The 60-bed lodging space is divided into two buildings, both in close proximity to the main lodge.
The restaurant, which accepts reservations Tuesdays through Saturdays, offers a gourmet seasonal menu, extensive drink list and intimate atmosphere.
Events, weddings and group retreats remain RT Lodge’s specialty. Its campus offers formal boardrooms, a laid-back fire pit and everything in between, as well as customized dining menus and the technology to facilitate productive meetings.
“For retreats and weddings there is an intimacy provided by the small campus feel to this footprint,” Doyle said. “It provides privacy from the herd when desired while keeping quick accessibility to event activity and services.”
Doyle emphasizes that while RT Lodge may be a complex business to run, it all boils down to a simple philosophy: If you provide premium hospitality, guests will become friends.
“One of the goals is to leave no details unattended, from the aesthetics and lighting, outstanding meals, warm and comfortable living spaces and accommodations, to genuine, friendly, helpful interactions with a hospitality-driven service and culinary team,” Doyle said. “If every need is anticipated and provided in a way that is above expectations, then hopefully our guests will leave here feeling better than when they arrived.”
“I had a guest relay to me a couple of weeks ago that the Lodge team was providing mission work. Our interactions, smiles, and sincere display of warm hospitality had promoted an elevation of spirit in his group.
“That’s the kind of feedback we enjoy receiving.”
To book a stay, meal or event at RT Lodge, visit www.rtlodge.com.
Our Summer Playlist | This Summer’s Peaceful Side To-Do List
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.
“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.
“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.
“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
Our Top 3 Favorite Fall Hikes for Viewing Fall Foliage in the Smokies
Fall in eastern Tennessee is the ideal time of year to go hiking in the Smokies. The fall foliage display, courtesy of Mother Nature, runs from September through November, but keep in mind the foliage starts changing color at the higher elevations first. By mid-October the mountains put their full splendor on display from midway to peak, making this time of year the best time to go hiking in the Smokies. Here are three of our favorite hikes for viewing the fall foliage.
1. The Rich Mountain Loop Trail
Located in Cades Cove, the trail is a delightful way to explore what many consider to be “one of the most picturesque valleys” anywhere in the country. Hiking along this trail takes you past several spectacular views of Cades Cove and through some incredible areas of forest. If you come here in late October, the fall colors are at their peak.
The trail itself is only mildly challenging and should be fine for all family members. You can also include hikes to the John Oliver Cabin and the Primitive Baptist Church located in the Cove while you are here. Since this is a very popular trail, you should park in the campground and walk to the trailhead; it’s not very far.
2. The Middle Prong Trail
The trailhead for the Middle Prong Trail is located near the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont. The trail stays at a low level, making it perfect for the less experienced hiker and younger children. There are many other trails that take you higher into the mountains where you look out over the mountains. You won’t find views like that on the Middle Prong Trail. But what you will find is a delightful trail winding through glorious woods covered in a shroud of fall colors including golds, yellows, oranges, reds, and browns.
The trail also takes you past a number of waterfalls and cascades as it winds near and over the creeks that curve lazily down the mountainside. While you are here, why not take the one-mile trip on the Spruce Flats Falls Hiking Trail. The trailhead is located at the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont and offers mountain views and a 20-ft waterfall. Bring the family and make sure you grab your camera; both trails offer spectacular photo opportunities.
3. The Gregory Bald Trail
“I’m on top of the world, ma!” Well, at least it will feel that way by the time you get to the top of Gregory Bald. From here you have an uninterrupted view of the southeastern corner of the park, including Cades Cove. While the view from the top of the bald is incredible and a fantastic destination, the journey itself is worthy of comment. As you hike towards the top, your journey will take you past the stands of hardwood that make the mountains so glorious at this time of year. It’s a ten-mile hike, but more than worth the effort.
The Peaceful Side of the Smokies has dozens of trails for you to explore in the fall. One thing you can count on is that no matter which hike you take, you will never be disappointed by the scenery.
Peaceful Side Spotlight: Bubba Daniel
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
Planning a Fall Trip to the Smokies? Here are the 5 Best Spots to View Fall Colors
Summer may not last forever, but that doesn’t mean that great vacation destinations disappear when seasons change. Fall in Eastern Tennessee is, in fact, uniquely special, with its cooler-but-still-comfortable temperatures, drier climate, and spectacular foliage covering every mountainside. Great views abound in the region, but there are 5 in particular you’ll want to make sure you visit. Check them out below!
The Look Rock Tower/The Foothills Parkway
Whether you hike the whole 11-mile Foothills Parkway Trail to the top, or you drive on the 16.9-mile Foothills Parkway and pull up to the parking lot that’s a half-mile away, you’ll be rewarded by a great view when you make it to the top of Look Rock Tower. With its short distance and gentle slope, the Look Rock Tower is especially friendly to non-hikers, boasts a view comparable to that from Clingmans Dome, and is less likely to be crowded than the Dome on weekends and holiday weeks.
The Lumber Ridge Trail
This approximately 8-mile hike is a great way to get up close and personal with the changing seasons. The trail was named for the logging expeditions that once took place in the region, but hikers taking on this moderately challenging day hike with occasional mountain views can expect peace, quiet, and plenty of foliage. The logging companies are long gone, but you won’t find a crowd of tourists here, either.
Floating on Fort Loudon Lake
Some anglers hang up their poles when summer ends, but Fort Loudon Lake attracts fishermen and women who are on the hunt for bass and crappie when the temperature drops. Anyone who owns or can rent a boat and is in search of a spectacular fall panorama can find all that, plus a side of serious relaxation, with an afternoon spent on a boat in Fort Loudon Lake or other Eastern Tennessee waterways.
The Elkmont Historic District
Not every fall scene is going to be about a perfect vista, though there are plenty for the taking in Blount County. Fall also features a popular holiday that’s a little bit spooky and a little bit scary, and those who want to celebrate that side of the season can have their chance to do so by visiting the Elkmont Historic District. These abandoned vacation homes from the 1900s have been left to their own devices inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and checking them out is a (safe) way to feel a little bit of a tingle in your spine. The fall foliage is everywhere, too – there’s no one there to rake up the fallen leaves, after all.
Clingmans Dome
It may be popular and well-known, but why wouldn’t it be? Clingmans Dome is the highest point in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and its height does offer a bit of a guarantee – if you make the climb, you’ll get quite an eyeful, that’s for sure. Expect trees as far as the eye can see, with brighter colors in valleys, and darker browns at higher elevations, where trees tend to shed their leaves earlier.
Planning a Family Trip to Great Smoky Mountains National Park
If you are looking for a budget-friendly vacation with plenty of family fun, set your sights on the Great Smoky Mountains National Park this year. It is the most visited national park in the country which means more than nine million people stop by each year.
There is plenty to do in the park to keep family members of all ages entertained, and your budget will love that there is no admission price to enter the park. That’s right, you can explore the 800 square miles of the park without paying for admission. There are estimates that the park contains over 100,000 different species, but scientists haven’t even been able to categorize everything yet.
Planning Your Trip to the Smokies
There is so much to see and do in the park, that you will want to make a solid game plan so that you don’t get overwhelmed upon your arrival. Whether you want to use the trip to just relax and enjoy nature, learn new skills, or delve into the history of the area, you can find the ideal activities to suit your agenda.
Relax in Nature in East Tennessee
For those that are simply looking to experience the beauty of nature in the mountains, you can find all of that and more in the park. There are areas for hiking including Alum Cave Bluffs, Rainbow Falls, and Chimney Tops. The Kephart Prong trail is a kid-friendly hike if your family members are on the younger side. It is recommended for kids in elementary school and older.
You can also enjoy fishing, exploring the historic graveyards, and searching for wildlife. The park is teeming with animals including deer, elk, raccoons, turkeys, woodchucks, and the famous black bears. The best times to search for animals is in the early morning and at dusk. Just remember not to feed the animals!
Learn New Skills
Who says a vacation can’t be educational? There are plenty of programs that you can enjoy while you are at the park provided by various groups in the area. The Friends of the Smokies offer guided hikes where you can learn more about the area. The Great Smoky Mountain Institute of Tremont has a variety of programs that you and your family may enjoy from summer camps to family workshops. The Smoky Mountain Field School can help you plan a family adventure with one of their many programs including synchronous fireflies, old-growth forests, stream life, and tracking.
Soak Up the History of Blount County
The park is also full of historic areas that you can visit and explore. Consider adding Cades Cove to your itinerary where you can explore historic buildings like churches and cabins. You can bring along your bikes and do a ride around the loop, just make sure you stop to check out all there is to see along the way. The history of the area dates back long before there was a National Park in this spot. You can see Appalachian life dating back to before the European settlers when the Cherokee where inhabiting the area.
This is just the tip of the iceberg! There is so much more that you can see and do in the park. You can find a trip planner to help you nail down the exact elements that will make your vacation perfect for your family.
Ready for a Picnic? Enjoy the Beauty of Bicentennial Park
There is nothing quite like enjoying a warm day out in the summer sunshine with your family in the Maryville, Tennessee area. One of the more popular parks in the area is the Bicentennial Park that sits in the heart of Maryville, TN. For those that are new to Maryville or are just visiting, the one thing you might not know about the area the park sits on is that at one point in time, the area was home to a light industrial park. The various industries here at the time were responsible for dumping so much pollution in Pistol Creek that nothing could live in the creek or the land surrounding it.
Urban Renewal at Its Best
Bicentennial Park is the result of an urban renewal project created by the City of Maryville over the span of several years leading up to the nation’s Bicentennial celebration in 1976. The high levels of pollution were the main reason behind the city’s decision to renovate this area and turn it into a park the entire town could enjoy. The park was just the beginning, as it led to the development of the Maryville-Alcoa Greenway, something the locals typically refer to as the “Greenbelt.”
The entire area around it got a new lease on life, with new businesses and homes also appearing. The flock of Canadian geese that call the park home has done so for over 50 years. Along with the park itself, there are miles of trails for you and your family to explore on foot, on bike, skates, or skateboards.
Your kids are sure to enjoy the vast open areas of greenspace they can run around on, play on, or use to simply relax in the sun. The trails have plenty of benches in the shade for you to relax on while your kids play. Make sure you prepare a picnic lunch and plenty of drinks for everyone so that you can enjoy the whole day out in the sunshine and fresh air.
What If You Don’t Want to Pack a Picnic?
If you prefer not to have a picnic, there are several delightful local eateries within easy walking distance of the park that are well-worth checking out. The park has water fountains in several locations in case someone gets thirsty, including some just for the four-legged member of your family. A dog park has been added where you can let your dog run free off-leash and play with the other dogs, or you can take him hiking with the rest of the family on the many trails leading out of the park.
Bicentennial Park is a fantastic place filled with open grassy areas to play in, shade trees to relax under, and trails to hike. Your kids are going to love feeding the ducks who call the park’s pond home. You can bring the whole family for a day of fun in the sun, or you can sneak away for some “alone” time under a shade tree with a good book.
Rising from the Ashes: Dancing Bear Lodge Resurrects Powerful Memories
Mark Oldham faced a dream disguised as a dilemma.
He had sold his business and traveled the world for six months with his wife, Sharon. Now, he was hunting for a fresh career venture.
“When we sold the business in Nashville, we could have retired,” Oldham said. “We felt too young to retire, but we were too old to launch a startup.”
To solve the quandary, the Oldhams took stock of their passions, one of which was Blount County’s mountain oasis. Many times throughout their marriage they had visited Townsend, where the Smoky Mountains briefly part to reveal a tranquil morsel of Americana. Their love of the Peaceful Side of the Smokies stemmed from excursions they had taken there during their college days.
“We loved the mountains and wanted to be in hospitality, but we had no idea that anything would be available in Townsend of all places, a town we loved as students,” Oldham said.
But in 2014, during their career crossroads, Mark and Sharon got a chance to resurrect their Townsend memories – and help one of the town’s beloved getaway spots rise from the ashes – when tragedy gave way to opportunity.
In November 2013, a fire had destroyed Townsend’s Dancing Bear Lodge and Restaurant.
While no one was seriously injured, the four-story building was a total loss, leaving a set of rental cabins to sustain the business. By the time Oldham was looking for a foothold in the hospitality industry, Dancing Bear’s owners were looking for a buyer. The love affair was immediate.
“This ad popped in for 37 acres with cabins,” said Oldham. “We fell in love with it as soon as we saw it and put a contract on it the next week.”
The Oldhams’ infatuation may have been instant, but they knew the road to recovery would be gradual.
“There was a big hole in the ground where the fire was, you could see the singed trees where the fire had occurred,” Oldham said. “I didn’t have any history with the property, and even I felt the emotion of the fire. It was in this grey state of flux.”
After taking ownership of the resort, Oldham’s team added to the existing cabins – which, according to Oldham, were still in “fine shape” – and expanded the resort’s offerings by building a restaurant and an event space.
“We were able to build an event lawn, get in the wedding business and bring back finer cuisine to this area,” Oldham said. “As soon as we sent out the first e-mail blast, we introduced ourselves and said we were going to bring Dancing Bear back.”
One thing they decided not to bring back: the burned-down lodge itself.
“We knew that people were going to miss the lodge,” Oldham said. “It was this huge, beautiful structure with an atrium lobby. We didn’t want to try to recreate it. This is our take on Dancing Bear Lodge.”
Their version of Dancing Bear features 21 luxury cabins designed to welcome couples, families and corporate retreats. The property is built around the event space, which hosts weddings and private events. There are also two miles of walking trails.
“It’s not like you’re coming into what you normally think about in a cabin,” said Oldham. “Each one has high-speed internet, HDTV, premium bedding and linen, and 16 of them have fireplaces and hot tubs. We operate it like a hotel with daily housekeeping service.”
But Oldham’s pride and joy is the restaurant, the Appalachian Bistro, which opened in August 2015 and offers elevated farm-to-table cuisine.
“To me, it’s the crown jewel of dining in the Smokies,” Oldham said. “Shelley Cooper, our executive chef, is inspired by the Appalachian Trail, from the mountains of Georgia to the mountains of Maine. We have our staples, but whatever she can get from the local produce vendor she weaves into the menu. We’re really happy about how the restaurant turned out.”
Dancing Bear thrills travelers looking for a getaway, but it has also tapped into a new market: corporate retreats. The dynamic event space and diverse array of cabins appeal to businesses interested in holding strategic planning sessions in the serenity of the Smokies.
“You see the stress come out of people when they get settled and start their meeting,” said Oldham. “It’s not a closed conference room with fluorescent lighting. We have big windows and incandescent lighting. We have our famous fire pit where we have S’mores nightly, and we’re the only place in the area that has full bar service. What people say is, ‘Oh my gosh, I feel like I’m a world away, but I’m just minutes from Knoxville and the interstates.'”
Oldham feels the same way. The town that began as a getaway for him and his wife has become the place where he gets to live out his personal and professional dreams.
“I’m energized. I’m having four times as much fun,” Oldham said. “I get up and I’m able able to look into the Smoky Mountains, and I don’t have to pass any traffic lights or fast food joints on my commute. We have some challenges, but when it’s all said and done, I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else.”
“This is living the dream.”
Scenic Spring RV Trips to Maryville, Tennessee
Is there anything more fun than the thought of packing up the family RV and hitting the road when the weather is finally heating up? Spring has arrived in the Maryville area, and we’ve got plenty of ways to enjoy the view. If you’re planning to take some RV trips in Maryville or the surrounding areas this year, here are some of the most peaceful campsites and the most beautiful drives along the way.
Top-Rated Campsites for RV Trips in Maryville
The first thing you need to do to have a peaceful RV vacation in Maryville is choose your campground! The Maryville area offers many secluded RV parks and campgrounds that are just perfect for a relaxing family getaway. You can try the Whispering River Resort, located just a short 10-minute drive away from Maryville in Walland. This campground is the closest to the stunning Tail of the Dragon, a scenic route that is perfect for motorcycles or a leisurely drive around the mountain.
Or try Mountaineer Campground, just a short drive away in Townsend, where you can take a quick drive to Cades Cove. Cades Cove is one of the most scenic routes to drive, bike, or even hike. This area is perfect for RV campers who want to be surrounded by as much beautiful mountain scenery as possible. Another great campground in the same area is Big Meadow Family Campground, which is ideal for RV campers with kids. Plenty of playground equipment, a splash pad, and fenced-in areas for dogs make this campground perfect for getting some peace while the kids have some fun!
Take a Drive (or a Hike) Through Peaceful Maryville
While you’re on your RV trip to Maryville, you have plenty of opportunities to drink in the scenery. In addition to Cades Cove and Tail of the Dragon, why not try a drive from Maryville to Clingmans Dome? This is a 57-mile trip that you can drive year-round. You’ll get some of the most stunning scenery in the area along this drive, and it’s easy enough for drivers of all skill levels to enjoy. Relax and let the jaw-dropping view of the mountains in spring refresh your spirit after the long winter. When you end your drive at Clingmans Dome, you’ll be in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and it’s easy to park your car and hike to waterfalls, or find picnic spots for lunch.
Then you can head back to your peaceful RV camp and enjoy the peaks in the distance as you curl up for a good night’s rest. This spring, let Maryville be your ideal getaway for peaceful relaxation!
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