If summer is the only time you ever come to the Gatlinburg area for a vacation, you are missing out on half the fun. Ober Gatlinburg, established in 1962, sits high in the Smoky Mountains overlooking Gatlinburg. It is both a ski area and an amusement park. The facility consists of a large indoor mall with an ice-skating rink, clothing stores, a restaurant, and indoor amusements. But the real fun is outside in the snow where you will find a lot more than a ski area.
The Chairlift
You can take the chairlift halfway to the top and then ride the Alpine slide back to the bottom or take it all the way to the top where there is a scenic overlook with majestic views of the mountains and live bluegrass music playing.
The Amusement Park
The amusement park at Ober Gatlinburg has a lot to offer including the Alpine slide, the Ski Mountain Coaster, a video arcade, a tramway stop, bumper cars, miniature golf, and so much more. There is something here that is guaranteed to keep everyone in the family happy for hours. There is also a rock wall to climb, and an old-fashioned carousel to ride.
The Tramway
The Tramway runs from its hub in downtown Gatlinburg and runs west all the way to Ober Gatlinburg. During the day, you have spectacular views of the mountains, and at night the lights of Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg and the surrounding area offer an incredible sparkling carpet of light. The ride takes about 10 minutes each way at approximately 17 miles per hour.
The Wildlife Encounter
Formerly this area was a Black Bear Habitat, but it has been enlarged and turned into a Wildlife Encounter where you can now see many of the animals who call the Smoky Mountains their home. You can see bobcats, numerous birds of prey, North American otters, flying squirrels, snakes, turtles, raccoons, and many others. Oh, and the black bears are still there to see, as well.
The Ski Area
Ober Gatlinburg has no less than ten ski trails for you to enjoy, a terrain park, and three chair lifts to keep things moving along. It is the only ski resort in Tennessee and is just far south enough that it doesn’t always get enough snow. For this situation, they have installed enough snowmaking capacity to keep all ten slopes covered in a heavy layer of snow as long as the outside temperature is 28°F or lower.
For added fun, there is a multi-lane snow-tubing hill with lanes that measure approximately 400 feet long. You don’t even have to climb back to the top. You get to ride the “Magic Carpet,” an outdoor escalator that takes all the hard work out of tubing.
This Is Ober Gatlinburg
This is only a brief description of all that Ober Gatlinburg has to offer over the winter. From skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and tubing, to a nice hot cup of cocoa to warm you up, this is the perfect place to spend a day out with your family. There is even a full-service lounge for those who like a hot spiced rum or maybe some hot cocoa with a peppermint schnapps kicker. Plan your visit to Ober Gatlinburg during your winter Smoky Mountains vacation!
Category: Blog
October 2025 Happenings on the Peaceful Side
Written by: Emily Huffstetler
From pumpkin carving and spooky runs to concerts, art classes and Halloween bashes, October brings fall color and festive fun across Blount County. Here’s what’s happening this month:
October 10 – Clay Handbuilding Class: Pumpkin
Get your hands muddy in this guided clay handbuilding workshop at Creative Spark Studio from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., where you’ll create your own ceramic pumpkin. No experience is required. Participants ages 13 and up will shape, stamp and decorate their designs before selecting colors for glazing.
October 11 – Howl-O-Ween Dog Show
Bring your Jeep, your pup and your Halloween spirit to Camp Wild Flowers in Townsend from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for a tail-wagging day of fun. Enjoy costume contests, a “Lick-or-Treat” trail, vendor village, food trucks, raffles and prizes for the best-dressed dogs and Jeeps. Costumes are encouraged, and advance registration is open online.
October 11 – An Evening with Poe
Spend a hauntingly perfect evening at The Bird and the Book in Maryville beginning at 7 p.m. with staged readings of Edgar Allan Poe’s eerie tales, paired with themed drink specials and delicious bites. Admission is free, and costumes are welcome.
October 12 – Pumpkin Carving
Celebrate fall by carving your own jack-o’-lantern at Studio 212 in Maryville from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Students ages 8 and up (with an adult) or 16 and up alone will learn carving and texture techniques to create unique designs.
October 12 – Haunted House Workshop
Create your own clay haunted house at Studio 212 in Maryville from 3 to 5:30 p.m. using guided handbuilding instruction. Add ghosts, cats and other spooky details. Ages 10 and up are welcome.
October 16 – Halloween Horror Trivia
Test your spooky smarts at The Bird and the Book in Maryville starting at 7 p.m. during this Halloween-themed trivia night hosted by Lisa and Lynn. Enjoy themed food and drinks and come dressed to impress. Costumes are encouraged.
October 17 – Walloween 2025
The beloved two-night Walloween event returns to The Bird and the Book in Maryville beginning at 5 p.m. with live bands, art and community spirit—all to benefit the American Parkinson’s Disease Association. Admission is free, and donations are appreciated.
October 17 – Very Scary 5K & 1-Mile Fun Run
Run, walk or zombie crawl through the Smokies in this spooky nighttime race at The Abbey in Townsend from 8 to 10 p.m. Participants receive themed swag, medals and shirts. Expect surprises—and a few scares—along the route!
October 18 – Fall Festival
Enjoy a day of family fun at The Learning Lab Parking Lot in Maryville from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. with local crafts, food and activities at this annual outdoor fair hosted by Blount County Public Library.
October 18 – Watercolor Class: Three Witches
Paint a magical watercolor scene at Creative Spark Studio in Maryville from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. featuring three whimsical witches, guided step-by-step by local artist Yvonne. No drawing skills needed.
October 18 – Pumpkin Carving
Carve a new clay pumpkin creation at Studio 212 in Maryville from 2 to 3:30 p.m. in this hands-on seasonal workshop. Tools and materials are provided; ages 8 and up with an adult or 16 and up independently.
October 18 – DIY Spooky Books
Transform old books into eerie Halloween décor at Creative Spark Studio in Maryville from 5 to 7:30 p.m. in this imaginative class. All materials are provided, though participants may bring their own book or embellishments.
October 18 – Trinity Dental Fall Costume Ball
Support local smiles at this festive fundraiser for Trinity Dental Clinic at White Star Station in Maryville from 6 to 9 p.m. Enjoy music by DJ Porter, food from The Lily Barn, a silent auction and costume contests.
October 21 – Appalachian Ghost Stories
Local authors share ghostly tales from “25 Tales: Even More Appalachian Ghost Stories & Mysteries” at Neighborly Books in Maryville from 6 to 7 p.m.
October 23–25 – Dracula
The Appalachian Ballet Company presents a daring new production of “Dracula” at the Clayton Center for the Arts in Maryville. This world premiere blends movement, music and mystery in an intimate setting.
October 24 – DIY Pumpkin Décor
Create two custom fabric pumpkins to match your home’s fall décor at Creative Spark Studio in Maryville from 1 to 3 p.m. Choose from chunky yarns, ribbons and embellishments.
October 24 – Downtown Maryville Spooktacular Extravaganza
Bring the whole family downtown from 5 to 8 p.m. for this free Halloween celebration featuring trick-or-treating, a dog costume contest, a street dance party, carnival games and food vendors along West Broadway Avenue. Rain or shine.
October 25–26 – Beetlejuice JR
It’s showtime at Broadway Center for the Arts in Maryville. Enjoy a family-friendly performance of “Beetlejuice JR,” packed with laughs, music and Halloween spirit from talented young performers.
October 25 – Halloween on the Lot
Celebrate the season at Leonard Truck Outfitters in Maryville from 4 to 8 p.m. with candy handouts, raffles, games and costume prizes. Local businesses will showcase products and host fun activities for all ages.
October 26 – Monster Mug Workshop
Sculpt your own spooky monster mug at Studio 212 in Maryville from 2 to 4 p.m. using handbuilding and sculpting techniques. Ages 10 and up are welcome with reservation required.
October 31 – Halloween Spooktacular
Gather around Papa Pete’s Fire Pit at Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro in Townsend from 5 to 9 p.m. for fireside storytelling and seasonal bites at this adults-only Halloween event. Tickets include one beverage and appetizers; dinner reservations are separate.
October 31 – Halloween Bash with Them Dirty Roses
Rock out with Them Dirty Roses, Bones Owens and Johnny Mullenax at The Shed in Alcoa from 6 to 11 p.m. Enjoy BBQ, beverages and costume contests for kids and adults. Kids under 12 get in free. Rain or shine event.
Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and passionate storyteller of the Greater Smokies region.
Off-Season on the Peaceful Side: Quiet Roads, Clear Views and Lodging Deals
Written by: Emily Huffstetler
The Peaceful Side of the Smokies gets even quieter in the wintertime. If you like a slower pace and a little more breathing room, this is the season for you. Here are five reasons off-season trips feel easier.
- There’s Less Traffic
Off-season days usually come with fewer cars on the road, which means less time sitting in traffic and more time actually doing what you came to do. Trailhead lots and popular park pull-offs are typically less crowded, too.
- Overlooks Have More Space
Overlooks feel different when you can step out and take your time. In the off-season, you’re more likely to find pull-offs just for you, perfect for having a picnic, taking photos or stretching your legs.
- Cades Cove is Calmer
Cades Cove is one of the park’s most beloved stops, drawing more than 1.5 million visitors a year. In peak season, the one-way Cades Cove Loop Road can move slowly. In the wintertime, you can fully take in the valley, historic buildings and mountain views.
- Views Are Clearer
With the leaves down, sightlines open up in places you might not notice in summer. Roadsides, overlooks and even some trail sections can reveal views that are usually tucked behind foliage. It can make a familiar drive or hike feel brand new.
- Lodging is easier to book
Off-season trips are often easier to plan on shorter notice. With more availability, it’s simpler to grab a last-minute room, extend your stay or adjust your dates without the same competition for weekends and holidays.
Lodging Deals and Winter Specials on the Peaceful Side
Some properties run winter rate specials or weekday perks for limited windows. Below are a few current deals to know about, as of January 2026. Be sure to read the fine print and confirm details before you book.
Dancing Bear Lodge: Hibernation Special (through March 19)
Dancing Bear Lodge’s Hibernation Special runs now through March 19 with reduced winter rates, complimentary breakfast from the Dancing Bean Coffee House or Apple Valley Cafe, and a custom gift for two. Book on their website using code HIBERNATE. Exclusions apply.
RT Lodge: Winter Wellness Getaway (through February, weekdays)
RT Lodge’s Winter Wellness Getaway is a weekday perk for winter stays. From now through February, guests who book a new Monday through Thursday stay receive a $50 spa credit toward appointments scheduled Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
To use it, mention the offer and provide your hotel confirmation number when booking your spa appointment at (865) 260-0260. Exclusions apply.
Townsend River Breeze Inn: Stay-more, Save-more (through March 15)
Townsend River Breeze Inn is running a winter special through March 15. Book one night and get the second night half off, or book two nights and get the third night free.
Little Arrow Outdoor Resort: Winter Wellness Retreat (Jan. 30 to Feb. 1)
Little Arrow Outdoor Resort’s Winter Wellness Retreat runs Friday, Jan. 30 through Sunday, Feb. 1, with a full weekend of guided wellness activities, plus time to unwind with self-guided sauna sessions and the outdoor hot tub. The weekend includes early check-in at 2 p.m. Friday and late checkout at noon Sunday.
Retreat entry is $350 per person plus tax, and when booking, you’ll add both your retreat entry and accommodations to your cart. Use promo code WINTERWELLNESS at checkout to save 20% on your stay for the retreat dates only.
Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and storyteller of the Greater Smokies region.
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.
Open for Business, Staying Safe During Federal Shutdown
Blount County and the Townsend community remain open and welcoming to visitors while federal agencies operate with reduced staffing. We are closely coordinating with Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP) officials and local emergency services to prioritize visitor safety and protect our natural and cultural resources.
What visitors should know now:
- GSMNP will remain open during the federal shutdown.
- The federal government shutdown may affect services inside national parks nationwide; many park visitor centers and staffed facilities may operate on reduced hours or be closed, and some routine services (trash removal, staffed restrooms, ranger programs) could be limited or suspended.
- GSMNP will post official updates and alerts on its website; visitors should check the park’s official “Plan Your Visit / Alerts” page before arriving. National Park Service
- Many airport personnel will remain on the job; however, travelers should allow additional time when traveling through McGhee Tyson Airport.
Townsend & Blount County alternatives — safe, local options
We encourage visitors to enjoy Townsend and Blount County’s many outdoor and cultural experiences that do not rely on federal staffing, including local trails, state parks, museums, guided outfitters, restaurants and festivals.
Some options include:
- Shadows of the Past Trail (Townsend): A 10-mile self-guided walking tour through 13 historic sites with interpretive signs.
- Maryville-Alcoa Greenbelt Trail: Eighteen miles of connected parkway paths linking scenic parks, the Blount County Library, and Maryville College.
- Foothills Parkway: Catch sweeping fall-color views from one of the region’s most iconic scenic drives with frequent pull-offs for jaw-dropping views.
- Fly Fishing in Townsend: The Little River runs right through Townsend, offering pristine, accessible waters for trout fishing. Local outfitters provide guided fly-fishing lessons and gear rentals.
- Horseback Riding in Townsend: Explore gentle forest trails and riverside routes on guided horseback rides with local stables and outfitters.
- Mountain Biking at Vee Hollow: Ride over 14 miles of purpose-built singletrack and flow trails for all skill levels – located right in Townsend.
- Tuckaleechee Caverns: Discover one of the area’s natural wonders featuring underground waterfalls, towering caverns, and fascinating geology, open and guided by local experts year-round.
- Jeep or UTV Rentals: Feel the wind in your hair while taking in the views from the Missing Link or Foothills Parkway in an open-air jeep or UTV.
See our “Things to Do” list in the media kit for more ideas.
Safety first – our guidance for visitors
- Expect fewer park rangers and limited on-site emergency staffing inside GSMNP; choose short, well-marked trails and avoid remote backcountry travel. Experts and park advocates warn that under-staffed parks can pose safety and resource risks. National Parks Conservation Association
- Pack out trash and leave no trace — some trailheads may not have trash services during a shutdown.
- Choose managed, staffed alternatives — state parks, museums and private outfitters with their own staff and safety protocols.
- Travel prepared — water, maps (paper), first-aid kit, charged phone, and a plan for no restroom or trash facilities.
- Avoid gated/posted-closed areas — respect closures; do not move or bypass gates or barricades.
- Check official sources before travel — GSMNP alerts, NPS active alerts page, and local visitor center updates. National Park Service
Economic importance
Tourism is vital to our community. Visitor spending in 2024 reached $610.9 million, supporting thousands of local jobs and hundreds of businesses across Blount County. We’re encouraging responsible visitation to support local economies while prioritizing safety.
For assistance planning a Townsend visit and recommendations outside of the national park, contact the Greater Smokies Region/Townsend Visitor Center at 800-525-6834.
A media kit with local photos and the “Things to Do” alternative list is available here.
Our Majestic Black Bears
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.
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.
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.
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.
For more information on wildlife in the Great Smoky Mountains, check out these posts:
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 of the 2022 Smoky Mountain 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.
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
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
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.
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.
New Owners
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 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.
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
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
Photographers Love the Smoky Mountains for their Mystical Beauty
With so many national parks to choose from, you might be surprised to find that the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most popular with both amateur and professional photographers alike. Make sure you bring your camera, along with plenty of batteries and memory cards when you’re here. There are so many different places to take photographs, it can be hard to know where to go first. Here are a few of the hottest places for you and your camera to visit.
Cades Cove
Cades Cove is one of the most popular places in the entire park to visit. Be sure your camera is ready to go from the minute you start along the 11-mile loop. As you cruise along the loop, you are likely to encounter white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, raccoons, groundhogs, and of course, black bears. Do be sure to use the many pull-offs to stop and take your pictures. If you do run across a bear, be sure to leave it alone and walk slowly away from it, after you get your pictures of course (only if it is safe to do so).
Clingmans Dome
Clingmans Dome is the tallest point in the park; you simply can’t visit the park without bringing your camera here. While standing here, you have access to some of the most incredible scenery in the entire mountain range. Although some of the other mountains in the park (the shorter ones) can be pretty tough to climb all the way to the top, Clingmans Dome is not hard to reach. There is a seven-mile-long road that you can use to drive to the trail that leads to the observation tower. The trek up to the top of the tower is quite steep in nature, but you will find the effort well worthwhile as the scenery opens up before you on every side.
Mount LeConte
Mount LeConte is the third highest peak in the Smoky Mountains range and offers some excellent hiking trails. There are several trails leading to the mountain peak; of these, the Alum Cave trail is one of the best for taking pictures. The trail winds its way to the top as it covers 5 miles and passes an eponymous cave. You will cross a concave bluff that runs for 80 feet and is 24 feet high. As you reach the peak of your journey, you will come across the LeConte Lodge, reputed to be the highest guest lodge in the country. You can stay here and enjoy a night in the lodge or continue winding your way along the trail enjoying some of the most spectacular Smoky Mountains scenery to be found anywhere.
Chimney Tops
If you are up for something a little more challenging, there is the Chimney Tops Trail. The trail climbs 1,400 feet in only 2 miles. The climb is quite steep and crosses a number of busy streams before the final scramble to the top where the “Chimney Top” gets its name — from the rocky peak waiting for you at the end of the trail. It’s a tough hike, but the view from here is nothing short of spectacular and the perfect place to take photos of Mount LeConte and the entire range.
Places to Swim on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies
Written by: Emily Huffstetler
As temperatures climb in the region, taking a dip in the Tennessee River or pool seems like the perfect way to cool off. These are our favorite places to swim on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies.
Townsend Campgrounds with a Pool
If you’re planning a weekend getaway in the Smokies, these campgrounds all have pools:
- Little Arrow Outdoor Resort
- Little River Campground
- Mountaineer Campground
- Townsend / Great Smokies KOA
- Vee Hollow Campground
- Whispering River Resort
Louisville Point Park
Located along the Tennessee River at the end of Cox Road, this 16-acre park offers plenty of room to spread out.
It has water access for swimming, paddling and fishing. On land, you can enjoy the playground, sand volleyball court, horseshoe pits and numerous picnic spots.
Additionally, a pavilion accommodating up to 100 people, equipped with picnic tables, a charcoal grill and electrical outlets, is available for reservation.
Springbrook and John Sevier Pools
Springbrook Pool and John Sevier Pool are public pools in Blount County, both open for the season until August 3. John Sevier Pool extends its season for an additional weekend on Aug. 9 and 10.
Springbrook Pool is open from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays, while John Sevier Pool is open from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. Both pools are open11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays and 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sundays.
Springbrook Pool closes at 5 p.m. on May 27, June 10, June 24, July 1 and July 15 for swimming meets. John Sevier Pool is open only for lap swimming from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Saturdays.
Springbrook Pool has pool party hours from 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Fridays and 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.
Daily admission is $4.00 for students ages 3–18, $5.00 for adults 19 and older, and $4.00 for seniors 55 and older. There’s a $1.00 discount off daily admission after 5 p.m.
Seasonal pool passes, valid at both pools, are also available for purchase at the Parks & Rec. office. You can learn more about the costs of pool passes for individuals and families here.
Townsend Wye
Nestled just inside the entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where Little River Road and Lamar Alexander Parkway intersect, the Townsend Wye is one of the most popular swimming holes in the area.
Besides swimming, it’s a great spot for snorkeling, floating or simply relaxing by the water. You’ll find shallow areas, especially along the pebbly shore, as well as deeper spots where you can’t touch the bottom.
To secure a convenient parking spot during summer’s peak, plan to arrive earlier in the day.
Please note that the GSMNP advises against water recreation in the park due to numerous hazards and dangers. If you choose to swim here, take necessary precautions, and remember to supervise children. You can learn more about water safety in the GSMNP here.
Need new aquatic gear? Visit Little River Trading Co. or Smoky Mountain Outdoor Center (SMOC) to purchase swimwear or water shoes. SMOC and Smoky Mountain River Rat have rafts and life jackets available to rent.
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Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and passionate storyteller of the Greater Smokies region.
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