Whether you’re spending Easter weekend in Blount County or just looking for a place to worship while you’re here, there are plenty of local churches to choose from. Here’s a roundup of Easter services happening in Maryville, Townsend and Alcoa.
Maryville
1st United Methodist Church, Maryville 7:00 a.m. sunrise service at Montgomery Ridge Intermediate School 8:15 a.m. traditional worship 10:30 a.m. traditional worship 10:30 a.m. contemporary worship 11:45 a.m. Easter gathering in Wesley Hall
Broadway Baptist Church, Maryville 7:00–7:45 a.m. sunrise service 8:30 a.m. worship service 9:45 a.m. Sunday school 10:45 a.m. worship service
Fairview Church, Maryville 6:30 a.m. sunrise worship service in the church parking lot 8:30 a.m. Easter Resurrection celebration 11:00 a.m. Easter Resurrection celebration
New Providence Presbyterian Church 9:00 a.m. The Circle worship service 10:00 a.m. fellowship hour 10:15 a.m. Easter egg hunt 11:05 a.m. traditional worship service and livestream
Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and this year you can get a jump start on the rest of the world by booking your romantic dinner out right away. After all, it is shocking how quickly the tables at the area’s most romantic spots fill up and waiting until a week or two ahead of Valentine’s Day often means you don’t get a reservation. Lucky for you, there are plenty of options for romantic dinners in Blount County.
If you are going for that sort of super-romantic evening out, we have five local Blount County restaurants that are ideal for a Valentine’s Day dinner for two.
The Barn at Blackberry Farm – If your goal is to impress and enjoy amazing and authentic local food, you will have a tough time matching the options at this Walland restaurant. Featuring expert chefs, bakers, and even a sommelier to help you pair your Foothills Cuisine with local wine, it is a dining adventure perfect for Valentine’s Day. Dancing Bear Lodge – The bistro in this wonderful Townsend restaurant allows you to make reservations even if you are not staying at the lodge. Noted as one of the most romantic settings in the entire region, the bistro’s menu is a fantastic blend of local favorites with a new twist. Opt for local cheeses, innovative appetizers, local greens and vegetables, and classics that include an Appalachian Hot Pot, a blue cheese-encrusted pork chop, and more. Excellent wines and irresistible desserts make it perfect for a romantic night out. Foothills Milling Company – Located in the heart of Maryville, this is a popular choice and reservations are required. In a charming and welcoming setting, you can take your choice from the ever-changing wine list and a menu that reflects the season. Your Valentine’s Day dinner for two could include everything from truffle fondue or crab soup to a warm cabbage salad, rack of lamb, salmon and more! Sullivan’s – Another fine food establishment in Maryville, this features a tremendous menu of innovative dishes that includes everything from a steak, strawberry and blue cheese salad to classic “blue plates” and local favorites. An impossible to resist dessert menu and a low-key, almost casual atmosphere make it the perfect spot for a delicious evening out on Valentine’s Day. Aubrey’s – Less romantic and more fun, this is a great spot if you are taking yourselves, and maybe even the kids out to celebrate this day that’s all about love. Enjoy selections from an excellent beer and wine menu. Remain in awe of the fantastic dinner menu with small plates, specialties and a great “Perfect Pairs” option. Rich desserts and even a kids’ menu ensures that an entire family can enjoy a Valentine’s Day dinner that is fun, tasty and relaxed. This is also a Maryville location.
There are a lot of options, but you won’t want to wait much longer to book your table. Use the links here to choose your ideal spot on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies, and whether it is a meal for two or the entire gang, you’re sure to enjoy your Valentine’s Day dining together.
Across Maryville and Alcoa, new openings range from duckpin bowling and indoor golf to alcohol-free cocktails, a moonshine distillery filled with hot rods and a full-service day spa. Here are five recent additions, plus two more on the way.
Duckpin bowling is one of the activities available at The Armory. Photo courtesy of South Made.
496 Ellis Avenue, Maryville
The Armory opened July 20 with 27,000 square feet of games, dining and gathering space.
Groups can move between duckpin bowling, digital darts, a nine-hole putting course, shuffleboard, bocce and skeet shooting. The lineup also includes yard games and ValoArena mixed reality, which tracks players’ movements without headsets or controllers.
The venue has a restaurant, two bars and a rooftop deck. Party packages and reservable spaces are available for birthdays, company gatherings and other private events.
Hot Rod Distillery pairs moonshine tastings with an automotive showroom filled with classic, custom and high-performance vehicles. The Alcoa business celebrated its grand opening in early July.
Owner Steve Stanick displays vehicles from his personal collection throughout the tasting room, including a 1971 Chevy Vega Pro Stock, a 1969 Ford Mustang Boss 429, a 1967 Chevy Corvette 427 and a 1987 Buick Grand National.
Adults 21 and older can sample moonshine and cream liqueurs handcrafted in Alcoa. Flavors include apple pie, peach, blackberry, mint chocolate chip and orange dreamsicle.
At The Back Nine Golf, tee times don’t depend on daylight or clear weather. The indoor golf venue celebrated its ribbon cutting April 30.
Private Full Swing simulator bays allow golfers to play virtual rounds at courses such as Pebble Beach, St. Andrews, TPC Sawgrass and Torrey Pines. Players can also practice with data on ball speed, launch angle and other performance metrics.
Photo courtesy of Daisy’s Non-Alcoholic Bar & Bottle Shop.
608 Ellis Avenue, Maryville
Daisy’s Non-Alcoholic Bar & Bottle Shop brings the atmosphere of a neighborhood bar without the alcohol. The downtown Maryville business opened in fall 2025 and celebrated its ribbon cutting this past January.
The menu features handcrafted mocktails, nonalcoholic beer and wine, kombucha, mocktail flights and casual food. Board and card games are available around the bar.
Its rotating calendar includes live music, trivia, comedy, brunches, wellness programs and creative classes.
RT Lodge opened The Carriage House Spa last fall on its wooded property on the Maryville College campus. It welcomes local guests as well as overnight visitors.
The spa’s seven treatment rooms accommodate massages, facials and body treatments. It also has an infrared sauna, lounge areas and a retail shop.
Spa guests can order lunch in the Morningside Room from noon to 3 p.m. before or after an appointment.
Set to open Sept. 19, Wells Tavern will pair Scottish-inspired food and drinks with live music in downtown Maryville. Outdoor gathering areas will include a rooftop overlooking Broadway.
LeConte Lodge plans to welcome guests into a new recreation building atop Mount LeConte for the 2027 season. The former building, which served overnight guests for more than 50 years, was removed this summer after harsh mountaintop conditions caused extensive deterioration.
The new space will include rocking chairs, games, music and historical displays where guests can relax after a day on the trails.
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. She holds a Master of Science in Conservation Education from Mississippi State University.
Finding hikes that can give you a great close-up look at Smoky Mountain fall colors and are also accessible to your youngest and oldest family members isn’t always easy, but there are actually quite a few. Here are some of our favorites! The Laurel Falls Trail Looking for a great all-around hike that offers the kind of sightseeing you’ll find only out in nature, a dirt trail under your feet, and a cool destination? The Laurel Falls hike is a 2.3 mile round-trip hike that begins at a parking lot near the top of Fighting Creek Gap. It is accessible to families with children, though everyone should stay close to the trail as it approaches the Falls (there are some steep drop-offs off-trail). The Falls themselves provide plenty of great photo opportunities, so bring your camera! Clingmans Dome Do your kids love when something is “the most?” Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Smokies, and it’s accessible via a ½-mile-long paved trail. The trail can be managed with strollers, though all should be prepared that it can be quite steep and is generally too steep for wheelchairs. Hikers can look forward to an unbelievable panoramic view at the top; on a clear day, people can see nearly 100 miles in any direction. Pack a jacket – it can be up to 20 degrees cooler at the summit. The Look Rock Tower Trail Clingmans Dome is a lot of great things, but it isn’t dog-friendly. Luckily, dogs and their human companions don’t have to miss out on a great Smokies view, thanks to the Look Rock Tower Trail. The trail includes a view of Maryville and Alcoa, as well as the western side of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Dogs must be leashed, but the trail is paved and it’s just under a mile. A perfect first hike! The Gatlinburg Trail The Gatlinburg Trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a dog-friendly 1.9 mile trail through a forest near the Little Prong River, and features the remnants of former Tennessee frontier homes (notably their foundations and chimneys). The trail begins at the Sugarlands Visitor Center and is only one of two dog-friendly trails in the national park. Make sure to observe the rules requiring leash use in the park while on the trail. The Abrams Falls Trailhead If the youngest members of your family are in middle school or older, you may want to try a 5-mile hike (round trip) with a few rocks on the path, and the Abrams Falls Trailhead is a great place to start increasing your hiking challenges. There are even more challenging hikes at Abrams Falls, but the 5-mile hike begins at the trailhead exit at Cades Cove Loop Road. Everyone should pack some extra socks if they’re in sneakers (or wear hiking boots), bring a rain jacket or poncho, and watch out for slippery rocks by the falls.
If you are craving a little time to commune with nature, there is no better place to scratch the itch than the Smoky Mountains. East Tennessee is a popular mountain destination because of the sheer beauty of the area. You can stay in a rustic cabin staring out across the peaks. It is the perfect way to leave the stress of the urban world behind. While there is plenty of mountain vistas to enjoy, don’t think your trip to the Smokies will be boring! There is so much to do in the various towns dotting the area, you will never have a moment to be bored. You will find world-class dining options, adventure activities, museums, and even roller coasters. To help you create the perfect vacation, we have put together these five tips.
1. Rent a Cabin
While there are plenty of different types of accommodations available in the Smoky Mountains, one of the best ways to get the full experience is by renting a cabin. It will make you feel more at home in the mountains. Plus, it will come with an absolutely incredible view. You can find cabins to suit all sizes of groups from one to thirty, and you can get all the amenities that you desire. There are pet-friendly options for those with four-legged family members.
2. Don’t Think Gatlinburg is All There Is
Some people make the mistake of thinking the only destination in the Smokies is Gatlinburg. While the town is lovely and full of things to do, there is more to the Smoky Mountains than G-Town. Make sure you check out some of the other amazing spots in the area including Maryville, Townsend, Rockford, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and Cades Cove. You will find that each spot has its own unique flavor to add to your trip.
3. Make Time for Dollywood
You don’t want to miss a chance to visit this world-class theme park. There are plenty of rides for the thrill seekers including roller coasters and water slides. Plus, there are amazing live performances featuring Appalachian style music, among others. The artisans will demonstrate things like glass-blowing and blacksmithing. Plus, you can catch one of the fantastic dinner shows. Make sure you take a ride on the Lightning Rod. It is the world’s fastest wooden roller coaster.
4. Go to the Park
No matter where you are staying in East Tennessee, you need to plan to spend some time in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. There is no admission fee to get into the park, and there are plenty of things to do. You can hike, bicycle, check out waterfalls, camp, and look for wildlife. Keep your eyes open, and you may see a black bear or two, but no matter what, you are guaranteed to see the beauty of nature. Wildflowers bloom the majority of the year, and the gorgeous mountain scenery is worthy of a million Instagram pictures.
5. Check Out a Festival
When picking your vacation dates, make sure to check for festivals! There are plenty of weekends per year where you will find a fun festival to attend. You never know what you might get to experience. Hot air balloons, bluegrass, craft beer, and Scottish games are just a few of the festivals that happen in the Great Smoky Mountains. As you can see, there is plenty to see and do. What are you waiting for? Get to planning!
Maryville, nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, has a growing list of upscale dining options. From a MICHELIN-recommended dining room to a downtown steakhouse with caviar service, these seven restaurants are worth a reservation.
DSB Provisions, recently opened, brings an intimate Italian dinner experience to Greenway Village. Pasta is made from scratch by hand, using local and imported ingredients, including eggs from chef Dustin Busby and Stacey Busby’s farm.
Busby trained through Le Cordon Bleu and has cooked in Charleston and Orlando, with stages at restaurants including The French Laundry and The Fat Duck. He later joined Blackberry Farm, serving as executive sous chef at The Barn and managing the Farmstead program.
Dinner is served Wednesday through Sunday, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Reservations are recommended. A daytime Grab & Go option runs 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., with fresh and dried pastas, sauces, pestos and farm-fresh eggs.
Raven Steakhouse and Lounge is a dinner-only steakhouse in downtown Maryville, with a main dining room for reservations and a lounge for walk-ins.
The dinner menu centers on USDA Prime steaks, with seafood-forward starters and towers, caviar service and a small set of entrées beyond beef. The wine program is guided by sommelier Aileen Carroll, who has a Court of Master Sommeliers education.
The Raven is open Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
The Walnut Kitchen on High Street serves dinner, lunch and Sunday brunch. The menu features seasonal ingredients and Tennessee beef, with a full bar program.
Chef Jason Scott brings experience as former executive chef at Lonesome Dove, along with a feature in Cityview’s Top Chefs series.
Lunch runs Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dinner runs Tuesday through Thursday, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday service runs 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. While walk-ins are accepted, reservations are recommended.
The Restaurant at RT Lodge, designated MICHELIN Guide Recommended, offers an elevated dinner in the Maryville College Woods. The kitchen makes many staples in-house, including bread, pickles, mayonnaise and pimento cheese, and bases the menu on seasonal availability.
Chef Trevor Stockton trained under chefs Rick Mace and Josh Feathers before joining RT Lodge as sous chef in 2013. Today, he works closely with regional farmers and purveyors, including his family’s Stockton Farms.
For a lighter dinner option, The Morningside Room runs as RT Lodge’s bar and lounge. They have cocktails, local beer and spirits, and a curated wine list, along with snacks and a casual dinner menu. Lunch is limited to hotel and spa guests.
Dinner at The Restaurant at RT Lodge runs Monday through Thursday, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Reservations are required. The Morningside Room is usually open Monday through Saturday, 3 p.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday, 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. Reservations are not accepted. Hours are posted on RT Lodge’s bar and restaurant availability calendar.
Foothills Milling Company is a white-tablecloth restaurant in downtown Maryville. The menu spans steaks and seafood, plus vegetarian options. Ingredients include regional staples such as Benton’s Bacon, Cruze Farms dairy and Vienna Coffee.
The restaurant opened in Wears Valley in 2001 and relocated to Maryville in 2006. Today, the dining room sits in a former Studebaker and Edsel showroom from 1921 to 1948.
Dinner service runs Tuesday through Thursday, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Reservations are available.
Bella sits on West Broadway in downtown Maryville, with a menu that mixes Italian staples with steak and seafood, plus a full bar program. The kitchen runs from scratch across the board, and the “Pasta in the Wheel” service has become one of the restaurant’s signatures.
Chef Cory Giaquinta was named a Top Chef in 2025 by Cityview Magazine. His background also includes time at Dancing Bear Lodge.
Bella is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday brunch runs 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with dinner service from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro is a short drive from Maryville, located in Townsend near the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The restaurant serves modern Appalachian cuisine with a farm-to-table focus, using produce grown on-site and local ingredients.
Executive chef Jeff Carter returned to Dancing Bear in summer 2021 and leads the kitchen’s seasonal approach to Appalachian cooking. The Bistro was named one of OpenTable’s Top 100 Romantic Restaurants in America for 2026, and it was also recognized by TripAdvisor as one of America’s 25 Most Romantic Restaurants in 2019.
Dinner runs Tuesday through Sunday, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday brunch runs 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Reservations are recommended.
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.
Fall has long been one of the defining seasons of the Southern Appalachians. From the trails and streams to local markets and restaurants, here are eight ways to experience it on the Peaceful Side.
Follow the Fall Color
Fall color arrives gradually. Elevation stretches the season over several weeks, with leaves beginning to turn high in the mountains before the change reaches the valleys.
At the highest elevations, some trees can start changing by mid-September. Color usually develops above 4,000 feet in early to mid-October, while lower and mid elevations often see their strongest color from mid-October into early November.
Cooler temperatures and changing leaves make autumn a natural time to hit the trails.
NPS recommends West Prong Trail as a less-traveled option on the Tennessee side. Its fall-color guide lists the Little River, Cucumber Gap and Jakes Creek loop, as well as the hike to Look Rock Observation Tower.
Check current trail conditions before heading out. You’ll need a parking tag if you park inside the park for more than 15 minutes.
Need gear? Little River Trading Co. in Maryville carries hiking footwear, packs, clothing and outdoor equipment. Its 2026 hiking series continues into fall.
Or Take the Trail on Horseback
Cades Cove Riding Stables offers hour-long guided rides in Cades Cove, along with carriage rides and hayrides. The stable operates through late November.
Just outside the park, Davy Crockett Riding Stables has about 25 miles of trails, with options ranging from shorter outings to half-day trips. Its regular season runs through Nov. 15.
Camp in Cooler Weather
As summer’s heat and humidity ease, camping becomes more comfortable.
September highs in the park’s lower elevations generally stay in the 70s and 80s. By early November, highs usually drop into the 50s and 60s. Fall also tends to be the park’s driest time of year.
Find tent and RV sites, cabins and glamping inside the park and around Townsend and Walland in our camping and glamping guide.
Try Trout Fishing
Lower-elevation fishing improves as water temperatures drop.
In summer, anglers often head toward smaller, higher-elevation streams. By early October, larger streams can become productive again, with favorable conditions lasting into mid-November.
Brook trout are the Smokies’ only native trout species, but they can look similar to other trout found in the park. See the NPS fishing page for identification tips and current rules.
White-tailed deer, wild turkeys and black bears are among the animals active in the Smokies as winter approaches.
Bears feed heavily to build their fat reserves, consuming up to 20,000 calories a day. Acorns are one of their most important food sources.
NPS requires visitors to stay at least 50 yards from black bears. Give wildlife more space if it changes its behavior in your presence, and never stop in the road to watch or photograph wildlife.
The Townsend Visitor Center features local artisans in its Exhibit Room. From Oct. 6–11, Tom Sciple will have his woodturning work on display.
Fall craft fairs and harvest markets let you shop small and get a head start on holiday shopping.
The Maryville Makers Market Fall Event comes to McArthur Pavilion on Oct. 3 with local and regional makers, artists, bakers and growers selling handcrafted, homegrown and scratch-made goods.
The Alvin C. Baker ‘72 Harvest Craft Fair follows on Oct. 24 from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in Alumni Gym. The fair includes regional makers and a bake sale, with proceeds supporting scholarships for Blount County students attending the college.
Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro’s sample menu features Georgia Candy Roaster Squash Soup with crème fraîche, pepitas and apples. Foothills Milling Company serves apple-butter barbecue ribs with butternut squash home fries, Pumpkin Tiramisu and Maple Apple Blondie.
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. She holds a Master of Science in Conservation Education from Mississippi State University.
On the Peaceful Side, there’s still plenty to do after sunset. These nine outings range from synchronous fireflies in Elkmont to live music in Townsend, sunset hayrides in Cades Cove and movies at the drive-in in Maryville.
See Synchronous Fireflies
Photo: Niemand für Polyphemus
Synchronous fireflies are one of the Smokies’ most unusual natural events. For a brief window each year, thousands flash in near-unison. Scientists believe the coordinated pattern is tied to mating behavior.
The official viewing takes place in Elkmont, where access is managed through a lottery that usually opens in late April. During the eight-night viewing period, nighttime access is limited to reservation holders and registered campers.
If you miss the lottery, guided outings offer another way to see them. Smoky Mountain Guides and Just Get Outdoors both run seasonal after-dark trips focused on synchronous fireflies and other nocturnal wildlife.
Join an Adaptive Night Hike
Photo: Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park’s adaptive night hike takes place June 5, 2026, on Little River Trail. The route is an easy half-mile roundtrip.
Adaptive equipment is welcome, and a limited number of GRIT Freedom Chairs are available to borrow. Volunteers will help with navigation.
The night hike is part of the park’s 2026 adaptive program series with Catalyst Sports. Registration is required.
Go to an Astronomy Night
Astronomy Nights offer an all-ages introduction to telescopes and stargazing in Maryville. The Blount County Public Library hosts the program with the Smoky Mountain Astronomical Society year-round.
Upcoming dates are April 23, May 26, June 22, July 22 and Aug. 20. Each session starts in the Sharon Lawson Room at 6 p.m. and continues outside until 8 p.m.
See the Hot Air Balloon Festival Glow
The Great Smoky Mountains Hot Air Balloon Festival returns to Townsend on Aug. 15, 2026, from 3 to 9 p.m. A highlight of the event is the evening balloon glow, when the balloons inflate and light up against the Smokies.
Weather permitting, tethered balloon ride ticket holders can meet the balloon captain, learn how the balloon works and rise above the festival grounds. The festival also includes family activities, crafters, food trucks and a beer tent.
Tickets are on sale now at www.eventeny.com. Some proceeds benefit the Townsend Volunteer Fire Department and Townsend Elementary School.
Take a Sunset Hayride in Cades Cove
Photo: Cades Cove Riding Stables
Cades Cove Riding Stables gives hayrides along the Cades Cove Loop Road, with a 6 p.m. departure from June 1 through Aug. 15. The ride lasts about 1.5 to three hours, depending on traffic, and gives passengers an open-air view of the cove in the evening.
As the light fades, wildlife activity picks up in Cades Cove. White-tailed deer and turkey sightings are common, while coyotes, woodchucks and black bears are also possible.
Country Manor Acres in Townsend offers a cozy evening on the farm for individuals, couples and groups. The experience begins with s’mores by the fire pit, followed by a horse-drawn wagon tour of the farm, wedding venue and stables.
After the wagon ride, guests watch the horses’ nightly stampede back to the barn for dinner. There is also a chance to feed the horses and learn more about their care.
The Levitt AMP Maryville Music Series brings free outdoor concerts to downtown Maryville this summer. The series takes place every Thursday from June 4 through July 30 from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Maryville Greenbelt Amphitheater in Jack Greene Park.
Concerts are free and open to the public. Preview upcoming performances at www.maryvillemusic.com.
Listen to Live Music Around Townsend
Photo: Dancing Bear Lodge & Appalachian Bistro
On weekends, live music is easy to find in Townsend. Peaceful Side Social hosts sets on Thursdays and Fridays from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m., while The Abbey regularly schedules live music on Friday and Saturday nights.
For a bigger night out, the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center has evening concerts on the calendar, including Chicken Wire Empire on May 15, Sugaree String Society on May 22 and The Barefoot Movement on June 5. Dancing Bear Lodge also has a Live on the Lawn concert with Sam Bush scheduled for April 23.
For another short evening stop, Look Rock Tower on Foothills Parkway West has a paved 0.8-mile roundtrip trail and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Blount County.
Catch a Movie at the Drive-In
Photo: Parkway Drive-In
Parkway Drive-In in Maryville shows movies on Friday and Saturday nights during the season. Gates open at 7 p.m., and films start at dusk, or about 40 minutes after sunset. Concessions include the classics, ranging from burgers, grilled cheese and hot dogs to candy, ice cream and popcorn.
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.
Hiking as a beginner can feel intimidating—especially when it seems like everyone else is already a pro. But you’re not alone. A survey of 2,000 U.S. adults revealed that 26% are interested in trying hiking. Even if you missed out on scouts or summer camp as a kid, it’s never too late to get started.
Let’s tackle some common concerns that many beginners share.
Insects and pests (56%)
The Smokies do have mosquitos, gnats and ticks, but they’re easy to manage with insect repellent and proper clothing. Jeans or tall socks and a hat can make a big difference. And if you’re still concerned, stick to popular trails, where the crowds keep the bugs at bay.
Running into wildlife (40%)
Seeing wildlife like deer or wild turkeys is actually part of what makes the Smokies special. Bear sightings are possible, but serious encounters are rare. The park has clear guidelines for safely storing food and keeping your distance. If you follow the rules—make noise while hiking, carry bear spray and store food properly—you’re very unlikely to have an issue. Most animals want nothing to do with humans.
Getting lost (36%)
Trail signage in the Smokies is generally excellent, especially on popular routes. Free maps are available at visitor centers, and apps like AllTrails or Gaia GPS let you download offline maps to track your location in real time. If you’re sticking to marked trails and start your hike early in the day, you’re not likely to get lost. Rangers also patrol the most popular areas, and you can always share your plans with someone ahead of time for peace of mind.
Needing a bathroom (35%)
Most major trailheads and visitor centers have restrooms. For backcountry hikes, it’s easy to learn Leave No Trace bathroom basics. Portable toilet options and privacy kits make it even easier. If you’re new to the outdoors, starting with short hikes near visitor centers will ensure you’ll always have a bathroom nearby.
Running out of food (19%) and water (34%)
For day hikes, packing enough snacks and water is simple. A reusable water bottle or hydration pack and a few granola bars go a long way. If you’re camping, there are water sources near most campgrounds (just bring a filter or purification tablets). You don’t need to carry gallons—just refill when needed. Park rangers and guidebooks can help you plan for the right amount depending on your hike.
Ready to get started?
You can check out Hiking in the Smokys for ten of the easiest hikes, perfect for beginners. If you’d rather not go it alone, several local businesses offer guided group hikes.
Little River Trading Co. in Maryville hosts an annual hiking series with guided group hikes. Each outing includes a required prep session with trail details and tips, followed by private fittings for boots and backpacks.
Smoky Mountain Guidesfacilitates small group hiking trips, ranging from 2-4 hours to 3-4 days.Mountain Challengealsooffers group hiking trips upon request, specializing in teambuilding and outdoor education.
Friends of Great Smoky Mountains National Park is hosting Trails Forever hikes now through November. They take place on the second Tuesday and fourth Wednesday of each month, as well as some Saturdays. Tuesday hikes are longer (more than 7 miles) and more challenging, while Wednesday and Saturday hikes are beginner friendly.
When you feel ready to level up, The Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremontoffers weeklong hiking and backpacking adventures. Drawing participants from across the country, they tend to fill up quickly.
Where will you go? We’d love to hear about your experience. Tag us to be featured on our social media (@PeacefulSmokies).
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.
One of the great things about being on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies is just how much the animals appreciate the peace and quiet, too. That’s one reason there are so many great stables and outfitters that can get you riding in Blount County: horses like it here. Check out the different options and start planning your next ride!
Next to Heaven Mountain Adventures
The only unguided horseback ride in the Smokies begins when you’re matched with a horse great for you, and continues up an hour-long trail into the Smoky mountain woods. Don’t worry about getting lost; the horses know the way! Ziplining through the trees is also available.
Cades Cove Riding Stables
Cades Cove Riding Stables offers the only national-park-authorized stables in Blount. They offer guided trail rides in Cades Cove, as well as private guided carriage rides and guided hayrides for large groups. All levels of riders are welcome!
Davy Crockett Riding Stables
Townsend, Tennessee’s Davy Crockett Riding Stables offers rides to people of all ages, and also includes half-day rides that take you off the beaten path into the Tennessee wilderness. Not a bad way to become King of the Wild Frontier!
Rolling Hills Farm Equestrian Center
If you’re looking for serious riding lessons, Rolling Hills Farm is one great place to look. The riding school offers instruction in the basics of equestrianism, like Western and English riding, horsemanship, and showmanship. Horse day camps and birthday parties are also available.
Twin Valley Horse Ranch
Twin Valley Horse Ranch is actually Twin Valley Horse Ranch and Bed & Breakfast. Those just visiting for the day can choose half-day or full-day rides on their private mountain trails, and if you’re staying overnight, you’ve got a choice between upscale Lodge and Ranch house rooms, a private cabin, or rustic outdoor shelters. Bringing your own horse? No problem. Even visiting horses can bunk down in the stables at Twin Valley!
Mountain Meadow Equestrian Center
Maryville’s Mountain Meadow Equestrian Center offers a little bit of everything. Day camps, riding instruction, trail rides for riding students, a 4-H club, boarding for horses, and a 24-hour on-site manager. If you’re looking to get more instruction on everything from trail riding to showjumping and 3-day eventing, Mountain Meadow is a great choice.
Don’t Hold Your Horses — Ride While You Can!
The horses may be ready to go any day of the year, but the weather won’t always cooperate. Don’t be afraid to check out the stables you’re interested in and book a trail ride or a riding lesson on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies today.
Townsend offers several ways to experience the Smokies with more control over noise, crowds and the pace of the day. From scenic drives to short walks and local museums, these options may be a better fit for visitors seeking a lower-sensory experience.
Explore the Townsend River Walk & Arboretum
Photos courtesy of Mark Seder, Townsend River Walk & Arboretum.
The Townsend River Walk & Arboretum is a nature learning park along Little River with walking paths, native plants, garden areas and a certified Tennessee arboretum.
The River Walk’s new Sensory Garden & Path officially opens August 28, 2026. Designed to engage sight, sound, touch and smell, it features textured walking surfaces, a xylophone, tic-tac-toe, a small bridge, flowering plants, herbs, grasses and ferns.
Visitors seeking less stimulation may prefer the quieter areas elsewhere along the River Walk.
Walk the Paved Townsend Historical Trail
Photo courtesy of Lauren Huffstetler.
The Townsend Historical Trail includes about nine miles of paved path along both sides of US 321, with underpasses connecting them.
Because the route follows US 321 and crosses roads and driveways, expect some traffic noise.
Visit the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center on a Quieter Day
The Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center pairs indoor galleries with an outdoor Appalachian Village featuring 18 historic structures, heirloom gardens and other exhibits.
Concerts, festivals and educational programs can make the property considerably busier. Check the event calendar before visiting, or contact the Heritage Center to ask about calmer days and times.
Stop by the Little River Railroad Museum
Photo courtesy of the Little River Railroad & Lumber Company Museum.
The Little River Railroad & Lumber Company Museum covers Townsend’s railroad and logging history through indoor displays and historic equipment outside. Admission is free, with donations appreciated.
From May through October, it is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. In April, it operates on weekends only. The indoor museum is closed to walk-in visitors from November through March, although groups may arrange off-season visits by appointment.
The grounds and outdoor exhibits remain available year-round. Special events, including the Fall Railroad & Heritage Festival, can draw larger crowds.
Drive Upper Tremont Road
Upper Tremont Road follows the Middle Prong of Little River through a heavily wooded part of the Smokies. It’s a roughly three-mile gravel road with several pull-offs beside the water.
Visitors can stop at a pull-off or enjoy the scenery from the car. The gravel surface may create additional tire noise.
Hike Thunderhead Prong Quiet Walkway
Photo by Brian Stansberry, licensed under CC BY 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons.
Near the end of Upper Tremont Road, Thunderhead Prong Quiet Walkway offers a roughly 1.4-mile round-trip walk through a wooded valley.
The unpaved path includes roots, narrow sections and a small stream crossing. Thunderhead Prong runs alongside much of it, so expect the sound of rushing water.
The National Park Service recommends Foothills Parkway as a less-crowded alternative to some of the park’s most popular scenic drives.
Two completed sections meet near Walland. The Walland-to-Wears Valley section stretches 14.75 miles and includes multiple overlooks. The Chilhowee-to-Walland section covers another 16.6 miles and passes Look Rock, where a 0.8-mile round-trip paved trail leads to an observation tower.
Plan Ahead
Inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, visitation is typically highest from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. During busy periods, arriving by 8 a.m. or around 3 p.m. can help avoid some of the heaviest traffic and parking demand.
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. She holds a Master of Science in Conservation Education from Mississippi State University.
Townsend is the perfect place for a seniors’ day out. You can spend the whole day on fairly flat ground, park close to what you want to see and find plenty of places to sit. Tuesdays and Thursdays are the calmest days to visit, so try to plan for those if you can. Here is our recommended itinerary.
If you prefer a paper copy, you can print it here.
Early Morning: Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center
Photo courtesy of the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center.
Start your morning at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center. It’s right in Townsend and tells the story of this side of the mountains. Seniors 60 and older get in for 10 dollars.
The nice thing is that you can choose how active you want to be. If you want to stay inside, explore the museum galleries and the Cherokee collection. If you’re up for a little more walking, step outside to the 19th century buildings and farmstead. On some days, there are historic interpreters in period dress.
Bonus Stop: Towns End Coffee
Photo courtesy of Towns End Coffee.
If you need a quick boost before the next leg, Towns End Coffee is right down the road. They do classic espresso drinks, plus fun local flavors like the Little Brier Latte (blackberry and white chocolate) and the Lumber Ridge Latte (vanilla, maple, butter, cinnamon). Light brunch options include breakfast burritos, breakfast sandwiches, avocado toast and bagels.
If you’ve been to Towns End Coffee before, please note that they recently moved to a drive-thru location at 7971 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN 37882.
Midmorning: Scenic Drive on Foothills Parkway
Head up to the Foothills Parkway from the Townsend side and enjoy panoramic mountain scenery. Overlooks are close to the car. You can even bring a folding chair and sit for a spell.
Lunch At the Townsend Abbey
Photo courtesy of The Townsend Abbey.
The Townsend Abbey is a fun surprise. You can eat inside the old chapel space or sit by the river. The menu is easy: salads if you want something light, Miss Lily’s chicken salad sandwich if you like a little sweetness, or flatbreads and steamed sandwiches if you’re hungrier.
For more lunch options, visit our Townsend restaurant directory here.
Early Afternoon: Townsend River Walk and Arboretum
Walk the Townsend River Walk and Arboretum after lunch. It’s shaded and gentle. You’ll come across several points of interest, including fairy villages, a pollinator garden and artwork made by locals.
Bonus Stop: Townsend Artisan Gallery
Photo courtesy of the Townsend Artisan Guild.
If you like local art, stop by the Townsend Artisan Gallery afterward. It’s indoors and usually pretty calm. You can see what local artists are making and maybe pick up a piece to remember your day. They’re closed on Tuesdays and Sunday mornings, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly.
Late Afternoon: Cades Cove
Finish your day with a drive through Cades Cove. Coming from Townsend makes it simple. The loop road lets you see open fields, mountain backdrops and historic cabins mostly from your car. Afternoon traffic can be slow, which is nice for sightseeing. If you prefer a quieter Cove, go in the morning and move the museum to the afternoon.
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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