Keeping busy in the Smokies region isn’t difficult – there are tons of things to do, all year ‘round – but finding activities the whole family, including canine members, can enjoy is a little more challenging. Here are 5 of our favorites.
Maryville-Alcoa Greenway and the PetSafe Pistol Creek Dog Park
There’s nothing like a day out in the park with your dog, is there? Especially when the parks are this nice. The Maryville-Alcoa Greenway is a 9-mile-long paved trail that connects the two cities, passing through a number of scenic areas and public parks, including the Bicentennial Park area, which also includes the PetSafe Pistol Creek Dog Park. Imagine hopping on your bike, riding down the trails with your dog running alongside, only to lounge in the dog park while your best friend burns off the rest of their four-legged energy. Pretty perfect, right?
Smoky Mountain River Rat Tubing
Whether you’re squeezing in a trip downriver before summer disappears or planning one for the next time warmer months roll around, you won’t want to miss an opportunity to go tubing with your dog. They tube for free, so strap on their doggy life jacket, rent a $2 tether, hook up your own tube, and prepare for one of the most entertaining trips down the Little River you can imagine. It’s not every day that you get to go sailing with such a cute first mate, is it?
Fishing the Local Waterways
Bank fisherman have long known the virtues of recreation alongside a (relatively) silent best friend, but did they know that dogs can also be quite seaworthy? Whether you’ve rented, borrowed, or bought a boat and taken it out on Chilhowee Lake or any of Tennessee’s famous tailwaters, the right dog can keep you great company when your free time takes you offshore.
Brewster’s Bark & Bed
You may know that there are great spas in the Smokies region that cater to humans, but did you know that there’s one that’s fully gone to the dogs? Brewster’s Bark & Bed offers everything: coconut and aloe deep-conditioning wraps, skin-soothing mud treatments, “pawdicures” with paw massages, and, should the worst happen, a “smell-u-later” de-skunking treatment.
They also are planning to offer training classes in their private indoor training area, which is a great way to further bond with your pet and give everyone some refreshers when it comes to the basics.
Parkway Drive-In Theater
Interested in catching a movie? Unlike most movie theaters, the Parkway Drive-In in Maryville doesn’t have to follow the rules about not allowing dogs indoors, because, well, they’re not! Well-behaved dogs on a leash are welcome to join their human movie fans and catch a flick out under the stars, even if those canine family members might be more interested in the smells coming from the concession stand, where hamburgers and patty melts (as well as popcorn and the basics) are on offer.
Category: Blog
What to Do in Blount County on a Rainy Day
Written by: Emily Huffstetler
On the Peaceful Side of the Smokies, rainy days don’t have to put a damper on your plans. Here’s a guide to some of our favorite spots in Maryville and Townsend where you can stay dry and still have an adventure.
Maryville
The Capitol Theatre, dating back to 1934, was once the largest of three movie houses in Downtown Maryville. After a renovation in 2008, this art-deco gem now houses a unique coffee shop and ice cream parlor.
The parlor is filled with movie memorabilia from floor to ceiling, and the menu features a variety of themed sundaes, floats, candies and bottled drinks to choose from. Indulge in treats like the Pirate’s Treasure, a salted caramel sundae, or get energized with espresso drinks like the Flux Capacitor. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even take on the eight-scoop King Kong Sundae.
If you’d prefer something more casual, head down the road to Vienna Coffee House, with signature drinks like Muddy Pond Mocha (espresso, steamed milk, Muddy Pond sorghum, Ghirardelli chocolate and vanilla) and the Thunderhead Latte (Thunderhead Espresso, steamed milk, local honey, nutmeg and cinnamon). They serve breakfast and lunch until 3 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
Southern Grace Coffee Co. is another local favorite, offering fair-trade organic coffee, tea and gluten free baked goods. Right next door, Southern Grace Manor serves breakfast and lunch. With dreamy porches and expansive windows, these renovated historic houses are the perfect place to cozy up on a rainy day.
While you’re downtown, immerse yourself in the local arts scene at Pinkie Mistry Art, a fine art and gallery studio, or stop by the Clayton Center for the Arts on the Maryville College campus. This dynamic performing arts venue features concerts, plays, dance performances and art exhibitions throughout the year.
If you’d like to stay active despite the weather, the Family Life Center at First Baptist Church of Maryville offers plenty of options during the week. Take advantage of group fitness classes, an indoor track, weight machines and cardio equipment, or join a game of basketball, volleyball, pickleball or racquetball. On the weekend, shake up your routine at the Roll Arena Party Zone roller skating rink.
Townsend
Tuckaleechee Caverns has been drawing visitors underground for over a century, showcasing towering stalagmites, flowing underground streams and the impressive Big Room—large enough to fit a football field. Rainy days are the perfect excuse to explore this subterranean wonder, where the temperature remains a cool 58 degrees year-round.
If you prefer to stay above ground, Townsend is home to several museums that offer a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage.
At Appalachian Bear Rescue’s Visitor and Education Center, learn about the rehabilitation of orphaned and injured black bear cubs before they are released back into the wild. While the bears themselves aren’t on display, interactive exhibits and educational presentations provide an up-close look at their journey.
Step back in time at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center, where historic cabins, preserved artifacts and rotating exhibits tell the story of the region’s early settlers and Indigenous peoples. Wander through the museum or take a guided tour to learn about Appalachian traditions, crafts and daily life from centuries past.
The Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum offers another fascinating look at Townsend’s history. This small but engaging museum highlights the impact of the logging industry on the Smokies, featuring historic locomotives, railroad artifacts and exhibits on the early days of tourism in the region.
Find inspiration at the Townsend Art Center, home to the Townsend Artisan Guild. This creative hub showcases the work of local painters, potters, woodworkers and fiber artists. Or check out Gracehill Fine Art & Basketry, featuring alcohol inks, photography and basketry by Kathy Janke.
If you’re wanting to grab a bite to eat, but also want to stretch your legs, Apple Valley Mountain Village is just the place. They have a cafe, coffee shop and general store with plenty of goodies to take home.
What’s your favorite rainy day activity on the Peaceful Side? Tag us on social media (@PeacefulSmokies) to share your thoughts.
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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.
What to Know About Snakes in the Smokies
We have put together info and images to help you understand what you need to know about snakes in the Smokies. But the biggest takeaway from this post is that there’s no need to let your fear of snakes keep you from enjoying your time in the Smokies.
Photo by Randy Ratliff
What Species of Snakes are in the Great Smoky Mountains
Most of the snakes you will encounter on your trip to the Peaceful Side of the Smokies are just that, peaceful and reclusive reptiles. There are 23 varieties of snakes in the Smokies, but only two of them are poisonous. To find a complete chart, including photos of every breed of snake you may encounter during your visit to the Smoky Mountains, click here to visit thesmokies.com/snakes/ website.
Photo by Randy Ratliff
Venomous vs. Non-venomous Snakes in the Smokies
The two venomous snakes to keep an eye out for are the Timber Rattlesnake and the Northern Copperhead. The Timber Rattler has the most toxic venom of the two species. Still, they will also give off warning signals before striking, that infamous loud rattle that lets you know you are too close. The Northern Copperhead, on the other hand, gives no warning. Although their bite is generally not venomous enough to kill, it will cause significant pain.
There are a few ways to identify venomous snakes in this region. As a general rule, all venomous snakes have triangular-shaped heads with verticle slit eyes. In contrast, non-venomous snakes tend to have rounder heads and pupils. Another easy giveaway is the snake’s habitat. Rattlesnakes tend to prefer rocky outcrops, ledges, and southern-facing hillsides while enjoying sunning on rocks. Copperheads, on the other hand, tend to hide in the crevices of rocks along stream banks. Also, be aware that both hide in manufactured structures like stone buildings and fences. The last thing to look for is the coloring of the snake. Copperheads, as their name suggests, have an identifying copper hue. At the same time, Timber Rattlers are usually brown but can vary from oranges to black depending on where they are during their molting season.
Photo by Randy Ratliff
Be Mindful While Exploring the Smoky Mountains
- Be aware of your environment. Be mindful where you step and pay attention to the warning rattle of an upset rattlesnake. If you are climbing on rocks, watch where you put your hands. Rocky outcrops are favored places for snakes to warm in the sun.
- Wear appropriate shoes. It may seem obvious, but sturdy hiking boots are more likely to protect your feet than a pair of flip-flops.
- Keep children close and explain what they need to look for before you start your exploration.
- Keep a hands-off approach with the snakes. Feeding, touching, teasing, and handling wildlife is prohibited in the national park. Continue to move along and do not interact.
- Do NOT kill a snake if you run across one on your path. It is illegal to kill snakes in the state of Tennessee.
What to Do If a Snake Bites You
First of all, there has never been a recorded fatality to do a venomous snake bite in the park. But if a snake bites you, the most important thing to do is stay calm and call 911 even if you believe the snake was not venomous. Make a note of the snake’s appearance, or even better, get a photo of the snake to show to healthcare professionals. Keep a black sharpie available in your emergency kit, so you can circle precisely where the bite is because, in time, the wound may swell and bruise. If possible, position yourself so that the bite stays at or above heart level. The CDC no longer recommends trying to remove the venom yourself but instead spend that time seeking immediate medical attention.
Photo by Randy Ratliff
Snakes are part of the Smokies, but nothing to fear. Make yourself knowledgeable, pay attention to where you step, and be respectful to these mostly peaceful inhabitants. Stay aware of your environment and have a great time enjoying this gorgeous part of the country.
For more posts related to Smoky Mountain wildlife, check out these links below:
Wildlife Viewing and Safety Tips
Smoky Mountain Fly Fishing
Where to Listen to Live Music this Spring
Written by: Emily Huffstetler
While Nashville may be Music City, the Peaceful Side of the Smokies is home to a lively—and affordable—music scene. This spring, discover the diversity of Appalachian music, from bluegrass to rock n’ roll, at these upcoming performances.
The Shed Smokehouse & Juke Joint, Maryville
The Shed Smokehouse & Juke Joint is a 16,000-square-foot concert hall located adjacent to Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson. They have live music every Saturday night, as well as some Fridays and Thursdays.
- Friday, March 28 from 6:30–11:00 p.m. — The Young Fables Benefit Concert
- Saturday, April 5 from 6:00–11:00 p.m. — Big Gun: The Ultimate AC/DC Tribute wsg 103.5 WIMZ Garage Band
- Saturday, April 12 from 6:00–11:00 p.m. — 7 Bridges: Eagles Tribute
- Saturday, April 19 from 6:00–11:00 p.m. — Departure: Journey Tribute
- Saturday, April 26 from 6:00–11:00 p.m. — Back2Mac: Fleetwood Mac Tribute
- Saturday, May 3 from 6:00–11:00 p.m. — Everclear
- Saturday, May 10 from 6:00–11:00 p.m. — Ray Wylie Hubbard
- Thursday, May 15 from 6:00–11:00 p.m. — Blackberry Smoke Night 1
- Friday, May 16 from 6:00–11:00 p.m. — Blackberry Smoke Night 2
- Saturday, May 17 from 6:00–11:00 p.m. — Blackberry Smoke Night 3
- Saturday, May 24 from 6:00–11:00 p.m. — Black Stone Cherry w/ Tyler Bryant & The Shakedown
- Saturday, May 31 from 6:00–11:00 p.m. — The Wildflowers: The Ultimate Tom Petty Tribute Band
Rocky Branch Mountain Music, Walland
Rocky Branch Mountain Music, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit located in Walland, has jam sessions every Friday night. You can bring your acoustic instrument to play, or just sit back and enjoy the music. Music genres range from country to bluegrass and gospel.
The doors open at 5:30 p.m., and the kitchen starts serving at 6 p.m. Groups generally start playing at 6:30 p.m., until the last player leaves.
The cost of admission is a donation of your chosen amount to help cover operational expenses.
Bars and Restaurants
Blackhorse Pub & Brewery, located in Alcoa, is a restaurant that serves beers crafted in Tennessee. They have live music in the beer garden on Friday and Saturday nights.
Upcoming Performances:
- Thursday, April 3 from 7–10 p.m.—Shaun Abbott (country, originals)
- Friday, April 4 from 8–11 p.m.—The Jaystorm Project (blues, funk, rock, hip-hop)
- Friday, April 11 from 8–11 p.m.—Gramphix (rock, punk, soul)
- Thursday, April 17 from 7–10 p.m.—Ryan Roberts (country, southern rock)
- Friday, April 18 from 7–10 p.m.—AYCA (rock, jazz, R&B, dance, diva rock)
- Friday, April 25 from 8–11 p.m.—SkyWay 61 (classic rock, dance, originals)
- Saturday, April 26 from 8–11 p.m.—Zak Saltz Band (southern rock, blues)
- Friday, May 2 from 8–11 p.m.—The Jaystorm Project (blues, funk, rock, hip-hop)
- Saturday, May 10 from 8–11 p.m.—Hillbilly Jedi (variety)
- Friday, May 16 from 8–11 p.m.—Loveshyne (rock, originals)
- Saturday, May 17 from 8–11 p.m.—Rebel Railroad (originals)
- Friday, May 23 from 8–11 p.m.—Vagabon Brew (rock n’ roll)
- Saturday, May 24 from 8–11 p.m.—Virginia Sweet (hard rock, jam band)
- Friday, May 30 from 8–11 p.m.—The Aaron Tracy Band (classic rock, country, variety)
These performances are weather permitting. For information about possible delays or cancellations, visit their social media or call the pub.
Two Doors Down, a gastropub in Downtown Maryville, has live music on Fridays and Saturdays starting at 9 p.m. They also have a live DJ every Wednesday.
Upcoming Performances:
- Friday, March 28 from 9 p.m.–1 a.m.—FourKast
- Saturday, March 29 from 9 p.m.–1 a.m.—Ginger Band
- Friday, April 4 from 9 p.m.–1 a.m.—Aunt Betty
- Saturday, April 5 from 9 p.m.–1 a.m.—Jordan Foster Band
Brackins Blues Club, located in Downtown Maryville, has live music on Friday and Saturday nights starting at 9 p.m. Occasionally, they have weeknight performances.
Upcoming Performances:
- Thursday, March 27 from 8–11 p.m.—Big Al & the Heavyweights
- Friday, March 28 from 9 p.m.–12 a.m.—Mighty Blue
- Saturday, March 29 from 9 p.m.–12 a.m.—Roger Hay Band
- Tuesday, April 8 from 7:30–9:30 p.m.—The Dirty Dougs Trio
- Tuesday, April 15 from 7–9 p.m.—B-Side Me
- Tuesday, May 13 from 7:30–9:30 p.m.—The Dirty Dougs Trio
- Tuesday, May 20 from 7–9 p.m.—B-Side Me
Company Distilling, a distillery located in Townsend, has live music on most Friday and Saturday evenings from 6–8 p.m.
Upcoming Performances:
- Friday, March 28 from 6–8 p.m.—Piper Paisley
- Saturday, March 29 from 6–8 p.m.—Gavin Johnston
- Friday, April 4 from 6–8 p.m.—Adam Miller
- Saturday, April 5 from 6–8 p.m.—Jay Dee
- Friday, April 11 from 6–8 p.m.—Chris Long
- Saturday, April 12 from 6–8 p.m.—Von Sutherland
- Friday, April 18 from 6–8 p.m.—Shaun Abbott
- Saturday, April 19 from 6–8 p.m.—Double Helix
- Friday, April 25 from 6–8 p.m.—Josh Cottrell
- Saturday, April 26 from 6–8 p.m.—Piper Paisley
- Friday, May 2 from 6–8 p.m.—Adam Miller
- Saturday, May 3 from 6–8 p.m.—Backseat Delilahs
- Friday, May 9 from 6–8 p.m.—Southern Spirit
The Abbey, a craft beer pub located in Townsend, has live music on the riverside patio most Friday and Saturday evenings, starting at 7 p.m.
Upcoming Performances:
- Friday, March 28 — The Woods
- Saturday, March 29 — Perry Bonck
- Friday, April 4 — First Friday Artists
- Saturday, April 5 — Tin Wood Holler
- Friday, April 11 — Jeremy Johnson
- Saturday, April 12 — Southern Spirit
- Friday, April 18 — Dark Waters Project
- Saturday, April 19 — Butch Truan
- Friday, April 25 — Joe Podge
- Saturday, April 26 — Perry Bonck
- Friday, May 2 — First Friday Artists
- Saturday, May 3 — Darryl Wallace, Chris Long, Kevin Mahoney
- Friday, May 9 — Randy Goodman
- Saturday, May 10 — The Surface Dwellers
- Friday, May 16 — Andy Sneed
- Saturday, May 17 — Butch Truan
- Friday, May 23 — Dark Waters Project
- Saturday, May 24 — TBA
- Friday, May 30 — Perry Bonck
- Saturday, May 31 — Tin Wood Holler
These performances start at 7 p.m., unless otherwise noted.
Peaceful Side Brewery, located in Maryville, has live music every Saturday and live blues music every first Sunday. The third Thursday of the month features Listening Sessions with Captain Ed, their resident vinyl curator.
Upcoming Performances:
- Saturday, March 29 from 6:00–9:00 p.m. — Von Sutherland
- Saturday, April 5 from 6:00–9:00 p.m. — Karen Bowles
- Sunday, April 6 from 4:00–6:00 p.m. — Tangled In Blues Lite
- Saturday, April 12 from 6:00–9:00 p.m. — Neesee Hurst
- Thursday, April 17 from 6:00–8:00 p.m. — Listening Sessions with Captain Ed
- Saturday, April 19 from 6:00–9:00 p.m. — Short Leasch
- Sunday, May 4 from 4:00–6:00 p.m. — Live Blues Music
- Thursday, May 15 from 6:00–8:00 p.m. — Listening Sessions with Captain Ed
Peaceful Side Social, located in Townsend, has live music every Friday from 4:30–7:30 p.m.
Upcoming Performances:
- Friday, March 28 from 4:30–7:30 p.m.— Fred Lee Cole
- Friday, April 11 from 4:30–7:30 p.m. — The Surface Dwellers
Will you make it to any of these spring concerts on the Peaceful Side? We’d love to hear about it. Be sure to tag us on social media (@peacefulsmokies).
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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.
Where to Shop Farm-Fresh Goods in Maryville
Written by: Emily Huffstetler
Maryville shoppers have two farmers market options this season.
Rural King’s Blount County Farm Days brings local crafters, homestead vendors, small-scale farmers, food vendors and makers to Rural King twice a month. Downtown, the Maryville Farmers’ Market operates Saturdays at Founders Square with a formal, producer-only structure.
Rural King’s Blount County Farm Days
Rural King’s Blount County Farm Days started in Maryville in 2022. Store manager Bryce Freebury came up with the idea to bring the community together and celebrate the farm lifestyle.
The market gives local crafters, homestead vendors, small-scale farmers, food vendors and other makers a low-cost place to sell directly to shoppers. Vendors aren’t charged for a spot, but they do sign a liability waiver to use the parking lot.
Ashley Sparks of Sparkswood Farm created the market’s Facebook page, helping Rural King’s Blount County Farm Days reach a wider community audience.
The market takes place on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month. Vendors can set up at any time, usually by 10 a.m., and the market runs until vendors pack up. The next one is June 13.
The lineup changes by date. On the farm side, shoppers may find chicken eggs, quail eggs, hatching eggs, chicks, poultry, goats, livestock feed or homestead classes from vendors such as Hobby Hen Farms, Ada’s Quailery, Lil’ Scruffy Homestead, Naked Goat Farms TN and Sulfur Springs Hatchery.
Food vendors include Knead for Speed, which focuses on fresh-milled sourdough and kitchen classes; Mandar’s Cakesicles and She’s a Dandy Bakery, both cottage-baked sweets vendors; Tammy Duncan, who makes jams, jellies, breads, salsa, relishes and baked goods; and Shearer Marketplace, which sells jams and jellies.
The market also includes handmade and home-based products. Kriddy’s Kreations sells candles, wax melts, room sprays, soaps and salves. Ashley Family Made makes tallow soaps, whipped tallow, bug repellent, laundry soap and dog shampoo. Marvin’s Metal Works creates furniture and art pieces from repurposed metal barrels. StitchinRita crochets plushies, farm animals, keychains, horseshoe decor and accessories.
Those interested in participating can join the Blount County Farm Days Facebook group.
The Maryville Farmers’ Market is the established downtown option. The 2026 season runs Saturdays through Nov. 14., from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Monthly craft days are scheduled during the season, with Holly Day Market dates set for Nov. 7 and 14.
The market has a formal vendor structure. Categories include farmers and growers, small food manufacturers, processors, prepared food vendors and artisans. Farmers and growers must sell products they grow themselves, products from a family farm, or products grown on land they lease or rent. Members can’t resell products.
Produce becomes a larger part of the market as summer begins. Octagon G Farm sells vegetables like corn, heirloom beans, tomatoes, cucumbers, squash, potatoes, peppers, okra, greens and beets, depending on what’s in season. The Plant Trolley brings houseplants, and Honey Rock Herb Farm offers herbs.
Shoppers can also find meat, eggs and locally made food products. Wandering Walnut Meadows, a small farm in Greenback, raises pastured chicken, turkey, duck, eggs, pork and grass-fed lamb. C&C Beef is another local meat producer. Smokey Ridge Apiaries sells raw honey and products made with honey or beeswax.
Prepared foods and specialty products round out the weekly shop. Depending on the date, shoppers may find baked goods from Blount County Bakery, barbecue sauce from Duane Paul’s BBQ and hot sauce from Tennessee Red Man.
The market has closed vendor applications for the 2026 season.
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.
Wildflowers of the Smokies
Anyone from this area knows that Spring is a vibrant and unique reminder of life and beauty. Not only has the frost given up its last gesture for the year, but the Wildflowers of the Smokies are finding their voices and demanding acknowledgment. Our friends and photographers, Randy Ratliff and Laura Matthews, have provided many of the beautiful images below.
There are over 1,600 different types of flowering plants covering the mountains in the Smokies. We’ve selected a few of the easiest-to-recognize flowers below, but we’d love to hear about or see pictures of your favorite Smoky Mountain Wildflower. Click here for a broader guide to the beauty found in our mountains.
However, today we encourage you to take the family hiking with a scavenger hunt in mind. Remind the kids how “April showers bring May flowers.” To find the best of Spring’s ensemble, you don’t have to look hard, but here are a few for your cheat sheet. See who can be the first to find each of these common wildflowers.
Wildflowers of the Smokies
Smoky Mountain Wildflower Trails
Gregory Bald – This fairly strenuous hike is 11.3 miles roundtrip and includes 3020 feet of elevation gain. At the summit, you will find Flame Azaleas in abundance. According to the Great Smoky Mountains Natural History Association, the various hybrids of azaleas on Gregory Bald are so impressive and unique that the British Museum of Natural History has collected numerous samples. Folks come from all over the world to see the many acres of wildflowers of the Smokies showcasing colors of fire red, wine red, orange, yellow, salmon, pink, white, and multi-colored azaleas that reach peak season around June.
Chestnut Top Trail – This moderately strenuous hike is 8.6 miles roundtrip and includes 1486 feet of elevation gain. Wildflowers sprout early on this trail, where you can find a variety of blooms like white trillium, purple phacelia, and star chickweed in March and early April.
Rich Mountain Loop Trail – This moderately strenuous hike is 8.5 miles roundtrip and includes 1736 feet of elevation gain. Rich Mountain Loop is a beautiful hike of Cades Cove if you don’t feel like sitting in the hours of gridlock on the 11-mile loop accessible to cars. Get even better access on Wednesday and Saturday mornings during the summer months when the park closes the loop road for bicycles, as well. As you get further along the loop, you will find one of the most diverse amounts of wildflowers in the Smokies.
White Oak Sinks – The trail comes to life with a carpet of thousands of wildflowers. It’s located between the Townsend “Y” and Cades Cove.
Middle Prong Trail – The trailhead for the Middle Prong Trail is at the end of Tremont Road close to the Townsend “Y.” As you hike along this old dirt road, you should see toothwort, foamflower, violets, trilliums, and wood sorrel. Along with the fantastic wildflowers, there are waterfalls to discover and cool off in, as well.
We hope your scavenger hunt is a success and you are able to explore places in the park you haven’t ventured into yet.
Wildflower season is here and will continue to bloom throughout the summer. Come visit soon, and make sure to bring your camera, so you can become as amazing an amateur photographer as our friends Randy and Laura!
All the parts of the plant, except the fruit, contain podophyllotoxin, which is highly toxic if consumed but was used by Native Americans for a variety of medicinal purposes- and is used today in prescription drugs.
The sepals of its blue-violet flowers are distinctly marked with a central yellow or white, purple striped band.
They are born in showy clusters and have a pleasant honey-like fragrance
The fire pink is a member of the carnation family. The brilliant flowers attract the ruby-throated hummingbirds, one of the species’ primary pollinators.
This attractive wildflower is a sure sign that spring has arrived and that the local woodlands are full of wildflowers.
Look for the beautiful purple flower blooming in clusters on slopes and rocks.
For more ideas to enjoy springtime in the Great Smoky Mountains, check out these posts:
Vee Hollow Mountain Bike Trails
Springtime in the Smoky Mountains
Wildlife Viewing and Safety Tips
One of the best parts of visiting the Great Smoky Mountains is all of the wildlife unique to this region of the world. In fact, there are 65 mammal species alone. Animals like elk, coyotes, raccoons, bobcats, white-tailed deer, and black bears are essential parts of the park’s ecology. But there are also smaller inhabitants with valuable functions, like fireflies, turtles, bats, chipmunks, and salamanders. To make your adventure the best, here are some wildlife viewing and safety tips for the Smokies.
Best Locations for Wildlife Viewing
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Bears
Just under 2,000 black bears live in the Smoky Mountains, so the probability of seeing a bear is high. But, if you want to increase your odds, check out the Cades Cove area in the park’s western region.
Photograph by Randy Ratliff
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Bobcats
These nocturnal and reclusive animals are the only feline that lives in the park. Because of their solitary lifestyle, you can count yourself lucky if you spot one of these beautiful cats.
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Elk
In 2001, the park officials reintroduced 25 elk into the Great Smoky Mountain National park, and the following year they reintroduced 27 more. After 200 years, elk are being spotted in Tennessee again. Elk are most active in the mornings and are most readily spotted in the park’s Cataloochee section.
Photograph by Randy Ratliff
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White-Tailed Deer
– The white-tailed deer is the smallest of the deer species and is a common sight in open areas like Cades Cove.
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Fireflies
There are 19 firefly species in the park, but one of the most unique is the synchronous fireflies. Each year, these beautiful creatures put on a spectacular show in the Elkmont area of the park during their mating season.
For some more information on some of your favorite wildlife in the Smokies, check out our friends at www.wildlifeinformer.com and www.smokymountains.com.
Photograph by Randy Ratliff
Wildlife Safety Tips
Often when we first discuss wildlife safety tips, many people assume we are giving directions to keep humans safe. And while human safety is essential, much of this information is in place to maintain our wildlife’s safety.
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Never Approach
The national park’s Code of Federal Regulations states no one can willfully approach wildlife within 150 feet or any distance that disturbs or displaces the animal. This rule also includes letting animals approach you. We do this to maintain our safety, but this also respects the wildlife’s natural habitat. Instead of coming closer, use binoculars, spotting scopes, or cameras with telephoto lenses to enjoy the animals.
Photograph by Randy Ratliff
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Never Feed
You may think feeding the animals could cause no harm, but you are very wrong. Nearly 10,000,000 people visit the park each year, so if only 1% of our visitors fed the wildlife, that would be 100,000 people a year. This interaction teaches the animals to associate humans with food, and if the animals lose their fear of humans, they become dangerous and unpredictable. Dangerous and unpredictable animals aren’t safe for visitors and often end up being euthanized. So, next time you feel inclined to feed the precious, hungry bear cub, keep in mind, you may be signing its death warrant. We also want to emphasize the importance of properly storing food and trash disposal while picnicking, camping, or staying in the park because it has the same consequences.
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Do Not Disturb Natural Habitat
The park is our wildlife’s homes. How would you feel if your guests came into your house and started reorganizing your cabinets or moving around your furniture? You would be frustrated and feel disrespected. Animals feel the same about their homes. But there is another danger level when you move vegetation in the forest or change the rock formations in a creek, etc. These activities can potentially change the environmental impact within the park entirely, which will significantly affect the wildlife.
Photograph by Randy Ratliff
Whether you are visiting the park for the day or spending a week camping off-trail, your actions play into the wildlife’s ability to thrive in their natural habitats. Keep these wildlife viewing and safety tips at the front of your mind on your next visit to the Smokies.
I would also like to thank visual storyteller Randy Ratliff for most of the beautiful photography in this post.
Photograph by Randy Ratliff
For more Smoky Mountain fun, check out these blog posts:
Here are 7 Reasons You’ll Be Glad You’re Visiting the Smokies this Fall
Our Top 3 Favorite Fall Hikes for Viewing Fall Foliage in the Smokies
Wineries, Breweries and Distilleries in the Smokies: Create Your Own Tour in Blount County
For those of you who are over 21 and looking for something a little more “adult” to do while you are touring the Smokies, why not follow a local tradition and check out some of the fabulous local breweries, distilleries, and wineries to be found in the area. From a frosty glass mug of Windy Gap Wheat Beer to Moonshine Cherries and Blackberry wine, the local beverages truly showcase this area’s history of making alcoholic beverages. One thing to keep in mind as you go along on your tour, someone has to be the designated driver, or you might need a taxi. Consider these fantastic watering holes as part of your journey to taste the best of the best in the Gatlinburg area.
Start at the Sugarland Cellars Working Winery
For the wine connoisseur, the Sugarland Cellars Winery offers tours through this working winery complete with live music playing on the Spirit Stage, a stop in the gift shop for a few souvenirs, and then on to the tasting room. All of the wines made here are crafted from local grapes grown in the shadow of the Smokies by families who have been producing these incredible grapes for many generations. Don’t forget to take a bottle or two of their delicious wine home with you.
Time for a Microbrew at the Smoky Mountain Brewery
This area of Tennessee may have earned a reputation for making moonshine, but in recent years the number of microbrews made locally might surprise you. When you drop in for a visit at the Smoky Mountain Brewery, you can order any one of several local microbrews to sample, or better yet, order a “flight,” and your server will bring you a sample of four different local beers. They also offer pizza, burgers, and more for when you need a little food to absorb the beer.
Sample Genuine Tennessee Moonshine at the Sugarlands Distilling Company
You can’t vacation in Tennessee without sampling the alcoholic beverage that helped to make the area famous. Of course, we are talking about moonshine, and if you want to sample some the best in the area, you need to stop in at the Sugarlands Distilling Company and taste their unique flavors. One of the most popular is the apple pie flavor, made using caramel and Granny Smith apples. While you are sampling the many flavors, take a moment to listen to stories about the Appalachians, take the tour, check out the live music and stock up on your favorite flavors.
The First Licensed Distillery in East Tennessee – The Ole Smoky Distillery
The Ole Smoky Distillery enjoys the distinction of being the first distillery making moonshine in East Tennessee to receive a federal license allowing them to produce their own moonshine and sell it to the public. It’s also come a long way from the days of “running shine” in a 1940 Ford with a flathead V8 and a trunk load of “white lightning” while trying not to get pulled over by the “man.” Today, the distillery produces a selection of superb moonshine in assorted flavors for you to sample. Take the tour, try the moonshine infused foods, and take a look back at where NASCAR got its start.
Come to East Tennessee for the fun, the family-friendly atmosphere, and the many things to do in the Gatlinburg area, but whatever else you do, make sure you leave plenty of time to tour the local breweries, distilleries, and wineries along the way.
Winter Activities Abound in the Smokies: Here are Our Top 5 Favorites
Are you eager to experience The Smokies in every season? While the springtime is truly glorious and full of beautiful blooming trees, wildlife and lovely weather, the summer is tough to beat with its seemingly endless days of great conditions and nights of twinkling stars. Many would argue that the autumn is the best because of the weeks and weeks of foliage and the different harvest events.
What about winter? There is actually just as much to see and do in the winter months as there is at any other time of year. We’ve listed our five favorite activities, and maybe a few extras!
#1 Skiing
Lots of people don’t realize that The Smokies are home to great skiing, particularly that at the Ober Gatlinburg. Close to the cities of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, it is a year-round attraction with an alpine slide, ice skating, lots of restaurants, and activities for kids. Yet, the winter is when it really shines, offering skiing, snowboarding and tubing. You can even learn to ski here!
#2 Hiking
While most of us don’t like to head outside and into the wilderness during the cold of the winter months, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has some amazing hiking options open and available. In fact, it is one of the few times the park is nearly crowd-free so you can enjoy some stunning views and even trek into some of the waterfalls, frozen over for the season. Check with the park’s website for information about open trails and roads. NOTE: Cades Cove is usually open and winter is a great time to spot some local wildlife.
#3 A Train Ride
This sounds unusual, but the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad operates all of the way to January 1st and provides a lovely ride along the river and through the woods. In fact, you can even hop aboard the “Polar Express” and savor a holiday stop at the North Pole! Visit the railroad’s website for a full schedule.
#4 Big Events
From the Gatlinburg Winter Magic Trolley Ride of Lights to the Pigeon Forge Winterfest Driving Tour of Lights, there is a tone of Christmas activity beginning in November and lasting through the end of the year. Townsend has a Christmas Parade, a Reindeer Run and more.
#5 The Peace
It is impossible to argue that the area has an entirely different sort of peacefulness that settles over it along with winter’s snows. There are a lot of cozy cabins and chalets available in the mountain areas and down in the towns, and a stay booked at one of them can be an unforgettable experience. Imagine cozying up by your fireplace, gazing out at the snow-covered mountains and enjoying time with family, friends or just on your own during this remarkably peaceful time of the year.
Of course, the many amazing restaurants, shows, parks and museums of the area remain open year-round, and are a reason to head here for the winter months. You can also warm up with a wine or whiskey sampling tour or spend your day shopping in the Arts and Crafts Community over at Gatlinburg or the different areas of the towns. There’s much to see and do, and winter is a great time of year in the Smokies.
Winter Date Ideas on the Peaceful Side
Written by: Emily Huffstetler
On the Peaceful Side, winter date night doesn’t have to mean staying cooped up at home. From downtown dinner and cocktails to a heated sauna workout, these ideas make it easy to spend quality time together, no matter the forecast.
Classic Romantics – Downtown Maryville
Start with dinner at Bella, a downtown spot with Italian-inspired house pastas and elevated entrees. If you want something memorable, order Pasta in the Wheel, tableside fettuccine flambéed in a Grana Padano cheese wheel.
Afterward, head to The Raven for a nightcap in the lounge. Order The Chosen Stave for a tableside cocktail, the Bottled Old Fashioned for a classic or Black Velvet Veil for an espresso boost.
Lodge Lovers – Townsend
Have a cozy overnight stay at Dancing Bear Lodge. Their Hibernation Special runs Jan. 4 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.
During the day, bundle up for a walk on the Townsend Historical Trail. It’s paved and mostly flat, and you can turn around whenever you’re ready.
Bookworms – Downtown Maryville
Browse Neighborly Books and pick out a book for each other. Bring them along to Vienna Coffee Company and settle in with one of their February specials.
Bee Mine is sweet and floral with honey, brown sugar and lavender alongside espresso and milk. Cupid’s Crush is a strawberry smoothie with vanilla, mocha and a splash of cream, and Strawberry Snowflake is a strawberry and vanilla latte topped with cold foam or whipped cream.
Workout Partners – Alcoa
Crank up the heat at HOTWORX, an infrared fitness studio with guided workouts inside a heated sauna. Book a session and follow the on-screen class, with options ranging from yoga and Pilates to strength-focused and cycling-style workouts.
Cool down with a vitamin-infused energy or protein drink from Louisville Nutrition.
History Buffs – Townsend
Spend the morning at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center and take your time exploring the exhibits and historic structures.
Once you’ve wrapped up, have lunch at The Abbey. The restaurant is set inside a historic chapel, with a warm, old-world atmosphere. Then, go antiquing for the afternoon.
Related read: “10 Antique Shops on the Peaceful Side: Walland, Maryville, Rockford, Louisville, TN”
Movie Lovers – Downtown Maryville
Start with dessert at the Capitol Theatre Ice Cream Parlor. Their menu leans into classics like sundaes and floats, with movie-themed touches.
Make a pit stop at Bigfoot Popcorn and pick out a couple flavors to share. Bigfoot Poop is their signature, made with chocolate and caramel. Ranch and Garlic Parmesan are popular savory options. Then, head home for a movie night.
Crafty Couples – Maryville
Take a class together at Creative Spark Studio. On Feb. 14, Blacksmithing Basics with Bryan covers beginner techniques like heating, hammering and bending metal while you shape a heart. All materials are provided, and the finished piece can be used as a pendant, keychain or ornament. Alternatively, on Feb. 19, create a heart-shaped gemstone pendant.
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.
Winter Flora and Fauna of the Smokies: A Field Guide
Written by: Emily Huffstetler
Winter in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP) offers a unique perspective on the region’s rich biodiversity. While many visitors associate the park with its vibrant spring and summer blooms, the winter months reveal a quieter, more serene side, with a surprising amount of flora and fauna still thriving in the colder weather.
Flora
The GSMNP is home to over 1,500 species of flowering plants, earning its nickname as the “Wildflower National Park.” During the winter months, a few of these species can still be spotted, including the early-blooming ephemeral flowers.
These delicate blooms, such as hepaticas (liverworts), begin to flower as early as February, taking advantage of the abundant sunlight that reaches the forest floor through the leafless trees. Their blue, white, purple and pink shades are some of the few bursts of color in the winter landscape. To find them, explore the park’s recommended wildflower walks.
While Mountain Laurels don’t bloom until late May or early June, their glossy evergreen leaves provide year-round beauty. The Laurel Falls Trail, the most popular hike in the Smokies, offers views of this iconic shrub. This paved 2.6-mile roundtrip trail leads to an 80-foot waterfall.
The Smokies also has an abundance of evergreen trees, including red spruce and Fraser firs. Spruce-fir forests are found exclusively at the park’s highest elevations.
While red spruce are common across North America, Fraser firs are unique to southern Appalachia. Roughly 80% of the park’s Fraser firs were lost to a European parasite introduced in 1900, but a recent study shows their population has rebounded in recent decades, with numbers tripling on Kuwohi, Tennessee’s highest peak. You can appreciate these resilient trees on the Spruce-Fir Nature Trail, a short and scenic 0.35-mile loop.
Fauna
Winter in the Smokies is an excellent time for wildlife observation, as the lack of foliage provides clearer views. Cades Cove, with its open meadows and forests, is a prime spot for animal sightings. The 11-mile Cades Cove Loop Road offers easy access to the area, open from sunrise to sunset.
There, it’s quite common to see white-tailed deer prancing across the meadows. They may also venture deeper into the forest, as food is scarcer.
Wild turkeys, the biggest birds in Cades Cove, are also hard to miss, as their population is at a historic high.
Although black bears spend most of the winter hibernating, warmer days might bring them out to search for food.
If you visit the creek, you may see otters, even in colder months. The Cherokee name for Cades Cove, Tsiyahi, translates to “Otter Place.” Once nearly hunted to extinction in the 1920s, otters were reintroduced to the area in the 1980s and have made an impressive comeback. Abrams Falls, a 5-mile roundtrip hike near Cades Cove, is known for frequent otter sightings.
Will you venture to the Smokies this winter? Share your favorite flora and fauna photos with us on social media (@peacefulsmokies).
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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.
Winter in the Smoky Mountains: Advantages & Hiking Tips
When people think of hiking in the Smoky Mountains, the most popular times of year are generally Spring through Fall. But the Smoky Mountain National Park is open year-round, and winter brings a unique beauty. We’ve put together some of the best reasons you need to get out and enjoy the Smokies this time of year, along with some valuable Winter Hiking Tips.
Exploring The Smoky Mountains in Winter
Are you in the mood for a more challenging hike, like Thunderhead Mountain (elevation: 5527 feet) and Gregory Bald (elevation: 4949)? Or would you prefer a short, invigorating trek to Look Rock Fire Tower on Chilhowee Mountain, off the Foothills Parkway? If you haven’t already explored, here are several reasons to take that journey in winter. First of all, the most apparent difference while hiking in the cold months is the lack of foliage on the trees. Some trails become very narrow during the summer, so hiking when there is less vegetation can be a relief for the more claustrophobic traveler. And can we talk about the views during the winter? Once the trees shed their leaves, a more pristine view of the magnitude and breadth of our lovely mountains reveals itself.
In the winter months, you will also find that you often have the trails all to yourself. Not only will you see fewer people on your journey, but there will also be a fraction of insects and bugs. There is a special kind of peace when the forest blanketed with silence, your only companion the sound of crunching leaves and falling snow. Another welcome absence on a winter hike is the sometimes stifling summer humidity. Winter in the Smokies is a definite case of less is often more.
Tips for Hiking the Smokies in the Cold
- Always check the weather and be prepared for it to change.
- Snow/ice spikes and trekking poles will help with traction and stability.
- Don’t be afraid to spend the extra money to get top quality winter gear. Waterproof and windproof gear can be lifesavers when the windchill at the higher elevations create dramatic temperature drops.
- Layering is essential. Choose wet-wicking material and a light but warm coat, such as a down jacket. Be prepared to layer up or down depending on changing altitudes and surprise weather. Wool socks and appropriate hiking boots will keep your feet warm and a toboggan will prevent body heat from escaping through your head.
- Extras. Pack extra socks and gloves in case the ones you are wearing get wet. Extra HotHands or hand warmers are great for putting in your sleeping back for overnight hikes. Remember, it is better to have a heavier pack, with everything you need, than finding yourself hurt or in danger.
Don’t Forget Your Camera
Take advantage of the season to find those distinctive winter shots. You may discover animal prints in the snow or icy rivers. Look for the way the sun reflects on the frosted mountains and expect to see a whole new side of the Smoky Mountains’ personality.
Feature Image by Nikki Adam Jenkins
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