When strolling through Maryville, passersby may notice a large smoker on the side of the road near downtown. That smoker belongs to Full Service BBQ, a locally-owned outdoor barbecue joint nestled in the same lot on South Washington Street that’s been around since 2007. If you’re looking for the 
perfect meal to pick up on your way to Cades Cove, or just to stop and relax after a long day of driving, then look no further. From colorful chalk for the little ones to play with, to the corn hole sets and multiple HD TV screens, Full Service BBQ has something to entertain every member of your group.
The food is pretty legendary as well. We suggest stocking up on the delicious side items (we were still dreaming of Yo’ Mama’s Mac & Cheese days later) and, dare we say, the best sweet tea in Maryville! Whether your group is craving ribs, 
pulled pork or the unique Hawg Dawg (beer boiled hot dog topped with BBQ pork), the entire menu will keep you coming back for more. Oh, and don’t even think about skipping the banana pudding (if you’re too full, it packages nicely in a to-go container).
Full Service BBQ also offers family packs for up to 25 people, or catering services for larger groups. Check out their website here and then “like” them on Facebook to receive exclusive deals and keep up with their daily specials. 
Trust us, this is one local spot you won’t want to miss during your trip to The Peaceful Side!
Full Service BBQ is located at 113 South Washington Street, Maryville, TN 37804 and are open daily from 11am – 9pm. For more info, call them at (865) 981-4414.
Category: Blog
Discover Fairy Villages and the Troll Bridge in the Smokies
Written by: Emily Huffstetler
The Smokies are home to wonders that feel magical—synchronous fireflies, a rainbow waterfall and bioluminescent mushrooms, to name a few. Take a walk on the Peaceful Side and discover fairy villages and a troll bridge nestled in the woods, where fairytales and reality meet.
Fairy Villages in The Townsend River Walk & Arboretum
The Townsend River Walk & Arboretum, nestled between the Maryville-Alcoa Greenway and the Little River, has several enchanting points of interest, including two fairy villages. Maintained by visiting children, these villages spark creativity and invite young imaginations to flourish.
The villages are part of the Children’s Discovery Garden, a lively space filled with activities like a mud pie kitchen, a seesaw, a wooden tent and a sandbox.
As you stroll along the trail, you’ll discover whimsical artwork by local artisans, including wood carvings of spirits and animals, as well as stones decorated with bird paintings. If you look closely, you’ll also spot a tree embracing a road sign and a cave tucked away in the woods.
This hidden gem is free to explore and wheelchair accessible at the north end. Visit the Townsend River Walk & Arboretum website for a preview of what’s in bloom throughout the year.
The Troll Bridge in Elkmont
Elkmont, originally a hunting camp, was transformed into a secluded mountain retreat for wealthy locals in the early 1900s. Over time, it became a focal point in the efforts that led to the creation of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
While many of the structures have been torn down, a few remain, including the “Troll Bridge”. Tucked away from regular foot traffic, this moss-covered stone bridge looks like something straight out of a fairytale.
To reach the Elkmont Troll Bridge, set off on the Little River Trail. About 100 feet in, you’ll see a small side trail that leads to the bridge. Just follow the stone walls, and you’ll soon reach your destination.
Have you found something magical on the Peaceful Side? Share your 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.
Dog-Friendly Adventures on the Peaceful Side
Written by: Emily Huffstetler
From pool parties to scenic hikes, the Peaceful Side of the Smokies offers a variety of dog-friendly activities. Whether you’re a local resident or just vising the area, there are plenty of opportunities for your furry friend to play, socialize and enjoy the great outdoors.
Paws in the Pool – Springbrook Pool
The 3rd annual “Paws in the Pool” dog festival will take place at Springbrook Pool on Saturday, August 10 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The rain date is set for August 11 from 1 to 5 p.m.
Large dogs (over 40 lbs) check in at 8:30 a.m. and swim from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Small dogs check-in at 10:45 a.m. and swim from 11:15 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.
Tickets cost $8 per pup on the day of the event, including swimming in the chlorinated pool, fun activities, on-site vendors, dog goodies and an event keepsake. Register by noon the Friday before the event for a discounted price of $5.
Dogs must be good swimmers or have their own life jacket to participate. You can learn more about the event on the Parks & Rec website.
Dog Parks on the Peaceful Side
The Petsafe Dog Park at Pistol Creek, nestled in Maryville’s Bicentennial Park, is open from dawn until dusk. It features a half-acre for small dogs, an acre for large dogs, a pavilion, benches, waste stations, dogs-only water fountains and an unleashing area.
Limited parking is available on McCammon Ave, or you can walk from the municipal lot or parking garage nearby on Harper Ave. Learn more about the park rules on the Parks & Rec website.
Louisville Dog Park, next to Henry Beal Park in Louisville, offers fenced-in areas for small and large dogs, including agility equipment, a dog water fountain, a digging pit and a hose to rinse your pup off. There’s also a lakeside loop trail nearby.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Dogs are allowed in campgrounds, picnic areas and along roads in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park if they’re on a leash that doesn’t exceed six feet in length. Owners must clean up after their dogs immediately and should never leave them unattended in a vehicle or RV.
Only two trails in the park are open to dogs for their own safety and the safety of wildlife and other visitors. These two trails are the Gatlinburg Trail and the Oconaluftee River Trail.
The Gatlinburg Trail is a convenient option near the Peaceful Side. About four miles roundtrip, this riverside stroll winds through a cove hardwood forest and features historic chimneys. You can learn more about the trail, including where to park, on the GSMNP website.
Service dogs are allowed anywhere in the park that visitors can go. You can learn more about service dog policies on the National Park Service website.
Pet-Friendly Restaurants
The Peaceful Side has several restaurants with pet-friendly seating. In Maryville, some of our favorites include Diamondjack Wine Bar, which offer patio seating and a water bowl; Maryville Corner Market, known for its pet-friendly atmosphere; Southern Grace Coffee Co, with porch and patio seating; Peaceful Side Brewery, with patio seating; and Vienna Coffee House, also with patio seating.
We’d love to see what kind of adventures you and your pup get up to on the Peaceful Side. 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.
Downtown Maryville’s Historic Capitol Theatre Has a Speakeasy, the Emerald Room
Down a clandestine staircase and through a secret passage is a best-kept-secret, the Emerald Room, modeled after a speakeasy. One of several spaces within Maryville, Tennessee’s Capitol Theatre, this newest addition to the venue conjures images from the 1920s prohibition-era.
The Theatre, located on Maryville’s bustling Broadway Street in the historic downtown area, draws both local residents and those from throughout the region and country.
The venue goes beyond just a theatre space and offers a unique and glamorous venue for wedding receptions and ceremonies, proms, birthdays and small business and corporate events and provides catering and DJ services.
Capitol Theatre Event Director Haley Schweitzer finds the space covers a wide variety of events.
“We have old Hollywood style and vintage ambiance, but events range from traditional weddings and events to themed events like a 1920sparty,” said Schweitzer. “The space lends itself to many different styles and leaves guest smiling and with fun memories they’ll never forget.”
In addition to the theatre space and Emerald Room, the Capitol Theatre offers a balcony and a 1940s-themed Hollywood Lounge. It even has a coffee and ice cream shop, which is open throughout the week to the public.
The coffee and ice cream shop receives frequent foot traffic from those taking a coffee break during work and tourists visiting the Smoky Mountains and enjoying Maryville’s vibrant downtown.
“About 20 percent of our weddings are destination weddings coming from places like Chicago, Charlotte, Atlanta, and even as far away as Seattle,” said Schweitzer. “The uniqueness of the venue, and the beauty and peacefulness of the Smoky Mountains draws them here. The Downtown Maryville location of the coffee and ice cream shop brings foot traffic in, and some of these visitors like our venue so much they book it for their wedding.”
The venue also draws business travelers, with Maryville and the surrounding Blount County area being a prime destination for conferences and corporate events and retreats. A scenic escape, Maryville is 10 minutes from the McGhee Tyson Regional Airport and has access to major highways like I-40, with the larger city of Knoxville just 20 minutes away.
“The attendees at our corporate events have many hotels and accommodations to choose from,” said Schweitzer. “We’re close to the Airport Hilton, but also not far from scenic resorts like Dancing Bear Lodge.”
First built in 1934, the Capitol Theatre was originally a premier entertainment place. The largest of Maryville’s downtown theatres, it sat approximately 1,000 guests. It closed its doors in the 1970s and then housed a number of different businesses. In 2002, it was purchased by the current owner, artist Heath Claiborne, as his art gallery. In 2008, the building underwent a complete renovation aimed at restoring its former look and created an entertainment and event center with state-of-the-art audio and video equipment. Claiborne’s studio and gallery still resides at the Capitol Theatre where visitors can view and purchase his original artwork and reproductions.
The downtown area of Maryville has experienced a revitalization in recent years. Earlier this year, an initiative to renovate the downtown culiminated with the approval of the Tennessee Main Street designation in January. The designation will open up the city to receive training, resource support and grant opportunities that will assist in the downtown area’s revitalization and economic development efforts.
“We love downtown Maryville,” said Schweitzer.”It’s a great location for the Capitol Theatre. We have lot of great restaurants and retailers, and ample parking. We’re excited to be part of the downtown’s history.”
For more information about the Capitol Theatre, or to book an event, visit http://www.bookthecapitol.com/.
Eat Your Way Through the Peaceful Side at These Local Restaurants
One of the best parts about traveling is the ability to eat and experience new dining options that you don’t have at home. Finding new kinds of cuisines or just a new way to arrange ingredients in a dish can really broaden your culinary horizons.
A vacation to the Peaceful Side of the Smoky Mountains comes with plenty of gastric treats for your taste buds. In this list, you will find some of the amazing local restaurants that you can enjoy when you travel the East Tennessee area.
Maryville Dining Options
Anaba: Enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine in an Izakaya atmosphere. Seisuke Fukuoka, the head chef, is an expert in Japanese culinary delights. You will find sushi, hibachi, and traditional ramen dishes.
Barley’s: Enjoy excellent food, plenty of beer options, and occasional live music. There are 70 different beers on tap and daily drink specials. They have a full menu that includes items like the Fried Pork Belly appetizer and the Salmon Grit Cakes.
Dockside Grille: If you find yourself at the Tellico Marina, make sure you grab a meal at this great restaurant that offers light lunch options and grilled steaks. There is often live entertainment to round out the experience.
Foothills Milling Co: If you are looking for up-scale fare, head to this farm to fork restaurant that sources ingredients from local farms and businesses. You can find interesting options for your taste buds including the Lamb Meatball appetizer and Tempura Lobster Tails.
Townsend Dining Options
Apple Valley Cafe: Attached to the Apple Valley Country Store, this is a popular spot in Townsend. You can get breakfast or lunch in this establishment, but no matter when you come, the World Famous Apple Pie should be part of your meal.
Burger Master: This historic spot has been serving the residents and tourists for over fifty years. You can get classic fare like hamburgers, hot dogs, and chicken sandwiches. However, the real reason for the visit will definitely be one of the ice-cream desserts!
Little River BBQ: If you want good old fashioned BBQ, then Little River will be right up your alley. Choose from beef, pork, or chicken in your choice of sauce. You can even pick up a family pack to-go for a BBQ picnic.
Richmont Inn: Those staying at the Richmont Inn are in for a treat! In addition to the classic breakfast (included in the price of your room), you will also get a complimentary candlelight dessert each evening at 8 pm. They sometimes offer a four-course fondue dinner as well.
There are plenty of other dining options in on the Peaceful side too! In Alcoa, you will find the sophisticated Cooper’s, Hot Rod’s 50s Diner, and Shrimp Dock’s seafood. In Walland, there is Becky’s Grocery and Grille, the Snoring Bear Diner, and The Barn and Blackberry Farm. When traveling on the Peaceful Side, you can eat somewhere different for each meal and never have to repeat restaurants! You might want to get your foodie list together before you leave for your trip, you may not be able to decide once you arrive.
Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Now Available Around the Smokies
Thanks to our friends at the Black Bear Solar Institute, electric vehicle charging stations are now free at various locations across the Peaceful Side!
Enjoy a Driving Tour of Cades Cove with the Family
Heading out into the wilderness seems simple, but it can be complicated – especially when the whole family, with everyone’s disparate ages and tastes, is heading out together. The teenagers in the group want to tackle a challenging trail, while the older and younger crowds are looking for something that’s a little slower-paced. Grandparents and grandchildren may need stroller and walker accessibility, and some members of the family would just as soon be lounging on the back of a pontoon boat, waiting for the fish to bite. How can you keep everyone together?
Take Everyone on a Drive Through Cades Cove
Anyone coming to the Blount County sections of Great Smoky Mountains National Park who hasn’t heard of Cades Cove is sure to get the scoop eventually. It’s well-known for good reason. The Cove is a broad, green, lush mountain valley in the middle of the Smokies, and one of its most popular destinations.
Cades Cove also includes an 11-mile loop road that circles the Cove in one direction and is open to tourists year-round. Bicyclists and hikers can enjoy it traffic-free every Wednesday and Saturday morning before 10 AM; otherwise it’s “open season” for motorists on driving tours. Taking everyone on a driving tour is a great way to keep the family connected – you’re all in the same car (or caravan!), and you can listen to the music of your choice and chat about the scenery as you cruise past.
What You Might See in Cades Cove
Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Cades Cove are famous for wildlife viewing, including white tail deer, coyote, elk, fox, and black bears, as well as groundhogs, turkeys, raccoons, and skunks (be careful!). That’s not all – the loop road has a rich history, as well.
As you drive along the loop road, you can see (or park and walk to) buildings like churches, a working grist mill, log houses, and other buildings from the 19th century that have been restored since being originally built by the area’s first migrants from Europe. Numerous trails are also accessible from the road, so you – or just the more active members of your party – can park and walk off the beaten path for a closer look at some Tennessee wilderness.
Get More Details at the Visitor Center
When planning your drive of the Cades Cove loop road, make sure to dedicate at least 2 to 4 hours for the experience, especially during the summer and fall seasons when traffic can be heavy. Cades Cove is accessible from Laurel Creek Road year-round, and Parson Branch Road or Rich Mountain Road during the warmer months.
Cades Cove also includes a Visitor Center halfway around the loop that features restrooms and a bookstore, as well as trail maps and guides that provide more information on the history of the trail and of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Open every day but Christmas, it’s there to provide visitors with a more educational, immersive, safe and fun Smokies experience.
Enjoy a Peaceful Getaway to Whispering River Resort
Is there anything more relaxing than a winding river on a warm summer’s day? If there is, visitors to Whispering River Resort will be too chilled out to go searching for it. Boasting thousands of feet of access to the Little River, Walland, Tennessee’s Whispering River Resort connects visitors to the beautiful natural environment of the “quiet side of the Smokies.”
Tents, RVs, and Cabin Renters All Welcome
One of the unique things about the Whispering River Resort is how well it accommodates different kinds of vacationers. Looking for the perfect site to pitch your tent? Whispering River has tent sites with water access, clean, modern bathrooms, hot showers, coin laundry, and a general store.
Need space for your RV? Pull-through, pull-in, and back-in RV sites with hook-ups are available, and RV campers, of course, have access to the same facilities and amenities that tent campers do. However, what if you’re traveling without your own lodging? What then?
Whispering River Resort also has three cabins, 2 that are perfect for couples or small families, and 1 that lets the whole gang get together. The Treehouse sleeps up to 4, and includes an indoor Jacuzzi and outdoor hot tub, kitchen, DVD player and TV, and all of it right up on the riverbank. The Otter House cabin includes all the same amenities, plus a charcoal grill and central A/C. The Lodge sleeps up to 10, and includes a fireplace, large-screen satellite TV, DVD, hot tub, claw-foot bathtub in the master bedroom, and game room with pool table.
Activities at Whispering River
Not sure what to do while you’re there? It may be because there’s so much to choose from. With convenient river access, this is a great chance to go kayaking, tubing, or fishing. Whispering River also has a playground and a horseshoe pit, volleyball, a pool and a hot tub, and great walking trails along their half-mile of Little River access. Everyone gets access to free WiFi to stay connected, and even “best friends” can join in the fun (pets are allowed at the RV and tent campsites).
All This, and it’s Convenient!
People come to the Smokies region for lots of reasons. Maybe it’s the famous Dollywood amusement park, home to rides, shows, festivals, events, and – oh yeah – a massive water park. Well, it, as well as the sights and sounds of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, are just a 30-minute drive away. Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Tuckaleechee Caverns are even closer, and perfect if you want to focus on the natural beauty that the Smokies are famous for.
A meeting room, club room, and an event center is also available, so if you’re excited to show your coworkers the best of the region and are looking for a place to host your company retreat or seminar, this could be it. Give your crew a shout – it’s time to book your vacation at Whispering River Resort.
Enjoy a Picnic Lunch at Spruce Flats Falls
Looking for a great place to enjoy a picnic lunch while you are in the Townsend, TN area? The 1.9-mile hike to the Spruce Flats Falls may be just what you are looking for. The trail is moderate and may be challenging for smaller children, but older kids and adults should have no problem. Along the way, you will encounter some steep, rocky sections of trail, especially as you reach the end of the trail at the falls.
What to Expect on Your Trip to the Spruce Flats Falls
While this is one of the less commonly hiked trails, the journey is more than worth the effort. The trailhead begins as the Great Smoky Mountain Institute. You need to park on the right side to find the trailhead. The trail to Spruce Flats Falls branches off of the Buckeye Trail, but your journey starts on the Lumber Ridge Trail. You have to look for the sign that says “Falls Trail” as you won’t find the trail listed on any maps.
The trail to the Falls tends to be like most in the area with more than its fair share of roots, rocks, and foot traps. You must keep an eye out as you go unless, of course, you want to twist an ankle. At one point, you have to cross Bull Branch and then do your best log walking trick across a log with steps cut into it. Once you cross the log, it’s just a short trip down to the bottom of the Spruce Flats Falls.
Although the trail might not show up on maps, the falls are relatively popular among waterfall enthusiasts and nature photographers. Not only is the early morning light the perfect time to view the falls, it is also the perfect time to take awe-inspiring photographs.
The Spruce Flats Falls
The Spruce Flats Falls drop 30 feet over four stages into the pond below. The pool is the perfect place for a cool refreshing swim after the hike down to it on a hot summer day. This is also the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing family picnic. There is plenty of shade in which to relax and then take an afternoon dip in the pool below the falls before heading back out. Just remember, if you pack it in, pack it out: don’t leave your mess behind, including your kids!
While the trail to the falls may be a little steep in places for some families, those of you who like to “backpack” your littlest ones should have no problem. With so much shade and a good sunblock, your kids can hang out and play to their heart’s content. There are a number of smaller pools that are perfect for letting the kids wade in and chase salamanders under a watchful eye.
Although Spruce Flats Falls is not one of the better-known waterfalls in the Great Smoky Mountains, it is quite beautiful and well worth making a day hike out of your journey. Pack a tasty picnic, take the family, and make the most out of getting back to nature.
Enjoy a Romantic Weekend on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies
Blount County is the Gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is one of the most spectacular national parks in the United States. Throughout the county, you will find cozy cabins, romantic lodges, and magnificent hotels for your stay. No matter how you look at it, Blount County makes the perfect place for a romantic weekend just for the two of you.
Your Weekend Starts with a Romantic Cabin
Blount County is home to a number of honeymoon and romantic getaway cabins. Many are bed & breakfasts; some offer dinners, as well. Imagine waking up in the morning to the sun shining through the window of your room, a view of the misty mountains in the distance, the sound of birds in trees, and the smell of fresh-brewed coffee coming up from the dining room. This is how spending a romantic weekend in Blount County should start.
Continue your morning with a romantic horseback ride along the many trails scattered throughout the Great Smoky Mountains. There are several stables in the area; some offer you the option to take a picnic lunch and stop for a romantic meal in the shade by a waterfall. Whether you are an experienced rider or have never been on a horse before, your guide will work with you until you are comfortable.
Once your ride is over, why not head over to the local winery for a little wine tasting and a tour of the vineyards? To bring your first day here to an end, there are a number of excellent restaurants in Maryville, Townsend, and surrounding communities to try out. Take a stroll through downtown Maryville before returning to your cabin or room for the night.
On Your Next Day
Why not be a little more adventurous on the second day of your weekend? There are several high-flying ziplines to try out. Imagine soaring high above the treetops laughing all the way down. The view from up here is spectacular, just ask any bird you meet along the way.
You can, of course, take the short hike out to Spruce Flat Falls; the hike is easy, and the falls at the end are more than worth the hike. The beauty here never stops: finish up your day with a picnic at Cades Cove before packing the car and heading back home.
When you want a quiet, charming place for your next romantic weekend, try Blount County. The entire area is home to some of the most romantic scenery in the country. The views are beautiful, the locals are incredible, and there is no shortage of fun and romantic activities to enjoy during your stay here.
Enjoy Mountain Music on the Pickin' Porch at Wood-N-Strings Dulcimer Shop
There’s more to the Smokies than just industry and the great outdoors. Cultural traditions brought to the Smokies by different waves of immigrants and frontier settlers have taken on lives of their own in the mountain hollows that dot the region, and they continue to provide great entertainment to locals and visitors alike.
In particular, the music of Appalachia and the Smokies has its own rich history, one that’s kept alive today in Blount County and especially at the Wood-N-Strings Dulcimer Shop. Read on to learn more about it, as well as how you can get a taste of it for yourself right in Blount County.
Wood-N-Strings Dulcimer Shop Dates Back to the 18th Century
Immigrants from Ireland and what is now called the United Kingdom first settled in the mountain foothills of the southeastern U.S. in the late 18th century, bringing their traditional ballads and dance music (typically fast-paced violin or “fiddle” music) with them. Here, these traditions intersected with others, like banjo-playing, which came up from farther down South. Banjo playing was actually first documented in Knoxville in 1798, so it’s been a part of the region’s legacy for quite some time.
The dulcimer was also a major part of this tradition. Interestingly enough, although the first Appalachian dulcimer was played by Scots-Irish immigrants, there’s no record of anything like the dulcimer in Scotland or Ireland. The instrument itself seems to be a true Southern original, much like the Wood-N-Strings Dulcimer Shop.
Visit Wood-N-Strings to See Dulcimers in Action
Anyone is welcome to come down to Wood-N-Strings in Townsend, Tennessee, which is not a just a shop, but a destination in its own right for fans of the region’s traditional music. The shop offers CDs and books about traditional music, as well as different kinds of dulcimers and other instruments like banjos, lap harps, and even some steel drums. Owners Mike and Connie Clemmer are happy to introduce anyone interested to the virtues of the dulcimer and the joy of playing an instrument that’s relatively easy to learn, and yet provides tremendous satisfaction to both players and audiences.
Check Out the Pickin’ Porch
If it’s summertime, it’s pickin’ time at Wood-N-Strings. Connie and Mike Clemmer play host to local and traveling musicians on their Pickin’ Porch at Wood-N-Strings every 1st, 3rd, and 5th Saturday at 7 PM, from May through September. Bring your lawn chairs and relax at their woodsy riverside location, while musicians share their talents and commitment to preserving tradition just for the love of it.
When winter rolls around, that doesn’t mean there’s no pickin’ left to enjoy. TheWood-N-Strings Dulcimer Shop has a section of the website dedicated to sharing videos from past Pickin’ Porch evenings, so you can still listen to old and new favorites long after the camping chairs have been folded up for the season.
Enjoy the Quiet and Visit the Smokies in the Off-Season for a Stress-Free Vacation
In all honesty, it can be said that there is not a bad or wrong time to visit the Smokies. You can find a long list of indoor and outdoor activities at any time of year, and just paying a visit to a woodland cabin and enjoying a crackling fire may be all you need for the best experience. Yet, if you are eager to see and do the many things available in the region, it might be wise to book your visit in what might be called the “off-season.”
The Off-Season in the Smokies
As a year-round destination, the Smokies don’t have an official off-season, but do have times of peak travel and quieter, less busy times. Once the winter holidays have come and gone and true winter settles over the mountains, the region seems to quiet down a bit. While you won’t be able to enjoy the amazingly verdant rolling hills, or the saturated hues of autumn, there is still an amazing amount of natural beauty during the winter season in the Smokies.
Keep in mind that even during the wintery off-season there will be times when visitation spikes and peaks again. Holidays like Valentine’s Day or any winter breaks from school may lead to a revival of heavier visitation, and many weekends remain quite busy all year.
Technically, the lowest level of visitation comes from later January and throughout February, and that would be a great time to go ahead and book your stay. You’ll find vacancies in the different cabins or cottages as well as the resorts and hotels, along with all of the B&Bs or even home rentals.
Is It Worth an Off-Season Visit?
Naturally, you will want to know if you can still experience the major attractions if it is the off season, and the answer is a resounding “yes.” The larger towns like Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg have all of the usual activities and options (with the exception of Dollywood, which shuts down for January and February). Some stores or restaurants may shorten their hours, but still remain active, and the different stage shows may limit their numbers of performances, but still do their popular shows.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park remains open, though some roads and trails have to shut down due to inclement weather. Yet, you can enjoy an amazingly unrestricted, peaceful and stress-free drive through Cades Cove or wonderful Newfound Gap, and if you hit the trails, you’ll find frozen waterfalls and wonderfully peaceful conditions.
And, on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies, in towns like Maryville, Townsend and Alcoa, the winter is a wonderful time to visit. You can enjoy special events like the Winter Heritage Festival in late January in Townsend, and many of the breweries, distilleries and antique shops are the perfect indoor remedy for for cold weather (including this Tennessee Winter Beer Fest on February 16th).
Benefits of Off-Season Visits
If you need any further reasons to consider the Smokies as an ideal off-season destination, just consider that you’ll enjoy fewer crowds wherever you go, no lines or waiting at restaurants and popular attractions, better rates on rentals and cabins, and scenery that you will not enjoy at any other time of year.
Every season is a good season to visit the Smokies, but if stress-free and ultimately peaceful is your goal, go during the tranquil off-season this winter!
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