Category: Smoky Mountains

Vacationing on a Budget? Great Smoky Mountains National Park is Free to Enjoy

Posted on February 13, 2019 by - Blog, Smoky Mountains

Did you think that it was only the “Free Entrance Days” in the United States National Park system that let you get into the 400+ parks and enjoy it all for free? This year, National Park Week is April 20 through April 28th, when you can get into all of the parks entirely for free. There are a few other dates, too and you can find them at the National Park Service website, here.
Yet, The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an entirely unique entity because, as the NPS explains, “Entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park is free. The park is one of the few national parks where no entrance fees are charged.” Why? Well, it has to do with the stipulations that Tennessee insisted on when it transferred the land now known as the park to the federal government in the 1930s.
Back then, the state insisted that no toll or fee would be imposed on those who needed to travel the Newfound Gap Road, and so that is why everyone who wants to visit the park is welcome to do so entirely for free. There are some activities with fees attached (such as camping or hiring horses from the providers within the park), and donations are always welcome, but if you have almost no budget for a vacation, this gorgeous paradise is yours to enjoy for free!

What to Do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

And what sorts of things can you do in the park? Firstly, you should know that people of all ages and capabilities can enjoy the park because it has some truly amazing roadways. If you have a car, motorcycle or even a bicycle, you’ll love planning journeys on the following roads:

  • Roaring Fork Motor Trail – This is only six miles, is a loop road and promises amazing views of the mountains, the valleys and two stunning waterfalls. Pack a picnic and plan some hiking because the trails here are also remarkable and let you see the remains of old villages, a cemetery and more.
  • Newfound Gap Road – Be sure you drive the road that lets you get in for free! With an amazing number of notches and scenic vistas, it is worth a full day of your time. Stop and explore different points along the 31-mile stretch that takes you from Gatlinburg to the Sugarlands Visitor Center. Be sure to bring your camera!
  • Cades Cove – Described as one of the most famous spots in the park, it is surprisingly peaceful and often isolated. It is a gorgeous valley that was once a large settlement, and though you can drive it, you may want to give yourself the delights of a full day of exploration on foot. There are old churches, a grist mill, scores of cabins dating back to the 1700s and 1800s, and all kinds of wildlife to see. It is a loop road and is a real favorite of those who enjoy bicycling (you can rent a bike here, too!) Don’t miss the visitor center.

You can also enjoy a hike to Clingmans Dome, or hike different trails to waterfalls like Grotto Falls, Abrams Falls and Laurel Falls. If you are in good shape and experienced in hiking, a day trip up to Chimney Tops is also an amazing, free activity to enjoy!
Forget the “staycation” when you can head to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and enjoy days of free activities set in one of the most beautiful spots in the country.

Visit Cades Cove

Posted on August 25, 2020 by - Blog, Smoky Mountains

Cades Cove Loop Tour in Jeep

Cades Cove is one of the most popular destinations in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Visitors can explore a variety of historical sites, enjoy the majestic mountain beauty, and find the thrill of spotting life in the wild. Whether you want to visit the grist mill or hope to run across a family of bears, a visit to Cades Cove will keep the whole family engaged.
Cades Cove Loop Tour in Jeep

New Cades Cove App

The Cades Cove Guide puts the history, nature, wildlife, and trails of the Cove in the palm of your hands. It provides a convenient, safe way to keep track of your locations in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Whether you are connected to Wi-Fi or exploring the scenic route, your personal park tour guide brings adventure up close.
Features

  • View points of interest as a list or on a map, both online and offline.
  • Click on the point of interest for photos, quick facts, unique descriptions, hidden treasures, and related content.
  • Share your experience in the “stories” section for others to enjoy.
  • Filter points of interest by The Loop, Trails, Visitor Info, and List View.
  • View the full app navigation, including the loop, stories, nature, wildlife, history, and visitor information.

Cades Cove Guide for Phones

Cades Cove History

The first European settlers arrived in the Cove during the early 1820s, quickly clearing the abundant lands for farming. Community buildings were erected, such as log homes, barns, and smokehouses. But even before the Europeans arrived, Cherokee Indians traveled through the valley hunting for deer, bear, elk, and bison. 
By 1850 the population had grown to 685, and it was not uncommon for households to have ten to twelve children. As the population grew, the community’s needs grew. Soon Baptist and Methodist churches were built, followed by schoolhouses for the kids. Neighbors often worked together, creating social events from tasks like corn husking and molasses making, allowing young couples to court, eventually leading to marriages. Deaths also brought the community together. Men would make coffins and dig graves, while the women would prepare the body for burial. Then everyone chipped in to help the grieving families by cooking meals and helping bring in crops. 
In 1927 the state began purchasing the land for the creation of the national park. Some families welcomed the state’s effort and willingly sold their property and moved out, but many families resisted the attempts. Several residents signed life-leases that allowed them to stay on the land for the rest of their lives, as long as they abided restrictions on hunting, trapping, and timber cutting. The last school in Cades Cove closed in 1944, and the post office soon followed in 1947. Today the National Park Service designated the Cove as a “historical area” and restored and maintains the buildings as they looked in the early days of the settlers.
Cades Cove Historical Sites      Cades Cove Backpacker

Explore the Cove

Each Wednesday, through September 30th, the park offers vehicle-free access along the Cades Cove Loop. The loop is an 11-mile, one-way road circling the Cove, which gives motorists access to sites and the opportunity to sightsee at their own pace. Allow for two to four hours to tour Cades Cove, longer if you stop to explore any of the area trails. Traffic is heavy during the summer, fall, and weekends throughout the year.
Many trails begin in the Cove, including accessible hikes like Abram Falls or more time-consuming hikes like Thunderhead Mountain. Also, make sure to check out the many historical landmarks located within Cades Cove. Sites like the John Oliver Cabin, the Becky Cable House, and the Elija Oliver Place give you a peek into the settler’s home lives in the 19th century. You can also check out the Primitive Baptist Church, the Missionary Baptist Church, and the Methodist Church to learn more about where to community came together to worship. And don’t forget to check out local wildlife like black bears, elk, white-tailed deer, turkey, or woodchucks. But make sure to follow these safety tips and do not feed or approach any animals.  
There is so much to do, so download and use the Cades Cove App to plan your next visit.
Cades Cove App in Use on Phone
 
For more information on the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, check out these posts:

5 Tips for Planning the Perfect Smoky Mountains Vacation

Planning a Family Trip to Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Top 5 Things To Do in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in the Spring

Visit These 3 Picnics Spots in the Smoky Mountains This Spring

Posted on April 28, 2019 by - Blog, Smoky Mountains, Townsend

There is nothing better than taking your family out for a picnic in the Great Smoky Mountains on a warm spring or summer day. The scenery is never short of breathtaking, and there are so many places you can go to. Heck, some folks here pack their basket, grab a blanket, and then pull over when they find a spot they like. While this might sound like a good idea, there are advantages to visiting one of the many designated picnic spots. These typically include having picnic tables and no traffic passing right beside you. Some of the picnic areas in the park have grills and restrooms. Others are more primitive and offer only tables and trash receptacles.
Here are three of the best picnic spots in the Smoky Mountains to take the family, your loved one or even just yourself.

The Chimney Tops Picnic Area

Chimney Tops Picnic Area opens in early March and closes at the end of November.  Here you will find 68 picnic spots including several with tables that look out over the river. The picnic area sits at the trailhead for the Chimney Tops Trail. Eat first to charge your batteries before making the hike or hike first and work up, and appetite, either way, the trail will give you a good workout and offers some incredible views along the way. This is one of the most popular picnic areas in the park.

Cades Cove Picnic Area

You can take your family for a picnic here all year round (nothing like a picnic in the snow). This area offers 81 picnic spots and tends to be very busy when the weather is nice. The Cades Cove Loop covers 11 miles and is one of the most popular places for tourists in the park. Many of the picnic tables set along Laurel Creek and all tables have barbecue grills for your use. (barbecuing in the snow sounds like fun). There are several historic buildings along the loop for you to explore, and the Cades Cove campground is just down the road where you can buy everything you need for your picnic if you don’t feel like packing your own lunch.

Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area

Like the Cades Cove picnic area, Metcalf Bottoms is open year-round and offers 122 picnic sites, making it the second largest picnic area in the park. Each site has been leveled and has a charcoal grill for your convenience. There is also a large pavilion on-site with space for up to 70 people, restrooms, a place to fill your water bottles, and you have direct access to the Metcalf Bottoms trailhead. Once you’ve finished your meal, why not take the 1.2-mile hike to the log cabin at the other end of the trail. Built-in 1882 this cabin saw life as a school and church for over 50 years and still contains the desks and chalkboard used by Little Greenbriar School students decades ago.

Visiting the Smokies with Your Sweetheart? Snuggle Up for a Carriage Ride through Cades Cove

Posted on November 26, 2018 by - Blog, Smoky Mountains

The leaves are turning all through the Great Smoky Mountains, there is a nip in the air, and the snow has yet to arrive. What could be better than snuggling up with that someone special in your life in a horse-drawn carriage under a warm blanket while you are taken on a guided carriage ride that takes you on a tour of Cades Cove? If you love the great outdoors, there is simply no better way to see the breathtaking scenery. It is the perfect way to see it all as a couple, or you can bring the kids with you.

A Guided Tour of Cades Cove

The best way to see all that Cades Cove has to offer is seated comfortably in a carriage, hauled through the park by one or more horses. The horses all know the way, but more importantly, so do the drivers! They know more about the Cades Cove area than just about anyone, including the Park Rangers.
Kick back and relax while the carriage conveys you along some of the most scenic trails in the park in peace and quiet. The only sounds you will hear are the clip-clop of the horse’s hooves and that of the wheels on the trail. While you are comfortably sitting back and enjoying the scenery, your guide will tell you about history of the area. And, more than just a detailed history of the area, they will regale you with tales of the old days in this most beautiful part of the state.
Your guide will tell you about what things were like here in the old days, how people lived, their lifestyles, how they fed themselves, about the log cabins, and so much more. Along the way, as you cruise gently through the park, your guide will tell you about the local flora and of course the many animals and birds who call this part of the Smokies home. If you are fortunate, you will have the opportunity to see many of the local residents, both four-legged and winged.

A Carriage Ride for Two—or More

Depending on the carriage you choose, there is room for more than just two. Most have room for up to six people, depending on the size of those who will be occupying the carriage. This way, you can bring the kids along and let them see all of the beauty of the Smokies and, of course, of Cades Cove. Most of the carriage rides last less than an hour, but along the way, there are mountain streams, towering peaks, and majestic trees to see, along with bears, deer, and wild turkeys. The carriage rides are safe for everyone and make an outstanding way to spend a little romantic time together as a couple or as a family.
Do keep in mind that these rides are extremely popular, and the proprietors do not take reservations; all rides are on a first come, first serve basis. You may have to wait for an available carriage, but you will find the wait to be worth it. Be sure you take a carriage ride through Cades Cove this fall; you can’t afford to miss out on the ride of a lifetime!

What to Know About Snakes in the Smokies

Posted on June 12, 2023 by - Blog, Smoky Mountains

Corn Snake in the Smoky Mountains

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.

eastern garter snakes in the great smoky mountains
Eastern Garter
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. 

northern copperhead in the great smoky mountain national park
Northern Copperhead
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.

timber rattler in the great smoky mountains
Timber Rattlesnake
Photo by Randy Ratliff

Be Mindful While Exploring the Smoky Mountains

  1. 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.
  2. Wear appropriate shoes. It may seem obvious, but sturdy hiking boots are more likely to protect your feet than a pair of flip-flops.
  3. Keep children close and explain what they need to look for before you start your exploration.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.

rough green snake spotted in the great smoky mountains
Rough Green Snake
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

Wildflowers of the Smokies

Posted on March 24, 2023 by - Activities, Blog, Smoky Mountains

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!

Wildflowers of the Smoky Mountains - Photographer Randy Ratliff
The Eastern Sweetshrub is a shrub with glossy, aromatic, leathery, dark-green foliage and fragrant flowers.
Yellow Trillium- Trillium luteum
Yellow Trillium- Trillium Luteum. Its twisted yellow petals distinguish it with a lemony fragrance. It can be found in deciduous forests, open woods, rocky stream banks, and rich mature forests.
Bloodroot - Sanguianaria canadensis
Bloodroot Flower (Poppy Family). The red juice from the underground stem was used by Native Americans as a dye for baskets, clothing, and war paint, as well as for insect repellent.
Wildflowers of the Smoky Mountains - Photographer Randy Ratliff
Mayapple.
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.
Flame Azalea
Flame Azalea is regarded as one of the most gorgeous American shrubs for its fiery flowers.
Pink Lady Slipper
The Pink Lady’s Slipper is a large, showy wildflower belonging to the orchid family.
Crested Dwarf Iris - Iris Cristata
Crested Dwarf Iris
The sepals of its blue-violet flowers are distinctly marked with a central yellow or white, purple striped band.
Fetterbush
They are born in showy clusters and have a pleasant honey-like fragrance
Starry Chickweed - Stellaria Pubera
Starry Chickweed is an edible, foraging-friendly weed with a corn-cob-like flavor in its raw form. *Please note though Picking plants and removing objects from the national park not only damages the environment. It is also against the law.
Fire Pink Flower.
The fire pink is a member of the carnation family. The brilliant flowers attract the ruby-throated hummingbirds, one of the species’ primary pollinators.
Spring Beauty - Claytonia virginica
Spring Beauty
This attractive wildflower is a sure sign that spring has arrived and that the local woodlands are full of wildflowers.
Purple Phacelia
Purple Phacelia
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

Posted on October 2, 2020 by - Blog, Smoky Mountains

Black Bear Cub Climbing Tree in Smoky Mountain National Park

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

  • 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.

Black Bear in the Great Smoky Mountains

Photograph by Randy Ratliff

  • 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.

  • 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.

Large Elk calling into the Great Smoky Mountains

Photograph by Randy Ratliff

  • 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.

  • 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.

Duckling siblings in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park

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. 

  • 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.

Black Bird in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park

Photograph by Randy Ratliff

  • 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.

  • 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.

Frog in water in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park

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.

Beaver in the Smokies

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

Winter Activities Abound in the Smokies: Here are Our Top 5 Favorites

Posted on November 9, 2018 by - Activities, Blog, Smoky Mountains

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.

Your Group will Love the Campgrounds in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Posted on August 14, 2018 by - Blog, Smoky Mountains

With the summer coming to a close faster than you expected, there’s never been a better time to get in that last-minute camping trip to the Smokies! Here on the peaceful side of the Smokies, you’ll find plenty of camping opportunities that you and your family will love. Easy access to the Little Pigeon River, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and many other natural attractions make camping in the Smokies perfect for your summer getaway.
Where to Go Camping in the Smokies
Blount County is perfect for camping in the Smokies, for many reasons. Here on the peaceful side of the mountains, we have many family-friendly attractions that are ideal for a relaxing, leisurely vacation. Bring your RV to Whispering River RV Resort, or try staying at Carpenter Campground in Maryville. Many of the local campgrounds have park-like settings with playground equipment, access to streams where you can fish, and other activities right there in the campground.
Glamping, Cabin Rentals, and Other Camping Alternatives
If you prefer something a little more stylish for your camping adventure, Blount County campgrounds do also offer “Glamping” tents and cabin rentals. You can stay in luxury and enjoy a unique camping experience, while still getting to be close to all the beautiful natural sights in the area. The Little Arrow Outdoor Resort is the prime location to check out glamping tents, tiny homes, and luxury cabins. The area also has a dog park, so you can bring the whole family along for the fun.
Easy Access to the Exciting Fun All Around the Smokies
One way that camping in Blount County will excite your entire group of campers is the easy access to the nearby fun of places such as Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. You can enjoy the beauty of the mountains, the small-town atmosphere, and the peaceful pace of Blount County – and they can check out Dollywood, or many of the other fun activities just a short drive away. Don’t forget to take a hike through the many walking trails in Blount County that lead you through the beautiful mountains.
Leisure and Wanderlust Come Together When You Go Camping in the Smokies
This area is perfect for scratching your itch to travel, while still having a very pampered vacation. You can absolutely get close to nature with camping fun, and still have plenty of luxury. From delicious local fine dining, luxury amenities in many of the campgrounds, to nearby spas and resorts, and lots of other relaxing or romantic things to do all around, you won’t find a better place to combine your sense of adventure with your desire to relax.
Pack up your family today and head to the Smokies for a fun camping adventure that will please everyone!