Long before DoorDash and Instacart, rolling stores delivered essentials to Blount County residents who couldn’t make a quick run to town. Trucks or retrofitted buses followed regular routes, stocked like a compact general store.
America had traveling merchants long before the term “rolling store” existed. But the model changed once motor vehicles became more common. A driver could carry more goods than a peddler on foot or a wagon could manage and cover longer distances. By the early to mid-1900s, rolling stores were a part of everyday life in many rural communities.
Interior of Murphy Brothers’ Rolling Store (1937). This Tennessee Valley Authority photo offers a helpful example of how rolling stores may have been stocked and arranged in nearby Appalachian communities, including Blount County. Tennessee Valley Authority; National Archives. Public domain.
By the 1940s and into the early 1950s, rolling stores were still part of the landscape here, especially in rural areas. In Snapshots of Blount County History, Volume II, Dean Stone (1924-2016) writes that Charles K. Walker, Henry Ernest Simms and A. W. Walker were among the last to operate rolling stores locally, with as many as five stores operating at a time.
AI-generated reimagination of a Blount County rolling store truck based on a description in Snapshots of Blount County History, Volume II by Dean Stone (details include steps at the rear, a chicken coop above the cab and a kerosene tank). Image generated with OpenAI’s DALL·E, 2026.
One rolling store Stone describes was built on a 2 ½-ton Dodge truck chassis, with steps at the back for customers to climb in. A wooden coop for live chickens rode above the cab, and a kerosene tank often sat on the “back porch” area to supply lamps and stoves, back when kerosene was commonly called coal oil. During World War II, rolling stores were especially useful, since gasoline and tires were rationed.
Although mobile, rolling stores had a home base. According to Stone, many were headquartered at Walker’s Cash Store on Montvale Road, just south of Magnolia Cemetery. Walker’s trucks had the store’s phone number painted on the side, 865-R.
As roads improved and more families had reliable transportation, the rolling store became less necessary. But the tradition of independent grocery stores still has a place in Blount County.
Amburn’s Market exterior and interior. Photos courtesy of Blount Partnership.
In Maryville, Amburn’s Market is one example. The market traces its roots to 1952, when Virgil Amburn began selling fruit from the trunk of his car. Today, it’s known for market-style shopping with a focus on seasonal produce and regional goods, including fresh produce, dairy and eggs, plus locally sourced meats.
A few minutes away, Horn of Plenty Marketplace offers another independent option with a farm-market feel. The shop has local products and specialty items. Along with produce, you’ll find a mix that leans giftable and pantry-friendly, as well as a small nursery on site.
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.
RT Lodge, an approachable luxury retreat nestled in nature on the historic Maryville College campus, has unveiled plans for two new spaces – The Carriage House spa and the Meeting House, to offer an immersive experience for locals, travelers and corporate guests.
The lodge, renowned for its welcoming hospitality, inviting accommodations and gourmet dining, is expanding to feature a serene day spa and modern meeting space set among old growth trees.
Named after the updated 1930s Carriage House it occupies, the spa will offer facials, massages, an infrared sauna and comprehensive body treatments to accommodate individuals, couples and groups.
“The Carriage House spa will offer peaceful views and personalized hospitality for respite and rejuvenation,” said Beth McCabe Holman, president of RT Lodge. “Guests are invited to experience a massage, enjoy champagne, and take in natural surroundings under the arbor outside or from lounges thoughtfully positioned with tree views.”
The Carriage House will feature seven treatment rooms, including one designed with couples in mind. A wet bar will serve champagne, rosé and white wine. Guests may also order cuisine from a distinct spa menu and explore curated retail offerings, including HydroPeptide facial lines, comfort essentials like robes and pajamas, and eventually even signature RT Lodge products.
The boutique retreat also will unveil The Meeting House this fall, offering an escape from the routine for overnight events, weddings, corporate retreats and gatherings.
“We invite guests to leave the grind behind and collaborate among the trees,” Holman said. “The Meeting House at RT Lodge comprises reclaimed wood beams, peacock paver floors and glass walls that immerse you in the surrounding woods, offering distraction-free comfort that allows your group to be fully present together.”
Available for overnight guests, the space can accommodate up to 75 people and offers modern audiovisual amenities.
Local firms Johnson Architecture and Joseph Construction are overseeing the design and construction of both new facilities.
The boutique lodge already offers cozy overnight accommodations, gourmet cuisine and complimentary bike rentals. The new Meeting House and Carriage House spa will enhance and complement these offerings to create an immersive retreat experience in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains.
Guests can enjoy fine dining at The Restaurant at RT Lodge and creative cocktails in the Morningside Room. Overnight guests will enjoy the nourishment of a hot breakfast including eggs, bacon and homemade breads and pastries.
RT Lodge is located in charming Maryville, Tennessee, only minutes away from McGhee Tyson Airport, metropolitan Knoxville and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
RT Lodge announced the retirement of General Manager Gary Doyle, whose leadership has shaped the property for more than two decades. Doyle will remain on RT Lodge’s board of directors but will pass the role of general manager to seasoned hospitality executive and Blount County native Kelley Harris at the end of this month.
RT Lodge, an approachable luxury retreat in Maryville, Tennessee, offers cozy overnight accommodations, MICHELIN Recommended fine dining at The Restaurant at RT Lodge, creative cocktails in the Morningside Room, full-service Carriage House day spa and distinctive meeting spaces. It is located only minutes away from McGhee Tyson Airport, metropolitan Knoxville and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Doyle joined RT Lodge in 2004 after an already distinguished career that included serving more than 10 years as innkeeper and manager at Blackberry Farm during its formative years in the 1980s and early 1990s. Later, Doyle opened and operated the beloved Bistro by the Tracks. Over his 20 years at RT Lodge, Doyle has guided the property through significant growth and milestones, including the recent addition of the new Carriage House spa and Meeting House gathering space and earning a coveted MICHELIN Recommendation.
“After more than two decades at RT Lodge, this place has become a part of who I am,” Doyle said. “Stepping away is bittersweet, but it brings me such comfort to know the Lodge is entering its next chapter under someone who understands the heart of hospitality. Kelley’s leadership style and passion for hospitality are exactly what this extraordinary property and its remarkable team need.”
Stepping into the role is Harris, a respected figure in regional hospitality with more than 20 years at Blackberry Farm, where she built its renowned event programming and led guest experience departments and world-class spa operations. For the past two years, Harris has served as part of the Oldham Hospitality leadership team, helping the company grow its lodging, food and beverage, and retail businesses. Harris brings a deep understanding of the RT Lodge experience, strong appreciation for its team and shared vision for its next chapter alongside Executive Chef Trevor Stockton.
“It is a true honor to follow in Gary’s footsteps,” Harris said. “His leadership and dedication have shaped RT Lodge into a place beloved by guests, staff and the community. I’m grateful for the opportunity to build on that legacy. I’m excited to invest myself fully in the continued success and growth of this extraordinary property.
“The team here is exceptional, and I look forward to everything we will accomplish together. I am also deeply grateful for the partnership of owners Beth Holman and David and Annie Colquitt – their vision and genuine passion for hospitality are inspiring, and I’m excited to work alongside them as we guide RT Lodge into its next chapter.” RT Lodge celebrates Doyle’s remarkable contributions and looks forward to welcoming Harris as she helps guide the property into its next chapter of elevated guest experiences and renewed community connection.
Sam Houston is best known for his leadership during the Texas Revolution and his presidency of the Republic of Texas, but he also has strong ties to the Peaceful Side of the Smokies. Born on March 2, 1793, in Timber Ridge Church, Virginia, Houston was the fifth of nine children. Following the death of his father in 1806, his family moved to a 419-acre farm in Maryville, Tennessee.
Young Houston didn’t get along with his family and was frustrated about his new responsibilities on the farm. At 16, he ran away to live with a band of Cherokees on the Tennessee River. Chief Oo-loo-te-ka (“He who puts away the drum”) became a father figure to Houston, giving him the name Co-lon-neh (“The Raven”).
By this time, most Cherokees were settled farmers and hunters, living in 60 to 70 loosely formed bands. Chief Oolooteka’s band comprised 82 men, 98 women, 66 horses, 170 head cattle, 242 hogs and 32 spinning wheels. The people lived in wigwams, dome-shaped shelters covered in bark or hide, while Chief Oolooteka had a two-story frame house.
Houston would visit Maryville and purchase gifts for the Cherokees, like ammunition and blankets. In the spring of 1812, he decided to move back to town to repay his debts. Despite little formal education, he became a teacher, charging $8 per term. Students could pay one-third in cash; one-third in corn; and one-third in calico cloth, the material he made his shirts with.
From May to November, Houston taught a variety of subjects, including reading, writing, arithmetic, history, classics and German. He allowed the students a break in July for the crop harvest.
Following his teaching stint, in 1813, Houston joined the U.S. Army and served under General Andrew Jackson during the Creek War. Houston’s valor during the Battle of Horseshoe Bend in 1814 earned him severe injuries, but it also secured Jackson’s lifelong mentorship.
Jackson appointed Houston as the Indian Subagent in 1817. The next year, the U.S. started to implement a controversial treaty that forced the Cherokee to cede their lands in Tennessee in exchange for new territory west of the Mississippi River. Houston was tasked with removing his Cherokee foster family from Tennessee, an assignment he carried out despite its emotional toll. He ensured that the treaty’s promised provisions—such as blankets, rifles and rations—were supplied to the Cherokees.
In 1818, Houston encountered another challenging situation when he accompanied a Cherokee delegation to Washington, D.C., to meet President James Monroe. Houston appeared at the White House in traditional Cherokee dress, which offended John C. Calhoun, the Secretary of War. Calhoun reprimanded Houston and accused him of participating in the slave trade. Although Houston swiftly cleared his name, the incident prompted him to resign from his role as Indian Subagent. This series of events created a lasting rift between Houston and Calhoun.
Houston set out to study law in Nashville, passing the bar in just six months. He opened his own practice in Lebanon, where he could be close to Jackson. From there, his political career took off. He was appointed Adjutant General of Tennessee in 1818 and Attorney General of the Nashville district.
In 1823, Houston was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, largely due to the backing of Andrew Jackson and his machine. He leveraged his position to support Jackson’s presidential bid. After serving a second term, he successfully ran for the governorship of Tennessee in 1827.
Houston was on his way to a national career in politics, but his personal life turned things upside down. At 35, he married 18-year-old (or 19-year-old, according to some sources) Eliza Allen of Gallatin. After just 11 weeks, she moved back home with her parents and refused Houston’s efforts to reconcile.
To this day, the cause of the marriage’s failure remains a mystery. However, the incident, along with his reputation for public drunkenness, led him to fall out of favor with the public. On April 16, 1829, Houston resigned as the Governor of Tennessee. He decided to reunite with the Cherokees in Indian Territory, modern-day Oklahoma, where they had been forcibly relocated.
Soon thereafter, Houston became a Cherokee citizen and married Tiana Rogers (c. 1799-1838), a woman of mixed English and Cherokee descent. During his three years in Indian Territory, Houston operated a trading post and continued to be notorious for his heavy drinking.
Houston eased back into politics, travelling to Tennessee, Washington and New York as a peacemaker and representative for the Cherokee, Osage and Creek tribes. His political momentum picked up after a dispute over a Native American issue with William Stanbery, a U.S. Representative from Ohio. After being reprimanded by the House of Representatives for assaulting Stanbery, Houston fully resumed his political career, with a new chapter awaiting him in Texas.
Visitors to Maryville can explore Sam Houston’s legacy at the Sam Houston Schoolhouse, a one-room log cabin where he taught as a young man. The site offers an immersive experience, allowing students of all ages to engage in colonial-era school activities, including games and traditional chores. Additionally, a bronze monument of Houston, recently installed at the Maryville Municipal Building, honors his life and legacy in Tennessee.
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.
Taste of Blount returns to Maryville for its 23rd year.
Written by: Emily Huffstetler
From concerts and festivals to workshops, markets and family fun, September on the Peaceful Side is packed with ways to celebrate community and the outdoors. Here’s a preview of what’s in store.
September 4 – Taste of Blount The 23rd Annual Taste of Blount takes over Theater in the Park in Maryville, right across from the Blount County Courthouse. From 6 to 8 p.m., sample savory favorites from local restaurants, caterers, food trucks and gourmet grocers.
September 4 – Songs by the Brook Concert Series Settle into a beautiful evening at Springbrook Park in Alcoa with Americana, folk and blues music performed by regional and local musicians. Concerts run from 6 to 9 p.m. with food vendors on-site.
September 4 – Inklings! A Writing Club Join published authors KB and Ted for the first meeting of this new writing group at Neighborly Books in Maryville. Writers of all ages and genres are welcome to share work, ask questions and receive professional feedback. It starts at 6:30 p.m.
September 4 – Community Canvas: Group Art Exhibition The Clayton Center for the Arts in Maryville hosts a wide-ranging exhibition featuring East Tennessee artists, running through October 26. Mark your calendar for the Artists’ Reception on October 16 at 5:30 p.m.
September 5 – The Tasting Table Sip, learn and connect at Vienna Coffee Company in Maryville during this free coffee tasting event. Drop in any time from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
September 5 – Drivin N Cryin VOLS of Honor Benefit Classic rock favorites Drivin N Cryin return to The Shed in Alcoa for a benefit concert supporting the VOLS of Honor scholarship endowment at UTK. Music begins around 7:30 p.m.
September 5 – Sunset Series: Blue Ridge Gathering Catch an unforgettable neo-traditional performance by Blue Ridge Gathering at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center amphitheater in Townsend. The show runs from 7 to 9 p.m., with food and drink available on-site.
September 6 – Maryville Farmers Market Shop fresh produce, baked goods and handmade crafts from local vendors at Founders’ Square in Downtown Maryville. Open from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. every Saturday through November.
September 6 – Cornhusk Wreath Workshop Make a fall-themed wreath at Louisville Mercantile, using natural corn husks, seed pods, pumpkins and more, from 9 to 11 a.m.
September 6 – Songwriters Showcase The Bird and the Book in Maryville hosts local songwriters for an evening of original music, from 6 to 8 p.m. Free admission with food and drinks available.
September 7 – Gotta Tri Youth Triathlon Kids ages three to nine can bike, run and splash their way through this family-friendly triathlon at Springbrook Pool in Alcoa. This friendly competition runs from 1:30 to 4 p.m.
September 10 – Friendly Ghost & Fall Crafts Celebrate spooky season early at REO Cheesewagon in Maryville, where you’ll create whimsical ghost art and autumn-scented wax melts in this hands-on workshop. It begins at 6 p.m.
September 12 – Morgan Wade with Boy Named Banjo Spend the evening with two powerhouse acts when Morgan Wade and Boy Named Banjo take the stage at The Shed in Alcoa. Music begins around 7:30 p.m.
September 12 – Landslide: A Tribute to Fleetwood Mac Experience the iconic music of Fleetwood Mac live at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center in Townsend. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and the show begins at 7:00.
September 13 – Folk Medicine: Fire Cider Workshop At the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center in Townsend, learn to make Fire Cider, a traditional herbal remedy that boosts immunity, aids digestion and fights inflammation. The workshop runs from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.
September 16 – Cheese and Quiet Bring a blanket, book or podcast and enjoy a calm, cozy evening with good cheese and good company at REO Cheesewagon in Maryville, from 5 to 8 p.m.
September 18 – Jewelry Class: Spider Pendant Get creative at Creative Spark Studio in Maryville as you craft a wire and gemstone spider pendant with step-by-step instruction. Designed for ages 15 and up.
September 18 – Fall Bow Making Add seasonal charm to your home with a bow-making class at Louisville Mercantile, where you’ll design three custom bows for wreaths, gifts or décor.
September 18 – One Night in Memphis Relive a legendary jam session with Elvis, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins at the Clayton Center for the Arts in Maryville. This high-energy tribute brings all four icons together for one unforgettable night. Music starts at 7:30 p.m.
September 19–20 – Outdoor Enthusiast Expo This two-day celebration at Maryville College brings together hunters, anglers, hikers, birders, paddlers and nature lovers through hands-on activities and shared learning. Evening talks on conservation showcase how diverse outdoor communities protect ecosystems for future generations.
September 20–27 – Plein Air Smokies Watch acclaimed artists paint in and around the Great Smoky Mountains, with proceeds benefiting Tremont Institute.
September 20 – Fall Market Browse local vendors, enjoy live music and savor brunch and coffee during the Fall Market at Southern Grace Coffee Co. in Maryville, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
September 20 – Fresh Flower Arranging Workshop Design your own seasonal floral arrangement with guidance from Burton’s Bloomers during this creative workshop at Louisville Mercantile, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
September 20 – Oktoberfest Raise a stein with guest breweries, costume contests and competitions at Peaceful Side Social in Townsend. Festivities run from 12 to 8 p.m.
September 22 – Blount County Recycling Center Tour Take a behind-the-scenes look at local recycling programs with Keep Blount Beautiful during a guided tour of the Blount County Recycling Center, starting at 9 a.m.
September 23 – Hiking Clinic Learn about trail terrain, gear and nutrition during this evening clinic hosted by Little River Trading Co. in Maryville. Registration is required for hike participation. The clinic begins at 5:30 p.m.
September 24 – Pressed Flower Workshop Sip craft beer while making pressed-flower art in this cozy hands-on class at Tri Hop Brewery in Maryville, beginning at 6 p.m.
September 25 – Songs & Stories Lee Zimmerman hosts an evening of storytelling and songcraft with local musicians at Peaceful Side Brewery in Townsend. Free admission from 6 to 8 p.m.
September 26–28 – Naturalist Skills Join a weekend course on nature observation, journaling and outdoor connection at Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont.
September 26 – Community Benefit Sale Shop gently used items to support over 20 local charities during the monthly benefit sale at New Providence Presbyterian Church in Maryville, from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.
September 27 – Dash for Trash Volunteer for a family-friendly litter cleanup with Keep Blount Beautiful, followed by snacks and giveaways at Blackhorse Pub & Brewery in Alcoa. The cleanup runs from 10 to 11 a.m.
September 27 – Smart Cycling Course Learn safe bicycling skills during this free class at the Blount County Public Library in Maryville, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
September 27 – Blue Ribbon Country Fair The Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center in Townsend transforms into an old-fashioned county fair with farm animals, heritage demonstrations, skillet-throwing and games. Festivities run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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.
While some national park services are limited during the federal shutdown, Townsend and Blount County remain open and welcoming. Great Smoky Mountains National Park itself is still accessible, but with fewer staffed facilities, some visitors may want additional options to round out their trip.
Tourism is essential here. In 2024, visitors contributed more than $610 million to the local economy. With so much to see and do beyond the park’s boundaries, this is the perfect time to discover more of the Peaceful Side of the Smokies. Here are our top picks.
Camping and Glamping
Townsend offers a range of camping options, from riverside retreats to luxury glamping. Little Arrow Outdoor Resort combines comfort with adventure, offering everything from tiny homes and Airstreams to community events, a pool, hiking trails and even onsite massage. Big Meadow Family Campground, a long-time favorite, provides spacious RV sites, family amenities and 24-hour security.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Vee Hollow Campground pairs full hook-up sites with direct access to a 14-mile mountain bike trail system, while the new Smoky Waters Campground offers a more traditional, affordable camping experience just minutes from Cades Cove. In Walland, Whispering River Resort features riverside cabins, primitive campsites and over 1,000 feet of access to the Little River.
Dining
Townsend and Blount County offer a wide range of restaurants, from casual spots to special-occasion dining. Visitors looking for budget-friendly options can explore our guide to restaurants $16 and under, while those interested in elevated meals can find recommendations in our fine dining guide.
Trails and Walks
The Townsend River Walk & Arboretum offers a peaceful riverside stroll, complete with whimsical fairy villages in the Children’s Discovery Garden. The Maryville-Alcoa Greenbelt Trail spans 18 miles, connecting parks, a library and Maryville College. For a deeper sense of place, the Shadows of the Past Trail in Townsend leads walkers through 13 historic sites across 10 miles.
Heritage and Attractions
History runs deep in Blount County. The Great Smoky Mountain Heritage Center spans 7,000 years of culture, from Native American life to pioneer days. The Sam Houston Schoolhouse, the oldest school in Tennessee, preserves artifacts that reveal the area’s educational history. The Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum highlights the industry that shaped Townsend, while Tuckaleechee Caverns offers an underground escape of towering formations and clear streams.
Local Artisans
Shopping local directly supports the people who call the Peaceful Side home. The Townsend Artisan Guild and Gracehill Fine Art & Basketry highlight local creativity, while Wood-N-Strings Dulcimer Shop showcases hand-crafted Appalachian instruments. Each purchase helps sustain a maker’s way of life—just in time for the holiday season.
Still planning a trip to the GSMNP? Check the park’s official “Plan Your Visit Alerts” page before arriving.
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.
As a gateway to the Smoky Mountains, Blount County ranked eighth among Tennessee’s 95 counties in 2024 visitor expenditures at $610.9 million, a six-percent increase from $576.1 million in 2023, according to the Economic Impact of Travel on Tennessee Counties report issued by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development and Gov. Bill Lee.
On an average day, visitor spending generated $1.7 million in daily expenditures, $600,000 in daily labor income and $67,353 in daily local tax collections. In total, visitor spending in Blount County generated $24.6 million in local tax revenue meaning that each household in the county saw a $1,063 annual tax savings.
Davidson County, which includes the city of Nashville, topped all county indices with $11.2 billion in tourism economic impact. Shelby County was second at $4.2 billion, Sevier third at $3.9 billion, Knox was fourth at $2.1 billion and Hamilton fifth at $1.8 billion. Williamson County entered in sixth with $1.4 billion and Rutherford County was seventh at $787.6 million. Montgomery and Wilson counties at $419.5 and $370.7 million, respectively, round out the top 10.
“It’s wonderful to witness the ongoing growth of the tourism industry throughout the state, especially here in Blount County, where we’ve experienced record-high visitor spending,” said Kim Mitchell, Director of the Smoky Mountain Tourism Development Authority. “As the leisure and hospitality industry stands as the state’s third-largest employer, it’s crucial that we keep promoting our region, which offers abundant outdoor activities and a wide range of dining and lodging choices.”
Tourism employment in the county was at an all-time high of 4,952 which also led to an all-time high payroll of $218.8 million.
State tax receipts for the county totaled $33.3 million, marking the ninth consecutive year of reaching at least $20 million.
Statewide, Tennessee’s tourism industry broke records for the fourth consecutive year in 2024, generating $31.66 billion in direct visitor spending and welcoming 147 million visitors. Tennessee saw a 12% year-over-year increase in international travel spending. This is notable because the report does not consider impacts from new direct flights from Iceland and Ireland added in Spring 2025. Those impacts will not appear until next year’s report.
Tennessee direct visitor spending has grown 36.6% over 2018 compared to the US AVG growth of 17.4% per data from Tourism Economics.
“I’m so grateful to our amazing tourism and hospitality industry for these remarkable results,” said Mark Ezell, Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. “The Tennessee Tourism team has been able to leverage bigger tourism budgets to help grow visitor spending over 36% in these last six years. We are leading the nation as one of just a few states that are aggressively growing tax revenue from non-Tennessee residents to benefit all seven million Tennesseans.”
Smokies Life CEO Jacki Harp (right) and Smokies Supervisory Park Ranger Lisa Nagurny examine an aquatic creature found in a nearby stream during an Experience Your Smokies session last fall. Join Harp for a special meet-and-greet and leisurely hike along the Fighting Creek Nature Trail on Oct. 8. Photo courtesy of Experience Your Smokies–Tennessee.
Written by: Smokies Life
Smokies Life announces its fall schedule of Branch Out events, with 19 total activities and adventures being offered between mid-September and December. From moderate-to-robust naturalist hikes on park trails to engaging virtual events enjoyed from home, Branch Out programs offer activities for a wide range of interests.
“Fall is an ideal time for engaging with the natural and cultural treasures of the Smokies, and Branch Out events are a wonderful opportunity to deepen one’s connection to the park,” said André Brousseau, Smokies Life membership engagement specialist. “In addition to being a fun way to explore the park’s vast biodiversity and rich cultural history with like-minded folks, each Branch Out event is designed to be educational, as all sessions are led by knowledgeable naturalists and guides.”
Membership in Smokies Life, a nonprofit partner of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is required to attend; annual Park Keeper memberships start at $40. Currently, 28,000 Park Keepers help Smokies Life support the perpetual preservation of Great Smoky Mountains National Park by funding efforts that promote greater public understanding and appreciation through education, interpretation and research.
Fall 2025 Branch Out schedule
On Sept. 27, join entomologists Jim and Leslie Costa, the 2025 Steve Kemp writer and illustrator in residence, to learn about the most commonly found insects in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Photo of pleasing fungus beetle courtesy of Michele Sons.
The late September lineup is perfect for lovers of living creatures, from birds to insects. During Look Rock Hawk Watch on Sept. 23, birders will work as a team to identify, count and report raptors and other species of birds that fly by on their way south for the winter. Search the skies once more during Birding: The Missing Link on Sept. 25, and spot birds migrating back to the tropics for the winter. Insects of the Smokies are in the spotlight on Sept. 27 during an event led by entomologists Jim and Leslie Costa — the 2025 Steve Kemp writer and illustrator in residence.
October brings a variety of activities that will appeal to Smokies lovers. On Oct. 1, join actress Anne Van Curen on Grandma Gatewood’s Walk to discover what it was like, in 1955, to be the first woman to solo hike the Appalachian Trail. Learn about the monarch butterflies, their life cycle, migration patterns and when they are expected to arrive in the Great Smoky Mountains during Monarch Butterfly Tagging on two separate dates: Oct. 4 and Oct. 7.
In celebration of World Migratory Bird Day —and to contribute to community science efforts — observe and count bird species at Kuwohi, Newfound Gap, Sugarlands Visitor Center, Metcalf Bottoms and Cades Cove on Oct. 11. Photo courtesy of Smokies Life.
On Oct. 8, join Smokies Life Chief Executive Officer Jacqueline Harp for a Stroll with the CEO, a meet-and-greet and leisurely hike along the Fighting Creek Nature Trail. In celebration of World Migratory Bird Day on Oct. 11, observe and count bird species at locations throughout the park. Then enjoy a ramble with a naturalist while looking for and learning about Elk in the Smokies! on Oct. 18.
On Oct. 31, participants will enjoy plant life, wildlife and scenery on a guided, 5.2-mile, medium-impact hike along Rich Mountain Trail to Cerulean Knob, the site of the old Rich Mountain fire tower. Photo courtesy of Smokies Life.
Take time for mindfulness during a Forest Bathing Guided Walk on Oct. 22, and experience the restorative benefits of the forest. Find another opportunity to learn about Mammal Tracks and Traces, this time in Townsend, Tennessee, on Oct. 25. Wrap up the month with a medium-impact hike during the Rich Mountain Naturalist Ramble on Oct. 31.
The November and December lineup is perfect for bird aficionados and those interested in events with little-to-moderate physical activity. During the Little Greenbrier Naturalist Ramble on Nov. 5, discover the natural and cultural history of the area. Explore the basics of nature journaling, practice observational drawing techniques, and use reflective prompts to deepen awareness in an online webinar, The Art of Nature Journaling, on Nov. 10.
In Sparrow Identification on Nov. 11, learn to identify the various sparrow species found in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and then apply your new skills in the field at Secret Life of Sparrows on Nov. 18. Spot and identify Regal Raptors and Owls on Nov. 30 in Cades Cove, and then enter the winter season with one last 2025 Branch Out opportunity — Quiet Time in the Smokies on Dec. 3 —to discover plant life, wildlife and tracks while hiking in Townsend Wye.
Cost for Branch Out events: For Park Keepers, $45; To join and attend, $85 (Park Keeper basic membership $40 + event registration $45). This pricing applies to all programming except the Oct. 8 Stroll with the CEO, which costs $15 with membership. Participation fees are essential in helping to cover the costs associated with planning and hosting. All additional revenue supports the projects and services of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. For more info, see SmokiesLife.org/branch-out-events/ or email [email protected].
Smokies Life is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the scientific, historical and interpretive activities of Great Smoky Mountains National Park by providing educational products and services to park visitors. Smokies Life depends on the generous support of its members to fulfill its mission, preserving the Smokies for generations to come. Proceeds from members’ dues and retail stores also support dozens of seasonal rangers and interns who protect and interpret the 800 miles of trails, 100 historic structures and 21,000 documented species of life preserved in the park. For more information about Smokies Life and to join, visit SmokiesLife.org.
Amid the ongoing federal government shutdown, the nonprofit Friends of the Smokies will continue to provide funding to ensure Great Smoky Mountains National Park remains open with basic visitor services and limited staffing from Nov. 3, 2025, through Jan. 4, 2026. The latest agreement allows the popular Cades Cove Loop Road to remain open to the public along with all visitor centers and picnic areas that are normally open this time of year.
Friends of the Smokies joined a partnership of state and local entities that funded the reopening and full staffing of the national park from Oct. 4 through Nov. 2. During that time, all furloughed park employees returned to work, received paychecks, and continued their efforts to serve visitors and protect the park during the busiest tourism month of the year. Great Smoky Mountains National Park attracts an average of more than 1.6 million visitors each October.
As the national park transitions to a relatively slower visitation season, the latest agreement from Nov. 3, 2025, through Jan. 4, 2026, will reduce the funded staff positions to those directly related to basic visitor services. Many park employees will be furloughed if the shutdown continues beyond Nov. 2.
The official agreement to keep the park open is specifically between Sevier County Government and the National Park Service. Under the arrangement, Sevier County pays the federal government directly and the other partners pay their share to Sevier County. The funding effort has been supported by Sevier County, the cities of Gatlinburg, Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, Blount County, the State of Tennessee’s Department of Tourism, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, and Friends of the Smokies.
Under the Nov. 3 through Jan. 4 agreement, the total cost to keep the park open with basic services and reduced staffing is approximately $80,000 per week. The State of Tennessee will contribute $25,000 of that weekly total while the remaining seven partners provide $7,000 weekly. Fees collected by the national park for recreation and parking will also be used to fund essential operations.
“This is a tough time for our partners in the national park,” said Dana Soehn, President and CEO of Friends of the Smokies. “Friends of the Smokies is proud to help fund staffing through the holidays so emergency services, restrooms, and visitor centers can remain open when visitation is high. Still, we’re deeply saddened that critical work – treating hemlocks, repairing trails, and preserving historic cabins will pause due to furloughed staff. Caring for this park is year-round work, and the best news will be a fully funded park with an end to the shutdown.”
The upcoming nine-week agreement ensures previously planned events will continue even if the shutdown persists. That includes the Cades Cove Loop Lope 10-mile and 5K race scheduled Nov. 9, 2025. The race is one of the major annual fundraisers for Friends of the Smokies and is the only official footrace held inside the national park. The event sold out within 24 hours when registration opened in June and attracted participants from 28 different states.
There are also several school activities scheduled in the national park in November. The agreement provides funding for the park’s education staff to work part-time during those student events to allow them to continue as planned. Special use permits for weddings and other previously scheduled events will also be allowed to proceed.
Restrooms, campgrounds, picnic areas, and visitor centers will remain open and accessible to the public on the park’s normal seasonal schedule. Parking tags will still be available for purchase and are required for anyone parking in the Smokies for more than 15 minutes.
Please note there are many seasonal closings that naturally occur in Great Smoky Mountains National Park regardless of the shutdown. That includes several campgrounds, picnic areas, and roads that close during the colder months. See the park’s seasonal facility schedule for more details. Roads can also close in the park due to weather conditions, as is often the case at higher elevations such as Newfound Gap Road and Kuwohi Road. Check the park’s Current Conditions page for the latest closure information.
Apple Valley Mountain Village welcomes Smoky Mountain Outdoor Center (SMOC) as they announce their Grand Reopening scheduled for Friday, June 18th through Sunday, June 20th, 2021. Smoky Mountain Outdoor Center moved to its newer and larger Apple Valley Mountain Village location under new ownership and has been undergoing renovations and upgrades. Finally complete, on the first weekend of this summer, visitors will be invited to help celebrate with activities, adventure classes, special guests, live music, and specials throughout the Village!
SMOC also announces a new partnership with Smoky Mountain Guides, a skilled group of professional guides and educators offering numerous adventures and tours. “Partnering with SMG just made sense,” says SMOC owner Mark Oldham, “When we approached SMG about teaming up, they were instantly excited. We can’t wait to accommodate SMOC guests and Townsend visitors with great outdoor adventures like fly fishing, kayaking, guided hikes, backcountry adventures, and van tours to favorite mountain destinations. We have the apparel to make any adventure more enjoyable,” says Oldham, while noting that Smoky Mountain Guides has been featured in the Southern Weekend, Travel Channel, and the History Channel.
During the Grand Reopening celebration on Saturday, June 20th, visitors will be invited to enjoy free beginners fly fishing classes on the SMOC lawn where participants will learn to cast and practice for prizes. Also being offered on the 20th, a guided flat-water kayaking excursion will depart from the SMOC store, free guided nature and history hikes will be available, and demonstrations from local search and rescue teams on the SMOC porch. Also on the day’s itinerary are guest ranger Q&As from the National Park Service (NPS), and book signings from regionally-acclaimed authors. Activities will begin at 10am and end at 4pm. In addition to Saturday’s activities, SMG will be offering 20% off any future guided tours booked between Friday, June 18th and Sunday, June 20th, 2021.
Guests can also play Spin-the-Wheel for prizes and big discounts on featured brands including The North Face, Chaco, Keen, Howler Brothers, HydroFlask, ENO, Costa, Benchmade, and more.
In addition to the classes and specials at SMOC, guests can also enjoy Village wide discounts at the General Store, Apple Valley Cafe, and the Dancing Bean Coffee House.
The complete itinerary for the 20th will be posted on the SMOC website at www.smoctn.com and social media.
The Smoky Mountain Outdoor Center is location in the Apple Valley Mountain Village in Townsend, TN only 4 miles from the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, giving it unique access to adventure opportunities in the Smokies. “We listen to our customers’ wants and needs at SMOC,” says Jon McMahon – manager at SMOC. “We want our customers to know they can ask questions, learn about the products we have here, plan an excursion, or simply pick up a forgotten outdoor essential while visiting and we are here to help them along the way. We hope they will come by and see us for the Grand Reopening, take a class, enjoy some free popcorn and goodies, spin the prize wheel, make some new friends and maybe go kayaking or fly fishing with SMG. No matter what, we just want them to enjoy the NEW Smoky Mountain Outdoor Center as much as we do!”
In early 2017, the Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson family was rocked by the sudden and untimely death of 23-year-old Sean Summerfield. Sean was a resident of Maryville and graduated from William Blount High School in 2011. Sean “Little Sean” Summerfield practically grew up at Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson. He began working there at the age of 15 when his father Mike, also a member of the Smoky Mountain family, volunteered him for an open wash bay position. By 16, Little Sean was riding his Sportster every day to school and then working afternoons and weekends at the dealership. It was obvious from the beginning that Harley-Davidson was in his blood. He absorbed everything from those around him, building and modifying his own motorcycle and working on all sorts of special projects for the dealership. Little Sean was the inspiration for Smoky Mountain H-D’s High School Bike Build Off and was a key member in the development and promotion of the Smoky Mountain Scrambler projects. For all that knew him, his “Summerfield Smile” was contagious; his sense of adventure filled others with life. He was a real-life James Dean and his memory will live forever in all of us.
To memorialize his life, Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson has created the Sean Summerfield Memorial Scholarship to be awarded to a child of a SMH-D employee or Blount Co student. The scholarship is funded by the annual Smoky Mtn Cannonball Run event. The Cannonball Run will consist of teams of motorcycle riders using their navigation skills to hit as many checkpoints as possible within a 7-hour timeframe. Checkpoints are located all over East Tennessee within a 100-mile radius of SMH-D. Registration for riders to participate is $25 and is available online at smh-d.com. The event will occur rain or shine on April 30th with the day of registration opening up at SMH-D at 8 am. All riders must be registered by 11 am to participate. Donations will also be accepted online and on the day of the event. At 6 pm we will be handing out thousands in cash and prizes to winners of the event, the 2022 Scholarship winner will be announced prior to the concert, and conclude the evening with live music at The Shed located next door to Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson, featuring Tuesday’s Gone: The Ultimate Lynyrd Skynyrd Tribute Concert. The concert is free for those who participate in the run.
What: Smoky Mtn Cannonball Run
When: April 30 at 11 a.m.
Where: Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson, 1820 W. Lamar Alexander Pkwy., Maryville, TN 37801
More info can be found on our website and social media outlets.
Inspired by her own sober journey and the growing Non-Alcoholic (NA) movement, Lindsay Elsten created Daisy’s as a place where you don’t have to explain why you aren’t drinking. The menu boasts a variety of handcrafted mocktails, functional beverages, zero-proof spirits and NA beers and wines.
Around the holidays, office parties, family gatherings and New Year’s toasts tend to revolve around alcohol. Daisy’s offers a different kind of celebration with festive zero-proof cocktails. The Salty Grinch uses Lion’s Mane and ginger for a warming, slightly salty sip, while The Sweet Cindy layers classic winter flavors with ashwagandha and valerian root for a calmer, cozier night.
If you’d like to pair your mocktail with plans, Daisy’s has a full calendar of events this month.
From 7 to 10 p.m., sample a flight of mocktails, including a Rosemary Grapefruit Paloma, Elderberry Gin & Tonic and Mint Mojito with Lime. All options are vegan, gluten-free and low in calories.
Every Sunday from noon to 5 p.m., enjoy a generous brunch buffet with cozy favorites, seasonal dishes and Daisy’s soon-to-be-famous Bloody Mary “Meal,” plus spirit-free cocktails crafted to order.
From 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., enjoy an intimate holiday concert featuring cello and violin, festive zero-proof drinks and light bites. Tickets are $30 in advance or $40 at the door.
Starting at 3 p.m., wear your ugliest sweater to unlock 20% off any gift card purchase all day. Stick around for the 5 to 8 p.m. sweater contest, followed by a holiday movie and board games from 8 to 11 p.m.
From 5 to 7 p.m., husband-and-wife duo Tony and Mary Negron bring warm harmonies and acoustic soul to Daisy’s for an early evening of live music and good company.
Celebrate from 5 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. with hourly countdowns from 6 p.m. to midnight, table games and conversation, plus a $15 special that includes Southern-style cornbread, collard greens and a zero-proof toast.
Planning your own event? Daisy’s doubles as a mobile NA bar service. They offer alcohol-free bar packages for weddings and rehearsal dinners; corporate events and team-building; birthdays, showers, graduations and family gatherings; and community workshops and advocacy events. Learn more at www.daisysnabar.com.
Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and passionate storyteller of the Greater Smokies region.
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