Category: Uncategorized

The Early 20th Century on “The Peaceful Side of the Smokies”, Through Postcards

Posted on October 24, 2024 by - Blog, Uncategorized

Written by: Emily Huffstetler

The early 20th century marked a period of transformation for the Peaceful Side of the Smokies. Following the forced removal of the Cherokee people in the late 1830s, European settlers brought new developments to the region. The advent of commercial logging at the turn of the century drastically altered the natural landscape and sparked conversations about conservation. Browse through these vintage postcards and experience the Peaceful Side as it was over 100 years ago.

“The Smoky Mountains, Little River“

This postcard, postmarked in Maryville on Sept. 24, 1912, captures a tranquil view of the Little River. The Little River begins at Clingmans Dome, the highest peak in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and gains strength as it reaches the foothills.

In 2022, a resolution was passed to restore Clingmans Dome’s original Cherokee name, Kuwahi, which means “mulberry place.” The headwaters of the Little River, considered sacred by the Cherokee, remain a significant cultural landmark today.

Image Source: Great Smoky Mountains Post Cards

“Loading Logs near Elkmont, Little River Lumber Co.“

Image Source: Great Smoky Mountains Postcard Collection, 1910-1955, MS.3745

The Little River Railroad and Lumber Company, established in 1901, built 150 miles of railroads and sawed 560 million board feet of timber along the Little River and its tributaries. The last logs came out of the mountains in 1939, 15 years after the establishment of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP).

“In the heart of the Smokies. Elkmont, Tenn. Altitude 2,428 ft.”

Image Source: Great Smoky Mountains Postcard Collection, 1910-1955, MS.3745

Elkmont began as a hunting camp, but in the early 1900s, the Little River Railroad and Lumber Company turned it into a logging town. Once the company started offering train service for passengers, Elkmont became a popular getaway for wealthy locals, especially in the summertime.

“Falls, Appalachian Club, Elkmont, Tenn.”

Image Source: Great Smoky Mountains Postcard Collection, 1910-1955, MS.3745

In 1910, the Little River Railroad and Lumber Company subdivided Elkmont, selling 50 acres to the Appalachian Club, a group of wealthy Knoxville businessmen. A few years later, three brothers from Knoxville purchased 65 acres and opened the Wonderland Hotel. Both clubs closed in the early 1990s, after their rental agreements with the Tennessee state government ended. Today, Elkmont hosts the most popular campground in the GSMNP.

“In the Smoky Mountains Near Maryville, Tennessee“

Image Source: Ridley Wills Postcard Collection, MS.3781

This snapshot of the Peaceful Side of the Smokies, near Maryville, was taken by Bayard Wootten (1875-1959). Wootten was a pioneering female photographer from North Carolina who became the first woman to serve in the North Carolina National Guard as “Chief of Publicity.” In this role, she used her photography to raise public awareness and support for the Guard. Wootten was also among the first women in the U.S. to take aerial photographs. Throughout her career, she produced over a million images.

“In the Appalachian Range”

Image Source: Great Smoky Mountains Postcard Collection, 1910-1955, MS.3745

Mailed from Maryville to Knoxville on July 3, 1912, this postcard provides a glimpse into early 20th-century tourism in the Great Smoky Mountains. In the foreground, two women wear white cotton dresses, serving as a reminder of how much outdoor fashion has evolved over the past century.

Interested in learning more about the history of the Peaceful Side of the Smokies? We’re home to a variety of free and low-cost museums.

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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.

The Pink Marble History Beneath Friendsville

Posted on July 31, 2026 by - Blog, Uncategorized

Written by: Emily Huffstetler 

The 1924 map identifies 26 quarry sites along the marble belt around Friendsville, based on a 1921 survey. Courtesy of the Tennessee Geological Survey.

On a 1924 map of western Blount County, 26 quarry sites crowd the countryside around Friendsville. Together, they trace a belt of stone stretching roughly 16 miles from the former community of Morganton toward Louisville.1,2 

Many of the buildings that once supported the industry are gone. Much of the stone also left Blount County before it was polished, carved or installed, so Friendsville was often left out of the story.1,4,5 

Despite its name, Tennessee marble is limestone rather than true marble. Its color, durability and ability to take a high polish made its pink, rose, red and brown varieties popular for floors, walls, stairways and other architectural details.3 

An Industry Takes Shape 

Commercial quarrying took hold in western Blount County after the Civil War. John J. Craig Company became one of the area’s leading producers.1,4 

John J. Craig entered the marble business in 1878. His company opened its main Friendsville quarry in 1896 and, by 1903, had built a tram road connecting the property to the railroad. A mill equipped with eight gang saws processed stone sold as Pink Tennessee and Dark Cedar.1,4 

Railcars carried Craig stone to New York, Chicago, Houston, St. Louis and San Francisco. The company also sold marble overseas, including to buyers in Italy and Australia.1,4 

In 1926, Craig expanded the site with a brick gangsaw building, an employee commissary and worker housing. Steel derricks lifted blocks from the pit, while belt-driven saws cut them for shipment.1 

The Craig quarry’s 1926 gangsaw building and steel derricks remained standing when the site was documented in 1988. Photo courtesy of the Tennessee Historical Commission.
Original belt-driven machinery remained inside the gangsaw building when the quarry was documented in 1988. Photo courtesy of the Tennessee Historical Commission.

Where Friendsville’s Name Disappeared 

The Friendsville quarries supplied raw material, but much of the finishing happened in Knoxville.4,5 

In 1914, Craig and several business partners established Candoro Marble Company in South Knoxville. Candoro handled milling, finishing and shipping for a network of quarry operations that included Craig’s Blount County properties.4,5 

The former Candoro Marble Works cutting facility in South Knoxville was built in 1914. Photo by Brian Stansberry via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 3.0.

Craig maintained a local presence, too. In the late 1930s, the company converted a former bank near the Friendsville railroad tracks into an office and showroom with marble floors and wainscoting.4 

After the stone left Friendsville, records might name only the company that finished it or identify it simply as “Tennessee marble.”4,5 

From the Marble Belt to National Landmarks 

The National Register nomination for the Craig quarry credits its Friendsville operation with interior marble used in the National Gallery of Art’s West Building in Washington, D.C. The project drew on three East Tennessee companies and stone from several quarries.1,4

The local industry remained active well after the Gallery opened in 1941. Blount County had eight working marble quarries in 1962. At six of those sites, crews were extracting stone for a new Smithsonian building that became the Museum of History and Technology, now the National Museum of American History.4 

One of the clearest Friendsville connections came from the Endsley Quarry. Tennessee Valley Marble supplied stone for the First Amendment tablet installed on the Newseum’s 74-foot-tall Pennsylvania Avenue facade. Crews quarried 278 tons to obtain 50 tons with a consistent appearance.6 

The First Amendment tablet on the former Newseum showed the pale pink color of Tennessee marble. Photo by David Monack via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0 US.

After the Newseum closed, the tablet was moved to the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia. Installation was completed in January 2022.7 

The Industry Continues 

By the late 20th century, many of East Tennessee’s historic marble companies had closed. The Craig family retained its Friendsville quarry property until 1982.1,4 

The Craig quarry pit was still active when the property was documented for the National Register in 1988. Photo courtesy of the Tennessee Historical Commission.

The modern Tennessee Marble Company was founded in 1993. It is separate from an earlier company that operated under the same name during the mid-20th century.4,9 

The company supplied Tennessee Dark Rose marble during Grand Central Terminal’s 1990s restoration.8 In 2007, it acquired Tennessee Valley Marble’s assets, including additional quarry and mineral rights.9 

Grand Central Terminal’s Main Concourse, where Tennessee marble was used in the flooring. Photo by D. Benjamin Miller via Wikimedia Commons, CC0 1.0.

In 2014, the company purchased 70 acres associated with the historic Craig property, joining that land with its Brown Quarry holdings along the marble belt. Tennessee Marble Company also operated the Endsley Quarry as a source of Dark Pink marble.10

In November 2025, Raider Quarries LLC, an affiliate of Silvara Stone, acquired Tennessee Marble Company’s operational assets. The new owners announced plans to continue supplying the company’s established marble varieties and fabricating custom stone projects.11 

Today, marble is still quarried and fabricated in Friendsville, more than a century after the area became one of East Tennessee’s major centers of production.10,11 

For a more comprehensive look at where Tennessee marble has been used around the world, visit the Tennessee Marble Company’s project directory.

Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and storyteller of the Greater Smokies region. She holds a Master of Science in Conservation Education from Mississippi State University.     

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1 National Park Service — John J. Craig Quarry Historic District National Register Nomination

2 Tennessee Geological Survey — Marble Deposits of East Tennessee, Bulletin 28, “Marble Belt of Friendsville and Vicinity,” Plate 2

3 Episodes Journal of International Geoscience — “Tennessee ‘Marble’: A Potential Global Heritage Stone Resource”

4 National Park Service — Marble Industry of East Tennessee, ca. 1838–1963

5 National Park Service — Candoro Marble Company Showroom and Garage National Register Nomination

6 Knoxville News Sentinel — “Newseum Showcases Tennessee Pink Marble”

7 National Constitution Center — “50-Ton First Amendment Tablet From Newseum Façade Now on Display”

8 Tennessee Marble Company — Grand Central Terminal

9 Stone World — “Tennessee Marble Co. Acquires Tennessee Valley Marble”

10 Stone World — “Tennessee Marble Continues to Make History”

11 Stone World — “Tennessee Marble Company Under New Ownership”

The Six Sisters Who Kept One of the Smokies’ Last Homesteads  

Posted on March 31, 2026 by - Blog, Uncategorized

Written by: Emily Huffstetler 

View of the Walker sisters’ cabin from the trail. Photo by Emily Huffstetler.

Just beyond Townsend, a quiet trail leads to one of the Smokies’ best-preserved homesites. Starting at Metcalf Bottoms, the 3.4-mile route passes Little Greenbrier Schoolhouse and follows an old roadbed to a preserved cabin, springhouse and corn crib. Six sisters, all unmarried, lived here together as the surrounding land became Great Smoky Mountains National Park. 

John and Margaret Jane Walker raised 11 children in Little Greenbrier: seven daughters and four sons. The sons left home or married, and one daughter, Sarah Caroline, married and moved away. 

John Walker, father of the Walker sisters, poses with cherries from his orchard. He was a blacksmith, carpenter, miller and farmer. NPS Archives.

Margaret Jane, Mary Elizabeth ‘Polly,’ Martha Ann, Nancy Melinda, Louisa Susan and Hettie Rebecca remained on the family farm, which was fully in their hands after their father’s death in 1921. Martha and Polly were engaged to be married, but their fiancés both tragically died in work accidents.  

The seven Walker sisters in 1909. Front row, left to right: Margaret, Louisa and Polly. Back row, left to right: Hettie, Martha, Nancy and Caroline. Photo by Jim Shelton, 1909.

The sisters lived off the land and worked for what they had. They tended herb and vegetable gardens, raised sheep and hogs, spun and wove cloth, sewed clothing and preserved food by pickling, smoking and salting. 

When Congress authorized the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in 1926, land buyers began negotiating for private property across the region, including the Walkers’ 122-acre farm.  

Hettie, Martha and Louisa Walker gin cotton at the family farm. Photo by Edouard E. Exline, 1936. Library of Congress.

The sisters resisted several offers. A NPS report says they worked with an attorney and asked for $7,000 after a 1939 appraisal of $5,466. Faced with condemnation, they ultimately accepted $4,750 and a lifetime lease. 

The lifetime lease came with limits. Park rules barred hunting, fishing and grazing livestock. Tourists also began visiting what became known as Five Sisters Cove.  

The National Register notes that the sisters were “at first suspicious and shy” around park visitors, but they gradually warmed to them. They even made souvenirs to sell, including tiny baskets, toys, crocheted doilies and fried apple pies. 

By the mid-1940s, the sisters had become part of the Smokies visitor experience. A 1946 Saturday Evening Post feature invited readers to “spend a leisurely autumn afternoon with the Walker sisters” in Little Greenbrier Cove. The article described visitors gathering around the kitchen fireplace while beans simmered over hickory logs and bread baked on the hearth.  

One of the fireplaces inside the Walker sisters’ home. Photo by Emily Huffstetler.

It framed the Walkers’ lifestyle as practical, not primitive. “Why, they reason, should anyone want to worry about changes and improvements when the ground is so fertile, one of their two cows is always fresh, their spring flows freely, and heavy forests around them provide all the fuel they need?” 

Polly died in 1945, Hettie in 1947 and Martha in 1951. By 1953, only Margaret and Louisa remained at the homestead. With more work than the two could manage alone, they wrote to the park superintendent and asked that the sign directing visitors to their homesite be removed. 

“We are not able to do our work and receive so many visitors, and can’t make [souvenirs] to sell like we once did and people will be expecting us to have them, last year we had so many people it kept us [busy] from sun up till sun down,” the sisters wrote. 

The Walker cabin at Little Greenbrier. Photo by Emily Huffstetler.
Corn crib. Photo by Emily Huffstetler.

The Walker sisters’ three-room, two-story log home in Little Greenbrier still stands at the end of the old roadbed that once brought visitors to their door. Some of their belongings are preserved in Townsend at the park’s Collections Preservation Center. 

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. 

Tiny Treasures in Townsend, TN 

Posted on July 9, 2026 by - Blog, Uncategorized

Written by: Emily Huffstetler 

Townsend is all about slowing down. Look closer, and you’ll find the small stops many visitors miss, from a bakestand under a great oak tree to a neighborhood book box and faerie villages along the River Walk. Some are tucked along roadsides, others are hidden in plain sight, but all are worth the hunt.

Bakestand on Schoolhouse Gap Road 

Photo: Carli Williams, Bakestand on Schoolhouse

A small bakestand opened this spring at 909 Schoolhouse Gap Road. It offers a rotating selection of fresh baked goods, including cookies and baguettes.

Hours are Wednesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to dusk. Follow the Bakestand on Schoolhouse Facebook group for updates on what’s in stock. 

Little Free Library on Tiger Drive 

Outside the Townsend Municipal Building at 133 Tiger Drive, a Little Free Library gives visitors and neighbors a place to swap books. Take a book, leave a book. The library is sponsored by the Blount County Friends of the Library and listed as Charter #57896. 

Chicken Feet Fleet Farm Egg Stand 

Photo: Chicken Feet Fleet Farm

Chicken Feet Fleet Farm is a veteran-owned small family farm in Townsend specializing in free-range eggs and produce. At 1027 Dry Valley Road, the farm keeps a self-serve roadside stand stocked with fresh eggs on weekends and select weekdays. 

The selection depends on the day and season, but if the “open” sign is up, eggs are available. Sometimes, they also offer homemade bread, butter and jelly, announced on their Facebook page. 

Townsend River Walk & Arboretum 

The Townsend River Walk & Arboretum is full of small discoveries. Along the walk, find faerie villages, painted stones, wood spirits, a hand-carved bear, the Townsend Express train, nature play areas, tree markers and other small details that reward a slower pace. 

Families can also use the Adventure Lab app to follow “Welcome to the Townsend Riverwalk and Arboretum,” a self-guided hunt along the trail. 

Geocaching Around Townsend 

Photo: Geocaching.com

Townsend has other treasures you can only find with the Geocaching app. Geocaching is an outdoor treasure hunt that uses your phone’s GPS to guide you to hidden caches nearby. 

Several Townsend caches are free to access with a basic Geocaching account, including Capt’n Dave’s Flying Pig near the Little River, Choo Choo Stop at the Little River Railroad & Lumber Company Museum, An Apple a Day at Apple Valley Mountain Village and Our Smoky Mountain Heritage at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center. 

A traditional geocache usually contains a small container and a logbook. When you find it, sign the log and return the cache exactly where you found it. Some caches include small trade items; the idea is to take something and leave something of equal or greater value. 

Additional caches in the area may require a paid Geocaching Premium membership. 

The next time you’re in Townsend, leave a little room in the day for the places you didn’t plan to find.

Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and storyteller of the Greater Smokies region. She holds a Master of Science in Conservation Education from Mississippi State University.     

Townsend Fall Heritage and Bluegrass Festival Canceled Due to Hurricane Helene

Posted on September 26, 2024 by - Uncategorized

In consultation with local authorities and out of an abundance of caution due to expected inclement weather produced by Hurricane Helene, the Blount Partnership made the difficult decision to cancel the Townsend Fall Heritage and Bluegrass Festival scheduled for September 27-28 at the Townsend Events Center in Townsend.

With the safety of attendees, performers, and vendors as the top priority, this decision was made in light of the significant rainfall and high winds expected in the region as a result of the hurricane. These conditions are anticipated to create hazardous travel and saturated grounds, posing a safety risk for those attending and participating in the event.

This marks the first time in the festival’s 30-plus year history that it has been completely canceled, underscoring the severity of the weather forecast. The festival, a beloved annual celebration of heritage, bluegrass music, and community spirit, will be sorely missed this year, but the decision reflects the Partnership’s commitment to the well-being of all involved.

“While we are deeply disappointed to cancel this year’s event, the safety of our attendees and everyone involved must come first,” said Blount Partnership Communications Director Jeff Muir. “With the saturated grounds and continued rainfall, we could not guarantee a safe and enjoyable environment for our festival-goers.”

The Blount Partnership encourages all those who planned to attend to stay safe and monitor local weather updates. They also extend their gratitude for the ongoing support of the community and look forward to hosting the festival again next year under safer conditions.

Event sponsors are Danielle Snipes Allstate Insurance, Century 21 Legacy, Harvest Thyme, Leaf Filter, Little Arrow Outdoor resort, Renewal by Andersen, Rocky Branch Mountain Music, and Senior Care Partners of East Tennessee.

Townsend, Tennessee: A Hidden Gem Stealing the Spotlight

Posted on November 21, 2024 by - Blog, Uncategorized

Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, Townsend, Tennessee, has long been cherished as the “peaceful side of the Smokies.” But 2024 was its year to shine. This charming small town has garnered national—and even international—recognition, inspiring countless travelers to experience its natural beauty.

From awe-inspiring scenery to unparalleled outdoor activities, Townsend has received glowing praise from major publications. Let’s take a look at how the world has fallen in love with this hidden gem—and why it should be at the top of your travel list.

Southern Living’s Love Letter to the Peaceful Side

Southern Living celebrated Townsend in their East Tennessee Road Trip feature, calling it “a gateway to adventure and serenity.” The article highlighted its proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and its reputation as a quiet haven for families and outdoor lovers.

Another Southern Living piece, Nostalgic Summer Camp Destinations, encouraged readers to embrace a slower pace in Townsend, where simple pleasures like stargazing, hiking, and campfire nights feel timeless.

This desirable locale also made Southern Living’s list of The 10 Best Tennessee Mountain Towns To Visit This Year

Townsend: A Darling Among Small Towns

In AFAR’s Charming Small Towns Near National Parks, Townsend was praised as “a quiet retreat for nature lovers.” Its easy access to iconic locations like Cades Cove and its slower pace were highlighted as perfect for those looking to escape crowds.

Yahoo Lifestyle featured Townsend in its 10 Best Tennessee Mountain Towns roundup, describing it as “a haven for tranquility” and a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

PBS showcased Townsend in a Hometowns episode.

World Atlas Names Townsend a Top Destination

World Atlas couldn’t resist Townsend’s charm, featuring it in multiple articles this year:

Travel + Leisure’s Smoky Mountain Highlight

Travel + Leisure included Townsend in their Guide to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, applauding its blend of small-town charm and gateway access to some of the park’s best hiking trails and scenic spots.

Townsend also made Travel + Leisure’s list of 10 Best Mountain Towns According to Locals. 

Only in Your State’s Springtime Favorite

For seasonal adventures, Only in Your State recommended Townsend as a top destination for springtime exploration in Spring Getaways in Tennessee. The blooming wildflowers, crisp mountain air, and serene vistas make it a must-visit.

Yahoo’s Spotlight on Budget-Friendly Adventures

In another feature, The Cheapest U.S. National Parks to Visit in 2024, Yahoo Lifestyle highlighted Townsend as an affordable gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, emphasizing its budget-friendly lodging and dining options.

PR Magic in Action

This year’s incredible media buzz was partly the result of a targeted public relations campaign that introduced Townsend to 435 million people and boosted county tourism tax revenue by 20%. Interested in the strategy behind this success? Read more about the power of collaboration in this blog post.

Plan Your Visit 

Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat, thrilling outdoor adventures, or a gateway to the Smokies, Townsend is the perfect destination. Come experience the charm that’s captivated national attention—you might just fall in love with the “peaceful side of the Smokies.”

Get started on your adventure today at Smoky Mountains Tourism.

Tremont Institute Hosts Virtual Naturalist Week with Activities for All Ages

Posted on June 10, 2024 by - Uncategorized

From June 17-21, 2024, the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont is hosting Naturalist Week, a free virtual event designed to connect people with nature from wherever they are. Kids and adults are encouraged to explore their backyards, local parks, or any green spaces to notice the nature around them.

Naturalist Week features the Level Up Challenge, where participants earn points by engaging in outdoor activities such as eating a meal outside, following an insect’s travel path, or camping in the backyard. Participants collect 25 points to win a prize and enter a drawing for a custom Tremont experience. Point totals should be submitted online by Monday, June 24 to receive a prize in the mail.

Last year, 56 individuals ranging from 4 to 77 years old from 13 states completed the Level Up Challenge, earning a total of 2,088 points. A local participant shared with event organizers, “I noticed how magical it is to share time and perspectives with someone else while in nature. My daughter and I love similar experiences, but introduced new ways of seeing something to each other.”

On Thursday, June 20, Tremont is hosting The Big Day, a challenge to document as many species as possible, including plants, mammals, fungi, insects, birds, and lichens. For each observation shared on Tremont’s website or social media, a generous donor will donate a dollar to support Tremont’s environmental education programs.

“Over the last two years, we have stories of people exploring with their grandkids, taking intentional time outside during lunch breaks at work, and discovering nature mysteries in their backyards,” said Tremont’s Marketing Director, Erin Rosolina. “It’s incredibly heartening to see people explore biodiversity and find wonder in their own outdoor spaces.”

To wrap up the week, Tremont is hosting a family-friendly happy hour at Yee-Haw Brewing Company in Knoxville on Friday, June 21, from 6 to 10 p.m. A dollar from each pint sold will support Tremont’s programming.

Virtual Naturalist Week is taking place at the same time as an in-person Naturalist Week on Tremont’s campus inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The in-person event is an overnight environmental camp for adults, and includes several of the same activities as the virtual event, including The Big Day. A few spots remain for the in-person Naturalist Week camp; learn more at gsmit.org/event/naturalist-week.

Though not required to participate, Tremont encourages donations to Naturalist Week; the funds raised throughout the week will support the nonprofit’s year-round work to connect people of all ages with nature, both through on-campus experiences in the Smokies and educational outreach in the surrounding communities.

Learn more about Naturalist Week activities, including the Level Up Challenge and species documentation, at gsmit.org/naturalist.

Tremont Writers Conference now accepting applications

Posted on February 7, 2024 by - Uncategorized

Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont is pleased to announce the second annual Tremont Writers Conference, an intensive five-day retreat for writers of fiction, nonfiction and poetry coordinated in partnership with Smokies Life, formerly Great Smoky Mountains Association. Applications to participate in the event may be submitted online now through April 30 at writers.gsmit.org.

Tremont Writers Conference,

From Wednesday, October 23, through Sunday, October 27, a small group of selected writers will join renowned authors and professional park educators on Tremont’s campus in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Participants will enjoy brainstorming and fine-tuning their work with award-winning author workshop leaders while also learning and writing throughout the day.

Morning workshops in fiction, nonfiction and poetry will take place outdoors, led by faculty members Monic Ductan (fiction), David Brill (nonfiction) and Maurice Manning (poetry). Guest author Frank X Walker, the first African American Kentucky Poet Laureate and workshop leader at the 2023 conference, will lead several sessions for the entire group, including a guided discussion on the craft of writing. Each afternoon, writers will join experienced Tremont naturalists for guided explorations that spark curiosity and wonder through a deeper connection to the region’s cultural and natural history. Evenings will conclude with hearty dinners, fellowship with peers, and readings by writing faculty. Meals and lodging are provided.

“A sense of community came from the gathering of creative souls dedicated to their crafts — attendees seeking growth and honing, and leaders sharing their insights and guiding us with their experience,” said writer and photographer Michele Sons who participated in the inaugural Tremont Writers Conference in October 2023, which brought together 20 writers from all over the country. “By stepping out of my comfort zone, I gained confidence in my writing, and I came home with concrete ways to improve my manuscript based on the feedback of our leaders and the group at large.”

Applications for the October conference should be submitted no later than April 30. Acceptance to conference workshops is based on manuscript evaluation, with chosen writers notified by July 14. Additional information about the Tremont Writers Conference and complete 2024 application guidelines can be found at writers.gsmit.org.

Tremont Writers Conference now accepting applications

Posted on January 21, 2026 by - Uncategorized

Tremont Writers Conference

Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont is pleased to announce the fourth annual Tremont Writers Conference, an intensive five-day retreat for writers of fiction, nonfiction and poetry coordinated in conjunction with Smokies Life. Applications to participate may be submitted online now through May 15 at writers.gsmit.org.

Held Wednesday, Oct. 21, through Sunday, Oct. 25, the conference on the Tremont campus invites participants to brainstorm projects and fine-tune their work alongside award-winning author workshop leaders and professional park educators in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This year’s faculty members include guest writer and “New York Times” best-selling author Ron Rash; recent Kentucky poet laureate and memoirist Crystal Wilkinson (leading the nonfiction cohort); celebrated playwright and Knoxville poet laureate Linda Parsons (poetry cohort leader), and award-winning Cherokee novelist Kelli Jo Ford (leading the fiction cohort).

“This is a rare opportunity for writers to work closely with authors they admire in a setting as immersive as it gets: the Smokies,” said Frances Figart, conference co-director and creative services director for Smokies Life. “We keep the retreat intentionally small — choosing writers who are deeply engaged with their work and excited to challenge themselves in a new setting. It’s that level of collective commitment that bolsters the creative process and makes the experience so productive for our writers.”  

Faculty members will lead daily morning group workshops and also mentor writers in optional one-on-one sessions throughout the retreat. Each afternoon, experienced Tremont naturalists will guide participants in activities meant to create a deeper connection to the region’s cultural and natural history. Evenings will conclude with group dinners, fellowship and readings by the featured authors. Meals and lodging are provided.

“Like all of Tremont’s programs, roughing it (a little!) is part of the experience,” said co-director Jeremy Lloyd, who serves as Tremont’s manager of field and college programs. “Most of the workshops take place outdoors, where we can take in and be inspired by our beautiful natural surroundings — with fewer distractions from the modern world. This format is part of what makes the Tremont Writers Conference unique, paving the way for more meaningful connections with workshop leaders and fostering a sense of community among participants.”

Acceptance to conference workshops is based on evaluation of submitted writing samples, with all writers notified of their acceptance status by mid-July. One conference participant will be selected to receive the Debbie Ellis Scholarship in the amount of $1,000. The scholarship is funded by Ron Ellis in memory of his late wife, Debbie, who channeled her love of the Tremont area into her writing, including “Elkmont Settlement: A Microcosm of Appalachian Challenges,” in “Perspectives in History” (Northern Kentucky University, Vol. XXIII, 2007-2008).

Also available to select 2026 participants is the $5,000 Laurel Rematore Tremont Writers Conference Scholarship, distributed between three or more chosen writers whose attendance is dependent on financial aid. The scholarship’s namesake, the former CEO of Smokies Life, strongly believed in the power of the arts and was integral to the retreat’s founding.

Applications for the October conference should be submitted no later than May 15. Additional information about the Tremont Writers Conference and complete 2026 application guidelines can be found at writers.gsmit.org.

Tremont Writers Conference is created, managed and produced as a joint partnership between Smokies Life and Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont. It brings writers of fiction, nonfiction and poetry to an ancient and wild setting, where they can receive feedback from established authors, connect with writing peers and find renewal and inspiration. In addition to creative workshops, writers will join experienced Tremont naturalists for guided explorations that spark curiosity and wonder.

Try Something New in Maryville: Banjos, Billiards, Biking and More 

Posted on July 25, 2025 by - Blog, Events, Uncategorized

Written by: Emily Huffstetler 

In Maryville, Tennessee, trying something new doesn’t have to mean taking on a big commitment. You don’t need to train for a marathon, sign up for a six-month course or spend a fortune on gear. Around here, a fresh experience might look like biking a new trail, rolling up to a jam session or stepping into a yoga class for the first time. 

If you’re looking to add a little variety to your week, here are a few low-key options happening regularly around town. 

Community Benefit Sale 

Fourth Fridays | 8:30–11:30 a.m. | New Providence Church 

Each month, volunteers host a large community sale in the church gym. You’ll find secondhand clothes, housewares, toys, seasonal items and more. Proceeds support over 20 local charities, and the sale’s been running for more than 50 years. Arrive early and keep your elbows out to snag the best deals. 

Splatter Vault at Creative Spark Studio 

Photo courtesy of Creative Spark Studio.

By reservation | Creative Spark Studio 

You get a canvas, 30 minutes and a room designed for making a mess. The Splatter Vault is a paint-flinging, low-stakes way to try something creative without worrying about the outcome. Protective gear is provided, and you leave with a unique work of art. 

Maryville College Downtown Center Workshops 

Photo courtesy of Maryville College.

Ongoing | Maryville College Downtown Center 

The Maryville College Downtown Center, recently established, opens up their hands-on workshops to the community. Recent topics have included cheese making, canning and beginner homebrewing. Visit their website to see what’s up next. 

Maryville Farmers’ Market 

Saturdays | 8:30–11:30 a.m. | Founders’ Square 

Every Saturday from April to November, vendors set up in downtown Maryville selling produce, baked goods, handmade crafts and more—all grown or made by the folks behind the tables.  

Craft vendors join the market once a month. Upcoming dates include Aug. 16, Sept. 20, Oct. 18 and two holiday markets, set for Nov. 8 and 15. 

Brewhouse Flow Yoga 

Saturdays | 10:45 a.m. | Peaceful Side Brewery 

Brewhouse Flow Yoga takes place right inside Peaceful Side Brewery, and it’s as relaxed as it sounds. This all-levels yoga class wraps up with a post-stretch pint and brunch in the taproom. 

Townsend Community Yoga 

Saturdays | 9:30–10:30 a.m. | Peaceful Side Social (Townsend) 

If the brewery flow isn’t your vibe, head just down the road to Townsend for a quiet, beginner-friendly yoga class in Peaceful Side Social’s garage room. 

Cycology Greenway Rides 

Sundays | 4:00 p.m. | Pearson Springs Park 

This is a slow-paced social ride through Maryville’s greenway system. It’s a good fit if you’re just getting back on a bike or want to learn the local trails. Helmets and water are required. 

Cycology Women’s Ride Series 

Saturdays | Through October | Locations vary 

This seasonal ride series is designed for beginner and intermediate women cyclists. Rides are grouped by pace, and you’ll also have access to clinics on everything from basic maintenance to injury prevention. 

Rocky Branch Jam Sessions 

Fridays | 6:00–10:30 p.m. | Rocky Branch Community Center (Walland) 

On Friday nights, musicians with banjos, fiddles, mandolins and guitars gather at an old-school gym for acoustic jam sessions. Just make a short drive to Townsend and stay as long as the music keeps going. Admission is by donation.  

Maryville Billiards 

Photo courtesy of Maryville Billiards.

Open Daily | Downtown Maryville 

This pool room is non-smoking, family-friendly and geared toward both casual and competitive players. It features several Diamond tables and runs regular leagues and tournaments. Cues are available to rent if you’re just dropping in. 

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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.

Tubing the Little River in Townsend, TN 

Posted on June 5, 2026 by - Blog, Townsend, Uncategorized

Written by: Emily Huffstetler 

In Townsend, summer has a way of drawing people to the Little River. 

The river runs alongside the road, slips beneath the trees and winds toward Great Smoky Mountains National Park. For visitors and locals looking to cool off, tubing offers a direct way to experience one of the Peaceful Side’s defining features. 

Townsend has two main tubing outfitters: Smoky Mountain River Rat and River Rage Tubing. Here’s what to know before you go. 

Smoky Mountain River Rat

Smoky Mountain River Rat offers two tubing routes on the Little River in Townsend. The main tubing outpost is located at 205 Wears Valley Road, and Outpost B is located at 8435 State Highway 73. 

The routes include a relaxed float and a more active section with faster-moving water. Tubing is open to children as young as three years old, and dogs weighing 50 pounds or less are allowed on the Main Outpost route. Tube rental and shuttle transportation are included with the tubing pass. 

The 2026 tubing season runs May 23 through Sept. 7. Both outposts are open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The check-in desk closes at 4:30 p.m., and the last river entry is at 5 p.m. 

Day passes start at $21.99 during the regular season, May 23 through June 19 and Aug. 10 through Sept. 7. During peak season, June 20 through Aug. 9, day passes start at $24.99. These rates include the $5 advance booking savings, which applies automatically at checkout when visitors book at least two days in advance. Season passes are $84.99. 

River Rat also offers private riverside cabana rentals for groups who want space by the water. The cabanas are available for families with children younger than three, pregnant women and older adults who want to spend time by the river without tubing the full route. 

Through June 6, Tennessee residents can receive $3 off tubing per person with a valid Tennessee ID. Online reservations are required. Use promo code TUBE26-LOCAL. Group discounts are also available throughout the season for parties of 20 or more. 

River Rage Tubing

Photo: River Rage Tubing Facebook Page

River Rage Tubing is located at 8303 State Highway 73 in Townsend, near the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the road toward Cades Cove. 

The River Rage route is about 1.5 miles long. On average, the float takes one hour and 15 minutes to one hour and 30 minutes, without stops to swim or relax. The actual trip duration depends on the water level. 

This year’s season runs through Labor Day and may be extended if weather allows. Tubers are put on the river starting at 10 a.m., with the last river entry at 5 p.m.  

All-day passes are $25, and season passes are $75 each. The minimum age for tubing is six years old. 

River Rage has changing rooms and portable bathrooms on site. Pets are not allowed. Visitors can book online and view real-time availability. 

River Rat vs. River Rage: Which is Right for You?

Both outfitters get visitors on the Little River, but the details vary by route, price, age requirement and amenities. Here’s a side-by-side look.

Little River Campground

Little River Campground & RV Resort, located at 7261 E. Lamar Alexander Parkway in Townsend, also offers tubing for overnight guests. 

Tube rentals are currently available at the office for $18 each. The campground describes the route as a lazy river experience. Children 12 and under must wear life jackets in compliance with the TWRA, and water shoes are highly recommended. 

While the tubing season is underway, its final day depends on conditions. To confirm availability before booking, call Little River Campground at (865) 738-3665. 

After spending time on the Little River, consider giving back. The Little River Watershed Association supports conservation, education and recreation along the river through donations, volunteer cleanups and community programs. 

Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and storyteller of the Greater Smokies region. She holds a Master of Science in Conservation Education from Mississippi State University.     

Unwrap Adventure: Giftable Experiences on the Peaceful Side 

Posted on December 12, 2025 by - Blog, Uncategorized

Written by: Emily Huffstetler 

Sometimes, the best gifts don’t fit under the tree. They’re the memories you make with the people you love and the stories you’ll tell for years to come. Here are our favorite giftable experiences on the Peaceful Side. 

For the Outdoor Adventurer: A Day Out with Smoky Mountain Guides 

Photo: Smoky Mountain Guides

Smoky Mountain Guides offers guided day hikes for all levels, small-group tours, guided backpacking trips, flatwater kayak tours and guided fly fishing in some of the most scenic corners of the Smokies. Their expert guides handle the logistics, while sharing local history and ecology along the way. 

Turn it into a gift: Book an adventure they’ll love and tuck the confirmation into a new pair of hiking socks. 

For the History Buff: A Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center Membership 

Photo: Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center

The Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center is the perfect for anyone who loves local history and Appalachian culture. A membership unlocks unlimited museum admission, free entry to special events like Winter Heritage Fest, Kids Day and the Blue Ribbon Country Fair, plus select concerts, discounts and invitations to member-only happenings. 

Turn it into a gift: Choose an Individual, Dual or Family membership and tuck the confirmation into a local history book. 

For the Beauty Guru: A Facial at Brooke Nix Medical Aesthetics 

Photo: Brooke Nix Medical Aesthetics

Brooke Nix Medical Aesthetics in Maryville turns skincare into a relaxing treat. Guests can choose from a variety of facials and customize the experience with add-ons like a 20-minute face massage, hydration mask, eye and lip treatments, dry brushing, a scalp massage or a soothing hand treatment. It’s an excellent experience for that person who deserves a quiet hour to unwind. 

Turn it into a gift: Pick up a gift card for a facial and include a note to choose their favorite add-on. 

For the Athlete: A Friendly Match at Pickleville Tennessee 

Photo: Pickleville Tennessee

Pickleville Tennessee is East Tennessee’s new go-to spot for pickleball, with climate-controlled indoor courts, outdoor courts, a rooftop lounge and plenty of space to hang out between games. Whether they’re new to the sport or already a pro, it’s a great place to play a friendly match, join open play or take a lesson. 

Turn it into a gift: Reserve a court for your crew and pair the confirmation with a new paddle. 

For the Artist: A Class at Creative Spark Studio 

Photo: Creative Spark Studio

Creative Spark Studio in Maryville is a DIY art studio where you can drop in for “Art Any Time” projects like string art, alcohol ink tiles, acrylic pours, rock painting, pottery painting and glass fusing, or sign up for a specialty class or workshop. It’s an all-skills-welcome space that makes it fun to try something new. 

Turn it into a gift: Purchase a class or studio gift card and tuck it into a nice sketchbook. 

For the Golfer: A Round at Wild Laurel Golf Course 

Photo: Wild Laurel Golf Course

Wild Laurel Golf Course in Townsend is a public 18-hole course tucked into a quiet valley on the Peaceful Side. The course is Audubon International Certified and uses environmentally sound practices, from native wildflower habitat for pollinators to reduced irrigation and water-quality protection. They also have a spacious tavern to unwind after your round. 

Turn it into a gift: Book a tee time for 9 or 18 holes and pair the confirmation with a new hat. 

For the Glamper: A Stay at Little Arrow Outdoor Resort 

Photo: Little Arrow Outdoor Resort

Little Arrow Outdoor Resort in Townsend blends Smoky Mountain scenery with cozy comforts. Guests can choose from cabins, glamping tents, tiny homes, Airstreams and RV sites, all with easy access to the river, pool and hot tub, clubhouse and community firepits. 

Turn it into a gift: Book a weekend camping trip and tuck the confirmation into a campfire mug. 

For the Foodie: Dinner at RT Lodge 

Photo: The Restaurant at RT Lodge

RT Lodge in Maryville is a boutique lodge tucked into the Maryville College woods, and its on-site restaurant was recently recommended in the 2025 MICHELIN Guide to the American South. It serves a seasonal menu with Southern and Appalachian influences. 

Turn it into a gift: Make a dinner reservation and tuck the confirmation into a card for a future evening.  

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.