Category: Uncategorized

Get Married on the Peaceful Side: Wedding Venues

Posted on December 23, 2025 by - Blog, Uncategorized

Written by: Emily Huffstetler

A Peaceful Side wedding marries breathtaking mountain scenery with ease of access. Loved ones from afar can fly in at the McGhee Tyson airport, a quick drive from a multitude of incredible venues. Here’s a glimpse of our favorites.

Blackberry Farm – Walland

Photo courtesy of Blackberry Weddings.

Up to 140 guests

A Blackberry Farm wedding unfolds on an enchanting 4,200-acre estate tucked into the foothills of the Smokies. Their wedding packages accommodate up to 140 overnight guests in a variety of luxurious rooms, cottages and private homes.

Indulge in farm-to-table dining, custom menu planning and exclusive access to upscale venues for your events. Leading up to the wedding ceremony, enjoy curated group activities, from clay shooting to guided hikes, along with a wealth of recreational options.

Country Manor Acres – Townsend

Photo courtesy of Country Manor Acres.

Up to 500 guests

This luxurious 53-acre estate has been owned and operated by the Jopling family for over 30 years, promising exceptional service. Indoor ceremony sites include an upscale party barn, a spacious veranda or an airy tent, while the outdoors offers panoramic mountain views, a dazzling pond and a secluded garden. Any location is available for a private elopement.

Accommodation is available for you and your guests at the Country Manor Inn and Hayloft Sky Cabin, both fully equipped with modern amenities. Just kick back and relax while the experienced staff handles the planning—down to a horse-drawn carriage.

Dancing Bear Lodge & Appalachian Bistro – Townsend

Photo courtesy of Dancing Bear Lodge & Appalachian Bistro.

Up to 200 guests

Experience the magic of a wedding in the Smokies at Dancing Bear Lodge & Appalachian Bistro. This award-winning venue offers exceptional cuisine and a variety of exciting pre-wedding adventures.

Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a grand celebration, their versatile spaces can be customized to suit your vision. Choose from an open-air pavilion, a grand event center, an outdoor lawn with a gazebo, a dining room with a seasonal fireplace or a cozy covered patio.

The Lake at Willow Oaks – Maryville

Photo Courtesy of Willow Oaks.

Up to 200 guests

Willow Oaks is a hidden gem nestled among 150 acres of rolling countryside in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains. The venue’s post-and-beam Granary blends rustic charm with modern elegance, offering a warm and inviting indoor space for celebrations of all sizes.

Exchange vows lakeside with breathtaking mountain views as your backdrop, then enjoy an evening by the hand-forged kettle-style fire pit. A spacious covered veranda ensures a seamless event, rain or shine.

Willow Ridge Special Event Center – Townsend

Photo Courtesy of Willow Ridge Special Event Center.

Up to 200 guests

Willow Ridge Special Event Center offers tranquility and dreamy mountain views. The venue features a bridal suite, grooms’ quarters and a lodge for family to lounge in. Tie the knot on the scenic ridge or beside the magical Willow Pond. Then, dine and dance the night away at the spacious manor, which features a large fireplace for cooler weather.

Wild Laurel Golf Course – Townsend

Photo courtesy of Wild Laurel Golf Course.

Wild Laurel Golf Course boasts private panoramic views of the Smokies. Their clubhouse and veranda are excellent spaces for your ceremony and reception. Make a splash at the pool, bust a move on the dance floor or cozy up by the fireplace—at Wild Laurel, there’s fun for all seasons.

Smith Event Centers – Maryville

Photo courtesy of Smith Event Centers.

Up to 200 guests

Family-owned and operated, Smith Event Centers truly cares about your special day and offers a variety of indoor and outdoor venues. Their popular Smithview Pavilion is situated on four acres of picturesque green space, but still offers the conveniences of the indoors—climate-controlled suites, a kitchen and restrooms.

The historic Browns Creek Bridge, which formerly served as the gateway between the city of Maryville and Townsend, is the perfect spot for a romantic elopement. This moss-covered bridge offers a lush backdrop for your intimate moment (and great photos). With the additional ceremony package, you can invite up to 50 of your loved ones.

RT Lodge – Maryville

Photo courtesy of RT Lodge.

Up to 200 guests; 55 overnight

Concealed in a secluded forest on the historic Maryville College campus, just a few minutes’ drive from the regional airport, RT Lodge offers the perfect balance between serenity and accessibility.

From Friday through Sunday, the property is all yours—elegant dining rooms and common areas, outdoor leisure space and an array of ceremony and reception options. The professionals at RT Lodge guide you through the planning process, and the chef designs his menus based on the best the season has to offer.

The Showroom at Five Points – Maryville

Photo courtesy of the Showroom at Five Points.

Up to 350 guests

This 5,000 square foot venue provides plenty of room for celebration, accommodating up to 350 guests. Originally built in the 1930’s, the space has a life of its own, featuring rustic brick walls and elegant vintage décor. Your guests will enjoy free parking and the quaint outdoor patio.

Skyview at Broadway Social – Maryville

Photo courtesy of Skyview at Broadway Social.

Up to 100 + guests

Located in the heart of Historic Downtown Maryville, this lively 7,000 square foot venue can accommodate up to 100 seated guests. It has a private room for intimate gatherings, a prep/catering kitchen, upscale restrooms and a newly refurbished elevator. A variety of additional amenities are available, including a contemporary bar and bar service, bridal lounge and more.

Tremont Lodge & Resort – Townsend 

Photo courtesy of Tremont Lodge & Resort.

Up to 240 guests 

This venue, nestled in the heart of Townsend just minutes from Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offers an all-in-one mountain wedding escape. The two-level event lodge accommodates up to 240 guests, while up to 130 newly renovated rooms and suites keep everyone just steps from the celebration. With flexible indoor and outdoor spaces, trusted catering partners and resort-style amenities, it’s easy to turn your wedding day into a full Smoky Mountain getaway. 

White Star Station – Maryville

Photo courtesy of White Star Station.

Up to 350 guests

White Star Station, located in Historic Downtown Maryville, brings history to life. The building was erected in 1800 and housed Maryville’s first bus line in 1926, before becoming a magical place to say, “I do” in 2020. At 10,000 square feet, it’s one of the most spacious venues on the Peaceful Side, able to accommodate up to 350 guests and customizable to your desires. Their creative partners can help you design the finer details of your wedding, from entertainment to hair and makeup.

Maryville College & Clayton Center for the Arts – Maryville

Up to 250 guests

Start your married life on 263 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, surrounded by charming historic buildings. Maryville College and the Clayton Center for the Arts, located on campus, have a variety of picture-perfect spots to choose from. If your wedding is planned for June or July, they even offer overnight housing and meals for your out-of-town guests.

The Capitol Theatre – Maryville

Photo courtesy of the Capitol Theatre.

Up to 250 guests

This unique old Hollywood-style venue is an eight-time Wedding Wire Couples’ Choice Awards winner. Receive a stylish introduction when the red curtains reveal you and your sweetheart against a sparkling starry backdrop. The performance stage, 30-foot silver screen, dance floor, and state-of-the art sound and lighting will make the momentous occasion even more special.

The Shed Smokehouse & Juke Joint – Maryville 

Photo courtesy of the The Shed Smokehouse & Juke Joint.

Up to 100 guests

The Shed brings a fun, laid-back twist to your special day with live-music vibes, Southern barbecue and plenty of character. Host your celebration in the Smokin’ Monkey Lounge, ideal for up to 100 guests standing or 50 seated, or customize an outdoor pavilion package that fits your vision. With in-house catering, a dedicated bartender and flexible bar options, it’s easy to throw a memorable, music-filled wedding or rehearsal dinner right next to Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson. 

The Landmark at J. Danforth Mercantile – Maryville

Photo courtesy of J. Danforth Mercantile.

Up to 130 guests

Nestled beneath J. Danforth Mercantile in Historic Downtown Maryville, The Landmark is an intimate brick-lined venue with a classic wood bar and fireplace, ideal for rehearsal dinners, showers and micro-weddings. With space for up to 130 guests and easy downtown parking, it’s a relaxed spot for low-key celebrations in the heart of Maryville.

The Barn Event Center of the Smokies – Townsend

Photo courtesy of The Barn Event Center of the Smokies.

Up to 200 guests

Located minutes from Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Foothills Parkway, The Barn Event Center of the Smokies offers indoor and outdoor wedding spaces with award-winning gardens and a Cantilever Barn. The venue includes a great room with exposed beams and a vaulted ceiling, plus a built-in stage and dance floor. Onsite catering is available, along with AV equipment, lighting, banquet accommodations and a bridal suite for getting ready.

Are you planning a wedding on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies? We’d love to hear about it. Be sure to tag us on social media (@peacefulsmokies).

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Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and storyteller of the Greater Smokies region.

Gracehill Fine Art and Basketry: Not Your Grandma’s Gallery 

Posted on October 4, 2024 by - Blog, Uncategorized

Written by: Emily Huffstetler

Photo courtesy of Kathy Janke.

Grace (noun)—Unmerited divine assistance. 

When COVID-19 struck Townsend, Kathy Janke decided to temporarily close Gracehill Bed and Breakfast and devote herself to her art. 

“I thought, I’ll answer the phone; I’ll take a reservation and pay my bills. But I’m not cooking. I’m not cleaning. I’m just going to work on art,” Janke said. 

Janke had dabbled in oil painting for about 45 years, producing a piece about every five years. Given the unique opportunity to pursue her work seriously, she created seven paintings and 24 baskets in just a couple months.  

When Janke reopened the B&B, her guests found themselves surrounded by her artwork and expressed interest in purchasing it. 

To her delight, she sold everything.  

“At that point, I thought, instead of retiring, I think I’ve got one more business in me,” Janke said. 

Janke had previously pursued a variety of professions and ventures. She majored in Biology at Northern Illinois University, which led to an 11-year career in policework. Then, she and her mother moved to Townsend and spent the next decade running Little River Village Campground (now the Townsend KOA). Afterwards, Janke pursued landscaping. 

Janke built Gracehill Bed and Breakfast and operated it for 20 years before deciding to establish Gracehill Fine Art & Basketry, her very own gallery. 

Photo courtesy of Kathy Janke.

“I made that decision when I was 66. I didn’t think it was going take me until I was 70 to flip the open sign, but that’s how long it was,” Janke said. 

Visitors to Gracehill Fine Art & Basketry are pleasantly surprised by what they discover. Janke’s alcohol ink paintings and Southern Long Leaf pine needle baskets transcend traditional techniques and reflect the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. 

Photos courtesy of Kathy Janke.

Unlike slow-drying oil paints, alcohol inks offer “spontaneity and brilliant color,” Janke said. She made the transition to this medium during the pandemic, finding it to be gentler on a recent shoulder replacement. Through alcohol inks, Janke captures the park’s incredible vistas and flora. 

In a roundabout way, Janke discovered pine needle basketry through her late father. While she was away at college, he gave oil painting lessons to a little girl who lived next door. After he passed away at 48, Janke’s mother chose to give the art supplies to the neighbor, knowing she’d put them to good use. 

Janke’s neighbor had dreams of studying art in college, but her parents disapproved, leading her to pursue a career in heating and air conditioning instead. Decades later, after taking time off work due to cancer, she was cleaning out her basement and stumbled upon the old art supplies. 

“She started dabbling, and now she’s an award-winning pastel artist recognized nationally,” Janke said. 

“In her spare time, she started weaving pine needle baskets. I saw one on her Facebook page and thought that I wanted to try it one day. So, when Covid hit, I did,” Janke said. 

It turned out to be even more exciting than Janke expected. 

Photos courtesy of Kathy Janke.

“I love pine needle basketry because there’s no pattern. You can take it in any direction you want to go. And the basket really does speak to you as you’re working on it, and gives you input on what’s good and what isn’t.” 

Janke teaches classes on both of her favorite mediums. She offers a six-hour class on creating landscapes with alcohol ink and another six-hour class on floral designs. She also teaches a six-hour class on long-leaf pine needle coiling with a porcelain center, as well as a two-day class that involves coloring gourds with alcohol ink before coiling. 

Students at any skill level are welcome. 

“Artists that are very good in one medium usually can slide into another medium a little easier, but, by far, the majority of my students have no artistic background. They have never experimented with art before but are interested. Some are just doing it as a pleasant way to spend the day, and others really want to learn,” Janke said. 

Janke provides everything but lunch. As a self-proclaimed “professional collector of art supplies for 45 years,” she’s happy to share. 

“It’s not like you go out and make a $150 purchase of a pastel set and paper and whatever [else]. You have everything you need to practice and see if it’s something you want to continue with,” Janke said. 

Janke will teach two classes in Tellico Village in March, but she plans to hold everything else at her gallery throughout December and February, March and April 2025. Those interested can call or email Kathy Janke. Her contact information is on her website. 

“From policework, to the campground, to landscaping, to the B&B and now this—I feel like, at 70, this is probably my last job,” Janke said with a chuckle. Most days, except Tuesdays, you can find her at her gallery located at 110 Mountain Ave in Townsend. 

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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.

Grammy-Winning Infamous Stringdusters LIVE at Dancing Bear Lodge

Posted on May 23, 2022 by - Uncategorized

Dancing Bear Lodge in Townsend, TN is excited to announce Grammy Award-Winning artists, The Infamous Stringdusters performing “Live on the Lawn” on Thursday, July 7th, 2022 @ 7:30 pm. This will be an intimate concert event, with only 500 tickets available. The show will open with the Sweet Lillies.

Dancing Bear Lodge boasts an outdoor event venue and has created the most intimate concert setting on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies. “We are excited to host a band as popular as the Stringdusters on our unique Lawn,” says Director of Operations Houston Oldham, “Our venue is one of the most incredible spaces in the Smokies. Guests will get to enjoy the show on an amphitheater style lawn, but with less than 500 people. You won’t get to see the Stringdusters like this again!”

The optional pre-show dinner will be an Appalachian BBQ theme, featuring house smoked baby back ribs, brisket, pulled pork, white BBQ chicken, and an array of Southern-style fixings. The meal will be prepared on site using fresh vegetables from the property gardens and locally sourced and in-house smoked meats and ingredients.

The Infamous Stringdusters will be debuting their 2022 Album release “Into The Fray” Inspired by self reflection and a strong sense of solidarity, the project documents the Grammy Award-winning group’s remarkable growth as instrumentalists as well as songwriters. Released on their own label, Americana Vibes, the collection also firmly establishes the band’s stature on the modern acoustic music landscape, where they’ve built a solid and enduring fan base among traditional and progressive audiences alike.

Tickets are currently available online at www.dancingbearlodge.com. For more information on the
concert and ticket options, please visit here.

Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon and 5K returns to Townsend

Posted on August 30, 2021 by - Uncategorized

Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon and 5K

The Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon and 5K returns to Townsend this year and will take place on September 10 and 11. Participants can race through trails with breathtaking views in an experience they will never forget, whether it be the 13.1 mile half marathon or the 5K “Fun Run.”

The Smokies are America’s most visited national park because of the peaceful areas, picturesque mountains, and wide range of plant and animal life. Runners will have the time of their lives experiencing this magnificent place.

Vacation Races, the organization hosting the event, selects some of the top places in the country for their races.

A race expo, with bib and packet pickup, will take place on Friday, September 10 at Talley Ho Inn located at 8314 TN-73 in Townsend, Tennessee from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Runners will receive a race shirt and are encouraged to bring a bag for vendor giveaways.

All parking will be located at the finish line at Talley Ho Inn with a shuttle to the start line at Heritage High School. The half marathon is set to start at 7 a.m. on Saturday, September 10.

Runners in the 13.1-mile half marathon will ascend over 700 feet and reach a maximum elevation of 1,156 feet. The beautiful views atone for the mostly uphill course.

The 5K “Fun Run” follows the Townsend Historical Trail. It will occur the evening before the half marathon on Friday, September 10 at 6:15 p.m. at Talley Ho Inn.

Those who are up for an extra challenge can enter the Black Bear Double which includes both the half marathon and 5K. These runners will receive additional double medals and one special swag item chosen at registration.

If runners complete the “club hikes” within 72 hours of finishing their race, they will receive a special medallion. These hikes include the Bunion Club, an eight-mile hike along Charlie’s Bunion Trail, or the LeConte Club, a more difficult 11-mile hike along Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte, the third-highest peak in the Smokies. A small pin can also be earned by completing the “Trifecta” that includes activities like visiting Cades Cove, Laurel Falls, and Clingman’s Dome. Details and rules for the clubs and trifecta can be found on the race website. 

The Townsend area offers many options for lodging, but places book quickly. McGhee Tyson Airport is only a 30-minute drive to Townsend and has on-site rental cars. For those traveling from home, there is access through several major highways.

The Blount Partnership Director of Tourism Kim Mitchell finds the convenient travel to the Smokies critical because runners come to the area from over 30 states.

“The Townsend area of the Smoky Mountains is serene and remote, yet it still has the necessary easy access and transportation,” said Mitchell. “We’re excited to host visitors for the race once again, and we hope they have an incredible time surrounded by nature in the one-of-a-kind national park while enjoying our diverse selection of restaurants and accommodations.”

For more information or to register for the Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon and 5K, visit the race website at greatsmokymountainshalfmarathon.com.

For news on similar events, see below:

The Pistol Ultra Run

Black Bear Scamper 5K and Bear Cub Fun Run

Great Smoky Mountains Hot Air Balloon Festival Returns

Posted on July 14, 2021 by - Uncategorized

On August 21, 2021, the Great Smoky Mountains Hot Air Balloon Festival will celebrate its fourth year with high expectations.

Professional balloonists will light up the Tennessee evening sky with an unforgettable glow. A spectrum of hope, happiness, and color will cast over the breathtaking Smoky Mountain sunset like never before. 

The 2021 event will return to the Townsend Visitors Center at 7906 E. Lamar Alexander Parkway from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Everyone will find something to enjoy at this year’s festival. The event will feature food trucks and various local vendors, and kid-friendly activities like face painting and rock climbing. The night will end with a balloon glow from 8 to 9:30 p.m. With exciting new additions in 2021, attendees will be able to experience a variety of festivities. Live entertainment, local crafters, food trucks are just a few of the activities for guests to participate in. Tethered balloon rides will allow attendees to ride and bask in the picturesque scenery from the hot air balloons, weather permitting. Exclusive amenities and perks will be available to those who purchase a VIP package.

 “After a tough year for so many, and having to cancel in 2020, we have spent months making sure this event is our best one, yet,” said CEO of Oldham Hospitality Mark Oldham. “We are fortunate to be able to host this event against the backdrop of Townsend’s scenery, and appreciate everyone’s hard work in making the event possible.  The Great Smoky Mountain Hot Air Balloon Festival will create unforgettable memories and experiences for attendees for years to come.”

Since the event has grown to over 10,000- plus attendees, guests of this event are encouraged to book their stay in Blount County and the Townsend area in advance. For a list of accommodations, places to eat and things to do in Blount County, attendees can visit www.smokymountains.org/plan-your-trip.

Festival admission is $5.00, and parking will be available for purchase in advance at $25.00, or on-site the day of the event. Tethered rides are now available at $25.00 per rider weather permitting.

VIP packages are $150.00 per person. This includes festival parking, VIP shaded, premium tent seating, First Flight Tethered Rides, dinner by CJ’s Tacos, Beer and non-alcoholic beverage service, exclusive restrooms, and a commemorative festival t-shirt.

For more information on the Great Smoky Mountains Hot Air Balloon Festival, visit gsmballoonfest.com. 

Have a Family-Friendly Spring Break on the Peaceful Side 

Posted on February 14, 2025 by - Blog, Uncategorized

Written by: Emily Huffstetler

Looking for the perfect spring break destination? The Peaceful Side of the Smokies is just the place. With a wide range of outdoor activities, educational experiences and opportunities to unwind, there’s something for everyone in the family. 

Take a guided tour of the Smokies. 

Smoky Mountain Guides offers a variety of full-service tours for all ages and abilities. 

3-hour small group tours: 

  • High Points Tour: Ride in a luxury high-top van to the park’s highest peaks, including breathtaking scenic vistas and a visit to Kuhowi (formerly Clingman’s Dome). 

¾ and full-day tours:  

  • Over the Top: Cross the crest of the Smokies and visit the Oconaluftee Visitor Center to explore the region’s history and wildlife. 

They also offer a variety of hikes, ranging from easy to strenuous, whether you’re looking to stretch your legs or take on a challenge. If you want to spend time on the water, try flatwater kayaking or guided fly fishing (ages 12 and up). 

Explore Tuckaleechee Caverns. 

Known as the “Greatest Site Under the Smokies,” Tuckaleechee Caverns is the highest-rated cave or cavern in the Eastern United States. Formed within one of the world’s oldest mountain chains, the caverns are estimated to be 20 to 30 million years old. 

Highlights of the tour include the Big Room, a massive chamber large enough to fit a football stadium, and Silver Falls, the tallest subterranean waterfall in the Eastern U.S. Along the 1.25-mile round-trip journey, you’ll see millions of stunning formations and hear fascinating stories about the cave’s history. 

In March, Tuckaleechee Caverns will be open daily from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Admission is $26 for adults, $14 for children ages 5-11 and free for children 4 and under. 

Visit a local museum. 

Spend the day in Townsend learning about local history, culture and wildlife. 

At the Great Smoky Mountain Heritage Center, connect with the history and spirit of Townsend, Cades Cove and the Great Smoky Mountains through hands-on activities, tours of original 19th-century buildings and the Cherokee Native American Collection. 

Dive even deeper into local history at the Little River Railroad & Lumber Company Museum, where you can explore restored locomotives, historic logging equipment, and exhibits showcasing the impact of the lumber industry on the region. 

If you’re interested in wildlife, visit the Appalachian Bear Rescue Visitor and Education Center. Watch videos of rescued cubs, learn about bear conservation and coexistence, and explore the gift shop. 

Shop and dine at Apple Valley. 

While you’re in town, stop by Apple Valley Mountain Village. Enjoy southern hospitality and cuisine at their cafe, bistro, coffee shop and fudge shop. Or find a souvenir at the general store, stocked with jams, jellies, butters, home decor, clothing and more. 

Go for a scenic bike ride. 

Start your adventure by renting bikes at Smoky Mountain Outdoor Center. From there, head to the Townsend Historical Trail, a paved path stretching 4.5 miles on both sides of US 321/Lamar Alexander Parkway, for a total of 9 miles. This scenic trail runs alongside Little River and includes a 0.3-mile unpaved River Walk. 

For a more immersive experience, make your way to Tremont Road, a 2.1-mile route that connects the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont to the Middle Prong Trailhead. 

Even better, go for a scenic horseback ride. 

Davy Crockett Riding Stables opens daily starting March 15 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Similarly, Cades Cove Riding Stables opens for guided trail rides, carriage rides and hayrides beginning March 3, with hours from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 

Stargaze at Look Rock. 

A trip to the Smokies isn’t complete without visiting Kuwohi, the park’s highest peak. A short hike up to Look Rock Tower in the evening will reward you with panoramic views of the sunset and an excellent vantage point for stargazing. 

Looking for a place to stay? Check out our guide to camping and glamping on the Peaceful Side. 

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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.

Holiday Craft Markets on the Peaceful Side 

Posted on November 14, 2025 by - Blog, Uncategorized

Written by: Emily Huffstetler

Whether you’re hunting for a gift from the heart, a new ornament for the tree or just a little extra holiday cheer, local makers have you covered. Here’s a preview of holiday markets on the Peaceful Side. 

November 15 – Maryville Farmers’ Market Holly Day Market 

Photo: Maryville Farmers’ Market

The Maryville Farmers’ Market wraps up the 2025 season with the Holly Day Market at Founders Square in downtown Maryville. From 8:30 to 11:30 a.m., you’ll find late-fall produce, baked goods, specialty foods and booths stocked with ornaments, artwork and other handmade gifts. This is the final market of the year. 

November 15 – Holiday Handcrafters Fair 

Photo: Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center

The Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center in Townsend hosts the Holiday Handcrafters Fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Artisans will set up across the grounds with pottery, textiles, fine art and seasonal pieces, all made in the region. Admission is free, and shoppers can wander through the marketplace at their own pace. 

November 29 – Downtown Maryville Holiday Market 

Photo: Downtown Maryville Holiday Market

On Small Business Saturday, the Downtown Maryville Holiday Market fills Broadway Avenue with more than 150 artisan booths. Beginning at 10 a.m., shoppers can walk the length of downtown and browse everything from jewelry and woodwork to candles and Christmas décor. Families can also look for “Candy Cane Lane,” a row of free children’s activities along the street. 

December 4–6 – Santa Mouse Christmas House Arts & Crafts Show and Sale 

Photo: Santa Mouse Christmas House

The Santa Mouse Christmas House returns to Dotson Memorial Baptist Church in Maryville for a three-day sale organized by the Blount County Arts and Crafts Guild. Over 50 artists and craftsmen bring jewelry, wood pieces, textiles, home décor and holiday items. Hours run 10 a.m.–5 p.m. on Thursday and Friday and 10 a.m.–3 p.m. on Saturday. 

December 6 – Foothills Holiday Market 

Photo: Foothills Holiday Market

 The Foothills Holiday Market marks its 10th year at Smithview Pavillion in Maryville. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., vendors set up indoors and out with handmade gifts, seasonal décor and food items. It’s a small, single-day market that works well for wrapping up holiday shopping close to home. 

Make Your Own Holiday Gifts 

Photo: Creative Spark Studio

If you have the time, why not get a little crafty yourself? Here are some upcoming holiday classes where you can make a gift yourself—or sit down with someone you love and create something together. 

Louisville Mercantile 

  • November 16 – Traditional Holiday Wreath, 2–4 p.m. 
  • November 20 – Holiday Bow Making, 5:30–7:30 p.m. 

Creative Spark Studio 

  • November 15 – Watercolor Card Class: Bear and Cardinal, 12:30–3 p.m. 
  • November 21 – Wood Burning: Cardinal Ornaments (Set of 3), 5:30–7:30 p.m. 
  • November 28 – Needle-Felted Ornaments, 12:30–3 p.m. and 5:30–7:30 p.m. 
  • November 29 – Needle-Felted Ornaments, 12:30–3 p.m. 
  • December 5 – Watercolor Christmas Card, 1–3:30 p.m. and 5–7:30 p.m. 
  • December 11 – Needle-Felt Snowman Class, 2–4:30 p.m. 
  • December 12 – Needle-Felt Snowman Class, 5:30–8 p.m.
  • December 13 – Collage Christmas Card, 12:30–3 p.m. and 5–7:30 p.m. 

Studio 212 

  • November 23 – Reindeer, 2–4 p.m. 
  • November 23 – Santa Gnome, 4:30–6 p.m. 
  • November 30 – Winter Village Apothecary, 3–6 p.m. 
  • December 13 – Snowman Mug, 2–4 p.m. 
  • December 14 – Santa’s Milk and Cookies Set, 2–4 p.m. 

Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center 

  • November 17 – Holiday Herbals Class with Herbalist Debbie Dickie, 10:15 a.m.–12:45 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. 

Holiday Treat Guide on the Peaceful Side

Posted on December 13, 2024 by - Blog, Uncategorized

Written by: Emily Huffstetler

The Peaceful Side of the Smokies is full of festive flavors this holiday season. From specialty lattes to homemade desserts, there’s no shortage of treats to enjoy. Here’s a look at our favorites in Maryville, Alcoa and Townsend.

Amburn’s Market (Maryville)

Photos courtesy of Amburn’s Market.

Step into Amburn’s Market to find a treasure trove of traditional treats, including homemade hard candy, fruitcake, Christmas pie, apple stack cake and eggnog. Pick up a ready-made gift basket or place an order to spread the holiday cheer. If you need last-minute decorations, they also have fresh Christmas trees, wreathes, garlands and poinsettias.

Vienna Coffee House (Maryville)

Photo courtesy of Vienna Coffee Company.

Vienna Coffee House’s December specials are a delightful way to embrace the holiday spirit. Warm up with their Fireside Latte (vanilla, white chocolate, molasses and clove) or indulge in the Polar Mocha (dark chocolate, brown sugar, toasted marshmallow and peppermint). Their seasonal blends, like Cabin Fever and Hearth & Home, feature comforting flavors such as chocolate, cranberries and orange spice.

Bear Grounds Coffee (Maryville)

Bear Grounds Coffee has a full lineup of holiday drinks to keep you cozy, including Peppermint Mocha, Grinch Latte, Eggnog Latte and Christmas Cookie Latte.

Bigfoot Popcorn (Alcoa)

Photo courtesy of Bigfoot Popcorn.

Snack your way through the season with Bigfoot Popcorn’s seasonal flavors, Yeti Crunch (vanilla, blue sprinkles and pretzels) and peppermint.

The Dancing Bean (Townsend)

The Dancing Bean’s holiday menu includes spiked specialty coffees perfect for celebrating the season. Try the Spiked Dinner Mint (espresso, vodka, crème de menthe, chocolate and cream) or the indulgent Loco Hot Cocoa (hot cocoa, Baileys, vodka and whipped cream).

RT Lodge (Maryville)

RT Lodge is bringing the holiday spirit to its dessert menu with treats like Red Velvet Cake (with cranberry white chocolate buttercream), Gingerbread Crème Brûlée (gluten-free) and Hot Chocolate Pavlova (with peppermint marshmallows). Their Holiday Cookie Plate for includes gingerbread, cranberry spritz and eggnog doodles.

Southern Twist Nutrition (Maryville)

Photos courtesy of Southern Twist Nutrition.

Celebrate the 12 Days of Christmas with festive teas from Southern Twist Nutrition. Their protein cake pop drop features new holiday flavors like Pecan Shortbread and Peppermint Patty.

Will you be trying any of these holiday treats? Share your favorites with us on social media (@peacefulsmokies).

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Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and passionate storyteller of the Greater Smokies region.

Hops in the Hills craft beer fest gets a boost from MC student brewers

Posted on June 21, 2022 by - Uncategorized

They’re currently stored in the cool confines of Dr. Nathan Duncan’s basement, but on Saturday, June 25, eight brews created by Maryville College students will be available for sampling by roughly 1,000 attendees of a craft beer festival.

The annual event, known as Hops in the Hills and held in downtown Maryville, is part of the City of Maryville’s annual Summer on Broadway extravaganza and will include over two dozen professional breweries — along with sample pours from Duncan’s “EXP200: Introduction to Brewing” course that the professor of chemistry launched in 2018.

“For this, we have about eight different beers we’re bringing, and almost all of them are student recipes,” said Duncan, who took the beer home with him during recent summer renovations to the College’s Sutton Science Center. “Two are my recipes, including the Irish red ale we brewed earlier this year for the Choir of Man show at the Clayton Center, and I brewed my brown ale this year for it as well. Those are the only two that aren’t student recipes.

“The rest are all from this class except for one, and it’s from an alumnus who took the class in 2020. In addition to students from this year’s class that are working as volunteers for Hops in the Hills, I have students that go back to the very first time we offered it in 2018 who are coming this year as well. A lot of Maryville College alumni will make up the volunteers for this event, and I’m really excited from the standpoint that a lot of them took the class before it was even a part of Hops in the Hills.

“To see how much this little class has grown as far as really becoming a part of our regional craft brew scene is exciting,” he added.

Duncan offers the course every spring and has room for roughly 20 to 24 students. It’s an upper-level class for students 21 and older that focuses on the brewing process, and because beer can be fermented under pressure and turned around in as little as two weeks depending on the style, there’s ample opportunity to try various creations and concoctions.

And some of them, he added, succeed beyond anyone’s expectations, including his own.

“The beer I’m most excited about is one that was created by Becca Roberson ’22 that’s supposed to be a beer that has all of the components or nuances of an Old Fashioned cocktail,” he said. “It’s a porter-style beer that’s aged with some oak, some bourbon, some cherry and also with some orange peel. It’s one she made early in the semester, and it tasted really good. Now that it’s been aging for a while, it should be even better. As soon as we tried it, I told everyone, ‘We’re saving this for Hops in the Hills.’”

In addition to Roberson’s creation — for which she’s designed its own logo — and Duncan’s ales, some of the other brewing class offerings for Hops in the Hills include an imperial stout and for those who find the overly hoppy flavor of stouts and ales off-putting, there’s the brew by alum Sawyer Cradit ’20: a “margarita beer,” according to Duncan.

“It’s kind of a sour wheat style, very low on the hops,” Duncan said. “With this, he was making a beer that used sour mash barley, a lot of wheat to give it kind of the haziness and a little bit of sweetness, and the hops that he used were a New Zealand variety that adds kind of a lime flavor to it.”

Hops in the Hills, Duncan added, is the latest in a busy schedule of events for which his students have brewed beer. (Because their brews are not sold, and the class operates as a homebrewing club, they’re not required to obtain a license to serve it.) In addition to the Blount County Alumni Association’s annual spring barbecue and the aforementioned Choir of Man performance, MC beer was recently served at the banquet celebrating the end of KT Days, and Duncan addressed the assembled alumni about the course, and its plans for the future.

“We have some things in the works that we hope will formalize this class, meaning that it will eventually be replaced with a four-hour class,” he said. “What we’re doing now would be considered the lab part of the class, while it will also include a lot more deep-dive lectures, and we’ve talked with several folks in the brewing industry in our region who are interested in partnering with us for on-site and external internships.”

How Townsend Got Its Name: History of the Little River Railroad and Lumber Company

Posted on September 3, 2024 by - Blog, Uncategorized

Photo courtesy of University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Special Collections.

Written by: Emily Huffstetler

In 1900, a Pennsylvanian man named J.W. Fisher found himself in a predicament. The tannery he recently started in Blount County had taken off, producing up to 400 hides a day, and his local tanbark providers couldn’t meet the demand.

Meanwhile, in Clearfield, Pennsylvania, a businessman named Colonel W.B. Townsend was experiencing growing pains of his own. Now that almost all the timber in Pennsylvania’s Allegheny Mountains had been logged, Townsend was looking to relocate his logging enterprise.

Seeing an opportunity to secure a reliable tanbark provider, Fisher invited Townsend to the Great Smoky Mountains. In 1901, W.B. Townsend—along with Pennsylvanian investors Asbury Lee, William McCormick, William Wrigley and Joe Dickey—purchased nearly 100,000 acres of timberland along the Little River and its tributaries. They chartered the Little River Lumber Company and then the Little River Railroad, to haul the logs.

Fully committed to his business venture, W.B. Townsend moved his family to Blount County. And in 1903, the community of Tuckaleechee—a Cherokee name loosely translating to “peaceful valley”—was named in his honor.

Photo courtesy of University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Special Collections.

Over the course of 38 years, Townsend’s company built 150 miles of railroads and sawed 560 million board feet of timber—enough to reach California and back, if laid end-to-end. Environmentally and economically, the Little River Lumber Company and Little River Railroad reshaped the Peaceful Side of the Smokies.

“We’re learning more and more about [W.B. Townsend and the investors],” said Neal Stone, President of The Little River Railroad and Lumber Company nonprofit. They apparently had a 16-story office building in Pittsburgh, suggesting affiliation with a larger company. W.B. Townsend had also been logging in West Virginia and Kentucky, and he owned a railroad, coal mine and clay tile company in Kentucky.

Perhaps, then, it would come as no surprise that Townsend monetized nearly every aspect of his East Tennessee logging community. Workers and their families rented on-site prefab homes from the company, and they were paid in “doogaloo,” redeemable only at the company stores.

“It was a very monopolistic situation,” Stone said.

W.B. Townsend also transformed a hunting camp, Elkmont, into a tourist destination for wealthy East Tennesseans. Since the trains already had flat cars to restrain their loads, the company decided to add side rails and charge people a small fee to ride from Knoxville to Townsend.

When that did well, they built the Elkmont Observation Car, which had 16 benches capable of seating two people each, for a total capacity of 32 people. Regular passenger cars were used as well.

Photo courtesy of University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Special Collections.

In 1910, W.B. Townsend decided to subdivide the property. He sold 50 acres to the Appalachian Club, a group of wealthy businessmen from Knoxville. Members paid the Elkmont Construction and Supply Company, also owned by Townsend, to build a clubhouse and cottages.

“They’d live there all summer, and the husbands would come there on the weekends,” Stone said. For those who could afford it, the mountain retreat was an idyllic escape from the heat.

A couple years later, three brothers from Knoxville bought 65 acres and opened the Wonderland Hotel. The brothers ended up selling the hotel to rivals of the Appalachian Club looking to form a club of their own.

Members of the two clubs refused to interact with each other on the train ride to their respective properties. But they did eventually find a common interest: protecting their land.

“The irony is that the lumber company’s clearcutting led to the preservation of the park,” Stone said. At the time, the process for lumbering was clearcutting, an extreme method that stripped the virgin landscape bare. The tourists wanted to put an end to this.

The national park movement was still relatively new. Yellowstone, the first national park, was only established in 1872. Creating a park would prove especially complicated because people had been living on the land for generations.

Nevertheless, the club members and environmentalists persisted. In 1926, Congress approved the authorization of the park, and Tennessee and North Carolina started raising money to purchase nearly half a million acres from private owners.

The outlook was grim for most residents. The Tennessee state government was only willing to pay about half of what their properties were worth. When the owners resisted, the state invoked the right of eminent domain. Over 5,000 people had no choice but to leave their homes. Meanwhile, the influential Wonderland and Appalachian Club negotiated a rental agreement that would extend into the early 90s.

The Little River Lumber Company sold 76,507 acres for the park, on the stipulation that they could keep logging for the next 15 years. In 1939, the last logs came out of the mountains.

“There are three locomotives left in the world that we know worked for the Little River Railroad Company,” Stone said.

“Number 110 lasted the entire lifetime of the railroad…It has been fully restored and runs today in Michigan pulling passengers.” It’s the smallest standard gauge Pacific steam locomotive ever built in the United States.

“Number 126 was another technological advancement. It was what they called a Mallet type, and it had eight driving wheels…It was a rod type engine, but it was hinged in the middle, so it could go around tighter curves,” Stone said.

That locomotive didn’t stay with the Little River Railroad long due to technical issues. It went back to the manufacturer and was sold out West, where it derailed and was abandoned for years. About three years ago, it was returned to full active service pulling excursion trains on the west coast.

The last surviving locomotive, Shay 2147, eventually made its way back home.

Shay 2147 was only used for about three or four years as the Little River Railroad was winding down. It pulled the last train across the Little Tennessee River (now part of Tellico Lake) near Chilhowee while workers disassembled the tracks and bridge.

The locomotive changed hands several times after that, travelling across the country, before it was put up for sale for $8,000 for parts. After local train enthusiasts banded together, the Towsend Chamber of Commerce decided to purchase it as a monument for a future park.

At least, that was the plan.

“Well, when word got out about the Shay, there was this huge groundswell of public support,” Stone said.

“You heard stuff like, ‘My daddy used to do that; my grandaddy used to do that; I drove that; I got to be an engineer for that.’ We still had people around back then that worked for the company, and people were coming up with pictures and artifacts,” Stone said.

In November 1982, several community members came together and formed the Little River Railroad and Lumber Company nonprofit corporation. They converted the former Walland Depot, donated by Joe Henry Everett on behalf of her late husband, into a museum.

Photo courtesy of the Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum.

“The Shay arrived on Thanksgiving weekend 1982, and we’ve been growing ever since,” Stone said.

 “Earlier, we received grant [funding] to build a gift shop that resembles the Elkmont post office. And our main restoration shop conference room is designed to look like the Elkmont train engine house,” Stone said. In other exciting news, the nonprofit recently received a grant from the Tennessee State Museum to put a new roof on the depot and water tower.

A variety of artifacts have turned up over the years—most recently, a mint condition box of crayons that would’ve been used to mark the wood 80 to 90 years ago. Everything is on rotation at the Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum, which is open to the public from April through November. Admission is free, but donations are encouraged.

The Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum annual Railroad Days Heritage Festival is coming up on Sept. 28 and 29, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. You can ride the hand pump car, check out the reproduction Elkmont Observation Car and see special exhibits and artifacts. There will be local food vendors and craftsmen, as well as live music.

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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.

How Walland, TN Got Its Name: History of Miller’s Cove 

Posted on March 20, 2025 by - Blog, Uncategorized

Written by: Emily Huffstetler

Walland is a small, unincorporated community tucked into Miller’s Cove, a peaceful valley in the northwestern foothills of the Smokies. Today, around 463 people call this quiet corner of Blount County home. But its story stretches back long before modern roads and homes appeared. 

In 1567, Spanish explorer Juan Pardo and his expedition crossed the Little River at present-day Walland, searching for a route to a silver-mining town in Mexico. At that time, Spaniards believed that the Appalachian Mountains connected all the way to central Mexico. 

For generations, the Overhill Cherokee used the cove as hunting grounds. By the time European settlers arrived in the 1780s, Cherokee presence and influence in the area were well established. As settlers moved in, they built small forts in response to Cherokee resistance, gradually driving them from the land. 

As European settlement increased, land claims began to formalize. The earliest recorded land grant in the area was given to John Rhea for 940 acres in 1794. It referred to the region as Murphy’s Cove. Before long, the name changed to Miller’s Cove, likely in honor of brothers Alexander and Andrew Miller, who built several cabins during the early 1800s. 

Around the same time, Swiss immigrant John Hess built a grist mill on the cove’s western end, while the Martin family established another mill to the east.  

As more pioneers settled in the area, Miller’s Cove Baptist Church was established in 1810. It became Blount County’s first Baptist church and remains one of its oldest congregations today. A Methodist church followed in 1830. 

With a growing community came industry. In 1845, George Amerine established an iron forge along Hess Creek. By the mid-1850s, it was producing as much as 15 tons of bar iron each year, making it the largest forge in the county. However, with the outbreak of the Civil War, production came to a halt, and the forge was abandoned. 

While Tennessee sided with the Confederacy, Blount County remained largely pro-Union. In Walland, an estimated 1,500 people gathered for a Union rally, where they made an American flag and raised it on a tall flagpole.  

As the story goes, when a Confederate cavalry passed through, some soldiers raised their rifles. But their lieutenant stopped them, reminding the troops that it was the flag under which they had been born. In a surprising moment of respect, the troops peacefully circled the flag, saluted it and rode on. 

After the war, industry resumed in Miller’s Cove. John Waters built the first grist and sawmill and opened a post office, which operated from 1884 to 1912.   

In August 1886, photographer William Cox Cochran captured dozens of photographs of people and landmarks in East Tennessee, including Walland. His images depict the timeless Little River, along with serene clearings and humble cabins. 

View from high road in pass bet. Miller’s Cove and Tuckaleechee.William Cox Cochran Great Smoky Mountains Photographic Collection

Little River Gap from road near Vance Walker’s house, Miller’s Cove. William Cox Cochran Great Smoky Mountains Photographic Collection
Alvin Walker’s house on Flat Branch, Miller’s Cove.William Cox Cochran Great Smoky Mountains Photographic Collection
Sam Walker’s cabin and garden, Miller’s Cove.William Cox Cochran Great Smoky Mountains Photographic Collection
Avert’s clearing, Miller’s Cove.William Cox Cochran Great Smoky Mountains Photographic Collection
Miller’s Cove (looking S.E. from Hatcher’s) Dr. C.S. Evans in foreground.William Cox Cochran Great Smoky Mountains Photographic Collection
Miller’s Cove (looking North) from slope of Pine Mt.William Cox Cochran Great Smoky Mountains Photographic Collection
Brewer’s Clearing on Little River (Upper end of Miller’s Cove).William Cox Cochran Great Smoky Mountains Photographic Collection

In 1901, the first railroad reached Walland, connecting the community to Maryville. Around the same time, the Schlosser Leather Company was chartered, with its tannery opening in 1902. The name Walland combines Walton and England, two key figures in the leather company’s formation.  

At its peak, the plant processed an average of 300 to 400 hides each day, consuming roughly 250 carloads of tanbark annually. By 1909, the company had its own power plant. However, this plant burned down in 1931 and was never rebuilt. Following the fire, Chilhowee Inn, built and operated by the company, passed to private ownership. Today, it continues to welcome visitors as a bed and breakfast. 

Walland’s first high school opened in 1922 and became a four-year school in 1926. While other schools in the county were open just six months of the year, the Schlosser Leather Company funded salaries for an extra three months of instruction. The high school closed in the mid-70s. 

Walland is perhaps best known today for Blackberry Farm, which Kreis and Sandy Beall opened to the public in 1976 as a six-room country inn. Over the years, it has grown into one of the world’s most celebrated small luxury resorts. Set on 2,400 acres, Blackberry Farm offers 68 guest accommodations, world-class dining and a range of curated experiences that draw visitors from around the globe. 

Learn more: 

Blount County | Tennessee Encyclopedia 

Walland, TN – Profile data – Census Reporter

History of Blount County, Tennessee, From War Trail to Landing Strip, 1795-1955 

Overhill Cherokees | Tennessee Encyclopedia 

Pardo Expedition | Tennessee Encyclopedia 

William Cox Cochran Photographic Collection | Digital Collections 

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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.

Indulge in Southern Appalachian Cuisine on the Peaceful Side 

Posted on March 7, 2025 by - Blog, Dining, Uncategorized

Written by: Emily Huffstetler

Southern Appalachian cuisine is a blend of British, German and Italian immigrant traditions, along with Cherokee and African American influences—at least, that’s what Google says. Ask a local, and they’ll tell you it’s about clearing your plate, going back for seconds (or thirds), and still heading home with leftovers—especially if Mamaw’s cooking. 

Shaped by rugged mountains and harsh winters, Southern Appalachians have long mastered the art of making the most of what’s available. For generations, foraging for ingredients like ramps, blackberries and black walnuts, along with canning, pickling and preserving, has been a way of life. Today, restaurants on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies carry on these traditions with their own modern twist.

Well, what are you waiting for? We’ve saved you a seat. 

Southern Appalachian Staples 

Before diving into the best places to try these dishes, here’s a breakdown of some key ingredients and meals that define Southern Appalachian cuisine: 

  • Benton’s Bacon & Country Ham: World-famous ham slow cured in East Tennessee using salt, brown sugar and sodium nitrite. 
  • Biscuits and Gravy: Not to be confused with the British cookie. Soft, flaky bread rolls served for breakfast. 
  • Blackberries: In season from July to October. Enjoyed as-is, or in jams and cobblers. 
  • Black-eyed Peas: Bean introduced to the region by West African enslaved people in the 17th century. Said to bring good luck in the New Year. 
  • Cobbler: Dessert consisting of a fruit poured into a large baking dish and covered with a batter or biscuit. 
  • Collards: Hardy greens that can survive the winter and summer. Like black-eyed peas, said to bring good luck in the New Year. 
  • Fried Green Tomatoes and Fried Okra: Southern summertime delight. Maybe not what the doctor had in mind when they said to eat your vegetables. 
  • Pimento Cheese: A.K.A. “Southern Caviar”. A blend of shredded cheddar cheese, pimentos, mayo and spices, typically served with crackers or as a sandwich. 
  • Pinto Beans and Cornbread: Budget-friendly and hearty meal. 
  • Ramps: Wild onion in season from mid-March to early April. Eaten raw or cooked. 
  • Wild Mushrooms: Oyster mushrooms, Chicken of the Woods and morels are some of the most common. 
  • Wild Nuts: Black walnuts, pecans and American Chestnuts are some of the most common. 

Blackhorse Pub & Brewery

  • Fried Green Tomatoes – Served with house-made pimiento cheese and house-made tomato jam.  
  • Cheddar Pimiento Cheese – Served with fresh baguette slices and house-made tomato jam. 
  • Cletus Burger – Served with fried green tomato, pimiento cheese and tomato jam.  

Dancing Bear Lodge & Appalachian Bistro 

  • Confit Rabbit Pasta – Confit rabbit leg, roasted ham hock meat, Benton’s bacon, preserved lemon, local oyster mushrooms, braised onions, smoked chicken velouté, baby kale and Italian apron pasta. 
  • Veal Picatta & Pasta – Crispy veal sweetbreads, Benton’s bacon, preserved lemon, crispy capers, local oyster mushrooms and Italian apron pasta. 
  • Green Goddess Salad – Artisan lettuce, cucumber, heirloom tomatoes, shaved radish, pickled red onion, cornbread croutons and spring herb dressing. 

Elvira’s Cafe 

  • Tennessee Haystack – Open-faced biscuit topped with bacon, ham, two eggs your way and homemade sausage gravy. 
  • Fried Green Tomato BLT – Applewood smoked bacon, fried green tomatoes, romaine lettuce and bacon aioli sauce, served on multigrain bread. 

Foothills Milling Co. 

  • Fried Green Tomatoes – Fried green tomatoes topped with tomato chutney, basil aioli and goat cheese. 
  • Pimento Cheese & Pork Rinds – Served with Vermont white cheddar and smoked gouda. 
  • Mixed Green Salad with Fried Okra – Mixed greens, crispy fried okra, tomatoes, grilled red onion, cheddar cheese and buttermilk garlic dressing. 
  • Baby Spinach Salad – Baby spinach, Benton’s bacon, goat cheese, shaved red onion, roasted black-eyed peas and warm bacon Dijon dressing. 

Peaceful Side Social 

Appalachian Trail Board. Photo courtesy of Peaceful Side Social.
  • Appalachian Trail Board – Salami, Benton’s ham, pepperoni, regional cheese, pepper relish, pickled veggies, crackers and trail mix. 

REO Cheesewagon 

Blackberry Smoke. Photo courtesy of REO Cheesewagon.
  • Blackberry Smoke – Gourmet grilled cheese. Provolone, blackberry jam, pickled jalapeños and bacon. 
  • Grilled Pimiento Cheese – Cheddar pimiento cheese. 

The Shed Smokehouse

  • Pinto Bean Plate – Pinto beans, collard greens and two hoecakes, served with a side of chow-chow. 

The Walnut Kitchen 

Grit Chips & Pimiento Cheese. Photo courtesy of The Walnut Kitchen.
  • Grit Chips & Pimento Cheese – House-made grit chips and pimento cheese. 
  • Appalachian Lardon Pasta – Blistered heirloom tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, northern beans, arugula, bucatini pasta, pecorino Romano cream sauce and Benton’s ham lardons. 
  • Elevation Burger – 8 oz. Simpson’s burger, pimento cheese, tomato jam, bacon, lettuce and tomato. 
  • Seasonal Cobbler – Local fruit marinated in seasonal spices and sugar, topped with a brown sugar crumble and served with vanilla bean ice cream. 
  • Southern Grilled Cheese – House-made pimento cheese, bacon, lettuce and tomato, served on Texas toast. 

Want to dive deeper into Appalachian Cuisine? Check out our directory of restaurants on the Peaceful Side. 

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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.