Add Bicycling in the Smokies to Your Bucket List This Fall

Fall is the perfect time for you and your family to bring your bikes to the Peaceful Side of the Smokies. There is a vast selection of cyclist-friendly roads and bike trails that range in difficulty from family-friendly to those just for the experts. They range in distance from under a mile up to many…

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Our Top 3 Favorite Fall Hikes for Viewing Fall Foliage in the Smokies

Fall in eastern Tennessee is the ideal time of year to go hiking in the Smokies. The fall foliage display, courtesy of Mother Nature, runs from September through November, but keep in mind the foliage starts changing color at the higher elevations first. By mid-October the mountains put their full splendor on display from midway…

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Make the Peaceful Side of the Smokies Your Vacation Destination This Fall

Although summers in eastern Tennessee on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies are spectacular, fall has its own beauty that continues to make it the perfect destination for your next vacation. Coming here in the fall brings with it cooler, drier weather, that makes going for hikes to see the incredible foliage very comfortable; the…

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Visit Blount County's Farmers Markets and Experience the Flavors of the Region

Farmer’s markets are enjoying a resurgence, and there are very few communities in which at least one farmer’s market is not operating regularly. This allows farmers to access a much broader market and find buyers for an increasing amount of produce or food, but it is also even more beneficial to shoppers. After all, once…

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For a Bird's Eye View of the Smokies' Fall Colors, Check Them Out from a Zipline

Whether on a weekend getaway or a lengthy vacation with family or friends, a visit to the Smoky Mountains area is always sure to please. A year-round destination for millions of travelers, it is home to a seemingly endless number of outdoor activities. From hiking and horseback riding to skiing and fishing, if you enjoy…

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Take One Last Family Vacation to Great Smoky Mountains National Park Before School Starts

If you’ve never been to a national park, you may be surprised to learn that there is far more to do inside than just walk around enjoying the view. Although there are tons of hiking trails that lead to gorgeous waterfalls, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park does have plenty to thrill every member of…

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Looking for a Place for Your Destination Wedding in the Smokies? These Venues Are Perfect

Have you ever dreamed of having your wedding in a destination where the view is so stunning, you don’t even need decorations? The Smoky Mountains are ideal for a lovely ceremony. The beautiful weather, the peaceful scenery, and the gorgeous venues make a destination wedding in the Smokies wonderful for any couple. Your guests will…

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Learn Why Appalachian Folk Music is Still Being Played in the Smokies

No matter where you go in the Smoky Mountains, you are sure to hear someone playing Appalachian folk music. It might be coming from one of the many bars, clubs, restaurants, venues, or even on the street corners. What’s funny about this particular genre of music is that no matter what your personal preference in…

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Wineries, Breweries and Distilleries in the Smokies: Create Your Own Tour in Blount County

For those of you who are over 21 and looking for something a little more “adult” to do while you are touring the Smokies, why not follow a local tradition and check out some of the fabulous local breweries, distilleries, and wineries to be found in the area. From a frosty glass mug of Windy…

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Looking for Adventure in the Smokies? Here are 3 Motorcycle Rides You Shouldn't Miss

The scenery in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the surrounding areas are nothing short of spectacular. For those of you who love to ride, the Smoky Mountains are the perfect place, whether you prefer a touring bike, a sport-bike, or a cruiser. No matter where you ride in the mountains, you are sure to…

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We Have Smoky Mountain Activities Even a Dog Will Love

Keeping busy in the Smokies region isn’t difficult – there are tons of things to do, all year ‘round – but finding activities the whole family, including canine members, can enjoy is a little more challenging. Here are 5 of our favorites. Maryville-Alcoa Greenway and the PetSafe Pistol Creek Dog Park There’s nothing like a…

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Museums and Heritage Centers Give History Buffs a Thrill on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies

The Peaceful Side of the Smokies may be quite peaceful at the moment, but at different points in history it’s been a crossroads for conflicts, and played home to a raucous community of frontier loggers and businessmen. There are plenty of places in Blount County to learn about the region’s history, and here are a…

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