From the Peaceful Side of the Smokies
Written by: Emily Huffstetler Many East Tennessee place names come from the Cherokee language, especially from the Overhill Cherokee—settlements along the Little Tennessee River that English traders in the 1700s reached by traveling “over the hills.” Some names remain nearly unchanged, while others were adapted by settlers. Here are a few examples located in and…
Written by: Smokies Life Smokies Life announces its fall schedule of Branch Out events, with 19 total activities and adventures being offered between mid-September and December. From moderate-to-robust naturalist hikes on park trails to engaging virtual events enjoyed from home, Branch Out programs offer activities for a wide range of interests.“Fall is an ideal time…
Written by: Emily Huffstetler On September 2, 1940, thousands gathered at Newfound Gap to dedicate Great Smoky Mountains National Park. President Franklin D. Roosevelt, standing against the backdrop of spruce and fir, promised the land “to the service of the millions of American people.”1 “There are trees here that stood before our forefathers ever came…
The Downtown Maryville Alliance in partnership with the City of Maryville, the Blount Partnership and the Clayton Center for the Arts is proud to announce its advancement to the public voting phase for the prestigious Levitt AMP Music Series Grant, a multi-year funding opportunity that could bring a free, outdoor concert series to Maryville beginning…
Written by: Emily Huffstetler From concerts and festivals to workshops, markets and family fun, September on the Peaceful Side is packed with ways to celebrate community and the outdoors. Here’s a preview of what’s in store. September 4 – Taste of Blount The 23rd Annual Taste of Blount takes over Theater in the Park in Maryville,…
As a gateway to the Smoky Mountains, Blount County ranked eighth among Tennessee’s 95 counties in 2024 visitor expenditures at $610.9 million, a six-percent increase from $576.1 million in 2023, according to the Economic Impact of Travel on Tennessee Counties report issued by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development and Gov. Bill Lee. On an…
Written by: Emily Huffstetler The story of Southern Appalachian English in Blount County starts in the late 1700s, when Scots-Irish, English and some German families moved into the valleys and coves of the Smokies. They spread throughout the county, from Cades Cove—settled in 1818—to small hollers and ridges, bringing with them their mother tongues and…
RT Lodge, an approachable luxury retreat nestled in nature on the historic Maryville College campus, has unveiled plans for two new spaces – The Carriage House spa and the Meeting House, to offer an immersive experience for locals, travelers and corporate guests. The lodge, renowned for its welcoming hospitality, inviting accommodations and gourmet dining, is…
Written by: Emily Huffstetler Whether you’re searching for a new way to spend time with family or thinking about picking up a relaxing hobby, birdwatching in Cades Cove is hard to beat. The open fields, quiet woods and mountain views make it one of the best spots in the Smokies to see birds up close.…
Written by: Emily Huffstetler Did you know that the Smokies have inspired a variety of films and shows? From dramas and holiday tales to documentaries, here are 10 picks for your next movie night. A Walk in the Spring Rain Released in 1970, A Walk in the Spring Rain tells the story of Libby Meredith…
Written by: Emily Huffstetler The Peaceful Side of the Smokies is home to a vibrant, growing art scene. From galleries to makers markets and hands-on studios, here are some of the best places to experience local creativity. Gracehill Fine Arts & Basketry After two decades at the helm of Gracehill Bed and Breakfast, Kathy Janke…
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…
