Whether you are someone who counts down the days to next Christmas beginning every December 26th or you are an authentic Grinch, it is impossible not to feel the holiday spirit when you visit the Incredible Christmas Place in Pigeon Forge. It is known as the “largest permanent Christmas retailer in the American South, and one of the largest in the United States.” And before you think you don’t really need to pay a visit to a holiday specialty store, consider that it offers “everything Christmas.” From ornaments and premium artificial trees to lighting for indoors or out, it also makes musical recordings, gifts, décor of all kinds, collectibles and many other items available. And whether you lean towards the country style of décor or a totally modern look, they’ll have plenty to catch your eye. In fact, a quick look at the categories of products available makes it easy to see that it really can be your go-to destination for holiday shopping whether you visit in July or January. Even more exciting is the fact that they operate within a unique E.L.F. Philosophy (Empowerment, Leadership and Fun). This is one in which the goal of every employee is to ensure that all guests have a shopping experience that “represents the spirit of Christmas, provided by highly trained, friendly, and caring employees.” Who on earth needs the mall when there are people, whoops “elves,” eager to ensure you have a positive day or two of shopping. And if you are thinking that it all sounds great but you cannot lug your loot back home with you, think again. With items like full-sized Christmas trees and delicate ornaments as well as perishable items, they understand you may not have room in the car or wish to haul such things into an airport. That is why they have shipping available for any and all purchases. You can have flat rates for standard purchases and specialty rates for express, special locations, or oversized items, too. If you think that you just won’t be able to walk into such a location and make good choices for your holiday decorating scheme, you may appreciate their decoration services. Available for homes and businesses, they pair you with one of the Incredible Christmas Place designers who listens to your preferences and then works with you to put together a customized holiday decorating scheme that can include everything from bows and ornaments to trees and lighting. They even have expert outdoor lighting teams to help you make flawless plans! And if you want to enjoy a stay in the Incredible Christmas Place, you can book your room at the Inn at Christmas Place with year-round holiday décor, luxurious rooms and lots to enjoy on the premises. Whether you want to enhance your holidays or get into the Christmas spirit come July, you will want to pay a visit to the Incredible Christmas Place when you visit Pigeon Forge and the Smokies.
On the Peaceful Side, it’s not unusual for a longtime-local’s basement to feel like a mini history museum, filled with practical pieces, family heirlooms and other treasures. That tradition of holding on to things and taking good care of them makes the area great for antiquing. Here are 10 shops worth exploring in Walland, Rockford, Louisville and Maryville.
This is a classic “wander and see what you find” stop, with inventory both inside and outside. It’s great when you want variety and have time to browse.
Not strictly an antique shop, but antiques come through here regularly. It’s a good spot for finding treasures without boutique markups, and proceeds benefit local animal groups.
This location has a mix of antiques and books, and their “Everything Room” is perfect if you love to dig.
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.
While fall gets all the fame, winter is a magical time to hike the Smokies. With the leaves down, the mountains open up, revealing views you’d never see otherwise. Here are our top tips for making the most of it, while staying safe.
If you’re a beginner, start with a low-elevation trail.
The higher you climb, the colder and more unpredictable the weather becomes. Atop Mount LeConte (6,593 ft), for example, temperatures can run 15-20 °F colder or more than at the valley below.
If you’re new to hiking, the safest bet is to start with lower elevation trails. Here are a few options near the Townsend entrance:
Avent Cabin (Elkmont) – 2.0 miles roundtrip, ~500 ft gain
Abrams Falls (Cades Cove/Townsend) – 5.2 miles roundtrip, ~675 ft gain
Schoolhouse Gap (Townsend) – 3.8 miles roundtrip, ~513 ft gain
You can also use the park’s live webcams at Kuwohi (formerly Clingmans Dome) and Look Rock to preview weather conditions from home. They even track air quality, which can affect both breathing and visibility on the trail.
Tell someone your plan.
Even if you’re going with a buddy, let someone back home know your route, expected start and finish times, and where you’re parking. Cell service is spotty throughout the Smokies, so having a backup person is important if anything unexpected happens.
Bring plenty of water.
Colder temperatures can suppress thirst, but hydration is important no matter the weather. Bring more water than you think you’ll need.
Prepare for rapidly changing mountain weather.
A sunny start can turn into snow, fog or icy wind on the ridges, so pack as if it will be colder and wetter than the forecast suggests. Opt for moisture-wicking base layers, an insulating mid-layer and a waterproof outer shell. That way, you can easily adjust as conditions change.
Keep your hands warm and dry.
Gloves get wet fast in the Smokies’ damp winter air, especially on popular trails with icy railings and slick rocks. Pack a waterproof pair, bring a backup and toss in hand warmers so you can keep your fingers moving comfortably all day.
Start early in the day.
Winter days are short, and the sun dips behind the ridges faster than you might expect. Hitting the trail early gives you plenty of daylight to work with, as well as a buffer if things go slower than you planned.
The American Hiking Society suggests setting a firm turnaround time before you leave home. Naismith’s Rule can help you calculate this: one hour for every three miles, plus an extra hour for every 2,000 feet of ascent.
Watch your footing.
When daylight is short, even a minor twist or stumble can derail your plans. Fallen leaves and snow can hide holes, roots, stumps and rocks. Move carefully, and consider using trekking poles for extra stability.
Bring a First Aid kit.
It’s important to bring a First Aid kit year-round, but there are a few items that become especially important in the wintertime:
Emergency blanket
Hand and foot warmers
Headlamp/flashlight with extra batteries
Extra gloves and socks
Small tarp
Lightweight fire-starting kit
Thermal hat
Respect wildlife.
Wildlife activity slows in winter, but animals still need plenty of space. Black bears, for example, don’t truly hibernate. They enter a lighter sleep state called torpor, where they rest for long stretches but can still wake up, especially on warmer days.
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.
With winding mountain roads and incredible scenery, it’s no surprise that the Peaceful Side of the Smokies is such a popular biking destination. Make your way down for the second-annual Smoky Mountain Bike Week, set for Sept. 28 to Oct. 5, to experience some of the world’s best riding, check out the latest gear and kick back at a variety of free concerts.
Guided Rides
Ride the infamous Dragon, Cherohala Skyway, Foothills Parkway and more in good company. Staging takes places at 8:30 a.m. in the back lot of Smoky Mountain Harley Davidson (Smoky Mtn H-D). The mandatory ride meeting follows at 9 a.m., and roll out is at 9:15 a.m. Each guided ride includes a lunch stop.
The Shed Smokehouse and Juke Joint at Smoky Mtn H-D will be hosting concerts throughout the week. Gates open at 6 p.m.; music starts at 7:30 p.m. and ends at 11 p.m. Many of the concerts are free to attend.
The Vendor Village will be open daily at Smoky Mtn H-D (9 a.m. to 6 p.m.) and Foothills Mall (9 a.m. to 7 p.m.). Check out the latest upgrades, bike accessories and gear.
Vendors at Smoky Mtn H-D: Slyfox, RWD Suspension, Saddlemen, Tab, LA Choppers, Legend Suspension, Drag Specialties, Optic Armour, Rumbling Pride, Fairing Exchange, Monster Brite, Sinister Sound, Badass Cigars, Heavy Metal Jewelry, Breezy Ryder, Hard Street, Just a Little Bling, Patch Sewing by Susan, X-Treme Paint, Rockford Fosgate, SP Connect, Label Industries, Garza, Hard Street, V-Twin Visionary, Junction 35 and Custom Dynamics
Breakfast and coffee will also be available to purchase from 8 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
Vendors at Foothills Mall: Mustang Seats, Ciro, J & P Cycles, Black Label Performance, TN Leather, X-Treme Bikes, Oil City Customs, Rollin Throttle and KST Kustoms
Several local businesses are also participating in Smoky Mountain Bike Week. For a full calendar of events, visit the Smoky Mountain Bike Week Website.
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.
Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and this year you can get a jump start on the rest of the world by booking your romantic dinner out right away. After all, it is shocking how quickly the tables at the area’s most romantic spots fill up and waiting until a week or two ahead of Valentine’s Day often means you don’t get a reservation. Lucky for you, there are plenty of options for romantic dinners in Blount County.
If you are going for that sort of super-romantic evening out, we have five local Blount County restaurants that are ideal for a Valentine’s Day dinner for two.
The Barn at Blackberry Farm – If your goal is to impress and enjoy amazing and authentic local food, you will have a tough time matching the options at this Walland restaurant. Featuring expert chefs, bakers, and even a sommelier to help you pair your Foothills Cuisine with local wine, it is a dining adventure perfect for Valentine’s Day. Dancing Bear Lodge – The bistro in this wonderful Townsend restaurant allows you to make reservations even if you are not staying at the lodge. Noted as one of the most romantic settings in the entire region, the bistro’s menu is a fantastic blend of local favorites with a new twist. Opt for local cheeses, innovative appetizers, local greens and vegetables, and classics that include an Appalachian Hot Pot, a blue cheese-encrusted pork chop, and more. Excellent wines and irresistible desserts make it perfect for a romantic night out. Foothills Milling Company – Located in the heart of Maryville, this is a popular choice and reservations are required. In a charming and welcoming setting, you can take your choice from the ever-changing wine list and a menu that reflects the season. Your Valentine’s Day dinner for two could include everything from truffle fondue or crab soup to a warm cabbage salad, rack of lamb, salmon and more! Sullivan’s – Another fine food establishment in Maryville, this features a tremendous menu of innovative dishes that includes everything from a steak, strawberry and blue cheese salad to classic “blue plates” and local favorites. An impossible to resist dessert menu and a low-key, almost casual atmosphere make it the perfect spot for a delicious evening out on Valentine’s Day. Aubrey’s – Less romantic and more fun, this is a great spot if you are taking yourselves, and maybe even the kids out to celebrate this day that’s all about love. Enjoy selections from an excellent beer and wine menu. Remain in awe of the fantastic dinner menu with small plates, specialties and a great “Perfect Pairs” option. Rich desserts and even a kids’ menu ensures that an entire family can enjoy a Valentine’s Day dinner that is fun, tasty and relaxed. This is also a Maryville location.
There are a lot of options, but you won’t want to wait much longer to book your table. Use the links here to choose your ideal spot on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies, and whether it is a meal for two or the entire gang, you’re sure to enjoy your Valentine’s Day dining together.
Finding hikes that can give you a great close-up look at Smoky Mountain fall colors and are also accessible to your youngest and oldest family members isn’t always easy, but there are actually quite a few. Here are some of our favorites! The Laurel Falls Trail Looking for a great all-around hike that offers the kind of sightseeing you’ll find only out in nature, a dirt trail under your feet, and a cool destination? The Laurel Falls hike is a 2.3 mile round-trip hike that begins at a parking lot near the top of Fighting Creek Gap. It is accessible to families with children, though everyone should stay close to the trail as it approaches the Falls (there are some steep drop-offs off-trail). The Falls themselves provide plenty of great photo opportunities, so bring your camera! Clingmans Dome Do your kids love when something is “the most?” Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Smokies, and it’s accessible via a ½-mile-long paved trail. The trail can be managed with strollers, though all should be prepared that it can be quite steep and is generally too steep for wheelchairs. Hikers can look forward to an unbelievable panoramic view at the top; on a clear day, people can see nearly 100 miles in any direction. Pack a jacket – it can be up to 20 degrees cooler at the summit. The Look Rock Tower Trail Clingmans Dome is a lot of great things, but it isn’t dog-friendly. Luckily, dogs and their human companions don’t have to miss out on a great Smokies view, thanks to the Look Rock Tower Trail. The trail includes a view of Maryville and Alcoa, as well as the western side of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Dogs must be leashed, but the trail is paved and it’s just under a mile. A perfect first hike! The Gatlinburg Trail The Gatlinburg Trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a dog-friendly 1.9 mile trail through a forest near the Little Prong River, and features the remnants of former Tennessee frontier homes (notably their foundations and chimneys). The trail begins at the Sugarlands Visitor Center and is only one of two dog-friendly trails in the national park. Make sure to observe the rules requiring leash use in the park while on the trail. The Abrams Falls Trailhead If the youngest members of your family are in middle school or older, you may want to try a 5-mile hike (round trip) with a few rocks on the path, and the Abrams Falls Trailhead is a great place to start increasing your hiking challenges. There are even more challenging hikes at Abrams Falls, but the 5-mile hike begins at the trailhead exit at Cades Cove Loop Road. Everyone should pack some extra socks if they’re in sneakers (or wear hiking boots), bring a rain jacket or poncho, and watch out for slippery rocks by the falls.
If you are craving a little time to commune with nature, there is no better place to scratch the itch than the Smoky Mountains. East Tennessee is a popular mountain destination because of the sheer beauty of the area. You can stay in a rustic cabin staring out across the peaks. It is the perfect way to leave the stress of the urban world behind. While there is plenty of mountain vistas to enjoy, don’t think your trip to the Smokies will be boring! There is so much to do in the various towns dotting the area, you will never have a moment to be bored. You will find world-class dining options, adventure activities, museums, and even roller coasters. To help you create the perfect vacation, we have put together these five tips.
1. Rent a Cabin
While there are plenty of different types of accommodations available in the Smoky Mountains, one of the best ways to get the full experience is by renting a cabin. It will make you feel more at home in the mountains. Plus, it will come with an absolutely incredible view. You can find cabins to suit all sizes of groups from one to thirty, and you can get all the amenities that you desire. There are pet-friendly options for those with four-legged family members.
2. Don’t Think Gatlinburg is All There Is
Some people make the mistake of thinking the only destination in the Smokies is Gatlinburg. While the town is lovely and full of things to do, there is more to the Smoky Mountains than G-Town. Make sure you check out some of the other amazing spots in the area including Maryville, Townsend, Rockford, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and Cades Cove. You will find that each spot has its own unique flavor to add to your trip.
3. Make Time for Dollywood
You don’t want to miss a chance to visit this world-class theme park. There are plenty of rides for the thrill seekers including roller coasters and water slides. Plus, there are amazing live performances featuring Appalachian style music, among others. The artisans will demonstrate things like glass-blowing and blacksmithing. Plus, you can catch one of the fantastic dinner shows. Make sure you take a ride on the Lightning Rod. It is the world’s fastest wooden roller coaster.
4. Go to the Park
No matter where you are staying in East Tennessee, you need to plan to spend some time in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. There is no admission fee to get into the park, and there are plenty of things to do. You can hike, bicycle, check out waterfalls, camp, and look for wildlife. Keep your eyes open, and you may see a black bear or two, but no matter what, you are guaranteed to see the beauty of nature. Wildflowers bloom the majority of the year, and the gorgeous mountain scenery is worthy of a million Instagram pictures.
5. Check Out a Festival
When picking your vacation dates, make sure to check for festivals! There are plenty of weekends per year where you will find a fun festival to attend. You never know what you might get to experience. Hot air balloons, bluegrass, craft beer, and Scottish games are just a few of the festivals that happen in the Great Smoky Mountains. As you can see, there is plenty to see and do. What are you waiting for? Get to planning!
Maryville, nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, has a growing list of upscale dining options. From a MICHELIN-recommended dining room to a downtown steakhouse with caviar service, these seven restaurants are worth a reservation.
DSB Provisions, recently opened, brings an intimate Italian dinner experience to Greenway Village. Pasta is made from scratch by hand, using local and imported ingredients, including eggs from chef Dustin Busby and Stacey Busby’s farm.
Busby trained through Le Cordon Bleu and has cooked in Charleston and Orlando, with stages at restaurants including The French Laundry and The Fat Duck. He later joined Blackberry Farm, serving as executive sous chef at The Barn and managing the Farmstead program.
Dinner is served Wednesday through Sunday, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Reservations are recommended. A daytime Grab & Go option runs 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., with fresh and dried pastas, sauces, pestos and farm-fresh eggs.
Raven Steakhouse and Lounge is a dinner-only steakhouse in downtown Maryville, with a main dining room for reservations and a lounge for walk-ins.
The dinner menu centers on USDA Prime steaks, with seafood-forward starters and towers, caviar service and a small set of entrées beyond beef. The wine program is guided by sommelier Aileen Carroll, who has a Court of Master Sommeliers education.
The Raven is open Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
The Walnut Kitchen on High Street serves dinner, lunch and Sunday brunch. The menu features seasonal ingredients and Tennessee beef, with a full bar program.
Chef Jason Scott brings experience as former executive chef at Lonesome Dove, along with a feature in Cityview’s Top Chefs series.
Lunch runs Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dinner runs Tuesday through Thursday, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday service runs 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. While walk-ins are accepted, reservations are recommended.
The Restaurant at RT Lodge, designated MICHELIN Guide Recommended, offers an elevated dinner in the Maryville College Woods. The kitchen makes many staples in-house, including bread, pickles, mayonnaise and pimento cheese, and bases the menu on seasonal availability.
Chef Trevor Stockton trained under chefs Rick Mace and Josh Feathers before joining RT Lodge as sous chef in 2013. Today, he works closely with regional farmers and purveyors, including his family’s Stockton Farms.
For a lighter dinner option, The Morningside Room runs as RT Lodge’s bar and lounge. They have cocktails, local beer and spirits, and a curated wine list, along with snacks and a casual dinner menu. Lunch is limited to hotel and spa guests.
Dinner at The Restaurant at RT Lodge runs Monday through Thursday, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Reservations are required. The Morningside Room is usually open Monday through Saturday, 3 p.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday, 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. Reservations are not accepted. Hours are posted on RT Lodge’s bar and restaurant availability calendar.
Foothills Milling Company is a white-tablecloth restaurant in downtown Maryville. The menu spans steaks and seafood, plus vegetarian options. Ingredients include regional staples such as Benton’s Bacon, Cruze Farms dairy and Vienna Coffee.
The restaurant opened in Wears Valley in 2001 and relocated to Maryville in 2006. Today, the dining room sits in a former Studebaker and Edsel showroom from 1921 to 1948.
Dinner service runs Tuesday through Thursday, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Reservations are available.
Bella sits on West Broadway in downtown Maryville, with a menu that mixes Italian staples with steak and seafood, plus a full bar program. The kitchen runs from scratch across the board, and the “Pasta in the Wheel” service has become one of the restaurant’s signatures.
Chef Cory Giaquinta was named a Top Chef in 2025 by Cityview Magazine. His background also includes time at Dancing Bear Lodge.
Bella is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday brunch runs 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with dinner service from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro is a short drive from Maryville, located in Townsend near the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The restaurant serves modern Appalachian cuisine with a farm-to-table focus, using produce grown on-site and local ingredients.
Executive chef Jeff Carter returned to Dancing Bear in summer 2021 and leads the kitchen’s seasonal approach to Appalachian cooking. The Bistro was named one of OpenTable’s Top 100 Romantic Restaurants in America for 2026, and it was also recognized by TripAdvisor as one of America’s 25 Most Romantic Restaurants in 2019.
Dinner runs Tuesday through Sunday, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday brunch runs 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Reservations are recommended.
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.
On the Peaceful Side, there’s still plenty to do after sunset. These nine outings range from synchronous fireflies in Elkmont to live music in Townsend, sunset hayrides in Cades Cove and movies at the drive-in in Maryville.
See Synchronous Fireflies
Photo: Niemand für Polyphemus
Synchronous fireflies are one of the Smokies’ most unusual natural events. For a brief window each year, thousands flash in near-unison. Scientists believe the coordinated pattern is tied to mating behavior.
The official viewing takes place in Elkmont, where access is managed through a lottery that usually opens in late April. During the eight-night viewing period, nighttime access is limited to reservation holders and registered campers.
If you miss the lottery, guided outings offer another way to see them. Smoky Mountain Guides and Just Get Outdoors both run seasonal after-dark trips focused on synchronous fireflies and other nocturnal wildlife.
Join an Adaptive Night Hike
Photo: Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park’s adaptive night hike takes place June 5, 2026, on Little River Trail. The route is an easy half-mile roundtrip.
Adaptive equipment is welcome, and a limited number of GRIT Freedom Chairs are available to borrow. Volunteers will help with navigation.
The night hike is part of the park’s 2026 adaptive program series with Catalyst Sports. Registration is required.
Go to an Astronomy Night
Astronomy Nights offer an all-ages introduction to telescopes and stargazing in Maryville. The Blount County Public Library hosts the program with the Smoky Mountain Astronomical Society year-round.
Upcoming dates are April 23, May 26, June 22, July 22 and Aug. 20. Each session starts in the Sharon Lawson Room at 6 p.m. and continues outside until 8 p.m.
See the Hot Air Balloon Festival Glow
The Great Smoky Mountains Hot Air Balloon Festival returns to Townsend on Aug. 15, 2026, from 3 to 9 p.m. A highlight of the event is the evening balloon glow, when the balloons inflate and light up against the Smokies.
Weather permitting, tethered balloon ride ticket holders can meet the balloon captain, learn how the balloon works and rise above the festival grounds. The festival also includes family activities, crafters, food trucks and a beer tent.
Tickets are on sale now at www.eventeny.com. Some proceeds benefit the Townsend Volunteer Fire Department and Townsend Elementary School.
Take a Sunset Hayride in Cades Cove
Photo: Cades Cove Riding Stables
Cades Cove Riding Stables gives hayrides along the Cades Cove Loop Road, with a 6 p.m. departure from June 1 through Aug. 15. The ride lasts about 1.5 to three hours, depending on traffic, and gives passengers an open-air view of the cove in the evening.
As the light fades, wildlife activity picks up in Cades Cove. White-tailed deer and turkey sightings are common, while coyotes, woodchucks and black bears are also possible.
Country Manor Acres in Townsend offers a cozy evening on the farm for individuals, couples and groups. The experience begins with s’mores by the fire pit, followed by a horse-drawn wagon tour of the farm, wedding venue and stables.
After the wagon ride, guests watch the horses’ nightly stampede back to the barn for dinner. There is also a chance to feed the horses and learn more about their care.
The Levitt AMP Maryville Music Series brings free outdoor concerts to downtown Maryville this summer. The series takes place every Thursday from June 4 through July 30 from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Maryville Greenbelt Amphitheater in Jack Greene Park.
Concerts are free and open to the public. Preview upcoming performances at www.maryvillemusic.com.
Listen to Live Music Around Townsend
Photo: Dancing Bear Lodge & Appalachian Bistro
On weekends, live music is easy to find in Townsend. Peaceful Side Social hosts sets on Thursdays and Fridays from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m., while The Abbey regularly schedules live music on Friday and Saturday nights.
For a bigger night out, the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center has evening concerts on the calendar, including Chicken Wire Empire on May 15, Sugaree String Society on May 22 and The Barefoot Movement on June 5. Dancing Bear Lodge also has a Live on the Lawn concert with Sam Bush scheduled for April 23.
For another short evening stop, Look Rock Tower on Foothills Parkway West has a paved 0.8-mile roundtrip trail and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Blount County.
Catch a Movie at the Drive-In
Photo: Parkway Drive-In
Parkway Drive-In in Maryville shows movies on Friday and Saturday nights during the season. Gates open at 7 p.m., and films start at dusk, or about 40 minutes after sunset. Concessions include the classics, ranging from burgers, grilled cheese and hot dogs to candy, ice cream and popcorn.
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.
Hiking as a beginner can feel intimidating—especially when it seems like everyone else is already a pro. But you’re not alone. A survey of 2,000 U.S. adults revealed that 26% are interested in trying hiking. Even if you missed out on scouts or summer camp as a kid, it’s never too late to get started.
Let’s tackle some common concerns that many beginners share.
Insects and pests (56%)
The Smokies do have mosquitos, gnats and ticks, but they’re easy to manage with insect repellent and proper clothing. Jeans or tall socks and a hat can make a big difference. And if you’re still concerned, stick to popular trails, where the crowds keep the bugs at bay.
Running into wildlife (40%)
Seeing wildlife like deer or wild turkeys is actually part of what makes the Smokies special. Bear sightings are possible, but serious encounters are rare. The park has clear guidelines for safely storing food and keeping your distance. If you follow the rules—make noise while hiking, carry bear spray and store food properly—you’re very unlikely to have an issue. Most animals want nothing to do with humans.
Getting lost (36%)
Trail signage in the Smokies is generally excellent, especially on popular routes. Free maps are available at visitor centers, and apps like AllTrails or Gaia GPS let you download offline maps to track your location in real time. If you’re sticking to marked trails and start your hike early in the day, you’re not likely to get lost. Rangers also patrol the most popular areas, and you can always share your plans with someone ahead of time for peace of mind.
Needing a bathroom (35%)
Most major trailheads and visitor centers have restrooms. For backcountry hikes, it’s easy to learn Leave No Trace bathroom basics. Portable toilet options and privacy kits make it even easier. If you’re new to the outdoors, starting with short hikes near visitor centers will ensure you’ll always have a bathroom nearby.
Running out of food (19%) and water (34%)
For day hikes, packing enough snacks and water is simple. A reusable water bottle or hydration pack and a few granola bars go a long way. If you’re camping, there are water sources near most campgrounds (just bring a filter or purification tablets). You don’t need to carry gallons—just refill when needed. Park rangers and guidebooks can help you plan for the right amount depending on your hike.
Ready to get started?
You can check out Hiking in the Smokys for ten of the easiest hikes, perfect for beginners. If you’d rather not go it alone, several local businesses offer guided group hikes.
Little River Trading Co. in Maryville hosts an annual hiking series with guided group hikes. Each outing includes a required prep session with trail details and tips, followed by private fittings for boots and backpacks.
Smoky Mountain Guidesfacilitates small group hiking trips, ranging from 2-4 hours to 3-4 days.Mountain Challengealsooffers group hiking trips upon request, specializing in teambuilding and outdoor education.
Friends of Great Smoky Mountains National Park is hosting Trails Forever hikes now through November. They take place on the second Tuesday and fourth Wednesday of each month, as well as some Saturdays. Tuesday hikes are longer (more than 7 miles) and more challenging, while Wednesday and Saturday hikes are beginner friendly.
When you feel ready to level up, The Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremontoffers weeklong hiking and backpacking adventures. Drawing participants from across the country, they tend to fill up quickly.
Where will you go? We’d love to hear about your experience. Tag us to be featured on our social media (@PeacefulSmokies).
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.
One of the great things about being on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies is just how much the animals appreciate the peace and quiet, too. That’s one reason there are so many great stables and outfitters that can get you riding in Blount County: horses like it here. Check out the different options and start planning your next ride!
Next to Heaven Mountain Adventures
The only unguided horseback ride in the Smokies begins when you’re matched with a horse great for you, and continues up an hour-long trail into the Smoky mountain woods. Don’t worry about getting lost; the horses know the way! Ziplining through the trees is also available.
Cades Cove Riding Stables
Cades Cove Riding Stables offers the only national-park-authorized stables in Blount. They offer guided trail rides in Cades Cove, as well as private guided carriage rides and guided hayrides for large groups. All levels of riders are welcome!
Davy Crockett Riding Stables
Townsend, Tennessee’s Davy Crockett Riding Stables offers rides to people of all ages, and also includes half-day rides that take you off the beaten path into the Tennessee wilderness. Not a bad way to become King of the Wild Frontier!
Rolling Hills Farm Equestrian Center
If you’re looking for serious riding lessons, Rolling Hills Farm is one great place to look. The riding school offers instruction in the basics of equestrianism, like Western and English riding, horsemanship, and showmanship. Horse day camps and birthday parties are also available.
Twin Valley Horse Ranch
Twin Valley Horse Ranch is actually Twin Valley Horse Ranch and Bed & Breakfast. Those just visiting for the day can choose half-day or full-day rides on their private mountain trails, and if you’re staying overnight, you’ve got a choice between upscale Lodge and Ranch house rooms, a private cabin, or rustic outdoor shelters. Bringing your own horse? No problem. Even visiting horses can bunk down in the stables at Twin Valley!
Mountain Meadow Equestrian Center
Maryville’s Mountain Meadow Equestrian Center offers a little bit of everything. Day camps, riding instruction, trail rides for riding students, a 4-H club, boarding for horses, and a 24-hour on-site manager. If you’re looking to get more instruction on everything from trail riding to showjumping and 3-day eventing, Mountain Meadow is a great choice.
Don’t Hold Your Horses — Ride While You Can!
The horses may be ready to go any day of the year, but the weather won’t always cooperate. Don’t be afraid to check out the stables you’re interested in and book a trail ride or a riding lesson on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies today.
If you like to seek out the more unusual places to visit — the stranger sights to see — then you need to check out the Dark Island Swinging Bridge in Townsend, TN. While you are spending time in the area, you have to take a few minutes out of your day to discover this amazing bridge and if you are brave enough to walk out on it, you can look down into the beautiful Little River. However, one thing you should know is that you can only go on one end of the bridge. The other end leads out onto private property. Finding the Dark Island Swinging Bridge Any of the locals here in Townsend can tell you how to get to the Dark Island Swinging Bridge; it sits right behind the Little River Railroad and Lumber Museum. Since it is such a popular place for tourists to stop, there is a small parking lot. The bridge itself is strong enough to hold four adults at a time as long as everyone doesn’t do a lot of bouncing around. Keep in mind the bridge is old and made of wood, so you should be careful as you walk out on it. Don’t worry, it’s not likely to fall into the river as it is well maintained. The views from the bridge up and down the river are spectacular. Be sure to bring your camera, because there are several great photo opportunities you must take advantage of. One of the Last Public Access Swinging Bridges The Dark Island Swinging Bridge is one of the last swinging bridges in the area that is still open to the public. It’s a great place to bring your family for some really cool photos or for a stop on your school’s next field trip. You don’t have to stay long, it only takes a few minutes to see all there is to see here, but you will find the stop more than worthwhile. Looking for a stellar spot to exchange wedding vows? Why not have your entire wedding party standing by as the two of you and the person officiating your wedding stand in the middle of the bridge. Talk about a unique spot to get married, and the photo opportunities are not to be believed. The Dark Island Swinging Bridge is only one of the many places to visit during your stay in Townsend. Many people come here to spend as much time as possible in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and, to be sure, there is so much to see there. But when you want a quiet spot to take a break and maybe a few pictures of your family for the memories, be sure you take a little time out of your day to stop in at the bridge. You might have to spend a few minutes waiting for your turn to walk out on it, but this is a great time to get to know someone new (those in line with you). The Dark Island Swinging Bridge may be one of the best kept secrets in the area, but the locals will always be happy to help you find it.
Recent Comments