Tag: Smoky Mountain Tourism

Unwrap Adventure: Giftable Experiences on the Peaceful Side

Posted on December 12, 2025 by bpintern - Blog, Uncategorized

Written by: Emily Huffstetler

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*^{Photo: Brooke Nix Medical Aesthetics}*

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

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

For the Athlete: A Friendly Match at Pickleville Tennessee

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

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

For the Artist: A Class at Creative Spark Studio

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

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

For the Golfer: A Round at Wild Laurel Golf Course

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

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

For the Glamper: A Stay at Little Arrow Outdoor Resort

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

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

For the Foodie: Dinner at RT Lodge

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

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

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

Vacationing on a Budget? Great Smoky Mountains National Park is Free to Enjoy

Posted on February 13, 2019 by dstech - Blog, Smoky Mountains

Did you think that it was only the “Free Entrance Days” in the United States National Park system that let you get into the 400+ parks and enjoy it all for free? This year, National Park Week is April 20 through April 28th, when you can get into all of the parks entirely for free. There are a few other dates, too and you can find them at the National Park Service website, here.
Yet, The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an entirely unique entity because, as the NPS explains, “Entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park is free. The park is one of the few national parks where no entrance fees are charged.” Why? Well, it has to do with the stipulations that Tennessee insisted on when it transferred the land now known as the park to the federal government in the 1930s.
Back then, the state insisted that no toll or fee would be imposed on those who needed to travel the Newfound Gap Road, and so that is why everyone who wants to visit the park is welcome to do so entirely for free. There are some activities with fees attached (such as camping or hiring horses from the providers within the park), and donations are always welcome, but if you have almost no budget for a vacation, this gorgeous paradise is yours to enjoy for free!

What to Do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

And what sorts of things can you do in the park? Firstly, you should know that people of all ages and capabilities can enjoy the park because it has some truly amazing roadways. If you have a car, motorcycle or even a bicycle, you’ll love planning journeys on the following roads:

Roaring Fork Motor Trail – This is only six miles, is a loop road and promises amazing views of the mountains, the valleys and two stunning waterfalls. Pack a picnic and plan some hiking because the trails here are also remarkable and let you see the remains of old villages, a cemetery and more.
Newfound Gap Road – Be sure you drive the road that lets you get in for free! With an amazing number of notches and scenic vistas, it is worth a full day of your time. Stop and explore different points along the 31-mile stretch that takes you from Gatlinburg to the Sugarlands Visitor Center. Be sure to bring your camera!
Cades Cove – Described as one of the most famous spots in the park, it is surprisingly peaceful and often isolated. It is a gorgeous valley that was once a large settlement, and though you can drive it, you may want to give yourself the delights of a full day of exploration on foot. There are old churches, a grist mill, scores of cabins dating back to the 1700s and 1800s, and all kinds of wildlife to see. It is a loop road and is a real favorite of those who enjoy bicycling (you can rent a bike here, too!) Don’t miss the visitor center.

You can also enjoy a hike to Clingmans Dome, or hike different trails to waterfalls like Grotto Falls, Abrams Falls and Laurel Falls. If you are in good shape and experienced in hiking, a day trip up to Chimney Tops is also an amazing, free activity to enjoy!
Forget the “staycation” when you can head to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and enjoy days of free activities set in one of the most beautiful spots in the country.

Valentine’s Day Dinner in the Smoky Mountains

Posted on February 12, 2022 by Rachel Coffman - Blog, Dining

A perfect Valentine’s Day date requires forethought and planning. Show your love with a unique Appalachian dining experience. Book a reservation at one of these celebrated restaurants, nestled in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains. Everyone has a different definition of romance, so we found a variety of dining experiences that embrace the distinctive local flair of the Smokies.

Walnut Kitchen

If your date appreciates exquisite cuisine in a more casual setting, this Maryville restaurant is your ideal date night location. It offers culinary artistry with hometown comfort. Their seasonal menu utilizes local produce and an unsurpassed Tennessee dry-aged beef selection. Experience an unmatched farm-to-table experience with a hand-crafted cocktail while toasting to your partner’s continued happiness.

The Barn at Blackberry Farms

Impress your date by reserving a table at this James Beard award-winning Walland restaurant. The multi-course menu uses Applachian ingredients, harvested both regionally and directly from the farm itself. Choose a bottle from one of the 9000 different wine selections in their wine program. Or complete your meal with one of the 300 whiskeys and brandies they have in stock. This fine-dining adventure will undoubtedly spark a little romance into your Valentine’s Day.

Vee Hollow Mountain Bike Trails

Posted on March 10, 2022 by Rachel Coffman - Activities, Blog

Vee Hollow Mountain Bike Trails has become a valued addition to the Peaceful Side of the Smokies. This mountain biking trail offers adventure for riders at every stage of learning and gives bikers the chance to immerse themselves in nature as they pedal through the Smoky Mountains. Trails are open 365 days of the year, weather and maintenance permitting, from sunrise to sundown.

How Do We Get To Vee Hollow?

Located in Townsend, TN, visitors can access Vee Hollow on the east end of town near the Great Smoky Mountain National Park entrance. Parking is in the gravel lots next to Burget Master at 8439 State Hwy 73. Cross the pedestrian bridge, exclusively built for bikers and hikers, over the Little River to access the Trails. Because Vee Hollow built the park to be a pedal park, no shuttles are available.

Drive Times within the Region

Knoxville – 45 minutes

Gatlinburg – 45 minutes

Asheville – 2 hours and 20 minutes

Atlanta – 4 hours

Nashville – 3 hours and 15 minutes

What does Vee Hollow offer?

14 miles of biking trails, varying from short rides and sessions or all-day rides on the multiple paths covering the West and East Mountains. Experience hand-cut singletrack ventures and long enduro-style descents to a range of flow-based trails that allow for maximum progression.

Mountain Biker Riding on Vee Hollow Trails

How much experience is needed?

The trails and forest playground offer experiences from the very advanced to those who have never ridden trails before. Vee Hollow consists of four riding zones: Skills Area, Demo Flow Trails, Jump Trails, and Mountain Trails (West and East Mountains). Each course is rated: Green for Beginners, Blue for Intermediate, Black for Advanced, and Double Black for Experts.

For another Vee Hollow Trail Overview and Ranking, check out this link at TRAILFORKS.com.

For more posts about activities in the Peaceful Side, see below:

Smoky Mountain Fly Fishing

Waterfalls in The Great Smoky Mountains

Vintage Car Show

Posted on July 5, 2023 by jmuir - Uncategorized

Fans of vintage automobiles can view a special collection of classic cars at the Autos Through the Ages Car Show at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center (123 Cromwell Dr., Townsend) on July 15 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. The car show is free with admission to the museum being $5.

Presented by the East Tennessee Region Antique Automobile Club of America and sponsored by West Chevrolet, Twin City Dealerships and the Smoky Mountain Tourism Development Authority, the event features food and a viewing of classic cars throughout the day.

Visitors will experience how cars and trucks have evolved during the past 100 years as they see and learn about autos from T Models to Teslas. One rare car on display is a 1934 Oldsmobile convertible, found in Morocco, is one of only 903 produced. Others models include a 1927 Ford Mail Truck, a 1988 Rolls Royce Silver Spur, a 1954 Ford Skyliner, a 1949 MG TC, a 1960 Morgan +4, a 1958 Edsel Convertible, a 1929 Ford Fire Truck and a 1933 Packard Victoria Convertible.

“There’s a lot of history in these cars and they definitely bring back plenty of memories,” said Steve West. “This a great event that showcases the great American craftsmanship that went into these vehicles.”

“Having been around cars all my life, I really enjoy seeing these classic cars and watching the enjoyment they bring to those that have taken care of them for future generations,” said Jerry Hodge of Twin City Dealerships. “There’s just something about getting behind the wheel of cars like these and hitting the highway that brings about a great feeling of freedom.”

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

Posted on October 5, 2018 by dstech - Activities, Blog

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 you taste a locally-grown, vine fresh tomato or savor the potent flavors of fresh herbs, you may begin to change the way you look at your diet and food supplies.
If you are traveling to the Great Smoky Mountains area and want to explore options for farmers markets, be sure you block out a few hours on your Saturday morning schedule. This is the most common time for the markets to occur, though there are many that operate daily and also all year long. This includes the large Gatlinburg Farmers Market, among others. The Sevierville Farmers Market operates every Friday and is another popular option.

An Authentic Producer Only Market
Saturday morning is also when the amazing Maryville Farmers’ Market occurs. Emphasizing a “producer-only” model, they ensure that everything you buy is grown and/or made by the vendors themselves. This is not a market in which you have to worry about the authenticity of “local” goods. Instead, everything is baked from scratch, grown in the local soils, and transported from a farm nearby!
With a slogan that reads, “From East Tennessee Hands,” it is a fantastic way to enhance even the briefest visit to the area, and the market is active right through the winter. The Saturday markets run from April through November and hours are 9-12, rain or shine. Their November calendar also includes their “Holly Day Arts & Crafts Market,” making it the perfect way to pick up some truly amazing holiday gifts and goodies, while supporting local artisans and farmers. The dates for 2018 are 11/3 and 11/10 with hours from 9 AM to 1 PM.
With its quieter location and emphasis on local farm goods that “improve the freshness, taste, and nutritional value of produce available, encourage more social contact between the consumer and farmer, educate the public as to the agricultural traditions of East Tennessee, and celebrate and help preserve family farms,” it is the perfect win-win choice in terms of Saturday morning farmers markets.

What to Buy
If you do opt for the Maryville Farmers Market, their vendors include Turner Holler with its abundance of fresh eggs and homemade soaps and lotions that use their fresh goats’ milk as a main ingredient. The Holder Family Farm also appears regularly and sells only the finest fruits and vegetables from their generations-old family farm in the foothills of the Smokies. You can also grab delicious breads and baked goods from Marlow Bread Co. and enjoy goods from Bees’ Needs Art Farm, Smokey Ridge Apiaries, and more.

Visit Cades Cove

Posted on August 25, 2020 by Rachel Coffman - Blog, Smoky Mountains

Cades Cove is one of the most popular destinations in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Visitors can explore a variety of historical sites, enjoy the majestic mountain beauty, and find the thrill of spotting life in the wild. Whether you want to visit the grist mill or hope to run across a family of bears, a visit to Cades Cove will keep the whole family engaged.

New Cades Cove App

The Cades Cove Guide puts the history, nature, wildlife, and trails of the Cove in the palm of your hands. It provides a convenient, safe way to keep track of your locations in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Whether you are connected to Wi-Fi or exploring the scenic route, your personal park tour guide brings adventure up close.
Features

View points of interest as a list or on a map, both online and offline.
Click on the point of interest for photos, quick facts, unique descriptions, hidden treasures, and related content.
Share your experience in the “stories” section for others to enjoy.
Filter points of interest by The Loop, Trails, Visitor Info, and List View.
View the full app navigation, including the loop, stories, nature, wildlife, history, and visitor information.

Cades Cove History

The first European settlers arrived in the Cove during the early 1820s, quickly clearing the abundant lands for farming. Community buildings were erected, such as log homes, barns, and smokehouses. But even before the Europeans arrived, Cherokee Indians traveled through the valley hunting for deer, bear, elk, and bison.
By 1850 the population had grown to 685, and it was not uncommon for households to have ten to twelve children. As the population grew, the community’s needs grew. Soon Baptist and Methodist churches were built, followed by schoolhouses for the kids. Neighbors often worked together, creating social events from tasks like corn husking and molasses making, allowing young couples to court, eventually leading to marriages. Deaths also brought the community together. Men would make coffins and dig graves, while the women would prepare the body for burial. Then everyone chipped in to help the grieving families by cooking meals and helping bring in crops.
In 1927 the state began purchasing the land for the creation of the national park. Some families welcomed the state’s effort and willingly sold their property and moved out, but many families resisted the attempts. Several residents signed life-leases that allowed them to stay on the land for the rest of their lives, as long as they abided restrictions on hunting, trapping, and timber cutting. The last school in Cades Cove closed in 1944, and the post office soon followed in 1947. Today the National Park Service designated the Cove as a “historical area” and restored and maintains the buildings as they looked in the early days of the settlers.

Explore the Cove

Each Wednesday, through September 30th, the park offers vehicle-free access along the Cades Cove Loop. The loop is an 11-mile, one-way road circling the Cove, which gives motorists access to sites and the opportunity to sightsee at their own pace. Allow for two to four hours to tour Cades Cove, longer if you stop to explore any of the area trails. Traffic is heavy during the summer, fall, and weekends throughout the year.
Many trails begin in the Cove, including accessible hikes like Abram Falls or more time-consuming hikes like Thunderhead Mountain. Also, make sure to check out the many historical landmarks located within Cades Cove. Sites like the John Oliver Cabin, the Becky Cable House, and the Elija Oliver Place give you a peek into the settler’s home lives in the 19th century. You can also check out the Primitive Baptist Church, the Missionary Baptist Church, and the Methodist Church to learn more about where to community came together to worship. And don’t forget to check out local wildlife like black bears, elk, white-tailed deer, turkey, or woodchucks. But make sure to follow these safety tips and do not feed or approach any animals.
There is so much to do, so download and use the Cades Cove App to plan your next visit.

For more information on the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, check out these posts:

5 Tips for Planning the Perfect Smoky Mountains Vacation

Planning a Family Trip to Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Top 5 Things To Do in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in the Spring

Visit These 3 Picnics Spots in the Smoky Mountains This Spring

Posted on April 28, 2019 by dstech - Blog, Smoky Mountains, Townsend

There is nothing better than taking your family out for a picnic in the Great Smoky Mountains on a warm spring or summer day. The scenery is never short of breathtaking, and there are so many places you can go to. Heck, some folks here pack their basket, grab a blanket, and then pull over when they find a spot they like. While this might sound like a good idea, there are advantages to visiting one of the many designated picnic spots. These typically include having picnic tables and no traffic passing right beside you. Some of the picnic areas in the park have grills and restrooms. Others are more primitive and offer only tables and trash receptacles.
Here are three of the best picnic spots in the Smoky Mountains to take the family, your loved one or even just yourself.

The Chimney Tops Picnic Area

Chimney Tops Picnic Area opens in early March and closes at the end of November. Here you will find 68 picnic spots including several with tables that look out over the river. The picnic area sits at the trailhead for the Chimney Tops Trail. Eat first to charge your batteries before making the hike or hike first and work up, and appetite, either way, the trail will give you a good workout and offers some incredible views along the way. This is one of the most popular picnic areas in the park.

Cades Cove Picnic Area

You can take your family for a picnic here all year round (nothing like a picnic in the snow). This area offers 81 picnic spots and tends to be very busy when the weather is nice. The Cades Cove Loop covers 11 miles and is one of the most popular places for tourists in the park. Many of the picnic tables set along Laurel Creek and all tables have barbecue grills for your use. (barbecuing in the snow sounds like fun). There are several historic buildings along the loop for you to explore, and the Cades Cove campground is just down the road where you can buy everything you need for your picnic if you don’t feel like packing your own lunch.

Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area

Like the Cades Cove picnic area, Metcalf Bottoms is open year-round and offers 122 picnic sites, making it the second largest picnic area in the park. Each site has been leveled and has a charcoal grill for your convenience. There is also a large pavilion on-site with space for up to 70 people, restrooms, a place to fill your water bottles, and you have direct access to the Metcalf Bottoms trailhead. Once you’ve finished your meal, why not take the 1.2-mile hike to the log cabin at the other end of the trail. Built-in 1882 this cabin saw life as a school and church for over 50 years and still contains the desks and chalkboard used by Little Greenbriar School students decades ago.

Visiting on a Tuesday? Join Us Tuesdays at 2 and Learn More About Our Amazing Appalachian Heritage

Posted on March 22, 2019 by dstech - Blog, Events, Townsend

Looking for something fun and educational to do when visiting Townsend, TN on a Tuesday? Don’t be fooled into thinking there can’t be anything going on just because it’s the second day of the week. Instead, take a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center and enjoy their “Tuesdays @ 2 informal “coffee talk” with an incredible array of guest speakers.
Stories that Need to Be Told
The Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center is dedicated to protecting and preserving the rich culture and incredible history of both the Native Americans who once lived here and those who came after.
Every Tuesday the center hosts a fun and informative event in the auditorium. Each event covers a different topic ranging from folk music to history and folklore to nature. These events are free to museum members and open to guests with paid admission.
Upcoming Tuesdays@2 Events
March 19 – Ben Jarrett- The American Chestnut Foundation
The American Chestnut Foundation is dedicated to restoring the chestnut to its proper place in the Appalachian hardwood ecosystem. Ben will be here to talk about the efforts being made to bring this important hardwood tree back to the Smokies.
March 26 – Dr. Aaron Astor – Isaac Anderson
Dr. Astor has two books and numerous articles published in the New York Times “Disunion” series. He will be here to talk about the history of Isaac Anderson the founder and first president of Maryville College.
April 2 – Mark Davidson Trails and Turnpikes
Mark will talk about the area and what there is to see as you hike the many miles of trails or drive the turnpikes that take you through the peaceful side of the Smokies.
April 9 – Missy Kane – Smoky Mountain Hiking
Missy offers a presentation covering the many trails in the Smoky Mountains to hike, the conditions to expect, what you might see, how to prepare for hiking and more.
April 16 – Jeff Hunter – Wildlife and Roadways
Jeff will be here to talk about the growing amount of wildlife crossing the roads and highways, and what is being done to help reduce the number of accidents, death, and injuries to both humans and animals. He will talk about the concept of building animal crossing bridges over I-40 where most of the accidents occur.
April 23 – Mary Beth Lima – Proper Canning Techniques
Mary Beth will be here to discuss and demonstrate a variety of canning methods, explain the proper techniques, cover safety, and offer a wealth of tips and information on the subject. The perfect Tuesday afternoon for anyone wanting to learn how to can and those who already do to spend time learning from an expert.
April 30 – Libby Weitnauer – Appalachian Music with a Jam Session Afterward
Libby is both a classical violinist and a fiddle player. She has played with numerous local orchestras including the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra and the Maryville College Community Orchestra. Today she finds herself more at home playing the fiddle and the more traditional sounds of Appalachia. Once the meeting is over, there is to be a jam session, if you play bring your instrument with you for fun!

Visiting the Smokies with Your Sweetheart? Snuggle Up for a Carriage Ride through Cades Cove

Posted on November 26, 2018 by dstech - Blog, Smoky Mountains

The leaves are turning all through the Great Smoky Mountains, there is a nip in the air, and the snow has yet to arrive. What could be better than snuggling up with that someone special in your life in a horse-drawn carriage under a warm blanket while you are taken on a guided carriage ride that takes you on a tour of Cades Cove? If you love the great outdoors, there is simply no better way to see the breathtaking scenery. It is the perfect way to see it all as a couple, or you can bring the kids with you.

A Guided Tour of Cades Cove

The best way to see all that Cades Cove has to offer is seated comfortably in a carriage, hauled through the park by one or more horses. The horses all know the way, but more importantly, so do the drivers! They know more about the Cades Cove area than just about anyone, including the Park Rangers.
Kick back and relax while the carriage conveys you along some of the most scenic trails in the park in peace and quiet. The only sounds you will hear are the clip-clop of the horse’s hooves and that of the wheels on the trail. While you are comfortably sitting back and enjoying the scenery, your guide will tell you about history of the area. And, more than just a detailed history of the area, they will regale you with tales of the old days in this most beautiful part of the state.
Your guide will tell you about what things were like here in the old days, how people lived, their lifestyles, how they fed themselves, about the log cabins, and so much more. Along the way, as you cruise gently through the park, your guide will tell you about the local flora and of course the many animals and birds who call this part of the Smokies home. If you are fortunate, you will have the opportunity to see many of the local residents, both four-legged and winged.

A Carriage Ride for Two—or More

Depending on the carriage you choose, there is room for more than just two. Most have room for up to six people, depending on the size of those who will be occupying the carriage. This way, you can bring the kids along and let them see all of the beauty of the Smokies and, of course, of Cades Cove. Most of the carriage rides last less than an hour, but along the way, there are mountain streams, towering peaks, and majestic trees to see, along with bears, deer, and wild turkeys. The carriage rides are safe for everyone and make an outstanding way to spend a little romantic time together as a couple or as a family.
Do keep in mind that these rides are extremely popular, and the proprietors do not take reservations; all rides are on a first come, first serve basis. You may have to wait for an available carriage, but you will find the wait to be worth it. Be sure you take a carriage ride through Cades Cove this fall; you can’t afford to miss out on the ride of a lifetime!

Visitors to Great Smoky Mountains National Park spent $2.2 billion in local communities in 2023

Posted on September 4, 2024 by jmuir - Uncategorized

A couple taking a selfie in front of Great Smokey Mountains National Park sign

A new National Park Service report shows that 13,297,647 visitors to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in 2023 spent $2.2 billion in communities near the park. That spending supported 33,748 jobs in the local area and had a cumulative benefit to the local economy of $3.4 billion.

“I’m so proud that our parks and the stories we tell make a lasting impact on more than 300 million visitors a year,” said National Park Service Director Chuck Sams. “And I’m just as proud to see those visitors making positive impacts of their own, by supporting local economies and jobs in every state in the country.”

“People come to Great Smoky Mountains National Park to enjoy the scenic beauty and end up supporting local economies along the way,” said Superintendent Cassius Cash. “We’re proud to care for a national park that provides incredible opportunities for recreation but also creates jobs and positively contributes to local economies.”

The National Park Service report, 2023 National Park Visitor Spending Effects, finds that 325.5 million visitors spent $26.4 billion in communities near national parks. This spending supported 415,400 jobs, provided $19.4 billion in labor income and $55.6 in economic output to the U.S. economy. The lodging sector had the highest direct contributions with $9.9 billion in economic output and 89,200 jobs. The restaurants received the next greatest direct contributions with $5.2 billion in economic output and 68,600 jobs.

An interactive tool is available to explore visitor spending, jobs, labor income, and total economic contribution by sector for national, state and local economies. Users can also view year-by-year trend data.

Learn more about national parks in Tennessee and North Carolina and how the National Park Service works with local communities in these states to help preserve local history, conserve the environment, and provide outdoor recreation.

Volunteer Opportunities on the Peaceful Side

Posted on July 22, 2024 by bpintern - Blog

Written by: Emily Huffstetler

The Great Smoky Mountains continues to be the most-visited national park, welcoming over 13 million visitors in 2023. This immense popularity can strain the environment and wildlife. Fortunately, you can reduce your footprint by supporting these local nonprofits.

Appalachian Bear Rescue

In the past decade, an average of 339 negative human-bear encounters have been reported annually. Bears that have become comfortable around humans often have to be euthanized, leaving their cubs and yearlings orphaned.

Appalachian Bear Rescue cares for these orphaned cubs and yearlings, as well as injured bears, until they are ready to return to the wild. Their methods are research-based, and they share their findings with the scientific community. Since 1996, ABR has cared for nearly 300 bears, providing updates about each of them to their 200k+ followers on Facebook.

To reduce the number of orphaned bears, ABR increases public awareness about coexisting with black bears. Their Visitor and Education Center offers classes on every aspect of black bear life.

To volunteer, request an application from the Volunteer Coordinator. You can also support ABR by making a donation on their website or purchasing gifts from their Amazon wish list.

Friends of the Smokies

Friends of Great Smoky Mountains National Park assists the National Park Service in preserving and protecting the park by raising funds, increasing public awareness and providing volunteers for essential projects.

The organization hosts several special events throughout the year, including the Cades Cove Loop Lope, the only organized footrace held inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This year’s 8^th annual race will take place on Sunday, November 10, featuring a 10-mile course and a 5K. Last year’s race sold out with 750 participants from 27 states, so register soon to secure your spot.

Another eagerly anticipated event is Plein Air in the Smokies, which brings 20 nationally acclaimed artists to paint “en plein air” (outdoors) throughout the national park. These one-of-a-kind paintings will be available for sale at a Collectors Soirée on Sept. 27th in Downtown Knoxville at Regas Square Events. You can purchase soiree tickets or view the schedule of events on their website.

If you’d like to volunteer for Friends of the Smokies, you can also fill out an application detailing your skills and interests. The organization will contact you as opportunities arise.

Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont

The Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont partners with the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to deliver experiential learning for youth, educators and adults. Their programs promote self-discovery, critical thinking, and effective teaching and leadership, connecting people with nature for over 50 years.

They post volunteer opportunities, ranging from data entry to adopting and monitoring a salamander stream, on their website. If you don’t see a fitting opportunity listed, you can sign up for their volunteer newsletter to be notified as new positions open.

Volunteer opportunities at the Tremont Institute range from data entry to adopting and monitoring a salamander stream. If you don’t find a suitable opportunity listed, you can sign up for their volunteer newsletter to be notified as new positions open.

To support the Tremont Institute financially, you can make a donation on their website, link your Kroger Plus Card to the organization, order a book from their wish list for their library, or purchase something from their gift store.

There are also several ways to financially support the Tremont Institute. You can take a traditional approach and make a donation on their website. Other options include linking your Kroger Plus Card to the organization, ordering a book from their wish list for their library or purchasing something from their gift store.

Keep Blount Beautiful

Based in the foothills of the Smokies, Keep Blount Beautiful is an award-winning nonprofit that works in litter prevention, waste reduction, beautification and environmental education. To support their mission, you can participate in a community cleanup or recycling collection event, or donate on their website.

Whether you’re just passing through or a local resident, supporting environmental nonprofits can help preserve the beauty and biodiversity of the Peaceful Side.

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