Tag: Smoky Mountain Tourism

Enjoy the Quiet and Visit the Smokies in the Off-Season for a Stress-Free Vacation

Posted on January 4, 2019 by - Blog, Smoky Mountains

In all honesty, it can be said that there is not a bad or wrong time to visit the Smokies. You can find a long list of indoor and outdoor activities at any time of year, and just paying a visit to a woodland cabin and enjoying a crackling fire may be all you need for the best experience. Yet, if you are eager to see and do the many things available in the region, it might be wise to book your visit in what might be called the “off-season.”

The Off-Season in the Smokies

As a year-round destination, the Smokies don’t have an official off-season, but do have times of peak travel and quieter, less busy times. Once the winter holidays have come and gone and true winter settles over the mountains, the region seems to quiet down a bit. While you won’t be able to enjoy the amazingly verdant rolling hills, or the saturated hues of autumn, there is still an amazing amount of natural beauty during the winter season in the Smokies.
Keep in mind that even during the wintery off-season there will be times when visitation spikes and peaks again. Holidays like Valentine’s Day or any winter breaks from school may lead to a revival of heavier visitation, and many weekends remain quite busy all year.
Technically, the lowest level of visitation comes from later January and throughout February, and that would be a great time to go ahead and book your stay. You’ll find vacancies in the different cabins or cottages as well as the resorts and hotels, along with all of the B&Bs or even home rentals.

Is It Worth an Off-Season Visit?

Naturally, you will want to know if you can still experience the major attractions if it is the off season, and the answer is a resounding “yes.” The larger towns like Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg have all of the usual activities and options (with the exception of Dollywood, which shuts down for January and February). Some stores or restaurants may shorten their hours, but still remain active, and the different stage shows may limit their numbers of performances, but still do their popular shows.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park remains open, though some roads and trails have to shut down due to inclement weather. Yet, you can enjoy an amazingly unrestricted, peaceful and stress-free drive through Cades Cove or wonderful Newfound Gap, and if you hit the trails, you’ll find frozen waterfalls and wonderfully peaceful conditions.
And, on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies, in towns like Maryville, Townsend and Alcoa, the winter is a wonderful time to visit. You can enjoy special events like the Winter Heritage Festival in late January in Townsend, and many of the breweries, distilleries and antique shops are the perfect indoor remedy for for cold weather (including this Tennessee Winter Beer Fest on February 16th).

Benefits of Off-Season Visits

If you need any further reasons to consider the Smokies as an ideal off-season destination, just consider that you’ll enjoy fewer crowds wherever you go, no lines or waiting at restaurants and popular attractions, better rates on rentals and cabins, and scenery that you will not enjoy at any other time of year.
Every season is a good season to visit the Smokies, but if stress-free and ultimately peaceful is your goal, go during the tranquil off-season this winter!
 

Enjoy These Spring Break Ideas in the Peaceful Side of the Smokies

Posted on March 20, 2019 by - Activities, Blog, Smoky Mountains

Springtime on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies means a riot of color and crisp mountain air as the over 1,500 varieties of local flowering fauna burst into bloom. Many believe spring to be the best time of year to visit Smoky Mountain National Park and the surrounding areas. It’s also the perfect place for those looking to enjoy a quieter spring break far from the partying crowds, noise, and the aftermath. If you are looking for a place to bring the whole family, the Smoky Mountains in the Townsend and Maryville, TN area offers plenty of fun affordable things to do in a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, for everyone in the family.

Hike It or Bike It

There are plenty of trails running deep into the Smokies for you to hike or ride your bicycle on. For example, there is a two-mile hike that takes you to Abrams Falls, where you can cross the footbridge and enjoy the beautiful beach sitting at the base of the falls. For the more adventurous, there is the 11-mile trail running around the peaceful valley that incorporates Cades Cove. This trail takes you between two 5, 000-foot mountain peaks and is excellent for experienced hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders.

Go Deep into the Caverns

Often referred to as the “Greatest Site Under the Smokies,” the incredible Tuckaleechee Caverns are only twenty minutes by car from Cades Cove. The one thing that makes these caverns so amazing is the huge rooms with vaulted ceilings. The “Big” room is longer than a football field (that’s over 100 yards). The formations are spectacular including the famous “Silver Falls.” The caverns open on Mar 15, just in time for spring break and are free to kids under four years of age.

Grab a Bite to Eat

Whether you just need a snack or it’s time to feed your family a complete meal, there are plenty of places to eat in Townsend, Maryville, and the surrounding areas. You can find everything from “good ole down-home” Tennessee cooking to fine dining in the area. Of course, you can always pack a picnic and hike back to Abrams Falls and eat your meal sitting on the beach.

Do a Little Shopping

One of the best things about spending your spring break on the peaceful side of the Smokies is being able to enjoy the great outdoors. But this doesn’t mean you can’t get in a little shopping in the many antique stores in Townsend including the Antique Outlet Mall. There are treasures to be found in many of the various country stores in town.
 

Experience a Group Camp Adventure at Eagle Rock in Maryville, TN

Posted on May 11, 2018 by - Blog, Groups, Maryville

Eagle Rock is the brainchild of a group of dedicated volunteers who spent many years bringing teens on retreats to part of East Tennessee. They found that everyone enjoyed the fellowship, the camaraderie and the chance to enjoy sharing their life changing experiences with Jesus Christ. In time, the land was purchased to establish Eagle Rock Camp with a lodge, bunkhouses, an outdoor amphitheater, and more. But this is just the beginning. If you are looking for some summer fun, take a look at these amazing activities and then be sure to book your stay early, as spaces go fast.
The Rope Course
This is a state-of-the-art high ropes course with several elements. The design requires you to make use of multiple maneuvering skills and techniques to traverse the entire course. The ropes range in height  from 20 to 45 feet off the ground and take you through the beautiful woods giving you a spectacular view of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Rock Climbing/ Rappelling
These are two of the most sought-after activities. Eagle Rock’s 45-foot cliff rock face is rated as having some of the best rappelling and rock climbing is the southeastern United States. Under the careful tutelage of great instructors, campers here learn about self-confidence while at the same time learning about the spiritual analogies of trusting others even when they don’t quite understand.
Creative Arts
Whether you are a crayon and coloring book artist or the next Picasso, campers have the opportunity to explore their creativity through various activities like painting and photography. This gives each camper a chance to explore their talents at their own pace.
Paintball
Eagle Rock first introduced paintball back in 2010 and it quickly became one of the most popular activities offered. Participants take part in a number of activities with a range of goals, but they must learn to work as a team if they want to reach the ultimate goal.
Canoeing
There is no better way to enjoy the trip from Chilhowee Lake to the base of the Abrams Falls, located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, than by canoe. This is one of the most peaceful activities offered and includes a five-mile hike, swimming, searching for arrowheads, and more.
Hiking
Campers will find a nice variety of trails of varying difficulties. They include short 30-minute strolls all the way up to 5-mile treks. There are so many places to go, such as the Abrams Falls, the old Gold Mine Trail, a bat cave and more. Each hike comes with a fresh supply of Great Smoky Mountains, fresh air and amazing scenery.
Tubing
Nothing could be more fun on a hot summer day than floating on the cold waters of the Little River. Campers can do this as a solo activity or as the perfect end to a long bike trek or hike. The ride lasts a full hour going through mostly calm waters. There are a few mild rapids on the way down that are sure to add a little excitement to the journey.
From amazing activities to home-cooked meals and the chance to get closer to God and nature, Eagle Rock Camp has so much to offer. Their vision has been to give everyone of all ages the chance to meet Jesus Christ for the first time or to see him in a new and life-changing way. More than this, Eagle Rock is a Christian Missions organization and serves a community of like-minded Christian churches, groups, individuals, and ministries. Be sure to book your reservations now for this summer, as spaces are filling quickly.

Experience Small Town Charm: Take a Driving Tour of the Towns of the Smokies

Posted on December 28, 2018 by - Blog, Smoky Mountains

Driving through the peaceful side of the Smokies in Eastern Tennessee will take you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the country: mountainsides covered in deep forests, and meadows awash with a riot of wildflowers in full bloom during the spring and summer. Your drive will also take you through several picturesque towns along the way. Each of these towns can trace its history to further back than most can remember, but all are still bustling hamlets with lots to see on your way through.

Maryville

Located in the foothills of the Smokies, Maryville offers those who live here a chance to get away from the noisy confines of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. Maryville is the county seat and has the advantage of being the “Gateway to the Smokies.” With a little diversion, you can stop by the Sam Houston Schoolhouse, Maryville College, or take a cruise into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Be sure you stop by the Blue Goose Farm and Vineyards and visit their sampling room.

Alcoa

Named after the Aluminum Company of America (ALCOA, now “Arconic”) in the early 20th century, the town of Alcoa is home to one of the largest aluminum smelting operations in the south. If you plan to cruise through town, don’t forget to stop in at Hot Rod’s 50’s Diner or the Texas Roadhouse for a meal.

Townsend

Townsend is only a short drive from Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, and a drive through will take you past several museums dedicated to preserving Appalachian culture. Visit the Little River Railroad & Lumber Company Museum, look at the vintage steam locomotives and browse the museum. Stop in at Wood-n-Strings Dulcimer shop, browse the selection of handcrafted wood instruments, and you may even hear a few of the locals striking up a tune.

Friendsville

Friendsville is a tiny town of fewer than one thousand people founded by a group of Quakers who moved to the area from New Garden, NC. Today, the town continues its quiet life and is very popular with many retirees. The town sits on either side of the W. Lamar Alexander Hwy and offers the Whispering Cove Marina, a marina and restaurant on Fort Loudon Reservoir. The rest of the town is mostly single-family homes that go by as you pass through.

Louisville

The town of Louisville sits in the perfect location, close to Fort Loudon Reservoir, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and several neighboring towns like Alcoa and Knoxville. Like many of the small towns in the area, most of the town is given over to single-family homes and small businesses. However, the reservoir plays a large part in finding things to do with fishing, boating, waterskiing and more. The town is a blend of old homes — many of which date back to the 19th century — and large, new, luxury homes built by those who commute from here into Knoxville.

Rockford

Cruising through Rockford on Hwy 33 will take you past the Egwani Farms Golf Course on your way back on the other side of this small town of less than 1,000. If you are looking for a quiet place to live, you can’t beat Rockford, but if you are passing through and need a meal, you will find a great selection of friendly locally-owned restaurants in nearby Maryville.
One thing to keep in mind is that despite these towns being wonderful to visit, families live here, too. During your driving tour, even though you’re supposed to be looking at the sights, make sure keep a close eye on the road, as well, to protect and respect the towns’ citizens.
 

Experience the Holiday Season Starts in the Smoky Mountains

Posted on November 7, 2018 by - Blog, Events

We have to agree with the old song, Christmas really is the  most wonderful time of the year. The smell of peppermint, pine, and sugar cookies seems to permeate everything, there are holiday lights and songs cascading throughout the stores, and if you are headed to the Smokies, it is when the area has some really dynamic holiday events.
Winter Fest in Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge is fun and fantastic to visit at any time of the year, but imagine it draped in more than five million holiday lights. This is exactly what happens every winter, when the town is transformed into an authentic winter wonderland. Their Winterfest begins in early November and runs all of the way through February (proving that the season is the best time of the year!)
And while a town glittering with millions of twinkle lights is more than enough for most, the decorations are just the beginning. There are lots of different shows and events throughout the period, too. For instance, Dollywood has a Smoky Mountain Christmas with all kinds of activities, parades and fun. The Old Mill Square sets up a covered bridge and creates a magical spot in a historic setting. The Smoky Mountain Opry also dolls itself up for the season and if you are there around Thanksgiving, you can experience the region’s opening celebrations and fireworks display!
The Island at Pigeon Forge becomes a major Christmas destination and features a half a million lights of its own on display in the trees and Santa’s workshop. There is a Dinner Show, and of course, the amazing Winterfest Driving Tour of Lights running from early November to the end of February.
Winter Magic in Gatlinburg
Not to be outdone by its neighbor, Gatlinburg has its Winter Magic events that run from November through February, as well. The town is draped with millions of light and eco-friendly visitors will appreciate that every single display and decoration is now environmentally friendly!
The displays include LED lights and feature all kinds of themes and figures. You can enjoy the display from your car or book yourself some seats on the far more comfortable Gatlinburg Trolley Ride of Lights. You enjoy a guided tour through the entire display in town and remain cozy and warm throughout.
Keep in mind that there is more than the lights and special events. There is also the amazing natural scenery, and since the park is open throughout the year, a winter day hike or a drive through spots like Cades Cove and other beautiful routes could be a good way to kick off your holiday visit.
Don’t forget that Ober Gatlinburg is a premiere ski destination, and the famous Village in Gatlinburg is a wonderful Christmas destination. And at the end of the day, a stay in one of the cozy cabins throughout the region could add that perfect touch of magic. After all, you can sit by the fire, gaze out at the views, and savor the twinkling stars above the twinkling lights in the towns below!

Experience the Magic of Dollywood at Christmas Time

Posted on December 10, 2018 by - Blog, Events

Dollywood is known as one of the finest and most family-friendly destinations in the country. A theme park, it is also a cultural institution that introduces millions of visitors to many different elements of the Smokies region and the people who have lived there for centuries. Yet, for all of the amazing entertainment, food and activity that happens there throughout the year, it becomes an entirely enchanted spot at Christmas.
In fact, it is fair to say that Dollywood actually glows when the season comes around, and from November through January of every year, it becomes a perfect spot to bring kids of all ages.

The Main Christmas Events at Dollywood

The entire park takes on a winter wonderland appearance for the season, and visitors can enjoy:

  • Parade of Many Colors
  • Award-Winning Shows
  • Visits with Rudolph and Friends
  • Entertainment
  • Seasonal Dining

And illuminating all of this is more than four million holiday lights. In fact, beginning in 2018, the Dollywood park has a brand-new themed area along with the more familiar scenes and landscapes. Known as Glacier Ridge Wonder, it has a 50-foot video motion Christmas tree that turns the plaza into a symphony of lights. There is a stunning Northern Lights display, with an unbelievable “aurora borealis” effect, and there is also an all-new winter wonderland that brings the North Pole to Tennessee.

The Songs of Christmas

Entertainment options include the famous Christmas in the Smokies stage show that is a holiday tradition in Dollywood. The park also has a presentation of It’s a Wonderful Life based on the famous film, a version of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas, and limited musical performances that include the Appalachian Christmas, a Southern Gospel show, performances by The Mistle Tones, and a presentation of O’ Holy Night. The daily Parade of Many Colors also includes musical performances along with stunning light displays and floats.
And to ensure that kids (or kids at heart) truly enjoy every moment spent at Dollywood, there are many family-friendly activities that include meetups with Santa, Rudolph and more.
There are also the park’s award-winning seasonal foods and treats that will satisfy even the most discerning (i.e. picky) eaters. From southern specialties at Aunt Granny’s Restaurant to new takes on old classics at the Front Porch, and from the treats at Miss Lillian’s Smokehouse to the Appalachian specialties at Granny Ogle’s Ham ‘n’ Beans, there are many delicious ways to experience a new holiday dining tradition.
Other eateries at Dollywood include Red’s Drive-In, Frannie’s Famous Fried Chicken food truck, Victoria’s Pizza, Lumber Jack’s Pizza, the Big Skillet, the wonderful snacks at the Grist Mill, Dogs N Taters, Crossroad’s Funnel Cakes, the Grandstand Café and the amazing Sweet Shoppe and Candy Kitchen. Grab some additional goodies from Spotlight Bakery or just step in to look at one of their 25-pound apple pies.
And if you want to share some worship time with the kids, Dollywood has its charming Smoky Mountain Christmas Chapel, which is an authentic country church beautifully decorated for the season!

Explore These Frozen Waterfalls in Great Smoky Mountains National Park This Winter

Posted on January 18, 2019 by - Activities, Blog

Millions of people pay a visit to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park each year, and they don’t limit their visits to the spring, summer or fall. It is a year-round destination, full of beautiful and unmatched scenery, lots of native flora and fauna, and many things to do. After all, you can enjoy visits to historic buildings while in the park, take driving tours along amazing roadways and scenic highways (including the brand-new section of the Foothills Parkway), and even go hiking.

Winter Hiking in the Smokies is Amazing

In fact, the winter hiking is quite amazing with trails for all levels of experience. And if you are considering a hike into the glorious wintertime landscape in the Smokies, you may want to pay attention to any opportunities for waterfall viewing. The National Park Service explains that there are “over 2,000 miles of streams in the Smokies, dotted with sparkling waterfalls and cascades” and around 40 waterfalls that you can reach by trail or even by car.
If you are going to be paying a visit to the area this winter, you don’t even have to get dressed up for a day on the trails because there are also several gorgeous waterfalls that you can reach and view by car!

The Winter Waterfalls of the Smokies

Let’s start with the waterfalls easiest to enjoy from the coziness of your car or truck. There are several spots recommended by experts and hikers alike.
Meigs Falls – Take Little River Road in the park and at roughly 13 miles west of the Sugarlands Visitor Center, you will find the pull-off area for year-round views of the falls. Don’t go fast because it is a “blink and you miss it” pull-off. You will be astonished at the volumes of ice that build up on these lovely falls.
The Sinks – This is also another set of falls located along the Little River Road, and you will hit this one around 12 miles from the Sugarlands Visitor Center. It has an easier-to-find parking area, and though the falls are not as high as others, they are often stunning because the entire volume of the river flows through this area, building up loads of ice.
If you wish to hike, you can easily reach spots like Laurel Falls, situated at the northern end of the park, or Tom Branch Falls at the southern end. Both are reached by moderate hikes that are well worth the effort. In fact, Laurel Falls is popular all year long and is just a 1.3-mile paved trail with truly stunning scenery. Skilled hikers may head to Rainbow Falls, a 5.5-mile trail or Alum Cave Bluff Trail that is the tallest peak in the park.
Do pay attention to the weather reports no matter what sort of waterfall viewing you have planned and reschedule if any extreme conditions are predicted. The scenery from your cozy cabin can be just as appealing as anything you might see from the car or during a hike, and you can plan a return visit in the spring if you want to see the falls when they wake back up for the season!
 

Foothills Parkway Offers Quiet Escape During Fall Foliage Season

Posted on October 4, 2017 by - Activities, Blog, Smoky Mountains

Fall foliage season in the Smoky Mountains is nearly upon us, as mountain vistas across East Tennessee don a stunning array of reds, oranges, yellows and deep earthy tones.
Blount County, Tennessee, the “Peaceful Side of the Smoky Mountains,” offers some of the best views during this season, and the opportunity for a quiet escape against a breathtaking backdrop.
Foothills Parkway, located off US Highway 321 in Walland, is a not-to-miss destination for those looking to experience vibrant fall foliage in the Smokies. This parkway is less busy than other roads in the park, making it a great place to get away from crowds and traffic.
The 16.9 miles of parkway traverses the western flank of Chilhowee Mountain in Blount County, intersecting with US 129 at Chilhowee Lake. Along the way, the road meanders up the mountain beneath a canopy of trees, with scenic pull-offs and overlooks interspersed throughout.
Each scenic overlook offers a unique panoramic view of the mountains with grassy areas ideal for picnicking, relaxing or photography.
One of the most popular destinations along Foothills Parkway is Look Rock, a natural observation ledge overlooking the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. An easy half-mile hike leads to the observation tower that provides a spectacular 360-degree view.
Car and motorcycle enthusiasts will find Foothills Parkway to be of particular interest: where US 129 intersects with the Parkway, the road becomes the world-renowned section of highway to the south known as “The Dragon” for its 318 curves in 11 miles. “The Dragon” is an exhilarating experience as sports cars and motorcycles navigate the twisting road.
While the Parkway is a wonderful experience for motorists, it’s also a prime target for bicyclists. The crisp mountain air and beautiful scenery attract road bikers who enjoy the challenging uphill climb followed by a downhill decent through the mountains.
Blount County and the Foothills Parkway are easily accessible to those traveling to the area. The McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) is less than 20 minutes away with easy access to major highways like I-40 and I-140.
The area also boasts a plethora of options for accommodations with fall foliage views. Dancing Bear Lodge, a resort located in Townsend and just 10 minutes from Foothills Parkway, offers luxury cabins with comfortable places to lounge and enjoy the scenery like rocking chairs, porch swings or their fire pit. Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro, located at the Lodge, serves regionally inspired cuisine with fresh, quality sourced ingredients for an exceptional dining experience.
Situated just one mile from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tally Ho Inn is another great option providing mountain beauty with their private balconies and terraces.
While staying in the Blount County area to ride or drive Foothills Parkway, visitors can also take advantage of other activities like the numerous hiking trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, or walking or biking the Alcoa or Maryville Greenways. Cades Cove, a valley surrounded by mountains, has an 11-mile paved road with historic buildings and an abundance of wildlife that can be experienced by car, on foot or by bike.
Those looking to experience the “Peaceful Side of the Smoky Mountains,” and Foothills Parkway, are encouraged to visit www.smokymountains.org or contact the Blount County Chamber of Commerce at (865) 983-2241 for more information on accommodations, travel and dining and entertainment options.

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

Posted on October 3, 2018 by - Blog, Smoky Mountains

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 spending time in pristine wilderness, this part of the world is for you.
The fall season brings cooler weather and stunning natural color to the region, with autumn’s gold and red hues first appearing high in the mountains and gradually making their way to the valleys below. From late August until the end of October, travelers can savor a constantly changing panorama of stunning views, intense foliage and crisp, cool air. While driving and hiking are ideal ways to experience the region, the opportunity for a zipline should not be ignored.
Ziplines and The Smokies
While many parts of the world are ideal areas for zipline experiences, the woods of the Great Smoky Mountains are probably among the very best. After all, the spring and summer bring with it an amazing amount of beauty and lush greenery, but in the fall, it all changes to a nearly magical vista of brilliant and saturated hues. Imagine soaring through the treetops, gazing out at the blue peaks of the mountains, all while immersed in a wonderland of gold, scarlet, saffron and more.
If you are unfamiliar with the activity known as ziplining, you should know that it is a safe and exciting activity, with options suited to people of all ages. In the Smokies, it is amongst the most popular activities, and some of the best sites feature other options on their premises, including hiking, climbing and more. Some of the most family-friendly and scenic companies even make horseback riding options available.
Highly Recommended Zipline Experiences in The Smokies
To ensure you savor the most amazing autumn foliage views on your upcoming visit to the Smoky Mountains area of Tennessee, we recommend the following zipline companies:
Next to Heaven Zipline – One component of Next to Heaven Mountain Adventures, their highly rated zipline experience is noted as one of the most scenic in the entire region. With experts to guide you every step of the way, they are located at 1239 Wears Valley Rd, in Townsend. You can also enjoy unguided horse rides from their premises and explore their 45 acres of scenery over the two-mile trail!
CLIMB Works Canopy – In the busy Gatlinburg area, you can enjoy a long list of activities, including this popular climbing and ziplining site.  With nine different ziplines, and three sky bridges, it ensures you see a lot of the amazing autumn color while enjoying a visit. They are found at 155 Branam Hollow Rd, in Gatlinburg.
There are many other options and sites, but the two above stand apart as some of the most highly rated and reviewed. Surrounded by nature, ziplining is a wonderful way to get a unique perspective of the area and savor the colors of fall.

For a Unique View of the Smokies' Fall Foliage, Saddle Up and See it from Horseback

Posted on November 21, 2018 by - Activities, Blog, Smoky Mountains

Are you planning an autumn visit to the Smokies? If so, you’ll love the peacefulness of the season. The summer crowds have departed, and colors of fall are settling into the region. Look up at the peaks and you’ll see the first hints of red, gold and orange, and along with those colors comes a wonderful change in the weather. Cool and sunny days make it easier than ever to spend most of your time outdoors in the amazing landscape.
And while there are many amazing trails, drives and attractions to visit, you don’t have to walk or drive to all of them. In fact, one of the best ways to take in the views of the autumn season are from the back of a horse!

Smoky Mountains Activities

A lot of travelers think of spending their time in the area in their cars, on foot, on bicycles or even floating in a boat or inner tube, yet the beauty of the autumn season can also be experienced via horseback riding. There are many different stables available, and all of the horses are well-accustomed to first-time riders as well as experienced travelers.
There are not many options for unguided journeys, but if you wish to go on your own along the trails, it is possible. Either way, whether as part of a group and guided ride or on your own, you’ll find the woods remarkably quiet and peaceful and the experience unforgettable.

Horseback Riding Stables in the Smokies

For those eager to see for themselves just how wonderful a visit to the Smokies might be when a horseback riding adventure is included, we suggest the following stables:

Next to Heaven Mountain Adventures

This is for those who want an unguided experience. You are carefully matched with your horse and you can then follow the existing trail that leads into the mountains surrounding the stables. The horses are so clever that you just cannot possibly get lost, and even if you get confused, they’ll take you right back home! The site also makes ziplining available in the canopy of trees overhead.

Cades Cove Riding Stables

This is one of the most familiar and famous because it is the only option within the actual Great Smoky Mountains National Park. There are fully guided trails, and riders can rest assured that the horses are incredibly gentle and patient. You can also book a hayride or a carriage ride.

Davy Crockett Stables

Another of the stables open to people of all riding levels or skill is Davy Crockett Stables. You can take half day rides or shorter adventures, and most of the tours lead into the woodlands and beautiful, natural areas.
You can also book your accommodations at a ranch, the Twin Valley Horse Ranch and enjoy full or half day rides, and if you don’t yet know how to ride, why not enjoy a day spent in the autumn landscape at the Rolling Hills Farm Equestrian Center or the Mountain Meadow Equestrian Center?
The fall colors come and go quickly, and you can really make the most of them when you enjoy them from the comfort of a calm, friendly horse’s back!

Fun Activities for Kids in Maryville, TN: Perpetual Motion

Posted on May 4, 2018 by - Activities, Blog

Are you looking for something to do to shake off the cabin fever of winter? As the weather heats up, there’s always something in the Smokies that is perfect for kids of all ages. But heading outdoors isn’t always the solution. One great way to find fun activities for kids indoors in the area is to head to Perpetual Motion!
What Is Perpetual Motion?
This is a six-acre indoor gym and outdoor play place for kids located in East Maryville, where kids have so much to do that they’ll never want to leave. Inside the 22,000-square-foot building, kids have tons of gymnastics equipment, art supplies, and areas to run, jump, climb, and have a blast. Cheerleading and gymnastic classes are offered as well, so there is an abundance of things to learn and do.
Outside, Perpetual Motion offers two swimming pools, a soccer field, a volleyball court, a picnic area, several playgrounds, and lots of grass for a good game of tag. Add that to the big parking lot, and you’ve got yourself a heaven on earth for busy families that just need to let off some steam!
Why Visit Perpetual Motion?
Are your kids stressed out? Bored? Tired of being still? Driving you up the wall with all their energy that you can’t contain? Is even the dog wishing for a nap after a long day with your toddler? If you can relate, then you need to come to Perpetual Motion. It’s the ideal place to get all those wiggles out for kids of all ages. Bigger kids will find tons of fun things to do while the younger ones have places to play out of harm’s way. As a busy parent, you get the luxury of knowing that your kid will sleep very well after tiring themselves out with all the fun to be had.
Get in touch with Perpetual Motion 4 Kids at 865-984-1253 or online to learn more.
Other Fun Activities for Kids in Maryville
While we think Perpetual Motion is one of the best places to go in Maryville for kids of all ages, there are many other activities to take advantage of, as well. Have older kids that want to get outdoors? Head to Frontier Anglers and set up a guided trout fishing trip. For families of all ages who need more family time, head to Crest Bowling Lanes or the Smoky Mountain Skate Center.
For quieter activities for kids, try the Cades Cove Museum to learn the history of the region, or the Parkway Drive In, where you can watch movies the old-fashioned way! Art classes at Studio 212 Arts are another great way to have fun together with your children.
There is so much for families to explore here in Blount County. Head to Maryville, TN for more fun activities for kids!

Get Back to Nature at Maryville's Pistol Creek Wetlands Center

Posted on May 18, 2018 by - Activities, Blog, Maryville

One of the least popular parts of living in a modern city is the concrete jungles they have become. These days, finding trees, let alone animals, can be challenging. But for those who come to visit Maryville, TN to get away from it all and grab some fresh Smoky Mountain air, there is one place you simply cannot afford to miss. The Pistol Creek Wetland Center is a peaceful haven filled with local flora, fauna, and wildlife designed to be enjoyed by schools, civic organizations, families, and just about anyone who wants to get back in touch with Mother Nature.

Where It All Began

In the late 1990s the city of Maryville, TN purchased a section of the old Delozier farm on Montvale Station Rd. In 2006, the Environmental Protection Agency awarded the City of Maryville a grant that covered the entire cost of the project, leaving the city with no bills to pay.
Under the watchful eye of Dr. Ben Cash and Dr. Mark O’Gorman, students from Maryville College participated in the initial study along with post-construction activities at the Center. Once the initial construction of the Center was finished, the area grew into a sapling grove filled with invasive species.

And On to Today

Today, the Center offers visitors a chance to stroll along walkways that offer informational signs filled with educational details about the many different types of plants, native birds, and animals that have chosen to call the Center home. The entire area has been turned into a learning center. The signs also share information about the wetlands and how important they are to our environment.
Students from Maryville College continue to contribute by working with the many different school classes that come to the Center each year. They share a wealth of knowledge with the kids, covering many of the local wildlife, and often introducing them to living members of various species. This is a golden opportunity to teach today’s kids what it’s like to get in touch with nature.

The Legacy Will Continue

Thanks to the tireless efforts of the Maryville College students, Dr. Matt Gray – a professor who teaches Wetlands Ecology and Management at UT – and a task team, the long-term outlook for the park is excellent.

Before You Go

If you are considering taking a civic group or school class to the facility, you should contact the Center at (865) 273-3401 to make a reservation. Book early as availability is limited and on a first come, first served basis. We recommend that schools send only one class at a time to ensure the best possible experience for the students. There is plenty of parking for busses and no charge for you to bring your kids to the center.
The Pistol Creek Wetland Center is the perfect place for kids and adults of all ages to get back in touch with nature and enjoy an incredible array of local plants and animals. Come back several times a year to see how the scenery changes with each season.