The Incline

The first stop on your Lookout Mountain day trip might be a ride along “America’s Most Amazing Mile.” Since 1895 The Incline Railway has been trolleying passengers from the foot of the mountain to its summit. This National Historic Engineering Landmark has a dramatic 72.7% grade near the top, which makes it the steepest railway in the world. Additionally, the views afforded to passengers are in a word: breathtaking!

Rock City

Atop Lookout Mountain (roughly 3 miles from The Incline) are the awesome rock formations and botanical gardens of Rock City. Since the early 19th century sightseers have come here to explore the naturally occurring “streets and avenues” that earned this landmark its nickname.

In the 1920s, Frieda Carter decided she would plant the mother-of-all rock gardens here in Rock City. It was Frieda’s husband, however, who conceived of turning this into a must-see tourist attraction. Garnet Carter’s famous “See Rock City” advertising campaign beckoned visitors from as far away as Michigan and Texas. You, too, will want visit here to enjoy the 4,100 foot walking trail,  the ancient and massive rock formations, and the panoramic view of 7 states.

Ruby Falls

Hidden within the caves of Lookout Mountain is a waterfall unlike any other. Every minute hundreds of gallons of water thunder down a 145 foot drop to splash into a  pool below. This is Ruby Falls, America’s highest and deepest underground waterfall.  Discovered over seven decades ago by  a group of excavators, the falls have become a national treasure. While here you can enjoy a walking tour of the caverns that house the falls and learn about the amazing history and geology of this natural wonder.

If you’ve decided to vacation here in East Tennessee, why not take a day out of your Gatlinburg holiday to visit one of America’s most dynamic landmarks. This easy day trip is both family-friendly and educational. From the amazing geology to its storied history (including the  most romantically named battle of the Civil War: The Battle Above the Clouds), Lookout Mountain offers fun and excitement for everyone.

The Comedy Barn is located in Pigeon Forge on the Parkway between light #3 and light #4.  Housed in the multi-million dollar barn shaped theater, it is  hard to miss when driving down the Parkway. The cast not only performs, but also sell concessions and souvenirs, greets audience members, and signs autographs. It s an every-man’s theater that strives to provide the best experience for the over 3 million tourists who visit annually.

Once the show starts, be prepared to laugh and be entertained. The show features fire-eaters, jugglers, musicians, ventriloquists, and even farm yard animals. In between, there is plenty of country, bluegrass, and gospel music, along with computerized lights and special effects. The show prides itself with providing clean family-oriented comedy and entertainment that kids and adults alike can enjoy. In the three times that I have visited the show, none of the shows have been the same and each time was equally funny and enjoyable.

The cast loves to use audience members as part of the show so be warned that you may end up on stage being  “hypnotized” or as part of one of the other many funny skits. Kids are even given a chance to be a part of the show and interact with some of the funny barnyard animals.

The lobby offers souvenirs of toys featuring animals from the show as well as t-shirts, sweatshirts, hats, candy, and novelty toys. Each show is taped nightl, so after you watch it you can buy a copy to view and enjoy later.

The show is open all year around and has an 8:15 pm show almost every night, with additional shows at 2:00 pm. and 5:00 pm offered during peak seasons. A special Christmas shows is offered daily in late November and December. Special group rates are available. The ticket box office is open 7 days a week from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm.  Tickets can be purchased online at the box office or online. Coupons can be found online and at various locations in Pigeon Forge.

Next time you visit Pigeon Forge, stop in enjoy the show that has been voted the Funniest Show for 10 years in a row. You won’t be sorry!

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• At The Comedy Barn Theater families can gather for an award winning variety show complete with comedians, magicians, fire-eaters jugglers, and live animals! Located at 2775 Parkway in Pigeon Forge the Comedy Barn is hard to miss–it really is shaped like a barn. With matinees and evening presentations it’s easy to make time for this family-friendly show.

• Magic Beyond Belief boasts mind boggling illusions you simply have to see to believe. In a mystical two hour presentation magician Terry Evanswood performs alongside a cast of beautiful assistants and larger than life felines. Located at 2135 Parkway, the Magic Beyond Belief theater is also home to a magic shop where patrons can purchase magic tricks and other novelties as souvenirs.

• For live country music, visit the Country Tonite Theater. This award winning show, located at 129 Showplace Blvd, has been voted Show of the Year seven years running–and the hits just keep on coming. In addition to the usual comedy, music, dancing and patriotism, there are celebrity concerts held throughout the year; check the Country Tonite website for rates and dates.

• The Miracle Theater has dramatic productions of the inspirational variety. Their musical recreation of the life of Christ includes singing, dancing, flying angels, and real life camels. They also host Exalt Christian Concerts and (coming soon) Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. For an even more spectacular experience, why not purchase one of their backstage passes?

• Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede is a romping, stomping fast paced dinner show filled with galloping steeds and trick riders. The brain child of world-renowned entertainer Dolly Parton, the Stampede never fails to please. Arrive an hour early at 3849 Parkway to enjoy a stroll through the stables and a 50 minute pre-show.

This is just a sampling of all the thrilling attractions you can find here in the Smokies. You won’t want to miss any of the amazing productions hosted by Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Better still, as the weather turns colder, the fun heats up as the entertainers put on special holiday extravaganzas. Can’t wait to see you there!

Kid and adults will both enjoy stepping in Santa’s Workshop. This over sized toy store has larger than life toys and interactive activities for kids of all ages to enjoy,  including an over sized Viewmaster. While you’re there, make sure to say hi to Santa!

Enjoy award-winning shows such as annual favorites Babes in Toyland and Christmas in the Smokies. Babes in Toyland is Dollywood’s most elaborate stage show ever and features holiday favorites and mesmerizing performances by acrobats, puppets, and scenery to bring this incredible story to life. Christmas in the Smokies brings Christmas to life with a cast of 12 and a 7 piece band performing holiday favorites.

The park is adorned with 4 million lights that create a wonderland of lights and sounds. Each night the lights in the park are synchronized with holiday music that turns Rivertown Lake into a spectacular sight.

Santa is the star in the daily Parade of Lights. Kids and adults alike will enjoy Christmas floats adorned with Christmas lights and colorful Christmas characters. The parade winds through the park bringing Christmas cheer and Santa.  Don’t forget to join Santa at Aunt Granny’s for brunch while you’re there. Kids can share their Christmas wishes with Santa while enjoying a delicious holiday brunch. Reservations are not available and seating is first come, first serve so get their early to get a seat close to Santa. Click here for more information.

There are other rides and shows that celebrate the meaning of Christmas and the imagination of children. Some of the most popular shows include Twas the Night before Christmas and the Polar Express 4-D Experience.

This year is a great time to start a new family tradition by bringing your family to Dollywood for the Smoky Mountain Christmas. Its an experience that every member of your family will enjoy and remember!

What better way to bring back childhood memories and create some new ones than a hayride? Grab your kids, dress comfortable and enjoy the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains!

Downtown Gatlinburg offers hayrides from September 1st through December 31st. Climb in the back of a hay filled wagon reminiscent of the old tractor pulled hayrides of the past. Not only can you enjoy the beauty scenery of Gatlinburg and the changing foliage, but beginning November 1st, Gatlinburg will be decorated with its Winter Magic lighting display adding to the spectacular beauty. The hayrides run Sunday-Thursday from 5 P.M. to 9 P.M. from Traffic Mall at Light #6, every 45 minutes. Admission is $4.00 and benefits the United Way. If you have any questions, you can call (865)436-0535.

Just a short drive away in Walland, TN, Apple Valley Riding Stables offers tractor-drawn hayrides along its scenic 1200 acres, beside the Foothills Parkway. Jump on the back of an old, wooden hay wagon and enjoy the relaxing ride along the property and through the creek. The ride will take you to a small meadow and back. Special requests are always welcome and the friendly staff can  build a bonfire  for you. Apple Valley Riding Stables is open 7 days a week from 9-5 weather permitting.

Echobrooks Farm, also located near Walland, TN, offers a collection of carriages and horses for hayrides and carriage rides. They have horse drawn vehicles to accommodate families and groups from 6-30 in size. Sturdy Belgian and Percheron horses will pull the carriages down shady lanes, or through  the beautiful countryside filled with scenic views of the surrounding mountains and streams. An authentic horse drawn hayride is a great way to enjoy a group outing, a family picnic or to celebrate a special event. Along the way, the drive will share stories and information about the history of the area. Special group rates are available.

Cades Coves Riding Stables in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers hayrides from Mid-March to October 31st. Visitors can enjoy 1.5 to 2 hour hayride around Cades Cove in a hay filled trailer pulled by a truck. Regular un-narrated hayrides are available during the day. The cost is $6.00 per person and reservations are generally required.  Park Rangers provide narrated nightly hayrides that last approximately two hours and are conducted in all weather unless it is deemed too unsafe.  Space is limited on the wagons and advanced reservations are required. The cost is $8.50 per person two years and older. Visitors should dress comfortably for the weather and bring a  flashlight for the parking and bathroom area. To get more information or to make reservations, call the Cades Cove Stables at (865) 448-9009

The closest river to Gatlinburg is the Pigeon River, located a short 30 minute drive in Hartford, TN.  The Pigeon River is divided into two parts- the Upper and Lower Pigeon River. The Upper Pigeon is a 6 1/2 mile exhilarating ride down 60 class I-IV rapids guaranteed to thrill and soak you.  Along the way, you’ll enjoy the beautiful views of the Great Smoky Mountains and the Cherokee National Forest. The rafting trip normally takes between 1 1/2 to 2 hours, depending on the rafting company.

The Lower Pigeon River is better suited for people who prefer a gentle, more laid back ride down relaxing waves. Families with small children weighing less than 70 lbs. will be able to enjoy floating down the 5 miles of  Class I and II  rapids, with one Class III rapid at the end. Along the way, jump in and cool off while the kids  swim and splash around in the cool mountain water.

The Pigeon River is controlled by a dam and has scheduled water release Tuesday-Thursday and Saturday from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Rafting is available Spring and Fall but requires calling ahead for trip times and availability.

White water rafting doesn’t require any experience.  An experienced certified guide accompanies each raft during trips on both the Upper and Lower Pigeon River to make sure everyone remains safe while having fun. All rafters who want to ride down the Upper Pigeon River must be at least 8 years of age or weigh at least 70 lbs. Rafters on the Lower Pigeon must be at least 3 years old and be accompanied by an adult.

Planning a Trip

When planning a rafting trip reservations are required. The cancellation  policy for most of the rafting companies vary depending on when the trip is canceled and the size of the group. Its is advisable to cancel 48 hours in advance for groups of 9 or less and week to 10 days in advance  for groups over 10 to avoid penalties and receive a full refund.  On the day of your trip, make sure to arrive at the least 30-45 minutes in advance, to fill out required paperwork and go through a short safety briefing before going out on the river.

Not sure what to wear? During summer months a t-shirt, shorts, and bathing suit along with tennis shoes, deck shoes will be light and comfortable when wet. Flip Flops or any shoes without a strap are not suitable footwear and shouldn’t be worn. Jewelry and valuables also should not be worn while rafting to prevent them from getting lost. The guides will take pictures for you to capture your trip, so no need to worry about your camera. During the Spring and Fall, dress in  layers of nylon or synthetic fibers like wool to stay warm.

Not sure where to start?  Here’s a good list of rafting businesses in Gatlinburg, TN.

Kids will enjoy watching the peacocks that wander the property with their beautiful feathers. Once inside the farm, there are animals such as kangaroos, wallabies, and prairie dogs. If you look closely, you may even catch a glimpse of a Joey in the kangaroo pocket. Feed is available in the gift shop for $2.50 for a 22 oz cup of feed. Refills on feed are half price. The feed can’t be used to feed the kangaroo or wallabies, but can be fed to a majority of the animals.

Kids will enjoy feeding and petting the goats, sheep, deer, reindeer and camel. Kids and adults can go into the goat enclosure to pet and feed the goats.  It is best to leave the feed cup in the cup holders on the outside of the fence when inside the enclosure so the goats don’t jump up trying to get it out of your hand. Kids are allowed to pet and hold the baby goats while inside the fence.

Along with the goats, there are plenty of other animals such as reindeer, elk, deer, emu, camels, exotic cattle, donkeys, sheep and zonkeys that can kids can enjoy petting and feeding. The animals are very gentle and are enjoy the extra feed and attention.

After enjoying the petting zoo, you can visit the stables located near the gift shop. Kids can take a guided pony ride within a fenced in trail. Parents or guardians guide the pony along the trail. It’s a picture perfect experience for parents and children.

Guided horseback riding is available for adults and children. Children are allowed to ride alone, but any child under 3 must double up with a parent. Kids 3+ are encouraged to ride alone with the help of the guide. Experienced guides take riders on shaded, well-maintained 8’ and 10’ trails.  The experienced and friendly staff will keep riders entertained, as well as make sure their ride is an enjoyable experience.

The petting zoo and stables are open year around (weather permitting).  Be sure to check here for rates and coupons.  Have fun!

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