Here are just a few tips for those who might be coming into town about which ways might be best to enjoy the Smoky Mountains magic while avoiding the traffic hassles…

Interstate 40 (Exit 407)

Obviously, the pathway that many take to their Smokies and Gatlinburg vacations involves Interstate 40 and exit 407.  After all, I-40 is one of three interstate systems in the eastern region of the state, and is the most logical way to get to there.  Whether coming from the east or the west, you will no doubt encounter some of the most beautiful surroundings you have ever seen.

I-40 (Driving From The West Through Knoxville, TN)

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From the west, you will come through Knoxville, which depending on the time of day, can be a major headache.  Avoiding the rush driving times can help a traveler greatly while making the trip to their Gatlinburg vacations.  Thankfully, the construction that has been taking place on I-40 through the town of the Volunteers has ended, making the run a lot more enjoyable and less time consuming.  I have seen traffic begin as soon as you depart the interstate at exit 407 though, so please be advised.

I-40 / I-81 (Traveling From The East)

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If you are coming from the eastern side of I-40, you’re in better luck as far as traffic goes.  You definitely won’t mind the view, either.  With towns like Bulls Gap and Morristown adorning the path, you will drive through some absolutely gorgeous Smoky Mountains scenery.

***NOTE: I-40 in North Carolina was recently closed near the NC / Tennessee border due to a massive rock slide. As of Late April 2010, it is once again open to traffic, although there might be occasional delays. Please see this info page from NCDOT for complete details and detour information.***

Highway 441

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From the south, there is Highway 441 that has you coming in from North Carolina, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.  When it comes to scenery, you can’t beat this pathway into Sevier County.  Of course, traffic through the National Park is a consideration, and obviously, you can’t drive as fast as you can through some of the other ways of getting there.

Insiders’ Tips On Beating Traffic To And From Your Smoky Mountain Vacations

OK, so…you’re going to encounter non-stop traffic no matter how you go, right?  Well, if you go at certain times of the year, that’s probably a given.  With that said, let me offer you two alternate route suggestions that might cause you a little less headache:

Alternate Route #1:  Take Highway 441 South From Knoxville

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If you have to go through Knoxville, you might want to consider getting off the interstate on Highway 441 in downtown. Instead of going straight through Knoxville to the famous exit 407, you’ll go through the town of Seymour, en route to Sevierville, TN.  Once you get to Sevierville though, you’re on your own.

Alternate Route #2:  Take Highway 321

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The other (sort of) secret route involves you coming in from the west, and departing I-40 before you get to Knoxville.  At exit 364, you will see Highway 321 that takes you through Lenoir City, Maryville, and south to Townsend before you make a cut back to the north to Pigeon Forge, where you wind up in the middle of town.  Mileage-wise, it’s not wise, but in my travels there, I can’t remember ever coming to a complete stop, and the drive is absolutely breathtaking.

A Few Additional Insiders’ Travel Tips…

There are a few further tips for travelers driving to the Gatlinburg / Pigeon Forge area that might make your stay more pleasant.  If you are coming in for a mountain run, you might want to make it during the week.  Weekend traffic is crazy.

If you can’t avoid going on a weekend during the fall…check out the Tennessee Volunteers Football Schedule.  Many fans that go cheer on the SEC powerhouse usually devote the second day of their weekend to the mountains.  Even if they don’t, avoid traveling through Knoxville on game day…you’ll drive yourself crazy!

Getting Around The Way The Locals Do

Simply getting to your destination isn’t enough.  You have to navigate your way to the town of your choice.  This sounds easy, but keep in mind, there are lots of people in the area just like you enjoying Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg vacations.  So, let’s start with Sevierville, and work our way up Highway 441.

Sevierville, TN

Exiting off of Interstate 40 onto Highway 66, you will be amazed at how many entertainment and shopping options there are—miles away from what is known as “The Parkway.”  As far as Sevierville goes, traffic is what it is.  You might be able to find a shortcut or two, but it’s not going to be that easy. One possible alternative would be to leave The Parkway, go east on 411 through Sevierville, and finally take Veterans Rd / Middle Creek Rd / Teaster Ln south to where it rejoins The Parkway below Pigeon Forge.

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Due to the basic layout of the town, there are not a lot of updates that can be made.  Still, you have to give credit to city officials for re-working the intersection of Highways 66 and 441 a few years ago, allowing visitors the option of bypassing one of the city’s busiest routes.  You’re still going to have a good amount of volume, but that little step makes it somewhat easier.

Pigeon Forge, TN

Then, you’re at Pigeon Forge.  If you have ever been there on a weekend in the fall, the massive amount of traffic will surely intimidate you if you’ve never been there before.  Do not abandon hope, as there are a few tricks to getting around town, or bypassing it altogether.

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Once you get into Pigeon Forge, you will arrive upon one of the busiest intersections of the area, that of Wears Valley Road (the afore-mentioned Highway 321) and Highway 441, referred to sometimes as “The Parkway.”  If you are coming from Sevierville, and you want to move on to Gatlinburg, or a little farther down the road in Pigeon Forge, take a left by the Timbers Log Motel.  Keep straight, and you will come upon a stop light adjacent to the Belz Outlet Mall.  Turn right, and you will be on one of the best treasures of Pigeon Forge—a road that runs parallel to the Parkway.  You will be able to turn right at a variety of stops that will bring you back out to “The Parkway.”  That should save some headache.

Gatlinburg, TN

The last stop on this ride is Gatlinburg.  Of course, with its location being right at the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, one might think there are not really too many viable choices other than to just deal with the traffic and bargain for some extra time.  Well, you would be pleasantly surprised to find out that you are wrong.  Gatlinburg has an awesome transit system that includes five separate trolleys.  Here’s a link to the official Gatlinburg Trolley Routes Map.

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If you choose to drive around the city during your Gatlinburg vacations, the city has added several new parking lots over the years that make it somewhat easier.  Personally, once you’re there…I would get on the trolley or hoof it.  It’s definitely worth it, as opposed to the frustrating hassle of driving around on the crowded main thoroughfare.

Of course, these are just a few helpful tips for driving in the Smokies.  Plan ahead, so you won’t spend the majority of your Smoky Mountains vacation being stuck in traffic and frustrated.  Enjoying Gatlinburg vacations, along with experiencing the rest of the area’s outstanding attractions, is much better without the traffic!

I remember my first Holiday Season spent in Pigeon Forge.  I would drive around town and look at the lights every night!  I couldn’t wait to have my family and friends come to town so I could show them the spectacular displays placed around town.

The shops and businesses work night and day to make sure things are exactly perfect for Winterfest to kick off.  In my days working at Dollywood, I was shocked at the amount of time the employees spent decorating for Christmas.  People would work around the clock—for real—24 hours a day for several days!

Lights are wrapped around each tree and building in the park.  They decorate the theaters with pine garland and point all the garland ends in the same direction…now that’s effort!  It is beautiful.  Dollywood also has festive food and drinks like hot chocolate, wassail, and Christmas cookies from their Bakery that will make the trip even better.

Another spot to see the lights is Patriot Park in Pigeon Forge.  It runs along the river, down from The Old Mill.  Lights are displayed in oversized patriotic displays like The Liberty Bell, The Spirit of St. Louis, The American Flag, and Iwo Jima.  You can walk along the trail and see the lights up close.  My little girl loves that!  She asked the other night when we can go to the park and see the lights up close.

If you want to “take it all in” and see what the town has to offer, I suggest taking the Trolley Christmas Tour.  Leaving from their headquarters (beside Patriot Park) the trolleys (decorated with flashing lights themselves) take you around to all the hot spots with the best light displays.

The trolley rides themselves are pretty fun.  When my nephew was a little boy, he thought the trolley ride was an amusement ride, like at Dollywood. I didn’t tell him any different because it was a lot cheaper than riding on a rollercoaster.  The trolley is also a great way to get around town and avoid parking and traffic issues.  They provide a schedule with times and routes—it’s kind of like our very own version of the subway.

While making your plans to visit us over the holidays, remember to take an evening to enjoy the lights.  Hours and hours have been spent to make your trip to The Smokies the best and most memorable trip it can be!

Welcome to Clingman’s Dome, the highest point in Tennessee and the third highest elevation this side of the Mississippi. It reaches 6,643 feet and is capped off with an additional 54-foot observation tower. Here, on a clear day visitors can gaze in awe at one hundred miles of mountainous countryside, a view that extends into 7 separate states. Even on days when the peaks are shrouded in their trademark mists, this panorama is a sight to behold! The observation deck (which is shaped like a flying saucer) allows for optimal viewing, particularly of sunrise and sunset.

Clingman’s Dome marks the highest point on the Appalachian Trail as well–a journey which spans 2,144 miles from Georgia to Maine. At this elevation, only evergreen trees grow, which, in this moist atmosphere, constitute a coniferous rainforest. It’s a harsh environment where temperatures average 10-20 degrees cooler than those found in Gatlinburg. Snow, too, can fall anytime between September and May; conditions which cause Clingman’s Dome Road to be closed to vehicular travel from December until April–although, the truly tenacious can still reach the summit by foot or by ski.

So if you’re looking for an invigorating hike, a perfect photo opportunity, a romantic sunset, or just a place to marvel at nature’s beauty, take some time out of your Gatlinburg vacation to visit Clingman’s Dome. And don’t worry, if you’re not up to the trek to the observation deck, the view from the parking lot itself is pretty amazing!

Photo: Blinutne

Let’s take a look at some of the history around the park…and what makes it so special!

The mountains are thousands of years old, and their history stretches from the Paleo Indians all the way to the Civilian Conservation Corps that helped to further develop the park in 1934.  The park, which is in the midst of celebrating its 75^th anniversary, is the United States’ most visited national park.

There’s a reason for this.  Whether you visit in the winter, spring, summer, or fall, you will be simply amazed by the breathtaking beauty that surrounds you and everything the park offers to do and see for each visitor.

For example—did you know that there are over 800 miles of hiking area in the park, which covers parts of Tennessee and North Carolina?  In addition, there are some incredible fishing sites to be had, and the park is ideal for a family picnic.
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Quick Sidenote…Speaking of hiking, here’s a great resource for those planning on going Ultralight:

Ultimate-Ultralight-Backpacking.com – This site teaches new or would-be hikers the Ultralight way. If you are tired of an aching back and knees when you reach your destination at the end of the day, try Ultralight. The site provides expert advice on gear, food, clothing and more.
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Another attraction of the park is those that inhabit it—the wildlife.  There are countless deer and elk to be found, but when most people come to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, they are looking for bear…and the park will not let you down in that respect.

Over 1,500 bears call the park home.  Of course, you’re best served to look at them from afar if you see one, as you wouldn’t want to get too close, would you?

There are more than animals that are worth looking at.  History runs rampant at the park, with over seventy-five historic structures on site, ranging from grist mills, churches, schools, and barns.  Besides that, in keeping with the goal of preserving Appalachia, you can also find some of the homes of the early settlers of the area.  The trip back in time will enchant you!

There are several different ways to become acquainted with the park.  You are welcome to explore the grounds yourself, as a lot of people do, but there are also Park Ranger guided tours available during the autumn.  It’s a great way to learn about the area from those who know it best!

However you choose to experience the natural beauty of this God-made wonder, you definitely need to set aside some time to do so.  Yes, the food you’ll find in the area is great, and so is the shopping, and the amusement parks…but in Sevier County, it all centers around the Smokies.  So why not take them in on your next trip?

The Free Official Smokies Trip Planner From The National Park Service

You’ll find many different guides, brochures, and other sources of information out there regarding the Smoky Mountain National Park, but if you’re looking for the best overview of what the park actually has to offer, it’s highly recommended that you take a look at this official Smokies Trip Planner.  Because it’s a free yearly guide that comes right from the National Park Service itself, the information couldn’t be any more accurate!

The General Store is, without a doubt, one of the most-visited shops in the Smokies. There’s a reason for this—you can find one of the best selections of gifts for the entire family right here.

What’s interesting is how the store and the complex came to be.  The barn was originally built in 1910 by the Mullendore family.  After being sold in the mid 1970s, there was more of an emphasis placed on the apples that grew on the land around the barn.  Close to thirty years, the barn opened to the public, and the apples began selling…and selling…and selling.

In fact, the venture proved to be so successful that more items were added, and now, you can get a wide variety of country-themed products…and yes, you can still get apples at the Apple Barn.  The barn now has three floors, and chances are that when you visit, you will see plenty of customers looking for that unique present from the Smoky Mountains.  You can even see the apples turned into cider in the popular cider room.

OK, I’ve got to mention that’s one of my favorite subjects to do with the Apple Barn—the cider.  You can take it home by the gallon, or simply delight in a refreshing cup of Fall Harvest at the Barn’s Cider Bar.

But wait…there’s more!

You will find some of the most delicious Fried Apple Pies this side of the Pearly Gates at the Apple Barn, as well as their delicious Apple Dumplings.  If you get something to eat at the Cider Bar, make sure that you top it off with a scoop (or two!) of their delicious ice cream.  There has been many a box of pies and gallons of cider that has made it from the Apple Barn all the way back home, and I have a feeling that trend will continue for many years to come!

If you are a connoisseur of wine, be sure to stop by The Apple Barn Winery.  They call it “Award-Winning” for a reason!  Flavors such as Apple-Raspberry, Apple-Peach, and Apple-Strawberry continue to bring back customers year after year.

What if your tastes go beyond Apple?  Well, you’re still in luck, with classic blends like Merlot and Muscadine.

And I didn’t even mention the Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant, which is one of the anchors of the complex.  To be honest, I can tell you I have never tried their lunch or dinners—I can’t get past their breakfasts!  Go for their Apple Fritters (words can’t begin to tell you!) and stay for their Country Ham—the best I’ve ever had!

The only thing about visiting the Apple Barn is that you’ll want to give yourself plenty of time to enjoy all they have to offer, and by the way, did I mention those fritters?

Need More Info?

The Apple Barn Cider Mill & General Store
230 Apple Valley Road, Sevierville, TN
800-421-4606 / http://www.applebarncidermill.com/

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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.

Keeping that in mind, the towns unite their marketing and event planning sources each year for several projects, but most notably, the annual Smoky Mountain Winterfest celebration.

Kicking off in late fall, each community partners up with several of the local attractions to turn on the lights—literally!  Millions of lights from the hometown of Dolly Parton all the way to the entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park that will no doubt bring out the child in all ages!

Though the gallery of colors and lights are an impressive display, it doesn’t end there.  When you have so many musical theaters lining up over the Parkway, there’s plenty of entertainment value in the area, as well.  Many of Country Music’s biggest stars of all time, as well as many local favorites, bring their Yuletide cheer to the stages of the area, entertaining fans from all around the world.

But wait….there’s more!

What would the season be without snow?  You can find that, as well as some incredible skiing at Ober Gatlinburg, a resort and amusement park that sits high atop the mountains of the city.  You’ll find snow tubing (something I have to try at least once) and their famous indoor ice arena.  It’s definitely a site to behold!

Oh, but we’re not done yet!  Of course, one of the region’s biggest tourist destinations is Dollywood, and the Country Music Hall Of Famer and her staff, as the old saying goes, “put on the dog,” for visitors during the famous Dollywood Smoky Mountain Christmas celebration.  At just the theme park alone, you’ll find over four million holiday lights, and of course…plenty of music.

Babes in Toyland and Christmas in the Smokies are two of the stage presentations that keep people coming back year after year.  Another highlight of the park is Carol of the Trees, as well as Santa’s Workshop—where you just might come face to face with one of your all-time favorite toys…..albeit in life-size form! The food, always a high point of the Dollywood experience, gets even better during this time, with several traditional favorites served up in the restaurants there.

Then, of course, what would Christmas be without the shopping?  Whether you’re looking for a Tommy Hilfiger dress shirt for Dad, a Lodge Cast Iron skillet for Mom, or a Merle Haggard box set for Grandpa, if you can’t find it in Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, or Gatlinburg…..it can’t be found!  There’s a reason why the area is one of the biggest shopping destinations of the South!

That’s just the tip of the mountain, folks.  Smoky Mountain Winterfest is an incredible time of year, one that you’ll be glad you were a part of!

Tuckaleechee Caverns

Known as “The Greatest Sight Under the Smokies” the Tuckaleechee Caverns are home to a crystal clear stream, fantastic cave formations, and beautiful waterfalls. First opened to the public in 1953, the cave now hosts roughly 50,000 visitors every year. Stop by to take the 1 mile underground tour where you’ll see awesome yet delicate stalactite and stalagmite formations and an incredible double waterfall.

Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum

Before Townsend became a tourist attraction, it was headquarters to the Little River Lumber Company founded by Col. W.B. Townsend (for whom the town was named). The Little River Railroad and Lumber Company now seeks to preserve the history and heritage of this community by collecting and preserving artifacts such as photographs, papers tools and even vintage railroad cars. They have a Shay 2147, a vintage caboose, two vintage flatcars, and a portable Frick steam engine. History buffs and rail enthusiasts alike will enjoy touring this wonderful museum.

The Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center

The great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center was founded to preserve the heritage of the Smoky Mountain region. From Native American artifacts dating back 5000 years to the culture and lifestyle of mountain pioneers, this museum displays the rich history and unique culture of East Tennessee.

This is just a sampling of the activities available in Townsend. There is also ample horseback riding, camping, hiking and even festivals to take part in and enjoy. While you’re in the area why not come see “The Peaceful Side of the Smokies.”

If you are in Pigeon Forge and turn onto Wears Valley Road, you will end up in a little town called Townsend.  On your way down Wears Valley Road, you can enjoy several gift shops with mountain made crafts, ice cream shops, and plenty of fudge.

If you are a junk man (like myself), there are several thrift shops and antique stores along the way too.  It is also a beautiful drive.  Like I said, keep going until you reach a stop sign and then you are there!

Now it’s not a big town at all.  There are some gas stations with little sandwich shops filled with normal touristy souvenirs.  Several restaurants are placed throughout the main road.  You may want to stop and ask some locals for their recommendations.  I haven’t been there to eat much.  We did go to a wing place not long ago, and it was really good, but I can’t remember the name of it.

There are several churches in Townsend also.  In fact, I have sung at one of them, Townsend Church of God.  One of my good friends is filling in as the pastor there for a while.  There are a lot of real friendly folks.  Most have been there for generations.

We have stayed a couple times at the KOA Campground there and it was wonderful—there are lots and cabins right along the river.  At night, you can sleep to the soothing sound of the water rushing over the rocks.  I love that sound!  There is a pool, an arcade, and children’s activities as well.  If you are looking for a camping experience, I highly recommend them.

Townsend is also filled with tubing.  Several businesses have opened up offering tubes to ride the rapids at your own pace.  Several of them allow you to rent a tube for the day.  They also offer life jackets.  One piece of advice here…be careful and check into the water depths, because it can get really rough if there has been a lot of rain.  If it is too bad, the rafting places won’t rent you a tube.

Along the main road are also some carving places that do live demonstrations.  Some of these are done with small ornate carving utensils and some are done with chainsaws!  Either way, it sure is a sight!

One time we were lucky to have camped in the fall when the Methodist church was having their Fall Bazaar.  It was filled with homemade treats, auction items, and yard sale treasures.  We bought a really cool antique hat box for $4 and enough peanut butter fudge to fill your truck!

I love going to Townsend in October.  The weather is crisp and cool.  There are smells of wood burning from campsites and the leaves are showing off their vibrant colors.

Many people come to the Smokies and don’t even know it’s there.  It is definitely a slower pace from Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg…but sometimes I prefer a slower pace.  It is a wonderful way to “waste” the afternoon.

Another selling point?  Because of the lack of buildings and tourism compared to Pigeon Forge and such, Townsend has some beautiful unobstructed views of the mountains.  Many of the local people who want outside weddings go there.

Hope you can make the trip, have some fudge, and maybe a chicken wing or two.  Townsend doesn’t get all the hype of the other towns that call The Smokies home, but it can stand on it’s own for lodging, entertainment, food, and shopping.  Go grab a tube and take the family away to “waste” a day or two!

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There couldn’t be a more incredible place to live!

And to all of you visitors out there—What an incredible place to visit!

Random, sure. True? Absolutely!

Here are thirty-seven great reasons why I like to live in the Smokies:

1. I need to live in the Mountains.  I have temporarily lived other places and I miss them!
2. There is a really good Japanese Restaurant right at the beginning of The Parkway in Sevierville—watch for the sales!
3. It’s safe—I have left my car window down before, dropped my wallet, left a credit card at the dry cleaners and no problems from any…
4. The people at the dry cleaners know my name.
5. My church is here.
6. My family is here.
7. My friends are here.
8. I have really good cell service.
9. It’s convenient to travel—I can fly out of Knoxville to any place around the country.
10. Good schools.
11. Good police.
12. Honest people.
13. Honest Mechanic—that’s hard to find too!
14. Dollywood is so much fun and they are always adding something to make it even better!
15. Your family and friends come in from out of town and end up taking you to dinner.
16. There are some really good yard sales.
17. There are two really big flea markets.
18. There are a slew of really good resale shops.
19. Clint’s Restaurant.
20. People respect God.
21. The leaves in the fall.
22. Ribs at Tony Gore’s Restaurant.
23. I host a television show in Knoxville and it’s not too far from me.
24. Old Navy Outlet.
25. Ogle’s Furniture Outlet—great selection.
26. The Summer.
27. The Fall.
28. The Winter.
29. The Spring…we get them all and they are all good!
30. I like the song “Rocky Top.”
31. Sitting on the porch with my wife and kids.
32. Getting a push up from the ice cream truck when he finally comes to your neighborhood.
33. The Pottery House Café.
34. Good movie theater.
35. History…The Trail of Tears, The Civil War, The National Park.
36. We are the Honeymoon Capitol of the Eastern United States.
37. Lots of places to sing (that is what I do, so that is important!)

I sure hope this inspires you to come and see why people love to visit us and call us home!