Free Tickets - Keys to Bear-A-Dise
The Smoky Mountains don’t just feel like a magical place, they really are a mystical destination. The phrase “old as the hills” rings true when you really dive into the old lore of the mountains. When you come to visit, take this otherworldly tour and investigate for yourself. Here are six of the Smokies’ best kept secrets.
1. Elkmont Trollbridge
Escape to a place that really feels like a glimpse into a mythical land. The Elkmont Trollbridge is a true hidden gem that only locals know about. Hike along the Little River Trail until you reach this spot. Covered in moss and mushrooms, the Trollbridge is perfect for capturing pictures or looking for hidden fantastical creatures.
2. House Of The Fairies
This whimsical spot is only a mile from downtown Gatlinburg yet it feels like you’ve been transported into another realm. Map to this magical place, then go out and explore. Here, you’ll find towering trees and moss covered logs and boulders. Then at the end of the trail you’ll see it...an arched doorway, that looks like it’s almost cut into the side of the hill, sits with a wooden ladder leaning against the frame. Step inside and find a cool spring, filled with water that tinkles like bells.
3. Synchronous Fireflies
The synchronized fireflies that come out every year like clockwork might be more science than magic but when you’re sitting among the trees and they begin to spark in unison, flickering in and out of sight, it feels like something otherworldly. This rare phenomenon is only seen in a few places in the world and The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of them.
4. Elkmont Ghost Town
Once a thriving vacation spot for the Knoxville elite, the Elkmont Ghost Town looks like a legend brought back to life. Recently restored, explore inside the homes and hike trails where you will find the remains of homes once occupied by Appalachian locals who would serve, supply and work in the town. This piece of history is frozen in time and feels like stepping back into the past.
There are many magical places in the Smokies and these are only four of them. Don’t stop here, continue to search for more mystical creatures and sprites living in the trees and hollows. To discover more, stay overnight in the mountains in a log cabin. This cabin is even called Magical Moments, which is exactly what you’ll find when you visit the Smoky Mountains.
As part of our commitment to providing you the best Smoky Mountain vacation you and your family or group could possibly have, we our "Keys To Bear-A-Dise" program, powered by Xplorie, where you can take advantage of free activities provided as part of your reservation with us.
Take a look at what you could get:
* Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies
- One free adult admission per unit, per paid night stay.
* The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel
- One free adult admission per unit, per paid night stay.
* Mad Dog's Creamery
- One free double scoop waffle cone, per unit, per paid night stay.
* Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Show
- One free adult admission per unit, per paid night stay.
* Comedy Barn Theater
- One free adult admission per unit, per paid night stay.
* Amazing Animals
- One free adult admission per unit, per paid night stay.
* Smoky Mountain Opry
- One free adult admission per unit, per paid night stay.
* Darren Romero: Magic Beyond Belief
- One free adult admission per unit, per paid night stay.
* Smith Morning Variety Show
- One free adult admission per unit, per paid night stay.
* Adventure Park Zip Lines/Legacy Mountain Zip Lines
- One free adult admission per unit, per paid night stay.
Some more information on the Xplorie card:
* The Xplorie card must be presented with a photo ID to claim the activity.
* The last name on the Xplorie card must match the last name on the photo ID.
* Activities must be redeemed by an adult (18 years or older).
* Guest receives one complimentary admission, per activity, per unit, per paid night stay.
* Activities are noncumulative, nontransferable and are valid for daily and weekly stays only.
* Unused admissions expire daily.
* Activities are available on the day of check-in and for each night paid, but they are not available on complimentary days or on the day of departure.
* Reservations must be made through Xplorie in order to take advantage of the complimentary activity.
* Reservations made by guests directly with the Activity Provider and not through Xplorie will not be complimentary.
* Reservations may be made up to 48 hours in advance of the activity.
* All reservations must be made with a valid credit card.
* Cancellation policies may apply.
* Activities are subject to weather, maintenance, and availability and therefore, are not guaranteed.
* The Activity Provider reserves the right to hold up to 30 days a year for private events.
* Activities, prices, and availability are subject to change.
Add free tickets to your Smoky Mountain reservation to Bear Camp by visiting
