Taste of Autumn

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.

Start off fall in Gatlinburg with great food and hilarious comedy at the 18th Annual Gatlinburg Taste of Autumn on Thursday, September 17 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. This year the event will feature Country Cool Comedy Tour with Nan Kelley from Great American Country Channel as your Emcee for the evening.  Proceeds from Taste of Autumn will be donated to United Way.

Taste of Autumn vendors will serve unlimited samples from local vendors including: The Melting Pot, Great Smoky Mountain Catering Company, Vista Grill, Quaker Steak & Lube, Corky’s Ribs & BBQ, Collier Convention and Catering, Mellow Mushroom, Ripley’s Aquarium, The Fox & Parrot, Dick’s Last Resort, Flapjack’s Pancake Cabin, Big Daddy’s Pizzeria, Three Jimmy’s, and BJ’s BBQ.

Taste of Autumn will be held at the Gatlinburg Convention Center Great Hall. Tickets are $25, and children 10 and under are free. A corporate table for a party of eight is available for $200. New this year, a corporate VIP package for a party of eight is available for $500 and includes priority seating, meet and greet with the talent, wine on the table and personal servers. The Hilton Garden Inn is offering special room packages for out of town attendees who wish to incorporate a weekend getaway. Call (865) 436-0048, at the Taste of Autumn website, or visit The Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce office at 811 East Parkway, Gatlinburg Welcome Center or from any United Way of Sevier County Board Member to purchase tickets.