Don't Forget These 4 Things for your Gatlinburg Vacation

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.

Do you always seem to forget something when you’re packing for your vacation? You’re not alone! It seems that just about everyone leaves something behind when they take a family trip. To help you with your packing predicament, we’ve put together a list of the top four items you should bring to our cabins in Gatlinburg.

1. Your favorite cookbook

Making supper together is a great family activity! Kids love to get their hands dirty; and they always seem to like their meals more if they had a hand in preparing it. Our cabins come with fully furnished kitchens, so you’ll have everything you need to whip up a delicious dinner in your home away from home. All you have to do is bring some tasty recipes!

2. Reusable water bottles

It’s definitely worth investing in nice water bottles for your family. If you plan on doing any hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, bringing some water or gatorade with you is an absolute must. Even if you’re not blazing a trail in the mountains, it’s convenient to have water bottles with you when you’re walking around downtown Gatlinburg or visiting the different galleries in the Smoky Mountain Arts and Crafts Community. A nice cold water bottle will be your best friend when summer comes to the Smokies!

3. Your DVD collection

A family movie night is the perfect way to end a day full of vacation fun. Many of our cabins come with awesome home theater rooms. Just pop in your favorite film, make a big bowl of popcorn, and enjoy a night at the movies…right in your cabin!

4. A camera

You definitely don’t want to forget your camera! There are just so many priceless family memories to capture when you stay in one of our cabins. Whether you’re posing in front of a scenic mountain backdrop, or just sitting on your front porch, photos from your Gatlinburg vacation will last a life time.

We are offering an number of excellent discounts and promotions for our cabins in Gatlinburg this spring and summer. To find out more, visit our Specials page or give our vacation specialists a call at 1-800-705-6346!