Gatlinburg Event Brings Southern Flavors to the Smokies

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.

No Smoky Mountain cookbook would be complete without a few chapters on beans and cornbread. This simple but delicious meal is a stable of Appalachian cuisine. In May, the city of Gatlinburg will celebrate this down home favorite with a brand new festival: the Gatlinburg Beans ‘n Cornbread Blast!  Read on to learn everything you need to know about this exciting Gatlinburg event.

When and Where

The Gatlinburg Beans ‘n Cornbread Blast will be held on May 8, 2014. Tents and booths will line the Parkway in downtown Gatlinburg for this big bean cook-off. The festivities will last from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m.

The Best Beans

This festival sets out to answer an age old question: who has the best beans and cornbread in the Smokies? Guests at the Beans ‘n Cornbread Blast will discover the answer by sampling bowl after bowl of everyone’s favorite dish. Local venders will whip up their very best recipes as they try to win the popular vote and launch their cooking into the history books.

Entertainment

In addition to plenty of food, the Beans ‘n Cornbread Blast will also feature live music and games. In between bites, you’ll be clapping your hands and stomping your feet to the excellent bluegrass music planned for the event.

After chowing down on some cornbread, you can also play some cornhole. There will be an official Corn Hole Tournament to benefit the local Humane Society, so start practicing your bean bag tossing now!

Admission

For $15, guests will be able to sample all of the different beans and cornbread recipes while supplies last. To get tickets, visit the official event website.

Where to Stay

Bear Camp Cabins is just minutes away from this fantastic Gatlinburg event! With bubbly hot tubs, wireless internet, and fully furnished kitchens, our cabins have everything you need for an unforgettable vacation. Visit our Gatlinburg Cabins page to find the perfect place to stay for your next trip to the Smokies, or give us a call at 1-800-705-6346.