Your Guide to the Best Gatlinburg Fourth of July Events

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.

The Great Smoky Mountains are the perfect place to spend Independence Day! To help you make the most of your precious vacation time, we’ve put together a list of the best Gatlinburg 4th of July events for 2014.

Gatlinburg 4th of July Midnight Parade

Gatlinburg is home to the First Independence Day Parade in the Nation! Starting at midnight on July 4th, this totally unique parade typically brings over 100,000 spectators to the Smokies. You can expect to see members of every branch of the U.S. military, awesome floats, and plenty of patriotic spirit.

This year’s parade route will begin at traffic light #1A on East Parkway and turn south onto Parkway at traffic light #3. The parade will end at traffic light #10 at Ski Mountain Road. We recommend coming early because some people start setting up lawn chairs at 7 a.m. on July 3rd!

Gatlinburg River Raft Regatta

The July 4th River Raft Regatta is one of the best Gatlinburg traditions. Folks from all over flock to the Little Pigeon River for an unmanned raft competition. Judges will award prizes to the best store bought and hand made rafts. If you plan on building your own raft, don’t be afraid to get a little crazy! Anything and everything that floats is fair game.

Registration for the Regatta starts at 10:00 a.m. at the Christ in the Smokies bridge on River Road. The race begins at 12:00 p.m. and the festivities will end at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

Gatlinburg 4th of July Fireworks

Gatlinburg always ends Independence Day with a bang! At 10 p.m., the night sky over downtown Gatlinburg will erupt with beautiful colors and formations. The Gatlinburg fireworks never disappoint, and they have even been named a top 20 event by the Southeast Tourism Society. The fireworks will be centered around traffic light #3, but there are really no bad viewing spots in the downtown area.

Bear Camp Cabin Rentals is right around the corner from all of the amazing Gatlinburg 4th of July events. We offer one of the widest selections of vacation rentals in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, so we can accommodate virtually any group size and budget. Visit our Gatlinburg Cabinspage to find the perfect place to stay for your trip to the Smokies or give us a call at 1-865-366-5730.