Map Out a Nashville to Gatlinburg Getaway

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.

Sometimes, the perfect vacation spot is closer than you think. If you call the Nashville area home, forget buying a plane ticket, and pack your car and drive to Gatlinburg instead. This Smoky Mountain city is home to breathtaking natural beauty and endless adventure. By driving from Nashville to your Bear Camp Cabin Rentals home in Gatlinburg, you can add a bit of extra fun to your getaway!

What You Need for the Perfect Tennessee Road Trip

Before setting off on your excursion across Tennessee, there are a few things you need to make sure you have. One is a car emergency kit, which should include a phone charger, jumper cables, road flares or reflectors, and a first aid kit. It’s also a good idea to have an atlas or printed directions, just in case you lose service. Also, pack a bag with your favorite road trip snacks and queue up a playlist with songs that you can’t help but sing along to.

Where to Stop on Your Drive

It takes around four hours to travel from Nashville to Gatlinburg. While this means you can easily reach your final destination in one day, you also have time to explore on your way there and back.

• Before heading out of town, stop by The Morning Ritual or Elixr Coffee Roasters for a cup of coffee.
• Take a little detour and visit Cedars of Lebanon State Park. This Tennessee state park has 10 miles worth of hiking trails.
• Make a stop to explore charming Kingston. Found along the river, a focal point of town is Southwest Point Park and historic Fort Southwest Point.
• As you make your way through Knoxville, stop at the Zoo Knoxville. The popular attraction is home to giraffes, red pandas, and a variety of monkeys.
• Make a quick stop in Sevierville at the Wings of Wander Mural. Found on Main Street, the painting is the perfect backdrop for your Instagram post.

The five stops listed above are only a small sample of places to visit on your drive. We recommend giving yourself plenty of extra time to see what other fun you can come across.

Unwind in the Comfort of Your Gatlinburg Rental

There’s no better way to relax after driving from Nashville to Gatlinburg than by enjoying a quiet night in. Your vacation rental from Bear Camp Cabin Rentals has everything you could need or want from a home away from home. Our Gatlinburg cabins feature all the charm of a log cabin with the modern conveniences you’d expect from a luxury rental. This can include things like private pools, hot tubs, theater rooms, and more. Take your time browsing our inventory to find your perfect fit. For more information about our Gatlinburg vacation rentals or special offers, call 1-800-705-6346.