New Year’s Eve Ball Drop

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.

Celebrate the New Year in Gatlinburg!

Welcome to the New Year in Gatlinburg, Tennessee! Around this season, the snow is falling and the leaves are gone, but the holiday spirit is alive in the Smokies and is exciting everyone around. Join in the celebrations and bring your loved ones with you to enjoy the festivities. At the stroke of midnight on January 1st the ball in Gatlinburg drops for the thousands of visitors who come from all over. Since 1987 The Gatlinburg Winterfest’s Ball Drop has become one of the largest organized New Year's Eve events in the nation. With fireworks and live music to entertain everyone, this event is one you will never forget and will be a memory for you and your loved ones to forever enjoy together. 

A Few Tips

You will want to arrive several hours early as parking fills up quickly. But don’t worry, there is plenty to do in the meantime! Beginning at 11 p.m. the roads surrounding the ball drop will close, giving visitors enough space to enjoy the festivities. At 10 p.m. bands perform live to bring in the New Year along with plenty of other fun activities.

Enjoy Every Moment

The ball drop is not the only Winterfest festivity you should look forward to though. When you are coming up to celebrate the New Year, don’t forget to take a drive or a walk to see the beautiful Christmas lights that decorate Gatlinburg each year. Another fun activity is the Snowpeople Scavenger Hunt which you can participate in by downloading the Visit Gatlinburg app. With so much to participate in you will never be bored. Prepare to launch the New Year with your loved ones and with a joyful celebration in Gatlinburg!