4 Reason to go to Dollywood's Great American Summer Festival

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.

Everyone’s favorite Dollywood festival is coming back to Pigeon Forge! From June 14 – August 3, the theme park will celebrate the Great American Summer. With old favorites and all new shows, this is one Smoky Mountain event you do not want to miss. Here are our top four reasons to visit Dollywood this summer:

(See Related: The Newest Show in Pigeon Forge is a Rockin’ Good Time)

1. Extended hours.

The Great American Summer is packed with so many things to do, Dollywood is staying open later! During the festival, the theme park will open at 10:00 a.m. and close at 10 p.m.

2. Nightly fireworks.

At Dollywood, fireworks aren’t just for July 4th! Every night during the Great American Summer festival, there is an incredible fireworks display set to an original piece of music composed by Dolly Parton herself. These “Nights of Many Colors” are the perfect way to end a day of summertime fun.

3. An original musical featuring Dolly’s family members.

Before she was an international superstar, Dolly Parton grew up with eleven siblings in a one room cabin in Locust Ridge, Tennessee.  In “My People!”, Dolly’s brother Randy, her sister Cassie, and several other family members take the stage with stories and songs about their traditional Smoky Mountain upbringing.

4. A stage show with gazillions of bubbles.

The Gazillion Bubbles show is like nothing you’ve ever seen! Featuring endless bubbles, lasers, and special effects, this one of a kind show will take your breath away.

Bear Camp Cabin Rentals is just minutes away from all of the fun at this awesome Dollywood festival! With our varied collection of cabins in the Great Smoky Mountains, we can accommodate any group size and price range. Visit our Pigeon Forge Cabins page to find the perfect vacation rental for your family or give us a call at 1-800-705-6346.

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6 Fun Things to Do When Visiting Pigeon Forge

Wondering what to do in Pigeon Forge? From mountain adventures to amusement parks, museums, and more, there are so many fun things to do in this Tennessee town!

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