Four Great Ways to Celebrate St. Patrick's Day in Pigeon Forge

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.

St. Patrick's Day is near for all you Irish or Irish at heart, why not celebrate in the Smokies?

Celebrate the day with a good cause.

Shamrock Cruisin for Food

On Saturday, March 14, 2015 the Diner Rats Car Club will host the 5^th Annual Shamrock Saturday Cruisin’ for Food. Cars will drive from Smokies Stadium beginning at noon to help stock the pantries of Sevier County Food Ministries and Wears Valley Ranch Children’s Home.

The Diner, located at 550 Winfield Dunn Parkway in Sevierville, will serve traditional Irish fare, a complete meal from fresh foods prepared from scratch: Corned beef and cabbage with carrots, new red potatoes, onions, a choice of side and Irish soda bread.

Can't do the whole cruise?  Donations will also be accepted at the diner.

After a good deed come to one of these establishments to celebrate on March 17,2015:

The Fox and Parrot, a traditional British pub, offers many St. Patrick's day specials.

Maybe  enjoy happy hour and live acoustic performances at Hard Rock Cafe, or try a Tennessee local establishment and celebrate at Smoky Mountain Brewery.

Anyway you go you won't be disappointed, and if you're looking to stay for the Shamrock Cruisin for Food as well as to celebrate the day of, book a room at Bear Camp Cabins for a pre-spring vacation!