New Years Eve At The Island 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.

• The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel


• The Island Show Fountain


• The Island Ropes Course


• Alcatraz East Museum


• The Island Miner's Gems


• Island Mirror Maze


• 7D Dark Ride Adventure


• Arcade City


• The Escape Game


• Island Bumper Cars


• Thunderdome


• The Flying Horse Carousel


• Old Time Photo


• Happy Swing


• Funny Cars


• Twist N' Shout


• Lil' Ribbits


• The Island Express


• Shooting Gallery

• Margaritaville Store


• Ole Smoky Moonshine


• St. Somewhere Spa


• The Paula Deen Store


• Farmhouse 9110


• Build-A-Bear Workshop


• The Beef Jerky Outlet


• Blossom


• Big Rock Candy Kitchen


• Bootleggers Winery


• Bodacious Bags


• Buckboard Too!


• Cosmic Pen


• Christmas and More


• Doc’s Magic Shop


• Earthbound Trading Co.


• Emery’s 5 & 10


• For the Health of It


• Gotcha!


• Heads Up Sports


• Nourish Natural Bath Products


• Patriot Peddler


• The Sneaky Squirrel


• Island Tiki General Store


• Kryptonite Character Store


• Monogram Boutique


• Natural Comfort Footwear


• Parrot Mountain


• Pepper Palace


• Puzzled


• Smokies Vapor & Cigar Shop


• Smoky Mountain Sunshades


• Southern Charm Boutique


• Southern Sportz


• Stand Apart Boutique


• Tervis


• The Island Trading Post


• The Toychest Company


• Timber Valley Rustic Furniture


• Master’s Editions on The Island


• Village Idiot


• Xcell Cell Phone Accessories

• Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen


• Margaritaville


• Mellow Mushroom


• Paula Deen’s The Bag Lady


• Timberwood Grill


• Dick’s Last Resort


• Dudes Daiquiris


• Changes in Latitude Bar


• Poynor’s Pommes Frites


• Kapop!


• Auntie Anne’s


• Cinnabon


• The Fudgery


• Island Yogurt


• Sweet!


• Yee Haw Snack Shack


• Margaritaville Coffee


• The Island Creamery