Apple Barn (A Piece of Homemade History)

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 Apple Barn in Pigeon Forge emerged in the early 1900s along the banks of the Little Pigeon River. At this scenic location, nestled next to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, visitors find the Apple Barn Cider Mill, General Store and Winery. The property encompasses acres upon acres and has thousands of blossoming apple trees in the orchard. Originally a 1920s farmhouse, the expansive Apple Barn in Pigeon Forgenow includes a general store, cider mill and two restaurants along with a bakery, candy store, ice cream shop and winery.

Apple Barn in Pigeon Forge’s general store offers numerous delights ranging from a variety of butters and jellies made from apples and other locally grown fruit to honeys, sauces, syrups and condiments. The store also offers a wide selection of mixes for everything from fritters to pancakes. Visitors find smoked hams, old-fashioned candy sticks and taffy. Also evolving around the popular fruit, the store features a variety of gifts, home décor and souvenirs featuring an apple theme.

Located in a historic 1910 barn, the Apple Barn in Pigeon Forge’s Winery hand makes many different selections of wine from locally grown apples, grapes, peaches, strawberries and other fruit. The facility welcomes visitors daily to enjoy samples while learning about the winemaking process through a video tour. The venue also features a cider bar. An onsite gift shop sells the various wine selections in addition to wine accessories and souvenirs.

Candy Shop

The Candy Apple & Chocolate Factory remains a delight for anyone with a sweet tooth and has delicious homemade candy apples and a nice selection of chocolate confections. Watch the crafters make the treats through large glass windows while choosing divinity, fudge, taffy or turtles. The Creamery and ice cream shop hand churns apple infused ice cream and many other flavors ranging from chocolate to blackberry. The facility also offers various freshly baked goods. Relax in the ambience of the old-fashioned ice cream parlor while indulging on a cone or sundae.

Apple Barn in Pigeon Forge’s Restaurants

Enter the doors of the Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant and Grill to the aromas of a country kitchen. The facility makes their own versions of apple butter, apple fritters and apple juleps, which they happily serve with each meal. The restaurant and grill offer breakfast, lunch and dinner with the likes of southern fried chicken, chicken pot pie and chicken and dumplings on the menu. Or, try some down home fried catfish, a traditional turkey dinner or shrimp and grits. Besides the authentic country charm, many claim guests will not find better meals anywhere else.

A bottle of wine from Apple Barn in Pigeon Forge’s winery, or a warm apple pie are the perfect accessories for any evening spent relaxing in a Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge cabin. To reserve your cabin, give us a call at 1-800-705-6346, and start planning your summer Smoky Mountain Vacation today.

Photo Credit: RBA Marketing