Learn How to Fly

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.

Have you always wanted to fly? On your next vacation to the Smoky Mountains, you can soar through the mountains! Take your family to Legacy Mountain Ziplines in Pigeon Forge! No experience is necessary to take flight in Pigeon Forge; everyone can enjoy the adventure together!

Legacy Mountain Ziplines sits on 400 acres of land, offering guests seven ziplines, each line averaging 2,500 feet long. To complete the entire zipline tour, groups will experience three hours of non-stop fun, zipping from line to line. Flying as high as 450 feet above the ground, this attraction in Pigeon Forge is the perfect activity for thrill seekers!

At Legacy Mountain Ziplines in Pigeon Forge, you don’t have to worry about safety. The guides and staff at Legacy Mountain rank safety as their number one priority. To create the best zipline experience, guides are certified and trained to handle every situation while your family is on the course. To ensure the safety of your children on this attraction in Pigeon Forge, any rider under 100 lbs. will ride tandem with a guide. This way, the kids have enough momentum to cross the line without any problems.

When you are planning your vacation to the Smoky Mountains, relax in one of Bear Camp Realty and Cabin Rentals’ Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge cabins. Fully equipped with everything you need for a family vacation in the Smoky Mountains, Bear Camp Cabin Rentals will make your trip to the mountains memorable. To begin planning your vacation in the Smokies, give us a call at (800) 705-6346.