Smoky Mountain Attractions: 5 Tips for Traveling to the Great Smoky Mountains with Children

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.

Kids can be a lot of fun while you’re on vacation, but it can also be a lot of work for mom and dad. Keeping kids satisfied and happy while you’re out and about in the Smoky Mountains can be easy if you just follow these 5 tips:

1. Bring New Toys

Even though the scenery is new, kids love having new toys to play with and new books to read. Pack a few new things for your trip and take them out when you need your little one to be patient. These new toys can also help keep him or her busy while you’re cooking dinner or enjoying time in one of the beautiful cabin rentals in Pigeon Forge.

2. Pack Extra Clothes

All kids make messes, and that’s okay! Just make sure you are prepared for sudden spills or messy moments by packing a few extra outfits. It helps to keep extra clothes with you while you travel to and from each of the Pigeon Forge attractions.

3. Make Sure You Have Snacks in Your Bag

So many parents forget to pack snacks in their bags. The easiest way to make sure your little one is happy is to be sure to have a snack or two in your purse or backpack.

4. Try to Stick to the Normal Routine

As difficult as this may sound, young children need the structure of a scheduled routine. If your little one normally goes to bed at 7 p.m., do your best to make sure their 7 p.m. bedtime doesn’t change. Older kids can adjust to a different sleeping pattern, but young children need the scheduled sleep to remain constant, even on vacation. If you would normally eat dinner at 5 p.m., make sure those hours stay similar as well. If you change the schedule too much, you’ll wind up with a fussy child.

5. Plan for Extra Time

One of the great things about vacationing to the Smoky Mountains is that you can relax in the comfort of one of our cabin rentals in Pigeon Forge. Don’t worry if you’re running a little late to get from one attraction to the next. Spend time resting and enjoying the Smokies. If you plan to take a hike in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, be sure to allow for extra hiking time for the kids. There are many family-friendly hikes in the national park, so be sure to choose hikes that are easy enough for everyone in your group.

To start planning your vacation to Pigeon Forge, you can contact us at (800) 705-6346 to speak with one of our vacation specialists. We look forward to helping you make your family vacation special.

Photo Credit: daylmer