Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales

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.

Summer in downtown Gatlinburg from June 10th to July 29th for 2017!

One reason people come to the Smoky Mountains and Gatlinburg is to get a taste of the South and the "country". They want to get away from modern life for a bit - from constant surrounding technology, miles of concrete jungle and buildings in all directions, loud hip-hop, crime, drama and all the other pitfalls of coming from a heavily developed urban area - and come to an environment that's more in tune with the "old" ways.

Well, while we're definitely not New York City (or even Des Moines for that matter!), the Smokies aren't quite the frozen moment in time some people come here expecting. We've joined the modern world and try to offer a balanced experience for those who want to enjoy rural Appalachia and its culture while still having luxuries befitting a vacation.

However, one of the things we do to make that balance against the modern era is offer events like the upcoming Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales to bring back the ancient arts of storytellin' and mountain roots music and dance. It is a genuine, high-profile throwback and it's going on all Summer in downtown Gatlinburg from June 10th to July 29th for 2017!

From the Gatlinburg.com website:

"This popular seven-week event truly highlights one of Gatlinburg’s greatest assets in the walkability of the city and provides guests with an interactive, educational and entertaining experience the whole family can enjoy. [...] The collection of personalities and performers arrive nightly at 6 p.m. in the center of town. Visitors witness a magical transformation of sidewalk to stage as the characters disperse along the downtown Parkway for an evening of entertainment and storytelling."

That's right - characters. Professional entertainers and actors from our wonderful pool of trained local talent really get into costume and character to help bring their storytelling and music to life. The night sky fills with tall tales, funny stories, tragic pasts and more. The best part is that it's spread throughout the city and impossible to be charged money for. It's simply part of the Summer celebration Gatlinburg has installed for the season and it's waiting for you to come and see it!

Be sure to book your cabin in advance SEARCH HERE