Smoky Mountains Solar Eclipse
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.
You, a Gatlinburg cabin, and the Smoky Mountains Solar Eclipse
You may have heard the news by now, but if not, you're about to get one doozy of an announcement for a rare event, made all the rarer that it will be occurring in late August here in the Smokies - the upcoming Total Solar Eclipse of August 21st, 2017.
While this event isn't localized to us, in fact, the pathway of areas that will be able to see the eclipse actually cuts through the entire United States, this map eclipse2017.org will show a very surprising and narrow window of opportunity for those who get to see it, and what luck, the Western Smoky Mountains of Tennessee (which we are on) is part of that pathway! On August 21st, from 1:00 PM until 4:00 PM, the sun will be completely eclipsed by the moon for the first time in 26 years. For many, this will be the first time they've ever seen such an event, and many others could be the last time they get the opportunity.
For that measure, our area is treating the occasion with a special sort of importance similar to the synchronized fireflies of the National Park and the Great Smoky Mountain National Park officials will be holding viewing parties in certain designated areas.
"The park is offering an opportunity to experience the total eclipse through a special, ticketed event at Clingmans Dome as well as informal eclipse viewing sites at Cades Cove and Oconaluftee. The park is partnering with NASA, Southwestern Community College, and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians to provide a special program with featured speakers and storytellers that help explain the science and cultural connection to this unique natural event at Clingmans Dome.
At 6,643 feet in elevation, Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the park and offers the unique possibility of seeing the moon's shadow approaching across the landscape. The area will be closed to all public vehicle traffic to better accommodate a safe, memorable experience for about 1,325 ticketed participants. The parking area will be converted into the special event site that will include a Jumbotron screen for participating in a national NASA TV broadcast, telescopes, educational exhibits, and stage for special featured speakers."
Additionally, "With a full schedule of entertaining and educational programs, park rangers and partners are working together to provide a worthwhile experience, even if the sun is obscured by clouds on the day of the event. While a unique experience, the Clingmans Dome location does present logistical challenges that visitors must consider before making a reservation. Due to its remote outdoor location, an inflexible transportation schedule, and limited service facilities on site, interested visitors should closely review event details and consider which of the park opportunities, among many other planned eclipse events in surrounding communities, would best fit each personal situation."
Tickets for the event can be purchased at recreation.gov. It's a solid guess those won't be the only good places to see it. WATE has this list as well: VIEW HERE. Many stores in the area will have solar eclipse glasses for sale, and they will be highly recommended for viewing because you don't want to see the eclipse happen with your naked eye, trust us on that one.
These areas and many other potentially good viewing spots will be convenient from our cabins at Bear Camp Cabin Rentals. Go out, venture into the mountains to see an event that hasn't happened since Vanilla Ice promised to solve our problems, and come back to a house full of luxury amenities that decompress you from top to bottom. It's an experience as close to heaven as you'll get on Earth and Bear Camp Cabins is where you want to go for it!
See our cabins here: 
