Summer Actvities: Abrams Falls

It’s officially the season of hot apple cider, warm blankets, and pumpkin patches. It’s also the season for fall festivals, and the Smoky Mountain area is full of them!

Here are three festivals you can enjoy while on your Smoky Mountain vacation.

1. Dollywood Harvest Festival

If you love Dollywood and the fall season then you won’t want to miss this event! From early September to late October this annual celebration marks the best weather and some beautiful fall foliage in the Smokies. Stay late into the evening to see beautifully carved pumpkins, lit up and on display. During the day you’ll enjoy fall themed food, and colorful leaves all throughout the park.

2. Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair

In early to mid October the Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair heads into full swing. Artisans from across the country gather to peddle their wares while musicians serenade the crowds. You’ll see everything from woodworking and pottery to handcrafted jewelry and leatherworkings. If you have an appreciation for handmade goods then this event is for you.

3. Wears Valley Fall Festival

The Wears Valley Fall Festival takes place in mid October and is a favorite event for locals. Come experience the hundreds of vendors, melodic live music, and incredible Southern cuisine. If you’re interested in a true rustic, Appalachian festival with plenty to do and see for the whole family, then this one is for you.

No matter the festival you choose you’ll need a place to stay. Choose from one of our many options at Bear Camp Cabin Rentals today!

The Smoky Mountains has some amazing hiking trails for the outdoor enthusiast. For anyone interested I thought I would give you the run down on Abrams falls, an area named for a Cherokee chief whose village once stood downstream from the waterfalls.

The trail to the falls goes throughout a pine-oak forest on the ridges and hemlock and rhododendron forest along the creek. There are 3 narrow bridges that hikers must cross in order to reach the falls. The hike is a moderately difficult 5 miles.

Trail-head: The turnoff for the trail-head is located past stop #10 on the Cades Cove Loop Road. The turnoff is signed.

Trail Notes: The distance to the waterfall and back is 5 miles and the hike is generally considered moderate in difficulty. Due to the length and terrain however, some visitors may rate it as difficult. It takes about 3-4 hours to complete the hike. Please keep timing and your personal physical ability in mind when timing your hike.

Portions of this trail are rocky, hiking boots are recommended, please do not attempt the trail in sandals. Pets and bicycles are prohibited on the trail. Also, please note that bears are active on this trail, you may want to refer to our previous blog on bear safety.