Tubing in the Smoky Mountains

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.

Many Options for Tubing in the Smoky Mountains


 

There are a lot of ways to know when Summer truly hits the Smoky Mountains:

  1. When you stop seeing 68 degree temperatures between 9:00AM and 2:00AM.

  2. When there are thunderstorm icons on 3 days out of the 7-day weather planner.

  3. When you start wondering which of the Barbecue and Bluegrass events are going on in downtown Sevierville and which is going on at Dollywood.

  4. When you start seeing the fireflies before it even turns completely dark.

  5. When you look forward to bluegrass, stories and free Trolley rides in downtown Gatlinburg.

  6. When everything you look at around you in the mountains is shining, shimmering and absolutely glowing the greenest green you've ever seen in nature.

  7. When you start seeing Vacation Bible School banners all across the county.

  8. When you start looking forward to the city of Pigeon Forge announcing who will headline the Patriot Festival at Patriot Park on July 4th.


 

But if the calendar and those items don't quite indicate a spirit of Summer fun in the Smokies, there's one thing that never fails -Tubing in the Smoky Mountains! Summer without tubing is like a "Q" with no "U" after it, nothing provides a unique combination of fun and thrills while also being relaxing, serene and atmospheric at the same time like renting a tube from one of several professional river fun companies that we have in our area and nearby communities.

 

In this article, we'll recommend some companies to check out and consider adding to your Summer 2018 getaway plans. Let's look!


* River Romp Tubing *


1980 Pittman Center Rd

Sevierville, TN 37876

865-774-5994

865-964-2830

 

Info: "This is a Smoky Mountain tradition you do not want to miss.  The River Romp is now celebrating its eighteenth year in the water recreational field.  We provide a safe tubing experience with a knowledgeable staff and the best equipment. Our courteous and friendly personnel are always willing to go beyond to see that our customers are safe and satisfied." - website

Tube rates are $12.00 per person for 1-9 people and $10.00 for 10+ people. Group, church and military discounts are available.




 

* River Rage Tubing *


8303 TN-73

Townsend, TN 37882

865-448-8000

Info: "We are located on the banks of the Little River, at at the entrance to the Smoky Mountains National Park, and closest gateway to famous Cades Cove in Townsend, Tennessee. Our reputation is based on offering the best service at the lowest price. Our friendly staff will give you an idea about real Southern Hospitality and provide you with the latest and safest equipment in the industry. For your convenience we established three separate locations, each offering private river access. Jump in a comfortable and colorful tube and enjoy the serenity of the Mountains up and down the river stream! Every trip with River-Rage includes a FREE all-day shuttle service, USCG approved life-vest, and choice of a tube-run. Our shuttle bus will take you for a short ride to the starting point. Little River has numerous exciting mountain rapids along with slower moving waters -perfect for relaxation and family fun." - website

Tube rates are $10.00 per person. Group rates are between $8.00 to $9.50 per person depending on group size. Tubing and barbeque combo packages are also available.




* Cowboy Tubing *


8351 State Highway 73

Townsend, TN 37882

(865) 448-6858

 

Info: "View natures breathtaking scenery, while floating the headwaters of the Little River.

 

* Class 2 Rapids

* All Day Tubes

* Clean Restrooms

* Changing Areas

* Free Life Jackets

* All Day Shuttles

* Quality Service

* Picnic Tables

* Free Parking

* Friendly Helpful Staff

No Experience Necessary!" - website

Rates are $10.00 per person.




 

* Smoky Mountain Outdoor Center *


209 Wears Valley Rd

Townsend, TN, 37882

865-448-3500

 

Info:"Come spend the day tubing on the beautiful Little River in Townsend, TN and don’t just see the Smokies, be a part of them The Little River in Townsend is a part of our beautiful state that we believe everybody should experience. Because of this, we can’t think of a better place to bring your tubing group, or plan a church group outing or arrange a scouting retreat for scouts of any age or gather any type of group who wants a unique take on what makes The Smoky Mountains so great!" - website

Tubing rates are $15.00 per adult for all-day tubing, $12.00 per youth (age 6-17) for all-day tubing and children aged 2 to 5 are free all-day. Price includes all-day shuttle.




 

BONUS: Dolly's Splash Country


Dolly's Splash Country is on this list not because it provides the same river tubing experiences as the others listed above, but because the price of admission allows you to enjoy tubing experiences while on park and no list on Summer tubing fun would be complete without it.

1198 McCarter Hollow Rd

Pigeon Forge, TN 37862

Admission price is $49.95 for 1-day ticket per person. For 2-day tickets, it's $69.95 per person and 3-day tickets are $79.95 per person.

Come to the Smokies and get your tube on!

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