Smoky Mountain Travel Tips

Wilderness Wildlife Week - Pigeon Forge - Jan 7-14,2012

2012-01-01T08:29:00.000-08:00

Wilderness Wildlife Week is the best way to get in touch with nature. This free event is offered every year in Pigeon Forge year and it features eight days of wilderness fun! Jan 7-14, 2012 Music Road Hotel & Convention Center.

Wilderness Wildlife Week in Pigeon Forge, TN opens up with a keynote address from Peggy Callahan, the executive director of the Wildlife Science Center. During the week you’ll learn from some of the area’s experts as well as participate in hands-on workshops, seminars, and lectures.

Get back to nature on more than 50 guided walks and hikes throughout the Wilderness Wildlife Week in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. These excursions are designed for all levels of experience. If you’re a music lover, you’ll enjoy some Smoky Mountain music performed during Appalachia Fest.

Every year, nature lovers flock to Wilderness Wildlife Week in Pigeon Forge, TN for a week of fun, learning, and nature! The International Festivals & Events Association has recognized the event for its environmental and educational efforts.

New for 2012:

Photography Contest

Thanks in part to our wonderful friends at the Nantahala Outdoor Center,the Wilderness Wildlife Week Photography Contest has expanded. For the first time ever, the contest will feature seven divisions:

•Amateur

•Professional

•Wildlife

•Landscapes/Seascapes

•Youth & Young Adults (ages 17 and under)

•Great Smoky Mountain Landmarks

•Nature’s Wonders in Black & White

Also new to the contest is the implementation of the Judges’ Choice Award.

Cades Cove Heritage Track

Listen and enjoy as Cades Cove experts bring the history of the people and area to life.

Echoes of the Smokies!

Be prepared to relive the history of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with Wilma Durpo.

Smoky Mountain Heritage Track

Reminisce and experience life throughout the history of Pigeon Forge, Sevier County and the Great Smoky Mountains.

http://www.mypigeonforge.com/events_winterfest_wilderness.aspx

New Years Eve Ball Drop Gatlinburg 2012

2011-12-30T08:09:00.000-08:00

Gatlinburg will welcome the arrival of 2012 in unique style with its 24th Annual New Year’s Eve Ball Drop and Fireworks Show around the intersection of Parkway and Historic Nature Trail at the base of the Space Needle late Saturday night, December 31.

At the stroke of midnight on January 1, 2012, the Space Needle area will shine with a red glow from the surrounding rooftops at the beginning of a music program which includes selected songs followed by a choreographed fireworks show produced by Pyro-Shows of LaFollette, Tennessee.

Leading up to midnight, popular musical entertainment will be headquartered on the balcony of the Gatlinburg Convention Center at the Historic Nature Trail/Airport Road entrance. Party favors provided by Mr. Tablecloth will be available near the base of the Space Needle on Historic Nature Trail.

“It has become a tradition for families and friends from across America to come back to celebrate the New Year here in Gatlinburg,” said George Hawkins, Special Events Manager. “We expect to have another big crowd to help us usher in 2012 with their loved ones and friends.”

The highlight of the evening is the ball drop from the Space Needle, signifying the old year is over and a new one has begun. Then music encouraging crowd participation and the fireworks show off the 342-foot structure will welcome the New Year in dazzling style.

The entire city of Gatlinburg celebrates New Year’s Eve in a big way with many restaurants and attractions offering special celebrations. Popular hotspots are right in the middle of the fireworks area below the Space Needle and offer varying packages which may include music, buffets and a champagne toast.

For information on other New Year’s Eve parties and activities as well as lodging and dining options, please call the Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce at 800/568-4748, or visit www.gatlinburg.com.

Pigeon Forge Winterfest Trolly Of Lights Till Jan 12, 2012

2011-11-11T07:10:00.000-08:00

Enjoy the Winterfest Trolley Tour of Lights.. Leave the driving to them !!

November 8, 2011 - January 13, 2012

See the Winterfest light displays and their five million shining lights on board the Pigeon Forge Trolley Tour of Lights. Your heated, enclosed trolley comes complete with its own personal tour guide who will share stories about Pigeon Forge’s history and our famous Winterfest light displays.

Park your car and leave the driving to us!

Winterfest Trolley Tour of Lights begins and end at Patriot Park. For specific departure times, call 865-453-6444.

Dollywood's Smoky Mountain Christmas Now Thru Dec 30th, 2011

2011-11-10T20:19:00.000-08:00

Don’t miss the three-time Winner of America’s Best Christmas Event,

Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas presented by Humana - 11/5 till 12/30/11. The 2011 season welcomes the premiere of Dollywood on Ice!, an ice dancing spectacular choreographed to the sounds of the season.

Walk amid a winter wonderland of four million lights as you enjoy more than 20 rides and attractions for the entire family. Settle in for one of the park’s award-winning holiday shows, including Christmas in the Smokies and O’ Holy Night before gathering around the table for a delicious holiday meal served at one of the park’s many restaurants.

Visit Santa’s Workshop where larger-than-life toy soldiers, wagons, a dollhouse, sailboats and other classic toys will astound you! See the 18-foot Christmas tree that is the centerpiece of Santa’s Workshop. Santa is also the centerpiece and star of the Parade of Lights that will come prancing throughout the park. A Dollywood Christmas is the most holiday fun you’ll have in the Smokies.

Info and photo from Dollywood

Christmas Wonderland of Lights Till 1/8/12 - Sevierville TN

2011-11-10T07:03:00.000-08:00

Shadracks Stunning Christmas Light Display

Opening in Sevierville 11/11/11 till 1/8/12

New Light Displays and Lots More this year !

Santa’s Village with a free petting zoo, pony and camel rides are available including photos and plush animals, photos with Santa, a Christmas Tree lot with gorgeous christmas wreaths (after Thanksgiving), and festive refreshments including Hot Cocoa, Apple Cider, Funnel Cakes, Christmas Cookies, Pizza, Kettle Corn and so, so much more!!! Don’t miss it!!!

NEW THIS YEAR: Kids Santa’s Train, Inflatable Slide, and Ferris Wheel!

Where: Smokies Stadium Off I-40 Exit 407

Dates of Operation:

November 11th, 2011 – Jan 8th, 2012

Hours:

Dusk – 10PM* Every Night, Including Holidays!

(* = or later on weekends)

See more details at the Shadrack website

Gatlinburg Christmas Parade Dec 2nd, 2011

2011-11-09T09:54:00.000-08:00

Gatlinburg Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade
Presented by Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

December 2 , 2011 7:30pm
Gatlinburg’s 36th annual Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade will showcase Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies and one of the City’s largest and best known attractions families, Ripley’s Entertainment.

Sharky and Sharkette of Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies will serve as the Parade’s Grand Marshals as it travels through downtown Gatlinburg on Friday, December 2 starting at 7:30 p.m. to the cheers of an anticipated crowd of more than 80,000 spectators.

Earlier this year, Ripley’s won an International Festival and Events Association Pinnacle award for Best Sponsor for Gatlinburg Special Events. The award recognized Ripley’s continued support of all of Gatlinburg’s events and community activities.

The Ripley’s Family includes the Believe It or Not Odditorium, Guinness World Records Museum, Davy Crockett Mini Golf, Ripley’s Haunted Adventure, Ripley’s Marvelous Mirror Maze & Candy Factory, Ripley’s Moving Theater and, of course, the award-winning Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. Today, nearly 40 years after the company arrived in Sevier County, one can find a sampling of every Ripley's venue in this family destination. In fact, Gatlinburg now boasts the largest concentration of Ripley's businesses in the world.

The “Fantasy of Lights” Parade also won a Gold designation in the International Festival and Events Association Pinnacle Awards for its television production from last year.

Distinguished entries in this year’s parade include the world-famous Oscar Mayer Wienermobile. The first Wienermobile was designed by Carl Mayer, nephew of Oscar Mayer, in 1936. The Wienermobile itself is 24 hot dogs high, 60 hot dogs long, 18 hot dogs wide and weighs 140,500 hot dogs.

The parade excitement for young and old also includes more than 100 parade entries, over a dozen marching bands from Tennessee, North Carolina, Virginia, Georgia, and Alabama, and giant helium balloons taking to the streets.

Santa’s Autograph Party cranks up at 6 p.m. at Riverbend Mall, in the midst of the main viewing area for the parade at Traffic Light #3. The parade begins at Traffic Light #1A on Hwy 321 at 7:30 p.m. and ends about an hour-and-a-half later at Traffic Light #10.

Jamming sidewalks and balconies along the parade route, a large crowd will be able to soak up the illuminating glow of Gatlinburg Winter Magic, the City of Gatlinburg’s popular holiday lights program which has received a $1.5 million injection of new displays plus a 100-percent conversion to energy-efficient LED bulbs over the past few years.

To learn more about these and other events in Gatlinburg, call 800-56-VISIT (568-4748) or visit the Gatlinburg website at http://www.gatlinburg.com/.

Info from Gatlinburg Events

Gatlinburg To Celebrate Veterans Day 11/11/11

2011-11-08T14:00:00.000-08:00

The City of Gatlinburg will extend a heartfelt “Thank You!” to the men and women who put service before self at the Gatlinburg Veterans Day Celebration. The popular free-admission event on Friday, November 11 will begin at 11 a.m. on the Plaza at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies and feature The Adjutant General of Tennessee, Major General Terry “Max” Haston, as keynote speaker.

Gatlinburg is an official Regional Site for the Observance of Veterans Day as designated by the Veterans Day National Committee, Department of Veterans Affairs, one of two cities in Tennessee and only 57 in the United States to hold this prestigious distinction. This designation affiliates Gatlinburg Veterans Day Celebration with activities taking place at the National Veterans Day Observance at Arlington National Cemetery.

“Our veterans deserve our gratitude and coming to Gatlinburg for this event is one of many, many ways we can show our support and to thank the veterans,” said George Hawkins, Special Events Manager for the City of Gatlinburg. “While it’s very important for us to remember those who gave their lives to protect our nation, Veterans Day is the holiday dedicated to letting the surviving Veterans know how much we appreciate them.”

The Gatlinburg Veterans Day Celebration is sponsored by City of Gatlinburg and Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies.

For more info click here.

Pigeon Forge Winterfest Starts Today With Verterans Parade 11/8/11

2011-11-08T09:18:00.000-08:00

Pigeon Forge kicks off Winterfest today with veterans parade

PIGEON FORGE 11/8/11— A parade saluting America’s veterans, local entertainers and the illumination of 5 million lights await visitors to Pigeon Forge on Tuesday for Winterfest kickoff.

Activities that day start a celebration that continues through Feb. 26, with holiday shows, light displays and award-winning special events.

Dollywood entertainer James Rogers will perform before Many-Bears Grinder, commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Veterans Affairs, helps flip a switch to illuminate the city’s array of Winterfest lights. Entertainer Phil Campbell will emcee the evening’s program.

A brief fireworks display will add a special accent to the illumination.

Winterfest Kickoff begins at 4:30 p.m. when the first Pigeon Forge Salute to Veterans Parade steps onto the Parkway. It begins at Jehu Street and will proceed north to Patriot Park, lasting approximately one hour.

After the parade concludes, Cub Scouts will present the colors and lead spectators in the Pledge of Allegiance. Mayor David Wear will then introduce Grinder.

A troupe from the Grand Majestic Theater will offer a special tribute to veterans, and the Pigeon Forge Community Chorus will perform before Rogers takes the stage.

Winterfest Kickoff festivities at Patriot Park include a play area for children and food vendors benefiting local charities. Guests are invited to bring lawn chairs. The lighting of the Winterfest displays is anticipated soon after 8 p.m.

Some of the military vehicles in the parade will remain in Patriot Park that evening for inspection, and the city’s Fun Time Trolleys will offer complimentary rides on the Trolley Tour of Lights that night.

Article From The Mountain Press

Photo - Flickr Creative Commons by Old Shoe

Smoky Mountain Ziplines & Canopy Tours - Pigeon Forge TN

2011-07-28T09:35:00.000-07:00

Ziplines are all the rage now.. You will find the
Smoky Mountain Ziplines and Canopy Tours

just a short drive off the Parkway in Pigeon Forge.

They have a 14-line canopy tour that allows you to work your way up to the longest and fastest ziplines in the area, and you’ll soon find yourself zipping along at speeds as fast as 40 miles per hour.

On top of that, you benefit from being outdoors,
with the wind in your hair, and you get to
immerse yourself in the beauty of the surrounding
Great Smoky Mountains. Smoky Mountain
Ziplines is your fast track to good times in Tennessee.

Several things make Smoky Mountain Ziplines the preferred choice for adventure seekers in this area. Size, location, price and accommodations combine to give you more value and fun for your money.

•You'll maneuver through the largest course in Pigeon Forge.

•Canopy tours from Smoky Mountain Ziplines let you ride longer for less money than others charge.

•Centrally located for your convenience: less than 2 miles from the main parkway in Pigeon Forge.

•Large base-camp building accommodates your group for parties and celebrations after the tour.

•The staff is totally committed to ensuring your time at Smoky Mountain Ziplines is completely unforgettable.

Reservations recommended. Walk-ins welcome, but may be subject to waits between tours.

Smoky Mountain Ziplines

509 Mill Creek Road

Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

865-429-9004

River Tubing And Rafting In The Smoky Mountains Of Tennessee

2011-07-27T08:27:00.000-07:00

With all the rivers and streams in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, you will not have a problem finding a great place to go tubing or rafting there.. Less than 10 miles from Heavenly Cabins you will find "Smoky Mountain River Rat" in Townsend TN where you can choose RiverTubing on the Little River or Pigeon Forge White Water Rafting.

Tubing in the Smokies is only minutes from Pigeon Forge in Townsend (TN). Tube the Little River on the colorful sturdy river tubes. Smoky Mountain River Rat offers unlimited shuttle services to make your day on the Little River fun and relaxing. Tubing in the Smokies has never been so easy.

Smoky Mtn River Rat now has new picnic areas overlooking the Little River in Townsend, Tennessee at both outpost locations. Smoky Mountain River Rat's Little River Tubing, and Pigeon River White Water Rafting also have combo packages.. Check out rates and info on the website. There's no better way to cool off in the hot summer.

Smoky Mountain River Rat
Hours of Operation Open 10:00 am Last Trip in River 5:00 pm
7 Days/Week May - September

205 Wears Valley Rd Townsend TN
865-448-8888

Pigeon Forge - July 4th, 2011 Patriot Festival

2011-06-23T09:15:00.000-07:00

Celebrate our nation’s independence during the 2011 Patriot Festival of Pigeon Forge.

The 21st Annual Patriot Festival at Patriot Park in the heart of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Festivities get started at 1:00 p.m. on July 4, 2011. The Patriot Festival is FREE and open to the public. Patriot Park is located on Old Mill Street at traffic light number 7 behind the historic Old Mill. Take advantage of the city parking lot on Teaster Lane with a trolley shuttle going to Patriot Park.Listeners should bring a lawn chair (no umbrellas, please) and prepare to enjoy an outstanding lineup of live musical entertainment.

Musical entertainment will include Restless Heart as the headliner. They will perform from their long list of number one hits including, “When She Cries, “Bluest Eyes in Texas” and “I’ll Still be Loving You.” Randy Montana who just got off tour with Taylor Swift will also be performing along with The Roys a bluegrass band and local favorites Jimbo Whaley & Greenbrier. The Return, a Beatles Tribute Band, will also perform along with patriotic music from the Pigeon Forge Community Choir.

INTERESTING LOCAL TIP
WIVK radio 107.7 will be attending with their beloved mascot "WIVIK the Frog." Throughout East Tennessee, this radio station is commonly known as "WIVK {weh-vik} The Frog Station."

Kids will love the free Kids’ Karnival zone with inflatables and games, and Veterans will appreciate "Veterans Salute." Visitors always enjoy a rich variety of locally prepared foods available by non-profit vending organizations.

The City of Pigeon Forge proudly presents the evening fireworks show as a thank you to our guests and citizens for supporting Pigeon Forge! After the performances, the Pigeon Forge night sky will come to life with a fantastic fireworks display! The fireworks usually start at 9:30 to 9:45 p.m., so keep your eyes on the skies, you won't want to miss this display!

For more information, call the Pigeon Forge Office of Special Events at 865-429-7350 or 865-429-7350

The Miracle Theater - Pigeon Forge TN Opens For Sixth Season

2011-05-06T09:10:00.000-07:00

The Miracle Theater in Pigeon Forge TN opened it's sixth
season on March 12th to rave reviews !! Both "The Miracle" and "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" will be performed weekly through October..

Check out the mission statement of The Miracle Theater.

Mission Statement:

The Mission of the Miracle Theater is to present professional, faith-based family entertainment through live theatrical productions revealing the person of Jesus Christ as the Living Word of God.

For more information, click here for "The Miracle Theater's Website"

Dollywood's New Barnstormer Opening For The 2011 Season

2011-03-21T09:06:00.000-07:00

DOLLYWOOD THEME PARK ANNOUNCES NEW BARNSTORMER 2011;

$5.5 MILLION PROJECT CREATES FUN-FILLED BARNYARD-THEMED AREA

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn.— High-flying high jinks take to the sky at Dollywood for the 2011 season with the new Barnstormer ride, a $5.5 million family thrill ride situated in a barnyard-themed area which also includes play areas for younger guests.

“I remember my daddy and granddaddy talking about the old barnstormers that used to do all kinds of crazy stunts above the fields where they’d work crops,” Dolly Parton said. “My new Barnstormer ride offers folks those same breathtaking moments, high in the sky above Dollywood. And I’ve recreated a critter-themed barnyard that reminds me of growing up on the farm here in the Smoky Mountains!”

Taking its name from the daring aerialists and stunt pilots of the 1920s, the Barnstormer features two pendulum arms with seating for 32 riders. Seated back to back, riders travel progressively higher on each swing of the Barnstormer’s massive arms, reaching a maximum speed of 45 miles per hour and 230 degrees of rotation. At its peak, the Barnstormer reaches a staggering 81 feet in the air, taking riders high above the barn’s rooftop and the area’s treetops. Situated in the lush foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, the Barnstormer rests amid a traditional red barn on the Owens Farm, a nod to Parton’s family’s rural upbringing.

Click for More info on Dollywood and the Barnstormer

Spring Grand Rod Run - April 15-17, 2011

2011-03-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

Springfest in Pigeon Forge brings thousands of classic cars from around the country for the show and competition.

The Spring Grand Rod Run is April 15 – 17, 2011 it kicks off the car show season with classic Fords, Chevy/GMCs and Gold Wings. These cars and trucks are exciting to see drive by but are even better to sit in or take a look under the hood, which is what some of the thousands of visitors do as they walk the Parkway.

The participants in these car shows are so eager to get the weekend started that the Parkway and hotel parking lots begin to fill with classic cars on Tuesday of that week. The events feature more than just rare and unique autos, though. Throughout the event weekend, visitors can enjoy interactive displays presented by vendors from all over the country.

Those who enjoy the mechanical aspects of the auto world will savor the opportunity to participate in workshops and get answers to technical questions here at the Rod Run.

Dollywood Opens Saturday March 26, 2011

2011-03-17T08:41:00.000-07:00

After weeks of anticipation, Dollywood’s 2011 opening day is just days away on Saturday, March 26, 2011!

Things will be in full swing at Owens Farm where the new Barnstormer family thrill ride takes to the sky. On stages throughout the Park, Dollywood’s Festival of Nations fills the Park with international songs, dances and artistry. This year’s festival welcomes three all-new shows - Samaia: Legend of the Caucasus, Los Pampas Gauchos, and Oisre.

We’re ready to entertain you and your family so mark your calendar and plan to join us for opening day at Dollywood on March 26. (View operating schedule here.)

Festival of Nations at Dollywood 2011 Season Dates: March 26 - May 2

Quiltfest of Pigeon Forge - March 9th - 13th, 2011

2011-02-17T13:10:00.000-08:00

Quiltfest of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

The Pigeon Forge Quiltfest preserves the timeless art of quilting.

Wednesday, March 9th – Sunday, March 13th,2011

(Classes begin Tuesday, March 8th)

A Mountain Quiltfest, with annual attendance of more than 20,000 visitors, celebrates its 17th year, March 8-13, 2011. Quilters and crafters from across the U.S. gather for more than 70 classes and seminars, an expanded vendor mall and a quilt show featuring more than 300 quilted items.

Instructors for the 2011 event include Charlotte Warr Anderson, Elsie M. Campbell, Sally Collins, Klaudeen Hansen, Jody Houghton, Bonnie K. Hunter, Jo Morton, and Darlene Zimmerman.

The vendor area will offer a variety of quilt- and craft-related items. Other Quiltfest activities include lectures, along with show and tell opportunities. Detailed information regarding classes and seminars is available at www.mountainquiltfest.com, where online registration will begin at 10:00 am on Dec. 6, 2010.

A Mountain Quiltfest is produced by the City of Pigeon Forge and co-hosted by the Piecemakers and Sevier Valley Quilters Guilds.

11th Annual "Saddle Up" - Pigeon Forge- 2/24-27,2011

2011-02-17T12:45:00.000-08:00

Join us for Saddle Up!, a celebration of the American West and one of the featured events of Pigeon Forge Winterfest. This award-winning festival includes entertainment presented the cowboy way, including concerts by western musicians and cowboy poets—

Wylie & the Wild West

The Quebe Sisters Band

Brenn Hill

Yvonne Hollenbeck

Chris Isaacs

Jean & Gary Prescott

Ray Doyle

Click for more info..

Great Smoky Mountain Railroad - Winter Excursions

2010-12-30T08:31:00.000-08:00

Unless you have taken the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad December Polar Express trip, you might find a train ride an odd suggestion for the winter months. Yet the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad takes riders right into the Smoky Mountains for an up-close look at nature's beauty. Taking the train while the leaves are absent and the mountains deceptively dormant-seeming allows riders to appreciate the foundation of spring, summer and fall's loveliness.

And when the mountain is revealed without its cloak of many colors, we see the shape and texture of the land, the craggy rocks, the forest floor carpeted by years and layers of decaying leaves feeding the generations to come.

The January excursion is a four-hour trip from Bryson City to the Nantahala Gorge with a 30-minute layover. Only available on Saturdays, the trip has an 11 a.m. departure time. In March, the expanded schedule begins again. Also in March, the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad will start offering first-class seating, a new perk.

Great Smoky Mountain Railroad, Bryson City, (800) 872-4681.

From the Winston Journal

Celebrate New Years At Gatlinburg Space Needle Ball Drop

2010-12-14T11:12:00.000-08:00

Gatlinburg New Years Eve Ball Drop 12/31/10

Don’t miss out on our New Year’s Eve street party. Come bring in the New Year with thousands at Gatlinburg’s New Year’s Eve Ball Drop and Pyrotechnics Show!

Celebrate and mingle with partygoers while watching the New Years Eve countdown clock and lighted ball drop bring in the New Year.

This event continues to grow each year with a live band and an exciting pyrotechnic fireworks show planned right after the ball drop at midnight. Cost of admission to this event-FREE!

More info on the Gatlinburg Space Needle

Christmas Light Show-Smokies Stadium

2010-12-14T10:55:00.000-08:00

Synchronized Christmas Light Display - Sevierville, TN I-40 Exit 407 at the Smokies Baseball Stadium. Light Shows -Nightly 6:00 - 10:00pm till January 2, 2010

Fully computerized LED lighted displays will light the route along with holiday tunes. The route is nearly a mile long and lasts approximately 20 minutes. Hours are 6p.m.-10p.m. or later daily.

FREE Local Discount Card with Admission! Valid all year! 1 Per Vehicle. Extra cards $10

Admission as follows for 2010:

Cars or Family Vans (Mon-Thurs)……………………………$13.67 + Tax = $15

Cars or Family Vans (Fri-Sun, Holidays, & Dec 20-23)….$18.23 + Tax = $20

Activity Van, Limo, and Mini/Half Bus……………………….$27.34 + Tax = $30

Tour/School Bus…………………………………………………$68.34 + Tax = $75

New this year! Santa’s Village with petting zoo, pony and camel rides, photos with Santa, a Christmas Tree lot, and festive refreshments including Hot Cocoa, Apple Cider, Funnel Cakes, Christmas Cookies, Pizza, Kettle Corn and so, so much more!!!

The Christmas Wonderland is an award-winning drive-through and light show that is the largest of its kind in the country. Featuring hundreds of thousands of LED lights dynamically synchronized and dancing to the music, this experience is sure to be something you and your family won't soon forget!

For additional information, please contact Shadrack at (423) 652-0120 or visit the company's Christmas Wonderland page here

The Pigeon Forge Titanic- Christmas In A Winter Wonderland

2010-12-14T10:21:00.000-08:00

Every Friday and Saturday Evening at 7pm.

November 13, 2010-January 1, 2011
Free in Parking Lot - Bring your Cameras!

It will snow this holiday season in Pigeon Forge; Titanic Museum Attraction guarantees it. Starting Saturday, November 13, it will snow – yes, REAL snow – at the Titanic every Friday and Saturday evening at 7:00pm through January 1, 2011. The snow is part of the museum’s “Christmas in a Winter Wonderland,” which is dedicated to honoring and celebrating the lives of the 2,208 passengers and crew of the Titanic.

Titanic Museum Attraction co-owner Mary Kellogg-Joslyn is pulling out all the stops this Christmas and invested $150,000 in snow equipment (the same equipment used to make it snow at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom every Christmas) that will produce real, falling snow every weekend at the museum. An additional $100,000 will be spent on Christmas trees, lights and decorations that will decorate the interior and exterior of the Titanic Museum Attraction.

“Everything about our Christmas in a Winter Wonderland Celebration is aimed at giving our visitors and their families a unique, memorable holiday experience. A memory that will last forever – and isn’t that what Christmas is all about?”

For reservations call 800-381-7670 or visit the Titantic website

Pigeon Forge Winterfest Starts Nov 9th, 2010

2010-11-01T12:50:00.000-07:00

Pigeon Forge Winterfest Starts Nov. 9th, 2010

Join us in Patriot Park, for the 21st Annual Winterfest Kickoff with Dollywood’s Appalachian Christmas!

Pigeon Forge’s Winterfest Kickoff is just the beginning of three and a half months of holiday music, lights and special events.

Beginning at 4 p.m., several performing groups from Pigeon Forge Middle School and High School will open the festivities. Pigeon Forge Community Chorus and Dollywood’s Appalachian Christmas will follow, while Jimbo Whaley and Greenbrier will wrap up the evening’s entertainment.

Comments from civic leaders will precede the ceremonial flipping of the switch to turn on the city’s five million Winterfest lights at around 7 p.m. Free Trolley Tour of Lights, which showcase Winterfest light displays throughout the community, will be offered after the lighting ceremony.

Also the Pigeon Forge Community Chorus’ concert of holiday music with a mountain flavor from Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas. Plus the best in bluegrass music from Jimbo Whaley & Greenbrier!

We’ll have games for the kids, and food vendors to satisfy every hungry appetite. But, as always, we’ll save the best for last.

Since the light displays are located throughout town, the best way to see them all is on board the Winterfest Trolley Tour of Lights. Don’t miss the great opportunity to take a free tour, only available on the night of Kickoff!

Smoky Mountain Grocery Opens in Wears Valley !!

2010-09-14T08:55:00.000-07:00

Smoky Mountain Grocery ANNOUNCES that from the time Smoky Mountain Grocery began, we have worked toward our goal of someday owning our own grocery store. Today this dream became a reality.

We currently shop other grocery stores in the area to fill our customers orders, but we have opened our first SMOKY MOUNTAIN GROCERY STORE in Wears Valley on the Wears Valley Rd near the Rocky Top Country Store !!!

Smoky Mountain Grocery

Wears Valley Rd Sevierville TN

877-484-8853

Pigeon Forge Car Shows Sept 10-11. Sept 16-19, 22-25, 2010

2010-08-18T13:41:00.000-07:00

Pigeon Forge Rod Run season is almost here! The Shades of Past Rod Run is September 10 & 11 and is located at Dollywood Splash Country and The Inn at Christmas Place. Phone 865-429-0159.

The Grand Fall Rod Run is September 16 – 19 and is located at The Grand Resort Hotel and Convention Center; For more information call 1-800-251-4444.

One other car show this year is the Great Smoky Mountain Annual Auto Fest at Smokies Stadium on September 22 – 25 to get more info call 865-850-4806.

Come check out the unbelievable classic and antique cars, rods and much more..

A Smoky Mountain Wedding Via Facebook !

2010-06-28T10:41:00.000-07:00

A Smoky Mountain Wedding Via Facebook !

You certainly hear lots of stories about Facebook these days... but this was a first for us. A wedding at our Glimpse of Heaven cabin..... all started with a mother finding our "Heavenly Cabins Near Pigeon Forge" page on Facebook.

Laurie, the mother of the groom had been searching online when she found us.. Here's an excerpt from one of her emails to us....

"Cheryl, I've already told you that God set me up with you. I know that for a fact. He saw this mother's desire to see her son married in a Christian wedding even though I couldn't be right there. I searched and searched for the right spot for them and when I saw your cabin and bio, I knew that was the right place.

After I booked a Glimpse of Heaven, I had such perfect peace. It has been so incredible. God is so faithful. Sam and Jaimi don't realize it yet, but God had tremendous plans for them."

The next email from Laurie described the blessed union of Sam & Jaimi~~~

Everything went so well. Sam and Jaimi loved the cabin. It was a gift from God. Sam talked on and on about how beautiful it was there. The weather report was for T-storms that day, but God was good and showed them His favor by giving them a nice sunny day.

They went for long rides through the mountains and sat with their feet in a mountain river. Thank you for the nice coorespondences we had and for letting your light so shine before men that the Father is Glorified (though you).Many Blessings, Laurie

We are so very grateful that the Lord allowed us to have a tiny part in this special day. May God continue to bless Sam, Jaimi and their families.. Thank you !!

Midnight Independence Day Parade-Gatlinburg July 3rd-4th, 2010

2010-06-25T09:12:00.000-07:00

Midnight Independence Day Parade-Gatlinburg July 3rd-4th, 2010

Billed as the first parade to take place on July 4th - Independence Day, Gatlinburg TN starts the parade at 12 midnight, Saturday 7/3/10 into Sunday 7/4/10..

For the 35th consecutive year, Gatlinburg kicks off America’s Independence Day celebration with the nation’s first parade, which leads off in the opening moment of the holiday at 12 a.m. on Sunday, July 4, to the cheers of close to 100,000 spectators and features a special tribute to our military personnel among the many highlights of this one-of-a-kind patriotic event.

Stretching more than a mile in length, over 100 units will make their way through Gatlinburg, showcasing many elaborately decorated floats, helium balloons, marching bands, equestrian entries and a large contingent of our armed services men & women.

Among the military personnel being honored as Grand Marshall for the parade will be the 129th Army Band from Nashville, Tennessee, which will march in the event. Vintage military vehicles will also be part of the parade.
As soon as the street is closed late on July 3, the parade route comes alive with pre-parade entertainers that begin the excitement of what is to follow.

Marching bands, colorful floats and helium balloons will navigate the streets. Also appearing in the line-up will be a parade-scale replica of the famous starship U.S.S. Enterprise from Riverside, Iowa and the Boyertown Alumni Marching Unit from Boyertown, Pennsylvania.

Bands schedule to participate in the Midnight Parade include the 129th Army Marching Band, Boyertown (Penn.) Alumni Marching Unit, the Nashville Suzuki Strings and Knoxville Pipe & Drum.

“This will be one of the most patriotic and colorful midnight parades that the City of Gatlinburg has ever produced,” according to Special Events Manager George Hawkins, who organized the first Gatlinburg 4th of July parade in 1976 in celebration of America’s Bicentennial. "We are very excited about the entire weekend of events, which will include a four-day festival highlighting our armed services!”

Additional weekend activities in downtown will include free admission concerts by the 129th Army Band, the Boyertown Alumni Marching Unit, Nashville Suzuki Strings, Gatlinburg River Raft Regatta unmanned floatable race, and a spectacular fireworks display.

For more information about the 35th Annual 4th of July Midnight Parade, please call 800-56-VISIT (568-4748).

July 3 Activities
1 p.m. – Nite Fire of the 129th Army Band (Rock Group) at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies Plaza.
12 midnight – 35th annual Fourth of July Midnight Parade.

July 4 Schedule
10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. – River Raft Regatta
1 p.m. – Direct Hit of the 129th Army Band (R&B/Jazz Group) at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies Plaza
4 p.m. – Nashville Suzuki Strings at the Gatlinburg Inn
4 p.m. – Boyertown Alumni Marching Unit at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies Plaza
8 p.m. – Nashville Suzuki Strings at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies Plaza
8:30 p.m. – 129th Army Concert Band at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies Plaza
10 p.m. – Fireworks Finale in Downtown
Admission: Free

Fireworks! Patriot Festival July 3rd, 2010 - Pigeon Forge TN

2010-06-25T09:01:00.000-07:00

Saturday, July 3rd, 2010 at Patriot Park - Come Froggin’ in the Forge
with WIVK radio 107.7 fm and the City of Pigeon Forge this holiday weekend.

Enjoy an outstanding lineup of entertainment, our free Kids’ Karnival area with inflatables and games, and taste many of the wonderful foods from our non-profit vending organizations.

The City of Pigeon Forge proudly presents the evening fireworks show as a thank you to our guests and citizens for supporting Pigeon Forge!

This event is free and open to the public. Bring blankets or chairs and join us at Patriot Park (please no umbrellas). Event parking is available in the city parking lot on Teaster Lane with a trolley shuttle available to Patriot Park.

Fireworks !!Fireworks will be broadcast live on WIVK 107.7Festivities will begin at 2:00 pm July 3rd. Please continue to return to this site for updated information.

For more information on this FREE event, visit www.mypigeonforge.com or call the Pigeon Forge Office of Special Events at (865) 429-7350

"Dolly Parton Helps Nashville" - Fundraiser Pigeon Forge TN

2010-05-17T13:17:00.000-07:00

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn.—East Tennessee native and longtime Nashville resident Dolly Parton announced plans today for Dolly Helps Nashville, a fund raising weekend set for May 22 and 23, 2010 with net admission proceeds from her Dollywood and Dixie Stampede properties in Pigeon Forge, Tenn. earmarked for Music City flood relief efforts.

Parton will make several special appearances at various theaters and locations throughout Dollywood and at Dixie Stampede to greet guests who visit for the weekend event.

“I grew up in the Smokies in East Tennessee, which was my first home. I moved to Nashville 46 years ago and that is my home now,” Parton said. “I have family and friends in both places, and when one place hurts; I think it is just right for the other to help.

On May 22 and 23, I’m having my Dollywood and Dixie Stampede companies help me host my Dolly Helps Nashville weekend. The net proceeds from the admission of the guests to Dollywood and my Dixie Stampede in Pigeon Forge will go to a special fund to assist Nashville flood victims. We’re especially going to concentrate on those folks who lost their homes and personal possessions in this terrible flood.”

Davidson and three surrounding counties were declared federal disaster areas after record-breaking rainfall on May 1 and 2 devastated the area and destroyed homes and businesses. With strong roots in the Nashville community, Parton felt the impact of the natural disaster and organized Dolly Helps Nashville to aid those displaced by the flood.

“So many of the folks from Nashville come to the Smokies to vacation; over the last 25 years, they have helped Dollywood, Dixie Stampede and Dollywood’s Splash Country and this entire vacation area grow,” Parton added. “That’s why it’s our turn to help.”

Parton is calling on other East Tennessee businesses and attractions to show their support as well. “I am challenging other businesses in Pigeon Forge, Sevierville and Gatlinburg to make this a destination-wide effort.”
Parton also issued a plea to her fans to help the fund raising effort reach its full potential.

“I want all of my fans worldwide to come to Dollywood the weekend of May 22 and 23,” Parton said. “If you can’t be there in person, then I hope you’ll donate to flood victims through the Dollywood Foundation online at www.dollyparton.com.”

For more information on the flood relief effort, please visit www.dollyparton.com.

Dollywood's Splash Country Opens May 22, 2010

2010-05-04T12:08:00.000-07:00

Dollywood’s Splash Country Opens

May 22 , 2010

One of the sure signs of summer is the opening of Dollywood’s Splash Country. The 2010 season begins Saturday, May 22.

Come see why Dollywood’s Splash Country was named “America’s Must-See Waterpark.” Remember, every Saturday season passholders and their guests (with valid admission) are admitted one-hour early to enjoy a select attraction that is open just for our season passholder family, beginning with the new Slick Rock Racer on May 22!

Plus, surprise giveaways are planned on random days throughout the season for season passholders. You qualify simply by scanning your season pass at the turnstiles.

25th Annual Dolly Parade - May 7th - Pigeon Forge TN

2010-04-16T08:21:00.000-07:00

The 25th Annual Dolly Parade is the highlight of Springfest. This year’s parade is scheduled for May 7, 2010 at 6pm.

The Dolly Parton parade runs from River Road to Wears Valley Road in Pigeon Forge TN. Join the fun as festive floats, marching bands and other local celebrities make their way through parade procession.

More info about Dollywood

Trail Trekkers On The Appalachian Trail

2010-04-01T07:03:00.000-07:00

A hiker headed toward

Maine on the Appalachian

Trail appreciates chances

to rest at places such as

this at Woody Gap.

By Dan Cook

April Fool's Day traditionally signals
the start of backpackers heading north
from Springer Mountain in Georgia to
Maine on the Appalachian Trail.

The dream of such "thru hikers" is to go the entire 2,175 miles to Mount Katahdin before winter returns. But many this year left earlier than usual, according to outfitters who have witnessed their arrivals at points along the route.

A hiker headed toward Maine on the Appalachian Trail appreciates chances to rest at places such as this at Woody Gap.

One even hit the trail as early as New Year's Day, according to Pepper Schuette of SunDog Outfitter in Damascus, Va. "That was Tattoo Joe," Schuette said by telephone. "He's the current record speed holder on the Pacific Crest Trail."

Many thru-hikers select alternate names for trail identity; hence the nickname. The unusually cold, wet winter has hindered the backpackers, however -- particularly in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, through which the AT traverses.

"Joe said he had passed between 150 and 200 between here and Springer," Schuette said.

A little more than a decade ago, only a few hundred people a year attempted the full-trail challenge, but now as many as 1,500 annually set out with that goal. Only a few hundred actually make it, but that is considered remarkable in itself.

Last year, according to Laurie Potteiger of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, 686 northbound walkers who had started at Springer stopped at the ATC's trail visitor center at Harpers Ferry, W.Va., and gave Maine as their destination.
Amicalola Falls State Park near Dawsonville, Ga., is a popular starting point for the AT, since its offers modern camping, cabins and a lodge. It is several miles south of the AT southern terminus, which is accessible via an approach trail from Amicalola or, usually, by a dirt-road drive.

"But the winter affected the road this year," Amicalola manager Bill Tanner said, noting that 469 had checked in at the park as of Tuesday morning. Tanner reasoned that more had entered through the park this year than normal due to the dirt road's inaccessibility.

"Their minds are in the right spot, though sometimes they carry substantially more than what their bodies are wanting to produce," he said. For many hikers, that evaluation often becomes painful reality in the first 30 miles. A lot of gear is sent home from the Walasi-Yi Center, where the AT crosses a major highway just south of Blairsville, Ga.

Another main resting place is Uncle Johnny's Nolichucky Hostel and Outfitters near Erwin, Tenn. Like Walasi-Yi, it offers showers and other amenities. A source at Uncle Johnny's reported that 38 thru-hikers had been counted as of Tuesday. Included was "Trek," making an AT trip for the eighth consecutive year.

Some gear leaving post offices along the route is merely a result of preparation for the journey. Hikers use the mail to exchange heavier clothes for lighter attire, or vice versa, depending upon anticipated weather conditions. The five or six months needed for the full trip requires much logistical planning.

Trail Days in Damascus is an annual highlight the week after Mother's Day for those who have made it that far. SunDog's Schuette noted that while the town has only about 900 permanent residents, it is full of tents and 20,000 or more people the week of festivities. The events include a parade and good-natured water fights among current and previous hikers.

For serious hikers, the state of the economy generally is no big concern. Bad times may even be good for hiking, the Uncle Johnny's Nolichucky source said, because it's a "low-rent vacation."

Said Jeff Patrick, owner of Mount Rogers Outfitters in Damascus: "I don't know about the economy. I've never had a watch or a cell phone. I think it might be that a lot of people have figured out that costly vacations aren't what they used to be and that getting into the woods may offer something different

Info from Chattanooga Times Free Press

Cades Cove Loop Road To Open Early - April 24th 2010

2010-03-31T09:48:00.000-07:00

Cades Cove Loop Road is to reopen on April 24th, which is a month earlier than expected. The road was projected to be closed three months, beginning March 1, for major work, including a repaving of the loop.

The $6.7 million redo of the popular 11-mile loop inside the Great Smoky Mountains National park was slated to be completed no later than May 21. Park Superintendent Dale Ditmanson credited contractor APAC-Atlantic Inc. Harrison Division and the Federal Highway Administration for the quick completion of the large project.

To commemorate the reopening on Sunday morning, April 25, the park and the Friends of the Smokies are planning a one-time-only “Cades Cove Loop Lope,” which will offer pre-registered runners a choice of the full 11-mile loop or a 3.5 mile loop course. for more info check out this link. Cades Cove Loop Lope

The loop is usually limited to bicycles and pedestrians until 10 a.m. Saturday and Wednesday from May through September. The one-time closure on April 24 will be extended to noon.

Smoky Mountain Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage-April 21 - 25, 2010

2010-03-29T08:57:00.000-07:00

Attend the annual Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and you just might see a dazzling display of redbuds in bloom. Attendees also will be able to enjoy a presentation on Theodore Roosevelt by Joe Wiegand.

The Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park will be held from April 21 to 25.

Now in its 60th year, it's the largest Wildflower Pilgrimage in the country. More than 1,000 attendees, called pilgrims, will descend on Gatlinburg, Tennessee, for wildflower and bird walks, lectures on composting and on attracting insect-eating birds and strenuous hikes.

This five-day program attracts visitors from the Midwestern and Southern states and as far away as Colorado and Alaska. Started by the Gatlinburg Garden Club, the University of Tennessee, and the City of Gatlinburg, it is now managed by the Great Smoky Mountains Association.

Ken McFarland, a biology professor at the University of Tennessee, chooses the trails and leaders for the outdoor programs.
"We have lots of wildflower walks on both sides of the park (North Carolina and Tennessee). People come for at least two days and most do a wildflower and bird walk," he said.

Mr. McFarland personally will lead a hike on mosses and liverworts; he's been with the program since 1976. Other subjects include salamanders, insects, bears, and hogs

The highlight for Mr. McFarland is "talking to visitors and getting them engaged. They ask interesting questions. I like to have public understand and be more aware of the environment they live in."

Mr. McFarland explains that his challenge is finding people who are willing to come and are qualified to lead. The outdoor leaders volunteer and pay their own travel expenses. The program provides them with housing and meals.

"Leaders give pilgrims a different perspective and encourage them to take a scientific look at the environment in more depth," explained Mr. McFarland. "Walks are casual and slow-paced. We have two or three leaders per event, so they can engage with the public. We go rain or shine, so people should come prepared."

Indoor programs are also popular. This year, the headliner is A Theodore Roosevelt Salute to the Great Smoky Mountains. Joe Wiegand, who calls himself a 'reprisor' and not an impersonator, is "TR", known as our best conservation president. He'll tell stories of the early conservation movement and the growth of our national parks. Mr. Wiegand has even performed at the White House.

"I portray TR because his life and his stories speak to Americans today in a worthwhile way," said Mr. Wiegand. "TR’s dedication to family and country, his values and ideals, and his policies for conservation, a 'Square Deal' and a 'Speak Softly and Carry a Big Stick' foreign policy are very relevant to our current circumstances.

"I enjoy traveling this beautiful country and entertaining in the persona of TR, of whom his daughter Alice famously said: 'Father wanted to be the bride at every wedding, the corpse at every funeral and the baby at every christening.'"

Great Smoky Mountains National Park was created in 1934, long after TR died in 1919. During his tenure in the White House from 1901 to 1909, he designated 150 national forests, the first 51 federal bird reservations, five national parks, the first 18 national monuments, the first four national game preserves, and the first 21 reclamation projects. Altogether, in the seven-and-one-half years he was in office, he provided federal protection for almost 230 million acres, a land area equivalent to that of all the East Coast states from Maine to Florida.

Closer to Smokies history, Robin Goddard will give a performance on Ann Davis, considered the mother of the Smokies. Ms. Davis was elected to the Tennessee General Assembly in 1925 where she introduced a bill authorizing the state to purchase the first large piece of land for the park. But let's not forget, it is the Wildflower Pilgrimage, after all. So what will the bloom be like on April 21?

"The last two years, we had spectacular wildflowers. In general, flowers are coming out a week earlier than they did 50 years ago," said Mr. McFarland, who studies the phenology of plants in the Smokies, the science dealing with the influence of climate on the recurrence of annual cycles such as flower blooms and bird migrations. "But this year, the cold winter will delay the bloom so they should be on schedule."
The details:
The Wildlife Pilgrimage runs from April 21 to April 25 (Wed to Sunday). Online registration is on now until April 11 at this site. Since each session has a limit, you should register as soon as you can.

"The Titanic" Opens In Pigeon Forge - April 8, 2010

2010-03-22T09:31:00.000-07:00

The World’s Largest Permanent Titanic Museum Attraction in Pigeon Forge, TN, is launching its Grand Opening April 8, 2010. Guest Appearance by Regis Philbin. The christening of the ship outside the bow will be at 10:00am - Thursday April 8th, 2010.

Join us as we take you on an incredible historical journey. Get ready to play a part in one of the greatest human dramas of all time. You will navigate through twenty rooms holding 400+ valuable museum artifacts and personal items, an exclusive photo collection and hands-on-activities, which include:
Walk an actual size replica of the Grand Staircase

View pictures that literally come to life

Touch the frozen surface of an “iceberg”

Send an SOS signal from the ship’s wireless communications room and receive communication from the coast guard

Listen to survivors’ stories as they sit in actual lifeboats

Feel the chill of that fateful "Starry Night"

Stand on the mighty ship's bridge and hear the Captain's commands

View life onboard, see a First Class Stateroom and a Third Class cabin

Explore world-class gallery rooms with rare historical artifacts

Control a simulated underwater Titanic exploration of your own

See more info at http://www.titanicpigeonforge.com/

Check Out Dollywood's New "Adventure Mountain" Opening March 27,2010

2010-03-20T09:25:00.000-07:00

Set the course for adventure at Dollywood’s new "Adventure Mountain". Explore and uncover an endless combination of high-energy

feats to engage and entice the

entire family!

This multi-level area covers approximately two acres and requires varying levels of skill and ability. Four courses invite adventurers to navigate more than 100 challenging obstacles, including swinging beams, suspension bridges, flying islands, a tire traverse and more including the base-level Camp Teachittoomee.

The excitement of the great outdoors is just waiting to be discovered by those who accept the challenge of Dollywood’s new Adventure Mountain.

Visit the

Adventure Mountain website for more information.

Photo & Info from http://www.dollywood.com/

Dollywood's Opening Day-Saturday March 27,2010

2010-03-19T07:58:00.000-07:00

Dollywood's Opening Day

Dollywood’s opening day is Saturday, March 27, 2010. Mark your calendars and get ready to celebrate our 25th anniversary season with us! Be one of the first to explore America’s largest challenge course—Dollywood's new Adventure Mountain:

Explore 100+ elements on 4 unique adventures. Navigate a rock cliff, swinging rope bridges, geysers, and much more
Choose your adventure trail, from easy to difficult, from a few inches to as high as 90 feet above the main walkway!

Plus, weather permitting, Dolly plans to make a few surprise appearances throughout the Park that day. So come and enjoy the rides, shows—and maybe even see Dolly—next Saturday, on opening day!

http://www.dollywood.com/

Cades Cove Closed 3/1 To 5/21/10 But Still Lots More To See In The Smoky Moutains!

2010-03-01T09:10:00.001-08:00

Cades Cove is closed, but there are still plenty of adventures to experience on the Peaceful Side of the TN Smokies.

Cades Cove Road Closure – Alternative Adventures
The road in Cades Cove is scheduled to be closed March 1 - May 21, 2010 for major improvements. Weather may affect these dates.

The road will be closed to all public use, including hiking, bicycling, and auto touring during the closure period. Trailheads along the road will be closed, including Cooper Road Trail, Abrams Falls Trail, and Rabbit Creek Trail. Although trailhead access from along the Loop Road will be closed, these trails will remain open and hikers can access them via connecting trails in the area. Download a park trail map to view area trails.

Rich Mountain Road, Forge Creek Road and Parson Branch Road will not be accessible during the closure. This will affect trailhead access/parking for Indian Grave Gap Trail, Gregory Ridge Trail, Gregory Bald Trail, and Hannah Mountain Trail.

The Cades Cove Campground, picnic area, horseback riding stable and campground store will be operating as normal. Bicycle rentals will not be available from the campground store during the period when the Loop Road is closed.

While Cades Cove is temporarily closed, there are many alternative adventures to enjoy such as a self-guided tour of Tremont, Little Greenbrier School, The Walker Sister’s Cabin, Elkmont Summer Community, the Heritage Museum in Townsend, the Little River Railroad Museum and the scenic Foothills Parkway.

For a complete list of all adventures, visit “The Do” section of http://www.smokymountains.org/
Tammi Ford EVP Communications Blount Partnership

Please bookmark other informative websites: http://www.blountchamber.com/ http://www.smokymountains.org/, http://www.smcvb.info/,
Community Calendar, Blount Chamber Calendar

"Saddle Up" Cowboy Festival-Pigeon Forge Feb 25-28, 2010

2010-02-09T10:56:00.000-08:00

Pigeon Forge ‘Sets Up Camp’ for Festival of Cowboy Poetry, Western Music, Chuckwagon Cooking

10th ‘Saddle Up!’ includes autograph session with James Drury of ‘The Virginian’

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. (February 2010) – Cowboy poets, western singers and chuckwagon cooks are just over the horizon from Pigeon Forge, Tenn., preparing for the 10th celebration of Saddle Up!, a perhaps unexpected celebration of cowboy ways east of the Mississippi River.

Saddle Up!, Feb. 25-28, 2010, is the last major component of Pigeon Forge Winterfest, a four-month season of activities that started in November. The entire Winterfest celebration is on the American Bus Association’s list of the Top 100 Events in North America, and Saddle Up! is an American Cowboy Magazine “Best of the West” event, one of 101 recognized annually.

Like stars over a clear prairie sky, the entertainment lineup sparkles with Don Edwards, Waddie Mitchell, R.W. Hampton, Dave Stamey, Ray Doyle and Jeff Gore. Two western swing dances will get guests showing off their best two-stepping techniques.

The pop culture side of the cowboy life will be featured through appearances by James Drury and other stars of “The Virginian,” the 1962-1971 hit TV Western. “The Virginian,” the first 90-minute Western, told the story of the fictional Shiloh Ranch near Medicine Bow, Wyo.

Autograph sessions and question-and-answer opportunities are planned with Drury, Roberta Shore, Gary Clarke and Randy Boone. Drury appeared throughout the series.

A competitive chuckwagon cookoff is another Saddle Up! highlight. Teams of chuckwagon cooks will prepare an authentic trail hand lunch for guests’ enjoyment—and the critical evaluation of judges.

The closing event is Cowboy Church, a non-denominational service preceded by strong coffee and a chuckwagon breakfast.

Admission information: Concert day passes are $20 per day and $50 for the weekend (free through age 17). The chuckwagon cookoff lunch, chuckwagon breakfast and western swing dance are $5. Admission to “The Virginian” event is free.

The complete festival schedule is online at http://www.MyPigeonForge.com href="http://www.mypigeonforge.com/saddleup">http://www.MyPigeonForge.com/saddleup Information about all aspects of visiting Pigeon Forge is at http://www.mypigeonforge.com/ or by calling toll-free 1-800-251-9100.

Saddle Up! event locations:
Thursday afternoon and evening concerts at the Smith Family Dinner Theater

Friday afternoon and evening concerts at the Grand Majestic Theater

Friday and Saturday Western swing dances at the Grand Resort Hotel

Saturday “Virginian” reunion at the Grand Resort Hotel

Saturday Chuckwagon cookoff at Clabough’s Campground

Sunday Cowboy Church at Stages West

Winter Heritage Festival Townsend TN Feb 4-7,2010

2010-02-03T09:47:00.000-08:00

Winter Heritage Festival February 4-7, 2010 - Townsend TN - The Great Smoky Mountains

A celebration of the history, people, and traditions of Townsend TN, Cades Cove, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Don't miss the Kick-Off on Thursday, Feb. 4 from 7--9pm, with Sparky and Rhonda Rucker at Tremont! Call 865-448-6709 for reservations.

The Winter Heritage Festival has received an Award of Merit from the American Association for State and Local History, and has been designated a "Top Twenty Event" by the Southeast Tourism Society.

See below for schedules of events for 2010! Most events are free, but there are charges for the Kick Off, the Barn Dance, Miss Lily's Banquet Hall lunch programs, and the Cades Cove Heritage Tours.

Advance Registration Required! Download the schedule and form:Winter Fest Schedule 2010 Winter Fest 2010 Registration And the full program booklet:Winter Heritage Booklet 2010Call for more information or if you'd like to be sent the schedule and registration form by mail or email: 865-448-6134. Complete the registration and send to Townsend Visitors Center 7906 E. Lamar Alexander Pkwy., Townsend, TN 37886.

jhilten@smokymountains.org Highlights of Programs at the Townsend

Visitors Center:

A "Mountain Craft Showcase" on Saturday morning in the Exhibit Room with artisans demonstrating their skills.

"The Prehistory of Tuckaleechee Cove" with Dr. Boyce Driskell, University of Tennessee Archeologist.

Mountain Music and Mountain People program by Bob Fulcher, Cumberland Trail State Park and Tennessee folklorist.
Discover Life in America's biodiversity project in the Smokies, with Director Todd Witcher.

A presentation about the Park's natural history collections, by Curator Adriean Mayor.

Programs about key people in the formation of the Park: Horace Kephart, by Butch McDade and Ann Davis, by Robin Goddard.

A performance by TNT Dulcimer Trio.

Naturalist-led hikes to Little Greenbrier Schoolhouse and Walker Sisters Homestead with Butch McDade, Elkmont with Herb Handly, and other historic and scenic places.

Friday evening Volunteer Appreciation Open House with refreshments and music by the Woodpickers

Highlights of Programs at Other Locations:
Thursday, February 4: Kick Off evening program at Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont: "Mountain Voices" with Sparky and Rhonda Rucker. Charge: $10 per person. Call Tremont for reservations, 865-448-6709.

Cades Cove Preservation Association presentations and exhibits at Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center.

Blount County Historical Museum open house in Maryville, TN.
Cades Cove Thompson-Brown House Museum exhibits.

Friday and Saturday lunch programs at Miss Lily's Banquet Hall with guest speakers Mary Fanslow (Friday) and Ila Hatter (Saturday). Charge: $12 per person. Call 865-448-1924.

Cades Cove Heritage Tours: guided trips around the Cove in a 19 passenger van with an expert leader. Call 865-448-8838.

Myers Lane Book-signing at Mary Tippitt Library.
Saturday, Februrary 6: BBQ Supper and Square Dance with "The Lost Hounds of Pumpkin Hollow" old time string band, at The Barn Event Center, Townsend, TN. Charge: $25 per person. Call The Barn for reservations, 865-448-3812.

Little River Railroad Museum talks and tours, Townsend, TN.
Ranger-led interpretive programs in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Salamander foray and history walk at Tremont.

All programs require pre-registration. Most are free; events with food will have a charge, so call the host businesses to make reservations.

For more information, call the Townsend Visitors Center (865-448-6134 or 800-525-6834). Schedule is subject to change. Please call and check back on our website for updates.In addition to our sponsors, the Winter Heritage Festival is supported by these host businesses and organizations: Cades Cove Preservation Association, Blount County Chamber of Commerce, Great Smoky Mountain Heritage Center, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Little River Railroad Museum, Cades Cove Heritage Tours, Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont, The Barn Event Center, Valley View Lodge, Townsend IGA

Click here to view our Smoky Mountain Festivals website!

2007 Smoky Mountain Convention & Visitors Bureau
7906 E. Lamar Alexander Pwy., Townsend, TN 37882
Photo from
http://www.blounttoday.com/

Great Smoky Mountain Quilters Road Show - Townsend TN Jan 9, 2010

2010-01-04T11:02:00.000-08:00

Quilters Road Show - Townsend TN Jan 9, 2010

Townsend, TN – Smoky Mountain Quilters is once again teaming with sponsor Thrivent Financial for Lutherans to present the fourth annual Quilters Road Show at Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center In Townsend TN on Saturday, January 9, 2009, from 10 AM – 5 PM.

The event provides quilters and quilt lovers the opportunity to see quilts in the making, to have quilts evaluated by quilt history professionals, to learn quilting techniques, to have their quilts photographed and to exchange stories and ideas with other quilters.

Returning for their fourth year are Merikay Waldvogel and Becky Harriss who will informally evaluate quilts on the Center’s auditorium stage. They will offer preservation tips and discuss quilt age and patterns.

New in 2010 is a scheduled bed turning at 3:00 PM in one of the Heritage Center’s historic cabins. A bed turning is a process where multiple quilts are put on a single bed, just as a single quilt would be placed on one’s bed at home. Beginning with the top quilt, Merikay Waldvogel will explain its design and its probable history. She will then “turn” the first quilt down, revealing a second quilt which she will comment on just as she did the first. Each quilt is then pulled back, or “turned,” one at a time until each quilt has been shown and described.

Waldvogel is a nationally known quilt authority, an author, curator and lecturer on quilts and the lives of women who make quilts. Her books include Quilts of Tennessee: Images of Domestic Life Prior to1930 with Bets Ramsey, based on their statewide quilt search; Soft Covers for Hard Times: Quiltmaking and the Great Depression; Patchwork Souvenirs of the 1933 Chicago World's Fair; and Southern Quilts: Surviving Relics of the Civil War.

Quilters of all levels are invited to participate in helping make quilts during the day for Quilts of Valor which will be presented to veterans and current armed services personnel. Kate Meyers, Sevier County, is area coordinator for the national Quilts of Valor program.

Quilting demonstrations, introduced at the 2009 event, will feature: “Hand Applique,” Jane Dunham; “Hand Piecing,” Cindy Blackberg; “Machine Quilting,” Debbie McMurray; “Penny Rug Making,” Nancy Jones; “Needle Punch Embroidery,” Darlene Bakos; and “Trapunto,” Linda Roy.

Visitors are also invited to view display quilts provided by the Foothills Quilters Guild of Blount County.

New in 2010: Knoxville resident Allan Glazer will take photographs of participants’ and visitors’ quilts during the day. A limited number of times are available, and appointments are encouraged. Call Glazer at 671-5775 to schedule a time on January 9. Walk-ins are also welcome as long as times remain available.

Knoxville MEDIC Blood Center’s mobile unit will be on-site all day to conduct a blood drive.

The Quilters Road Show is free, though regular admission rates will apply to the museum experience. For information, call 865-448-0044.

Info from Seymour Herald

Wow Wilderness Wildlife Week - Pigeon Forge Jan 9-16,2010

2009-12-15T08:03:00.000-08:00

ESCAPE WINTER’S DOLDRUMS WITH WILDERNESS WILDLIFE WEEK

Pigeon Forge event highlights Great Smoky Mountains National Park

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. – After the excitement of December’s holidays, you need an antidote to the inevitable winter blahs, and Pigeon Forge has the answer. It is Wilderness Wildlife Week, Pigeon Forge’s annual tribute to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Dates are Jan. 9-16, 2010, for the eight-day extravaganza of seminars, workshops, photography classes, hikes and excursions that relate to the park and other outdoor topics. This is Wilderness Wildlife Week’s 20th year.

More than 150 experts—nature photographers, biologists, raptor rehabilitators, social historians and just plain folks who grew up in the Smokies—donate their time to present daily programs and a range of outdoor activities.

There are more than 230 programs and activities. Program topics vary daily, and admission is free to all activities. Topics include bears in the Smokies, the elk reintroduction project, the Smokies’ logging history, fire towers in the Smokies, close-up photography, trout fishing, fly-casting and birding by ear. Several programs are designed especially for children.

Almost 60 hikes and excursions into the national park complement the indoor programs. In 2009, more than 1,000 hikers from 18 states logged a cumulative 4,656 miles.

“The week is extremely flexible. You can attend one lecture or take one hike, or you can participate day after day,” said Leon Downey of the Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism. “It’s a great way to introduce people to the outdoors.”

Wilderness Wildlife Week began 19 years ago as a half-day program on a January Saturday. January hasn’t been the same since then in Pigeon Forge. The Southeast Tourism Society has chosen it 10 times as a Top 20 Event in the Southeast.

Wilderness Wildlife Week information, including a full list of programs and hikes, is available online at MyPigeonForge.com/wildlife or by calling toll-free to 1-800-WINTERFEST. #

Celebrate the New Year In Gatlinburg Or Pigeon Forge TN

2009-12-11T12:53:00.000-08:00

New Year's Eve Ball Drop & Fireworks In Gatlinburg TN
Date: December 31, 2009

Gatlinburg welcomes the arrival of 2010 with a street party that begins around 11 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 31, 2009. An estimated crowd of 40,000 revelers gather in the streets of downtown Gatlinburg. At the stroke of midnight, the sky will light up with a fireworks and music show. The event is free to the public and features music and party favors.

Other New Years Eve Celebrations will be at various venues throughout Pigeon Forge, call 865.453.8574 for more details..

Stunning Synchronized Christmas Light Display In Sevierville TN

2009-11-30T14:20:00.000-08:00

Stunning Synchronized Christmas Light Display - Sevierville, TN I-40 Exit 407 at the Smokies Baseball Stadium. Light Shows -Nightly 6:00 - 10:00pm till January 2, 2010

This holiday season, make sure that a night out at Smokies Park is in your entertainment plans. No, we're not talking about baseball. Rather the very best Christmas light show in all of East Tennessee! Join Shadrack Watersports & RV for their annual Christmas Wonderland light show as they look to help feed the hungry this holiday season!

The Christmas Wonderland is an award-winning drive-through and light show that is the largest of its kind in the country. Featuring hundreds of thousands of LED lights dynamically synchronized and dancing to the music, this experience is sure to be something you and your family won't soon forget! The show will consist of six (6) programmed songs and will be approximately 25 minutes in length. It is drive-through only as there will not be any place within the route to get out of your vehicle. There will be pull-offs though to sit and watch from your vehicle.

The Christmas Wonderland show is now here to experience at Smokies Park. The show will also be opening in Bristol on November 13 and in Knoxville on November 19. The show will be open nightly from 6:00-10:00 p.m. at all three locations through January 2, 2010. The show here at Smokies Park is located right off I-40 at Exit 407.

Admission for the show here at Smokies Park is as follows: $10 per car Monday-Thursday, $15 on Fridays and Saturdays. Activity vans are $20 (daily) and buses are $65 (daily). If you plan on coming on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and/or New Year's Eve, those dates will be weekend (Friday-Saturday) rates.

For additional information, please contact Shadrack at (423) 652-0120 or visit the company's Christmas Wonderland page HERE.

Santa & Performing Groups Join Duggar Family For 20th Anniversary of Pigeon Forge Winterfest

2009-10-28T11:56:00.000-07:00

Santa, Reindeer, Performing Groups to Join Duggar Family for Kickoff of 20th Anniversary of Pigeon Forge Winterfest

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. (October 27, 2009) – The kickoff event for the 20th anniversary of Pigeon Forge Winterfest on Nov. 5 (Thursday) will feature multiple special guests.

In addition to the expansive Duggar family from TLC’s “18 Kids and Counting” TV show, the kickoff event in Patriot Park will feature Santa Claus—complete with reindeer and a photographer—plus choral, band and dance groups, the Pigeon Forge Community Chorus and bluegrass music from Jimbo Whaley and Greenbrier.

“This is the start of a great time of year for Pigeon Forge that is acknowledged far and wide. In fact, the 2009-2010 Pigeon Forge Winterfest is a Top 100 Event in North America, according to travel professionals assembled by the American Bus Association,” said Leon Downey, executive director of the Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism.

Activity begins at 4 p.m. with entertainment from several community groups. Comments from civic leaders and introduction of the Duggar family will precede the ceremonial flipping of the switch to turn on the city’s five million Winterfest lights at about 6 p.m.

The Duggars—Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar and their 18 children, plus one on the way—will be in Pigeon Forge for the second time this year. They visited in May for production of two episodes of “18 Kids and Counting.”

Bob Fowler, the Pigeon Forge Special Events Volunteer of the Year, also will participate.

The evening’s featured entertainment, the Pigeon Forge Community Community Chorus followed by and Jimbo Whaley and Greenbrier, will cap off the stage presentation.

Santa Claus and his reindeer will add to the festivities. A professional photographer will take pictures of guests with Santa and deliver complimentary photos on site.

Also complimentary that evening are rides on the Fun Time Trolley system’s Trolley Tour of Lights, which showcase Winterfest light displays throughout the community.

The afternoon groups performing are the Elizabeth Williams Dance Troupe, the Pigeon Forge Middle and High School Dance Teams, the Pigeon Forge High School Choir, the Pigeon Forge Middle School Honor Band and the Pigeon Forge High School Marching Band.

Five food vendors will be on hand with a variety of offerings. They will raise money for the American Legion, Pigeon Forge High School, Relay for Life and the Salvation Army.

Information about all aspects of Pigeon Forge Winterfest, including Wilderness Wildlife Week in January and Saddle Up! in February—is online at MyPigeonForge.com.

The Duggars To Flip Switch - Pigeon Forge's Winterfest Lights Nov 5, 2009

2009-10-23T13:45:00.000-07:00

The Duggars To Flip Switch - Pigeon Forge's Winterfest Lights Nov 5, 2009

The Duggar Family from "TLC's 18 Kids and Counting" will once again come to Pigeon Forge.. They visited back in May to take part in the Dollywood Parade, this time will be all about LIGHTS!! Lots and lots of lights, millions of twinkling lights.... They will be flipping the switch in Patriot Park - Pigeon Forge TN to kick off Winterfest festivities on November 5th, 2009..

The holidays are one of the most exciting and beautiful times of the year in the Smoky Mountains... much of that is due to all of the colorful lights throughout the Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg area.. This year will be the first year that Pigeon Forge will have ground-level fireworks during this celebration.

Plan your trip to the Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg.. Check out lots of great cabins here http://www.BestCabinsByOwner.com

Guide to the Best"By-Owner"Vacation Rentals-Smoky Mtns of Tenn & NC

Dollywood & Pigeon Forge TN - Crafts Galore Oct 1-30, 2009

2009-09-30T14:03:00.000-07:00

October Draws Craft Lovers to Pigeon Forge, Great Smoky Mountains

Two major crafts events highlight start of autumn leaf season PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. (October 2009)

Scores of talented artists and craftsmen seem to take a cue from Mother Nature when the leaves start changing colors in the Great Smoky Mountains and appear in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., for two major autumn festivals.

Basket makers, carvers, painters and others are on hand for the Pigeon Forge Rotary Club Craft Festival and Dollywood’s National Gospel & Harvest Celebration.

The Pigeon Forge Rotary Club Crafts Festival (Oct. 1-30) is one of the region’s biggest crafts events, attracting almost 50 craftsmen, artists and exhibitors from more than a dozen states. It takes place under a giant red and white tent at Patriot Park. Rotarians volunteer their time to run the festival, and proceeds benefit numerous charities.

Dollywood’s National Gospel & Harvest Festival (Oct. 2-31) complements the theme park’s regular operation with an array of traditional and contemporary craftsmen and adds scores of free gospel music concerts to the entertainment lineup. Among the featured crafts are spinning, weaving, sorghum making, fiddle making, rug hooking and woodworking.

Both events take place against the backdrop of Pigeon Forge’s Harvestfest season, which continues through Oct. 31.

During Harvestfest, businesses throughout the city erect fanciful fall displays of hay bales, scarecrows, cornstalks, pumpkins, gourds, sunflowers, mums and other symbols of the season.

The Pigeon Forge Travel Planner and information about all aspects of the city are available online at MyPigeonForge.com or by calling toll-free to 1-800-251-9100. The travel planner includes the Pigeon Forge Value Card, which offers more than $300 worth of discounts.

Tom Adkinson, APR615-341-3640

Help Sevier County Humane Society Win $1 Million Dollars - Vote For Miss Ellie !!

2009-08-31T07:28:00.000-07:00

How easy could it be to help the Humane Society in Sevier County TN? Just Vote for Miss Ellie and the Sevier County Humane Society Could Win $1 Million Dollars. They need your help and it doesn't cost you a thing! If Miss Ellie, star of The Comedy Barn Theater in Pigeon Forge, wins the $1 Million Prize, she will donate 100% of her prize to The Sevier County Humane Society.

Go to: Cutest Dog Competition Find Ellie's picture by searching in the Search Box for Miss Ellie and click on "Vote Cute." Vote Once Everyday- Get Your Friends To Vote August 30th through September 5th. Please limit one vote per household or office per day. If Miss Ellie makes the top 12 Finalists The Comedy Barn Theater will donate $1 for every vote placed to the Sevier County Humane Society.

VOTE MISS ELLIE NOW! Send an email to: SevierHumane@AOL.com and say I Voted For Miss Ellie! This signs you up to be notified of contest progress.
______________________________________________________________________
Easiest way to find Miss Ellie is to click on “Cutest Gallery” at top of page, then search for “Miss Ellie”. You have to register before you can vote but they don’t ask for anything except your email address and for you to set up a password. Please vote daily!

Vote Miss Ellie for the Cutest Dog Competition - Remember beauty is in the eye of the beholder and just think how much help this will bring to homeless dogs in Sevier County !!

Shades Of The Past & Grand Fall Rod Run In Pigeon Forge - Sept 2009

2009-08-07T12:00:00.000-07:00

It's almost that time again! Time to admire hundreds of classic cars, antique trucks and souped up rods. September is the month for Shades of the Past and the Grand Rod Run in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.

Just plan to enjoy the crowds and backed up traffic. Check out the scenery - lots of incredible cars and the beautiful Smoky Mountains in the background!

September 11-12 2009 - Shades of The Past Rod Run XXVII - National Parks Resort Lodge & Smoky River Ranch; Fax (865) 995-9097 or Fax (865) 429-0159.

Sept 18-20 2009 - Grand Fall Rod Run- Grand Resort Hotel and Convention Center; For more information call 1-800-251-4444. -Pigeon Forge, TN

If you are looking for a cabin rental in the area - check out
http://www.bestcabinsbyowner.com/
Guide to the Best"By-Owner"Vacation Rentals-Smoky Mtns of Tenn & NC

Photos by C. Gilliam

78 Yr Old Man Hikes All Trails in the Smokies- THREE Times !

2009-08-04T13:40:00.000-07:00

A 78-year-old man finished his third completion of hiking all the trails in the Smoky Mountains ! Wow, that is unbelievable.. Cecil Rowe became somewhat of a celebrity this week, he is now the oldest person to do that.

There are over 800 miles of trails in the Smokies making this a pretty big feat.. He even helps others with their hiking.. Cecil Rowe from Knoxville said of the beautiful Smoky Mountains - "Anybody who says the scenery gets old is not paying attention".

See this entire story at Knox News online.

Photo and source - Know News

Smoky Mountain Grocery - New Service Brings Groceries To Your Door !!

2009-08-04T08:00:00.001-07:00

Wow, what could be better than vacationing in the Great Smoky Mountains?

Well, getting your groceries delivered right to your door.......no more waiting in lines at the store!! Get your vacation started immediately, no wasting time !!

Smoky Mountain Grocery just opened for business last week and they are starting off with a bang! Tim and Gina Bowers are the owners and they are ready to serve you.. Rent a Smoky Mountain cabin or hotel room, call, fax or email and they will schedule your "Pre Arrival Package".. Can you imagine having the fridge stocked with anything you can think of .......and you never have to step foot in the grocery store !!

Tim Bowers has been in the grocery biz most of his life........ His parents had stores and Tim has worked for such biggies as Kroger, HEB and Frito Lay...SO - he knows his business. He even has really, cool refrigerated trucks so that your delivery is totally........ fresh. This service is just a $15.00 delivery fee plus your purchase... You can't beat that!!

Smoky Mountain Grocery wants to be a company that gives back... They love the Smoky Mountains - like so many of us. They are donating $5.00 to Friends of the Smokies for each new fan that signs up on their Facebook page - help protect our beautiful Smoky Mountains, cl ick here and become a Fan -

Delivery Monday-Saturday 7am-7pm Local Callers 877-4-VITTLES

You may place your order 24 hours a day!!!! 865-856-5300

Toll Free (877-484-8853) http://www.smokymountaingrocery.com

865-856-2700(fax)

We will be offering this grocery service at our pet-friendly cabins - Heavenly Cabins near Pigeon Forge Go to our Facebook Page and become a Fan and .. If you book a cabin rental with us in the next 30 days(at least 4 nights-expires 9/3/09), we will offer a free grocery delivery for up to $50 plus fee.

Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales Continues in Gatlinburg TN Till 8/8/09

2009-07-08T13:49:00.000-07:00

Gatlinburg Tennessee - Annual Event - 4th Annual Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales™ Through August 8, 2009

All summer long visitors can meet characters, hear mountain music and learn about life in the Smokies on the streets of Gatlinburg, TN. Musicians, storytellers and cloggers perform at different locations along the Parkway every evening during this event!

Walk along the Great Smoky Mountains Parkway in downtown Gatlinburg and find the sounds of a dulcimer, strumming an upbeat mountain melody and find a group of people performing old fashioned clogging. Click to view event schedule.

These are a few of the entertainment mini-performances you will experience every evening through August 8, 2009 during your trip to the Smoky Mountains. It's Gatlinburg's Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales™ - a continuing event for 2009, featuring costumed musical performers, storytellers and artisans portraying various time periods from the 1800s to today. Nearly a dozen acts involve the audience as they each perform in simultaneous ten-minute performances throughoutthe night.

"The goal of Gatlinburg's Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales™ is to bring evenings of entertainment surprises to the traditional summertime Parkway stroll experience in Gatlinburg," says George Hawkins, Manager of Gatlinburg's Office of Special Events. "At 5:30 p.m. each night, a horse-drawn wagon will carry the performers to their designated locations for the evening. The rotating cast of acts including storytellers, musicians and crafters will share their stories and skills during the 2-day MountainFest™ event."

Thanks to the City of Gatlinburg, Tennessee for providing all Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales™ info. Visit www.gatlinburg.com for more information on special events in the city of Gatlinburg Tennessee.

Info & Photo from http://smokymountaintunesandtales.com/

Lots of Smoky Mountain - 4th of July Celebrations!

2009-06-18T10:45:00.000-07:00

Come to the Smokies and enjoy lots of 4th of July celebrations from Gatlinburg to Pigeon Forge!

July 1st -August 8
Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales tm – All summer long visitors can meet characters, hear mountain music and learn about life in the Smoky Mountains on the streets of Gatlinburg. Storytellers, musicians and cloggers perform at different locations along the Parkway every evening during this fourth annual event!

July 3rd- 4th of July Midnight Parade – Saluting our valiant military services, this 34th annual showcase is the "First July Fourth Parade in the Nation!" Parade starts at the stroke of midnight to begin July 4th. Floats, balloons, and marching bands pay tribute to our country.

July 4th - River Raft Regatta – Visitors can enjoy a fun, unmanned, floatable object race for the whole family. Free registration begins at 10 a.m. at Christus Gardens bridge in Gatlinburg. Race begins at noon and ends at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies bridge where prizes will be awarded in several different categories.

4th of July Fireworks Show – Join the celebration in downtown Gatlinburg to mark our nation's "Independence Day" with a magnificent fireworks show. The City of Gatlinburg lights up the mountain skyline downtown at 10:00 p.m. Sat July 4th with this grand display.

July 4th - The 19th Annual Patriot Festival - Patriot Park, Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge, TN –

Pigeon Forge’s 19th annual Patriot Festival celebrating the Fourth of July has an entertainment lineup designed to please the “Greatest Generation,” nostalgic Motown devotees, rock ‘n’ rollers and fans of country music. Fireworks booming over the adjacent Great Smoky Mountains will cap off a day of entertainment.

The cast of “Swing Time,” a Pigeon Forge show that highlights the Big Band music of the 1940s, will set a patriotic tone for the day with a tribute to America’s military and a stirring rendition of the national anthem.

More mellow music will come from the Temptations Revue, Pigeon Forge’s newest show, which celebrates the Motown Records success of an act that recorded more than 50 albums.

Three performance spots are reserved for country music. John Berry (“Your Love Amazes Me,” “Standing on the Edge of Goodbye” and dozens more) will fill Patriot Park with his rich voice, and festivalgoers will get to know two new artists—Sarah Darling, who just released her first album on Black River Music, and Knoxville native Homer Hart.

The pre-fireworks act is the Classic Rock All-Stars, a superstar group that includes Pete Rivera from Rare Earth, Dennis Noda from Cannibal and the Headhunters, Jerry Corbetta from Sugarloaf and Mike Pinera of Blues Image, Iron Butterfly and Alice Cooper.

Members of the Classic Rock All-Stars have been part of songs such as “I Just Want To Celebrate,” “Land of a Thousand Dances,” “Get Ready” and “Green-Eyed Lady.”

Other Patriot Festival entertainers include the Pigeon Forge Community Chorus (more than 40 members) and the Twirling Medallion Majorette and Drum Corps from Elkton, Va. This performing group is widely traveled and even has opened a show for Billy Ray Cyrus.

Entertainment begins at 1 p.m., and the fireworks will start about 9:45 p.m. WIVK-FM will broadcast the patriotic soundtrack to the fireworks show for observers throughout the city.

There is no admission charge for the Pigeon Forge Patriot Festival, a community celebration presented by the City of Pigeon Forge. Guests are invited to bring their own lawn chairs and blankets for festival seating.

The festival schedule is online at www.MyPigeonForge.com/patriot. The toll-free phone number of Pigeon Forge information is 1-800-251-9100.

Contact: Tom Adkinson tadkinson@bohanideas.com 615-341-3640

The "Little Greenbriar School" Still Teaching in the Smoky Mountains

2009-06-03T09:37:00.000-07:00

The "Little Greenbriar School" is Still Teaching in the Great Smoky Mountains !!

The small log structure built in 1882, housed the "Little Greenbriar School". Children from nearby families attended this school for more than 50 years..

Though formal classes ended in 1935, teaching and learning did not.... The school still serves local children and Smoky Mtn Park visitors....

The Little Greenbrier School is located in the Greenbrier area between Gatlinburg and Cades Cove of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in the Wears Valley area.

The building served as both a school and the Primitive Baptist Church until 1935.

Inside you will see the types of desks the students of that time used. The Greenbrier cemetery is in front of the school, which is another interesting stop to make during your time in the Smokies.

Go to the Metcalf Bottoms Picnic area either by Lyon Springs Rd in Wears Valley or from the Park. Walk across the bridge to the Metcalf Bottoms Trail - 0.6 mile to the Little Greenbriar School. You can also continue 1.0 mile to the Walker Sister's Farmstead on the Little Brier Gap Trail - starting at the barricade up the hill from the school..

See more historical aspects of the park, hike the little Greenbrier Gap hiking trail(follow signs) that is 2.8 miles round trip. The trail begins near the school and leads you by the Walker sisters cabin. The trail runs from Wear Gap road to the Laurel Creek Falls Trail.

To reach the school by car, drive on up the road close to a mile and a half and you will see a sign saying Wears Cove straight on or Little Greenbriar School right.

Turn right........ This is a small, gravel, one lane road, but not one way! So pay close attention to oncoming traffic and any wide spots you may need to back up to in order to pass. When you reach the school, about a mile and a half, the road forks take the right fork down into the gravel parking area and enjoy a few minutes at the old school house.

Slow Down in the Smokies - Part 2 Townsend TN

2009-06-03T09:30:00.000-07:00

Slow Down in the Smokies - Part 2

If you have not been to Townsend TN yet, you will definitely want to check it out -It's been labeled the "peaceful or quiet side of the Smokies"…

I love this sleepy little town !! Take Hwy 321/Wears Valley Rd away from Pigeon Forge. Travel down the mountain(about 6-7 miles from Wears Valley; 15 miles from PF), through several curves and as the road straightens out you will look over beautiful pasture land out to the mountain peaks beyond.

As you cross the bridge over the Little River to Townsend's only stoplight. You can rent tubes and float down the river in the hot summer or just try your hand at trout fishing(check with the local convenience stores in Townsend for fishing licenses).

At the stoplight in Townsend, if you turn left - you will be headed into the Great Smoky Mountain National Park and then on to Cades Cove. Also to the left, you will pass Smokin’ Joes BBQ restaurant - it sits on the Little River with a screened in porch for dining in the summer… GREAT ribs, BBQ and chicken....... Yum- and don't even get me started on the desserts ! Wonderful blackberry cobbler or the very special - pecan cobbler.

Just past here is the new Smoky Mountain Heritage Center The Center highlights the history of Native Americans and mountain life from periods 3000 B.C. (Native American) to 1930 (settlers).
The center is 17,000 sq feet on a 3-acre site and includes an additional 10 historic structures on site. The museum features displays of native artifacts showcasing the history of the Native Americans and many examples of pioneer artifacts such as tools and materials used in daily lives.

At the light in Townsend, if you turn right - there is a really nice local convenience/grocery store - The Village Market on the right - less than a mile.. They don't have a huge selection but do have a deli and bakery.. See the Townsend Visitor Center across the street....

There's a great walking or bicycle trail(wide sidewalk) all the way through Townsend across the street from the river. It is mostly flat with a few slightly rolling hills, you can rent bikes around town...

The Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum is just past the Village Market in Townsend....... It tells the story of the area's logging history with hundreds of photographs, restored equipment and interpretive exhibits.

Railroad buffs enjoy seeing one-of-a-kind locomotives and logging machinery and visiting with volunteer staffers rich with the knowledge of the old railroad's operations. In the early 1900's, a busy railroad operated in the Smoky Mountains, bringing tourists to the area and taking thousands of trees out. See the website for more info Little River Railroad

See Slow Down in the Smokies - Part 1

Slow Down in the Smokies- Part 1 Wears Valley & Townsend Tennessee

2009-06-03T09:25:00.000-07:00

I really hate to admit this but I suppose the "older" you get, the less patience you have for the crowds and traffic congestion of the larger tourist areas of the Smoky Mountains..

Granted, I do love the convenience of a Super Walmart in Sevierville, various shopping outlets, fun, entertainment and lots of restaurant choices in the Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg area........... but I also love slipping away from all of that to relax in the Wears Valley community just outside of Pigeon Forge TN.

I have found that I truly appreciate a slower, less hectic pace - particularly during vacation and it's only about 10 miles from all the action!! That's why I wanted to enlighten some of you that have not ventured over to the "peaceful or slower" side of the Smokies into Wears Valley, Townsend or Cades Cove TN. You really need to make the trip and SLOW down just for a while!

“Wears Valley” really begins just a couple miles after turning at stoplight # 3 – Hwy 321/Wears Valley Rd off the main Parkway in Pigeon Forge. The heart of the community really begins about 7 miles out… You will begin to see cows grazing by the creek and beautiful meadows with a backdrop of Cove Mountain in all its splendor..... Yes, Wears Valley has become a hot spot for lots of new cabin rental developments but it still has that special country charm for now..

You can have a great country breakfast at Grandmothers Kitchen in Wears Valley, big fluffy biscuits and pork tenderloin. If you are an antique or “junktique” lover, stop by Wears Valley Antique & Craft Gallery about 7.8 miles out on the right or visit the website Wears Valley Gallery. There are other antique stops there also..

One of the great secrets in Wears Valley is the little known access into the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. About 9 miles from Pigeon Forge, turn left onto Lyon Springs Road, follow this road into the GSMNP (a couple miles). You will cross the Little River bridge at the Metcalf Bottoms picnic area.

This is a beautiful shady picnic spot by the river. You can also take a short hike and step back in time to the "Little Greenbrier School" and the "Walker Sisters" home place.

Park at Metcalf Bottoms and walk across the bridge. Take the Metcalf Bottoms Trail 0.6 mile to the Little Greenbrier School. If you wish, you can continue 1.0 mile from the school to the Walker Sister's farmstead on the Little Brier Gap Trail. The Little Brier Gap Trail starts at the barricade uphill from the school.

Try this Route from Wears Valley to Gatlinburg – Scenic !
***If you come via Lyon Springs Rd to the stop at Metcalf Bottoms, you can turn left and follow the River Rd for a scenic drive to Gatlinburg through the National Park(right will take you to Cades Cove-scenic/longer**). This route will bring you out at the end of Gatlinburg(stoplight #10) at the Sugarland Visitor Center, hook a left to go into town about a 25 – 30 minute drive depending on traffic.

**A shorter drive to Cades Cove from our cabins or the heart of Wears Valley is to follow Hwy 321/Wears Valley Rd all the way to Townsend (about 6-7 miles), at the light in Townsend, turn left – follow signs to Cades Cove.

Traveling on Hwy 321/Wears Valley Rd about another mile past Lyon Springs Rd, you will pass Happy Hollow Rd on the right (which leads to Glimpse of Heaven and Inspiration Point cabins).

Just a short distance further, you should surely slow down for the Rocky Top Country Store on the left, if you are a chocolate lover...... Fresh homemade FUDGE takes top billing here !! They have every imaginable flavor. They also have gifts, local jams and jellies....... but who can resist that fudge …

Just a short distance past Rocky Top Store, you will find another historical treasure, Headrick Chapel Church –See the blog entry here about Headrick Chapel Church in Wears Valley.

Stay Tuned for Slow Down in the Smokies - Part 2

Storytellers Gather in Pigeon Forge-Storytelling Festival June 4-6,2009

2009-05-28T12:35:00.000-07:00

Storytellers Galore Ready to Spin Yarns at Pigeon Forge Festival Smoky Mountains Storytelling Festival promises three days of tall tales June 4-6

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn.

Expect truth to be in short supply June 4-6 at the 18th Annual Smoky Mountains Storytelling Festival in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., but also expect a counterbalancing dose of entertainment, enchantment and, dare we say, education.

You’ll hear from a genuine possumologist, a keeper of Cherokee creation stories, a middle school principal who uses storytelling in the classroom and a cowboy poet whose Oklahoma retelling of “Ben Hur” inspires him to wear a watermelon and a bra on stage. (It’s something you just have to see to understand.)

In addition to the festival’s world-traveling, professional storytellers, you’ll also hear some of America’s budding tale-telling talent at the National Youth Storytelling Showcase. The showcase has attracted youngsters, none older than 17, from as far away as Utah, Texas, Maryland and Florida.

Many of this year’s storytellers will focus on stories that relate to Appalachia and the nearby Great Smoky Mountains. That’s one reason the festival is on the official calendar of the 75th anniversary of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The festival also is on the Southeast Tourism Society’s “Top 20 Events in the Southeast” list for the fifth year in a row.

Three late-night programs (9:30-11 p.m.) augment the regular sessions. A Haunts and Haints ghost story session is Thursday, a tribute to Great Smoky Mountains National Park is Friday and a memorial to legendary mountain storyteller Ray Hicks is Saturday.

The Smoky Mountains Storytelling Festival is co-hosted by the City of Pigeon Forge and the Smoky Mountain Storytellers Association.

Featured storytellers:

+ Lloyd Arneach—A Cherokee storyteller who learned his first legends from two storytelling uncles on the Cherokee Reservation in North Carolina.

+ Donald Davis—A native Appalachian storyteller who performs nationally and teaches workshop that focus on family-based storytelling.

+ Doug Elliott—A storyteller, herbalist and naturalist who sings about catfish, pontificates about possums and plays a mean harmonica.

+ Todd Elliott—Doug’s son and a two-time participant in the National Youth Storytelling Showcase who now is following in his father’s footsteps.

+ Andy Offutt Irwin—A Georgia public radio show host who says he used to have real jobs before becoming a professional storyteller.

+ Kent Rollins—A genuine cowboy from Oklahoma, who also is a poet, chuckwagon cook and humorist (he’s the one with the watermelon and bra).

+ Elizabeth Rose—Principal of Cherokee Middle School in Roane County, Tenn., who blends southern folklore with fairy tales, ghost stories and international legends.

If You Go:The Smoky Mountains Storytelling Festival is June 4-6 (Thursday-Saturday). All sessions—concerts, the youth performances and workshops in which you can learn storytelling skills—are at the Belz Outlet Mall in Pigeon Forge.

Admission for the entire weekend is $25, and one-day admission is $10 for everyone age 18 and older (free for age 17 and younger). The three late-night programs are $5. T

he festival schedule is at www.MyPigeonForge.com/storytelling <http://www.MyPigeonForge.com/storytelling> , and complete visitor information about Pigeon Forge is available at www.MyPigeonForge.com <http://www.mypigeonforge.com/> or by calling toll-free to 1-800-251-9100.

About Pigeon ForgePigeon Forge, located in East Tennessee near Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is one of the country’s top tourism destinations, drawing more than 10 million visitors each year.

With more than 40 family-friendly attractions along its five-mile Parkway, Pigeon Forge offers family fun for all ages. The destination city is located within a day’s drive of two-thirds of the U.S. population east of the Mississippi River.

# Contact:Tom Adkinson, APRoutbind://99-000000001D9B0EF5FC515043B8B4E8D140EDE71E84619100/tadkinson@bohanideas.com <mailto:tadkinson@bohanideas.com> 615-341-3640

TLC's "The Duggars -18 Kids" Coming To Pigeon Forge

2009-04-23T13:43:00.000-07:00

Duggar Family of '18 Kids and Counting' to vacation and work around Pigeon Forge.

It'll take a lot of planning on their part, but the Duggar Family of the TLC series "18 and Counting" plans to visit Pigeon Forge and Dollywood next month. They'll be part of Dollywood's annual Dolly Parton parade and shoot segments of their show while on vacation. The ever-expanding Duggar family will be visiting May 5 -9 to "explore" Dollywood and shoot an episode of their show.

Pigeon Forge Mayor Keith Whaley invited the reality TV family; Their trek here will have them traveling 750 miles from their hometown of Springdale, Ark., to participate in the upcoming Dolly Parton Homecoming Parade on May 8.

The Duggar family trip to Pigeon Forge will be featured in a summer episode of "18 Kids and Counting," which airs on TLC Tuesdays at 9 p.m. Each episode chronicles the lives of an Arkansas couple, Jim Bob and Michele Duggar, and their 18 natural-born children, who range in age from four months to 21 years. The family includes two sets of twins. For more information, visit TLC.com.

Details of Parton's float are a secret, but the Duggars will participate with an honorary float the City of Pigeon Forge has crafted for them.

In days leading up to and after the parade, the family will visit many Parkway attractions during their five-day stay, including seeing several live comedy and musical theaters, going to Zorb, the mountain-side free-fall inside a gigantic ball.

Info from Knox News Blog
Posted by Terry Morrow

Townsend in the Smokies Spring Festival on May 1-3, 2009

2009-04-21T09:04:00.000-07:00

Upwards of 20,000 visitors are expected at the 17th annual Townsend in the Smokies Spring Festival on May 1-3, 2009 at Townsend Visitors Center on East Lamar Alexander Parkway.The Townsend festival was established as an extension of Old Timer's Day held in Cades Cove inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The original festival consisted of bluegrass bands and musicians jammin' and pickin' on the porch. Today's festival has grown to include bands performing on stage and on the grounds.The festival will kick off Friday, May 1, with Great Smokies and Nature Celebration Day. The day will consist of special activities to celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the Park, which is being celebrated all year, and the beauty of nature.

Old Timer's Day will be held Saturday, May 2.The weekend will conclude Sunday, May 3, with an unofficial day of special activities designed to highlight the beauty and traditions of the mountain community on Tuckaleechee Cove Day.The vast majority of events are free and showcase mountain culture and Appalachian heritage.

May 1 events:9 to 11 a.m. -- Wildflower walk on Chestnut Top Trail in the Smokies with Tom Harrington, local naturalist and Park volunteer, walk will be limited to 25 people, meet at the visitors center, call 448-6134 to reserve a spot.10 a.m. --

Hedgewood Gardens Tour, meet at visitors center, $7 fee per person to benefit Hearts and Hands Scholarship Fund.11 a.m. --

Clogging demonstration and instruction with Jack Patton on the stage at the visitors center.1 to 5 p.m. -- White Oak Sinks Hike (moderate difficulty) with Ann Froschauer, limit 15 people, meet at visitors center, call 448-6134 to reserve a spot.1 to 4 p.m. --

Featured author and book signing, Steve Cotham with historic photographs from the McClung collection at visitors center. Cotham's book, "Images of America: The Great Smoky Mountains National Park," tells the story of the Park through old photographs.2 p.m. --

Hedgewood Gardens Tour, meet at visitors center, $7 fee per person to benefit Hearts and Hands Scholarship Fund.May 2 events:8:30 to 10:30 a.m. --

Young Pickers Talent Contest, bluegrass music contest for pickers 17 years of age and younger at visitors center stage.9 to 11 a.m. --

Young folks program in the storytelling tent, with games, music, stories and more.10 a.m. to 5 p.m. -- Old fashioned kid's games in field behind visitors center.11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. --

Old Harp Sing, shape note music with the East Tennessee Old Harp Singers in storytelling tent.1 p.m. --

Dowsing demonstration with Charlie Monday, meet at storytelling tent.1 to 4 p.m. -- Storytelling with Lendel Abbott, Roy Harper, Robin Goddard and Richard Hilten.4 to 5 p.m. --

Old Time Music program with Carl and Betty Ross in storytelling tent.6 p.m. --

Smokin' in the Smokies BBQ Peoples Choice Awards.May 3 events:9 a.m. --

Wildflower Walk on Chestnut Top Trail with Dwight McCarter, limit 25 people, meet at visitors center, to register call 448-6134. McCarter is author of the book "Lost" and is a retired park ranger.1 to 3 p.m. --

Old Tremont Stroll with naturalist/historian Rebecca Vial, meet at visitors center.2 to 4 p.m. --

Porch Pickin' Gospel Signing and old time jam sessions on porch and around the grounds.2 p.m. -

Hedgewood Gardens Tour, meet at visitors center, $7 fee per person to benefit Hearts and Hands Scholarship Fund. Other events available both days, including:Bluegrass music on the stage and pickin' on the porch and in the adjacent grove.7 p.m. concert by Steve Kaufman, three-time national flatpicking guitar champion.

Evening square dance with caller Don Tipton and the Carolina Bluegrass Boys in stage area.Arts and crafts booths along Townsend bike/walking trail.Smokin' in the Smokies BBQ and other foods. Blount County Chamber of Commerce will be selling hot dogs, drinks, popcorn and chips.Cake raffles and bake sale for Hearts and Hands Scholarship Fund.Arts and crafts demonstrations in exhibit room of center.

Basketry by Bonny Kate Sugg.Woodcarving by Lendel Abbott.Quilting by Ila Mae Morton and Maetta Conrad.Rug hooking by Bonny Kate Sugg.Weaving by Effie Suttles.Spinning by Dale Liles.Charcoal/pencil art by Andy England.

Antique cars, Smoky Mountain Model A Club, in front of visitors center.Antique tractors and engines, Foothills Tractor Club, in field behind visitors center.

Appalachian demonstrations around the grounds.Mountain berry basket making and poetry by Bill Alexander.Lye soap making and other old time skills by Sallie Swor.

Pottery by Carol Ware.Beekeeping and bee hive observation by Tony Holt.

Blacksmithing by Hugh Bowie.Moonshine still by Bill Leistner.

Cornmeal making by Ronald Fowler.

Visitors can learn about the heritage of Cades Cove from the Cades Cove Preservation Association exhibits and about one of the Smokies' most renowned animals at the Appalachian Bear Center activity booth.The visitors center is located at 7906 E. Lamar Alexander Parkway, Townsend.

Townsend in the Smokies festival is a green event. Visitors are encouraged to dispose of their trash properly. Keep Blount Beautiful and Spectra Inc. will have recycling containers for plastic bottles and aluminum cans placed throughout the festival grounds. Proceeds will go to Hearts and Hands Scholarship Fund

Info from the Maryville Daily Times

New ZipLine At Dollywood In May 2009 !!

2009-04-03T12:41:00.000-07:00

Wow, just read about this on InterPark.com's site I don't see anything about it yet at Dollywood's website .. How cool to zip over Dollywood !! Check it out..

Dollywood in Tennessee, US, is preparing to launch what will be the first multiple station zip-line experience in a US theme park.

Opening in May 2009, SkyZip will allow guests to travel over the 150-acre theme park, which is surrounded by the Great Smoky Mountains.The hour-long adventure will include up to five zip-line treks ranging in length from 100ft to nearly 1,000ft and a 100-foot long swinging bridge perched above the trees.Each zip-line is an elevated and inclined wire from which a pulley and a seating apparatus are suspended allowing the guest to move between two points via gravity."

SkyZip is the first of a series of premium experiences Dollywood plans to launch in the coming year," said Dollywood president Ken Bell. "These high level family experiences are 'ready-to-go' meaning our guests just show up for the thrills, no previous experience or expensive gear needed." Each SkyZip tour offers a distinctive adventure with a theme.

Fliers will launch from a perch above the park's region called Wilderness Pass and soar to Dollywood's triple spiral-looping rollercoaster, Tennessee Tornado, and beyond.One trail takes adventurers close to Eagle Mountain Sanctuary. After a brief hike, the adventurers will zip above Craftsman's Valley, which houses Dollywood's artisans, to the same point where their adventure began.

Info from Interpark.com

Dollywood Opens This Sat - March 28, 2009 !

2009-03-25T13:08:00.000-07:00

Dollywood - Pigeon Forge TN Opens This Sat - March 28, 2009 !

Season Begins Saturday!
One sure sign of springtime in the Smoky Mountains is Dollywood’s opening day which is Saturday, March 28. Mark your calendars and make plans to enjoy Dollywood’s 24th season.

Explore the best in award-winning rides, live entertainment, authentic crafters and fantastic food plus four of the South’s largest festivals, beginning with Festival of Nations (March 28 - April 27). It’s the Smoky Mountain family adventure, and you’ll only find it at Dollywood!

Dollywood - Money-saving Prices Extended Through April 26, 2009!
There’s still time to take advantage of the great savings on a Dollywood season pass. The lowest prices of the season have been extended through April 26. Enjoy Dollywood’s entire 2009 season for less than the cost of two one-day admissions with the purchase of a season pass.

Purchase now through April 26 and receive pre-season prices. Remember, prices increase by $10 per pass after April 26, so purchase now to get a great, money-saving deal on an entire season of Smoky Mountain family adventure!
Learn More Purchase

Don’t miss Imaginé presented by Le Grand Cirque! In a show produced exclusively for Dollywood, Imaginé welcomes a world-class cast of amazing performers in a spectacular show sure to leave you on the edge of your seat!
See acrobats, aerialists, jugglers, clowns, mimes and high wire artists as they amaze audiences with their athletic ability. Plus, Festival of Nations brings an entire lineup of international shows with visiting groups from Africa, Mexico, Belgium and beyond. Make plans now to enjoy the entertainment and artistry of Dollywood’s Festival of Nations (March 28 - April 27).
Learn More

Images and info from http://www.dollywood.com/

Plan your spring trip to the Smoky Mountains now, check out plenty of perfect vacation cabin rentals just for you..

Check Out More Info About the Smoky Mountains

2009-03-25T11:00:00.000-07:00

It's always fun to read about one of your favorite places! Now, we have a new blog that shares our love of the Smoky Mountains.. The Go Smoky Blog not only shares news and information about the Smokies, the writer of the blog - Raymond Owens also has an online Radio Talk Show. The topic of his Radio Talk Show??? Well, of course it would be the Smoky Mountains!!

Raymond has interviewed quite a variety of people from the area.. Some of the recent topics have been: Caving in the Smokies, Skiing in the Smokies and Geochacing in the Smokies. Raymond and his wife fell in love with the Smoky Mountains many years ago, since then they visit there every chance they get. During those visits, he shares lots of great local information.

Please check out all the great stories and interviews from Raymond at the Go Smoky Blog and his online Go Smoky Radio Show

Gatlinburg TN 2009 Calendar of Events

2009-01-23T09:23:00.000-08:00

Gatlinburg TN 2009 Calendar of Events - Come Enjoy the Smokies in 2009 !

Jan 24, 31
Gatlinburg Winter Magic tm Trolley Ride of Lights - Enjoy a guided trolley tour of spectacular Gatlinburg Winter Magic tm lighting displays. Departure is from the Ripley's Aquarium Trolley Station. Group reservations are available. Trolley leaves at 6:30, 7:30 and 8:30.

Jan 5 - February 27
Night Magic Skiing - Purchase a $15 Lift Ticket Monday through Friday (non-holidays) from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Ober Gatlinburg (865) 436-5423.

February 1-27 2009
Night Magic Skiing - Monday through Friday (non-holidays) 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Ober Gatlinburg (865) 436-5423.

February 1-28
Gatlinburg Winter Magic tm - The City of Gatlinburg magically lights up the winter nights with over three million spectacular lights. Special lighting displays for "Smoky Mountain Romance" in February.

Feb 2-3 Tennessee Winter Special Olympics - Winter sports competitions including ice skating, snowboarding and snow skiing. Ober Gatlinburg (800) 251-9202.

Feb 6 Southern Exposure 2009 at Ober Gatlinburg - Skiing and snowboarding competitions include slalom races (giant and parallel), jumping, and awards ceremony. Event also includes the unique Cardboard Sled Classic Race featuring homemade sleds constructed of cardboard, paper, tape and adhesive. (800) 251-9202.

TBA
Rock Gatlinburg - Aspiring high school and middle school band performers and individual musicians get the opportunity to meet and receive guidance from professional musicians during this event hosted by the Gatlinburg Recreation Department at the Community Center. Participants can learn about computer recording, explore professional work opportunities and walk away with a CD recording. For information, contact Laurence Evans or Dave Anderson (865) 436-4990.

TBA
Pirate's Ball - Mountain Hope Good Shepherd Clinic, Inc. presents its fourth annual Pirate's Ball fundraiser sponsored by Ripleys Aquarium of the Smokies. Guests can enjoy a "tropical climate" and live music, dancing, food and drink, with a special party for the kids. For more information, call Elaine Miller at 865-774-7684.

TBA
Anna Porter Public Library Murder Mystery - Locally produced and cast theatrical performance is a library fundraiser. (865) 436-5588.

March 11 - June 7 2009
Smoky Mountain Springfest - A countywide celebration of the season featuring special events, local craft shows and much more.

March 16-18 Celebrate Santa - Santa Claus is coming to Gatlinburg! Join hundreds of Santa Clause and Mrs. Clause as they gather at the Convention Center for their convention, trade show and gala. Imagine a town filled with Santas, Mrs. Clauses, Reindeer Owners and Breeders and even Elves. Real-bearded and designer-bearded Santas and even those who have never donned the red suit (but think they might like to) are welcome, regardless of experience, affiliation or interest. For more information or to register, visit http://www.celebratesanta.com/

TBA
Music of the Mountains - In association with the City of Gatlinburg and Great Smoky Mountains Association, Great Smoky Mountains National Park presents its fifth annual event highlighted. This year's begins at Sugarlands Visitors Center with free, limited-seating performances by a series of acts.

April 2009 till June 7th
Smoky Mountain Springfest - Join in a countywide celebration of the season, featuring special events, local craft shows and much more.

April 4 Mountain Man March - This second annual 26.2-mile march starts in Downtown Gatlinburg at 7 a.m. as a tribute to our men and women in uniform. The course includes highway and rural road stretches in addition to rugged terrain and mountain slopes. The event honors 1LT Frank Walkup, a University of Tennessee-Knoxville alumnus, who was killed in the line of duty in Iraq in 2007. Pre-registration is required, with Military Heavy, Military Light and Civilian entry categories. Visit http://www.mountainmanmarch.com/

April 8-11 2009 Great Smoky Easter Arts & Crafts Show - Unique handcrafted gifts are made by members of Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community and placed on display as they host their annual show at the Gatlinburg Convention Center.

April 12 Easter Sunrise Service at Ober Gatlinburg - Early morning Easter Service at Ober Gatlinburg includes complimentary tram service to the top of the resort begins at 6:15 a.m. Service begins at 7 a.m. Breakfast buffet available. (800) 251-9202

TBA Gatlinburg Gateway Triathlon - The third annual triathlon at the Community Center starts at 8:15 a.m. and is open to anyone 15 years and older capable of swimming one-half mile, biking twenty kilometers, and running five kilometers consecutively. Awards will be given in multiple age categories (men's and women's division), plus a mixed team relay event, plus a mixed team relay event. Pre-register is required. (865) 436-4990

April 22-26 59th Annual Wildflower Pilgrimage - Celebrate the 75th anniversary and enjoy the beauty of Great Smoky Mountains National Park with over 150 different programs, including hiking tours, motorcades, demonstrations and classroom lectures centered on the flowers, plants and wildlife in the great outdoors. For more information, call (865) 436-7318 ext. 222 or visit http://www.springwildflowerpilgrimage.org/.

April 23 Ribfest & Wings - Enjoy the area's best ribs and wings as well as free entertainment during this eighth annual event. One admission allows sampling until the ribs and wings run out on River Road and Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies Plaza.

April 24-25 Gatlinburg's MountainFest: A Celebration of Our Heritage - Enjoy two fun-filled days of bluegrass and genuine mountain music along with crafters and demonstrations. Local crafters demonstrate their skills passed down from generation to generation. On Saturday, get a taste of some of the local talent with the Mountain Strings Competition. Fiddles, banjos and guitar players are invited to compete for awards and cash prizes. Festival runs from noon to 10 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday in downtown Gatlinburg.

May 1st till June 7th 2009 Smoky Mountain Springfest - Join in a countywide celebration of the season featuring special events, local craft shows and much more.

May 15 Gatlinburg Scottish Festival Grand Parade - All Scots are invited to march or ride in the parade as a kickoff to the 28th Annual Gatlinburg Scottish Festival & Games. Parade begins at 6 p.m. at traffic light #10, downtown Gatlinburg. For more information visit http://www.gsfg.org/.

May 16-17 Gatlinburg Scottish Festival & Games - 28th Annual Scottish clans meeting at Mills Park featuring Highland athletics, bagpipe competitions, Highland dancing, border collie demonstrations, haggis hurling, entertainment and whiskey tasting, along with food & merchandise vendors. For information visit http://www.gsfg.org/

Gatlinburg Fine Arts Festival - A family oriented fine arts festival at Ripley's Plaza and River Road featuring juried artists from around the country, delicious cuisine and music. Proceeds benefit Arrowmont School of Art and the Sevier County Arts Council. (GSE) (888) 240-1358 or http://www.gfaf.net/

June 1-7, 2009 Smoky Mountain Springfest - Join in a countywide celebration of the season featuring special events, local craft shows and much more.

June 12-August 8, 2009
Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales tm - All summer long visitors can meet characters, hear mountain music and learn about life in the Smokies on the streets of Gatlinburg. Storytellers, musicians and cloggers perform at different locations along the Parkway every evening during this fourth annual event!

June 19-21 Living History Civil War Reenactment at Mills Park - Visitors can witness artillery and cavalry demonstrations as Civil War period performers gather in authentic encampment. Historical portrayals, a cannon drill and music along with the recreation of the "Battle of Burg Hill" are among the festivities at this second annual event. (800) 568-4748.

July 1st till August 8, 2009 Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales tm - All summer long visitors can meet characters, hear mountain music and learn about life in the Smoky Mountains on the streets of Gatlinburg. Storytellers, musicians and cloggers perform at different locations along the Parkway every evening during this fourth annual event!

July 3- 4th 2009 July Midnight Parade - Saluting our valiant military services, this 34th annual showcase is the "First July Fourth Parade in the Nation!" Parade starts at the stroke of midnight to begin July 4th. Floats, balloons, and marching bands pay tribute to our country.

July 4 River Raft Regatta - Visitors can enjoy a fun, unmanned, floatable object race for the whole family. Free registration begins at 10 a.m. at Christus Gardens bridge. Race begins at noon and ends at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies bridge where prizes will be awarded in several different categories.

4th of July Fireworks Show - Join the celebration in downtown Gatlinburg to mark our nation's "Independence Day" with a magnificent fireworks show. The City of Gatlinburg lights up the mountain skyline downtown at 10:00 p.m. with this grand display.

July 17-26 Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair at Gatlinburg Convention Center - Art, crafts and music lovers can find over 200 booths featuring some of the nation's finest work. Artisans and craftspeople are on hand to demonstrate their skills, answer questions and offer their unique art for sale. Live Country & Bluegrass entertainment. Open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

August 1-8, 2009 Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales tm - Through early August, visitors can meet characters, hear mountain music and learn about life in the Smokies on the streets of Gatlinburg. Storytellers, musicians and cloggers perform at different locations along the Parkway every evening during this fourth annual event!

October 8-25, 2009 Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair - Art, crafts and music lovers will find over 200 booths featuring some of the nation's finest work. Artisans and craftspeople are on hand to demonstrate their skill, answer questions and offer their unique art for sale. Live Country & Bluegrass entertainment. Open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, Sunday until 5 p.m. at Gatlinburg Convent

Plan your trip early to Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains and find the perfect cabin rental through Best Cabins By Owner !!

Antique & Classic Car Lovers Rod Run -Pigeon Forge 2009

2009-01-23T08:23:00.000-08:00

Antique and Classic Car Lovers Unite In Pigeon Forge in 2009 !

Here's the schedule for the 2009 Rod Run, Shades of the Past, Classic Car and Gold Wing shows in Pigeon Forge TN in 2009. Make plans now, book a great cabin

and enjoy the Smoky Mountains in 2009..

April 17-19 2009 Grand Spring Rod Run - Grand Resort Hotel & Convention Center; For more information call, 1-800-251-4444. -Pigeon Forge, TN

April 24-26 Gold Wings - GRHCC; For more information call 1-800-251-4444.

May 15-17 2009 Chevy Classics Roundup - 1955, 1956, 1957 Chevy Classics Show, (865) 984-3758; Inn at Christmas Place. -Pigeon Forge, TN.

June 5-6 2009 Pontiacs in Pigeon Forge - Classic Car Show, 865-379-9595, Music Road Convention Center

June 25-28 Great Smoky F-100 Run - SSCC; Fpr more information call 1-800-251-4444.

Septmeber 11-12 2009 Shades of The Past Rod Run XXVII - National Parks Resort Lodge & Smoky River Ranch; Fax (865) 995-9097 or Fax (865) 429-0159.

Sept 18-20 2009 Grand Fall Rod Run- Grand Resort Hotel and Convention Center; For more information call 1-800-251-4444. -Pigeon Forge, TN.

Come visit the Great Smoky Mountains anytime of the year - this year is special with lots of activities to recognize the 75th anniversary of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park..

You will always find plenty to do in the National Park, Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Townsend, Sevierville in TN and Bryson City, Slyva, Cherokee and Murphy on the NC side of the Smokies.. You will find lots of fantastic cabin rentals to choose from.. Some are even handicap accessible and pet friendly, check for large breed dog availability at some cabins - check Best Cabins By Owner..

See Cades Cove In A New Way! Cades Cove Heritage Tour - Smoky Mountains-TN

2009-01-16T09:17:00.000-08:00

If you have ever visited Cades Cove in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee just outside of Townsend, then you know traffic can be frustrating at times !

With gorgeous mountain scenery on every side, the line of tail lights in front of you might test your patience. Weekends and holidays in the Cove can be very busy with traffic abounding but now there's a solution....

You can enjoy beautiful Cades Cove in a new way. This special Cades Cove Heritage tour will be stress free! You can leave the driving to them!! Have the entire family together, learn as you go, enjoy the wildlife, scenery, and history of Cades Cove without touching the gas pedal.. Take your camera for lots of Smoky Mountain photo ops !

You can even help the enviornment, less pollution - which is a good thing.. For a fun and educational trip led by a knowledgeable guide in a comfortable, fuel efficient 19 passenger van, take the Cades Cove Heritage Tour, departing from the CCHT Depot in Townsend at various times.

The pricing is reasonable - Adults $13, Children $8, Seniors $10

To make reservations or more info, call 865-448-8838 or email Alex Roche: alex.gsmhc@cadescoveheritagtours.org

Cades Cove Heritage Tours is a private non-profit that seeks to provide a superior visitor experience, protect the natural and cultural resource of Cades Cove, and help alleviate overcrowding, traffic and pollution in the Cove. The tours are made possible by community partners, the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center, Smoky Mountain Convention & Visitors Bureau, and the National Parks Conservation Association.

Pigeon Forge 2009 Calendar of Events

2009-01-12T14:38:00.000-08:00

Check out the Pigeon Forge Calendar of Events for 2009! Plan your Smoky Mountain getaway at a beautiful cabin rental now before your dates are taken..

See The Guide to the Best"By-Owner"Vacation Rentals-Smoky Mtns of Tenn & NC . Some Cabins are even Pet Friendly !

Pigeon Forge 2009 Events
1/13/2009
3rd Annual AppalachiaFest
Country Tonite Theatre; For tickets: 1-800-792-4308; For more information call (865) 429-7350 or visit My Pigeon Forge Music

2/5/2009
Storytelling Evening with Ed Stivender
Pottery House Café; For more information call (865) 429-7350

2/19/2009-2/22/2009
9th Annual Saddle Up!
Country Tonite Theatre; For more information (865) 429-7350 or visit My Pigeon Forge Saddle Up!

2/19/2009-2/20/2009
Tennessee Shindig presents the 4th Annual Western Jamboree
Cowboys & Indians.”– Tennessee Shindig; For tickets and more information call 1-888-908-3327

2/19/2009
Cowboy Symphony
Country Tonite Theatre; For more information call (865) 429-7350 or visit www.mypigeonforge.com/saddleup

3/5/2009-3/7/2009
Winter Carnival of Magic
Tonite Theatre; For more Information call 1-800-792-4308

3/7/2009-3/8/2009
East TN Children’s Hospital-Cutest Little Baby Face
Belz Outlets; For more information call (865) 453-7316

3/9/2009-3/15/2009
North American Country Music Awards
Country Tonite Theatre; For more information call 1-800-792-4308

3/11/2009-3/15/2009
15th Annual “A Mountain Quiltfest™
Music Road Hotel & Convention Center; For more information call (865) 429-7350 or visit Mountain Quiltfest

3/16/2009-3/22/2009
Southern Gospel Music Fanfare
Smoky Mountain Convention Center; For more information call (205) 662-4826

3/28/2009-4/27/2009
Dollywood’s Festival of Nations
(Closed Tuesdays & Easter Sunday); 1-800-DOLLYWOOD

4/4/2009
Belz Outlets Annual Easter Egg Hunt
Belz Outlets; For More information call (865) 453-7316

4/4/2009
Chuckwagon Gang & Friends
Smoky Mountain Convention Center; For more information call 1-888-319-1021

4/4/2009
Easter Egg Hunt & Breakfast with the Easter Bunny
Pigeon Forge Community Ctr; breakfast at 8:00 A.M. Egg Hunt at 10:00 A.M. 865-429-7373

4/16/2009-4/19/2009
Belz OutletsTruckload Sale
Belz Outlets; For more information call (865) 453-7316

4/16/2009-4/19/2009
Grand Spring Rod Run
Grand Resort Hotel & Convention Center; For more information call 1-800-251-4444

4/24/2009-4/26/2009
Gold Wings GRHCC; For more information call 1-800-251-4444

5/1/2009-5/2/2009
Relay for Life Patriot Park; 2:00 p.m. on May 1st to 2:00 p.m. on May 2nd

5/2/2009
Shrine FunFest Parade Public Welcome; 9:00 a.m. on the Parkway

5/8/2009
24th Annual Dolly Parade 6 p.m.; (865) 453-8574, 1-800-251-9100

5/15/2009-5/17/2009
Chevy Classics Roundup – 1955, 1956, 1957 Chevy Classics Show
(865) 984-3758; Inn at Christmas Place, 1-888-465-9644

6/4/2009-6/6/2009
18th Annual Smoky Mountains Storytelling Festival™
Belle Island Village; For more information call (865) 429-7350

6/5/2009-6/6/2009
Pontiacs in Pigeon Forge Classic Car Show
Music Road Hotel & Convention Center; For more information call (865) 379-9595

6/5/2009-6/26/2009
3rd Annual Smoky Mountain Music & Heritage Series
6:30 P.M. – Old Mill Square – Free Admission – Info 865-428-0771 or visit us on the web at www.oldmillsquare.com

6/12/2009-8/2/2009
Dollywood’s KidsFest™
For more information call 1-800-DOLLYWOOD

6/13/2009
Smith Family Theater Great Smoky Mountains 75th Anniversary Benefit Show
Smith Family Theater; For more information and show times call 1-866-399-8100

7/3/2009
3rd Annual Smoky Mountain Music & Heritage Series
6:30 P.M. – Old Mill Square – Free Admission – For information call (865) 428-0771 or visit us on the web at www.oldmillsquare.com

7/4/2009
19th Annual Patriot Festival
Patriot Park-Pigeon Forge; For more information call (865) 429-7350

7/12/2009-7/15/2009
KIDABRA! The Association of Family & Kidshow Performers Annual Convention
Music Road Hotel & Convention Center; Registration required; Grand Finale Public Show, August 15th at 8:00 p.m.; For more information call (336) 492-7870

7/20/2009-7/26/2009
SEAA Girls Fast Pitch World Series
City Park; For more Information call (865) 717-4932 or visit www.seaayouth.com

Find the perfect vacation cabin rental for you in the Smoky Mountains of TN, cabins located in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, Wears, Valley, Townsend TN and Bryson City, Cherokee and Sylva on the NC side of the Smokies. You will find fantastic honeymoon cabins, large family cabins, pet friendly cabins and much more !! Check out Best Cabins By Owner !

Titantic Pigeon Forge Coming in 2010

2008-11-19T09:51:00.000-08:00

$25 MILLION TITANIC PIGEON FORGE ANNOUNCED FOR RESORT CITY IN GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS, TN

Ship-shaped museum/attraction targets spring 2010 launch

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. (November 2008)-The keel is being laid for Titanic Pigeon Forge, a towering ship-shaped museum/attraction devoted to the world's best-known ocean liner.

Christening of the 30,000-square-foot structure that will resemble the romantic cruise ship will be in the spring of 2010. It is a $25 million project of Cedar Bay Entertainment, which also is the parent company of the first Titanic Museum Attraction in Branson, Mo.

Titanic Pigeon Forge will open a little more than a year after the opening of another major tourism investment in Pigeon Forge, the $114 million Belle Island Village mixed-used development that will begin serving guests this winter.

Home port for Titanic Pigeon Forge is a 5.69-acre site on the Parkway near the Black Bear Jamboree, the Miracle Theater and WonderWorks on the north end of Pigeon Forge. The city is a gateway community to Great Smoky Mountains National Park and attracts more than 11 million visitors a year.

Constant change and growth are Pigeon Forge¹s greatest assets, said John Joslyn, president of Cedar Bay Entertainment. Visitors have always enjoyed many reasons to return to the area, and Titanic Pigeon Forge will easily become yet another reason to stop, shop and be entertained and enlightened.

Joslyn's interest in the Titanic began as a producer of television specials, and he has been to the bottom of the North Atlantic to see the actual Titanic while working on specials about the unsinkable vessel.

The attraction will display hundreds of priceless Titanic artifacts in 20 galleries on two decks that will also contain exact replicas of the Grand Staircase, a first-class suite, a third-class cabin and a Marconi wireless room. The bridge will offer interactive features similar to those of its Branson sister ship.

Each visitor will receive a boarding pass bearing the name of a real Titanic passenger or crew member and will be able to touch an iceberg, experience the chill of 28-degree water, sit in an actual life boat, steer the ship and send an SOS message.

Titanic Pigeon Forge will be a welcome addition to our city's list of quality attractions, said Pigeon Forge City Manager Earlene Teaster, noting that it will complement Dollywood, Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede, WonderWorks, Belle Island Village, more than a dozen theaters, the Old Mill, Walden's Landing and several outlet shopping malls.

Citizens National Bank has taken a leadership role in financing with the support of USDA Rural Development. Bob Fleming, president of Idletime is the creative director of the project; Butler, Rosenbury & Partners, Inc. is the architectural and engineering firm; and Turner Construction Co. is the contractor.

Cedar Bay Entertainment is a privately owned entertainment and development company headquartered in Branson. Its Titanic attraction there opened in
2006 and welcomed more than a million guests in its first two years.

Renderings of Titanic Pigeon Forge are at http://www.blogger.com/www.TitanicPigeonForge.com <http://www.TitanicPigeonForge.com/> , and details of Titanic Branson are at http://www.blogger.com/www.TitanicBranson.com <http://www.TitanicBranson.com/> . Information about all aspects of Pigeon Forge is available online at http://www.blogger.com/www.MyPigeonForge.com <http://www.MyPigeonForge.com/> or toll-free at 1-800-251-9100.

Cycling in the Smokies

2008-11-12T13:49:00.000-08:00

Cycling in the Smokies - by Bob Williams-Dillsboro NC

Fall is rolling along and soon winter will be here. This past week there were a couple of wonderful bicycles rides in the North Carolina Smoky Mountains. Out past Bryson City the Nantahala Outdoor Center put on the Nantahala Challenge and in Franklin, I rode in the Tour De Franklin metric century ride developed by Smoky Mountain Bicycles in Franklin.

Road Cycling is ever popular in the Smokies with folks taking on the area's quiet country back roads and the ever popular and challenging Blue Ridge Parkway. One of our new favorite events occurs in September, the Tour De Tuck put on by the Jackson Chamber of Commerce. Their web site is http://www.mountainlovers.com/ and follow the links to the Tour De Tuck. Mark your calendars for next year to take on a metric century or full century ride that lives up to its billing “ fierce beauty, fierce ride”.

Road biking becomes a bit of challenge here in the autumn and winter months. Cold weather is a challenge to ride in without being properly equipped. Many folks here, including myself, find mountain biking with its slower speeds is ideal in these months. I frequent Tsali Recreation area in the Nantahala National Forest on Lake Fontana ( this is just outside of Bryson City) and the many challenging trails in the Pisgah National Forest near Brevard.

One of the perks of mountain biking in the colder seasons is as the leaves drop the canopy opens up and views can be enjoyed along the way during the ride. So pack up the bikes and head to the hills for rides that are challenging yet filled with beauty. To learn more about group rides and events on the NC side of the Smokies check out these web sites www.motionmakersbikes.com ( Sylva/Bryson City) and www.smokymountainbikes.com (Franklin)

Bob & Tonya Williams
Welcome to Smoky Mountain Time!
Luxury Vacation Homes in the Smoky Mountains
http://www.mountainbearcabins.com

The Dillsboro Chocolate Factory & Espresso
http://www.dillsborochocolate.com

Smoky Mountain Fall color from one of Bob's Mountain Bear Cabins.

Photo by Bob Williams

32nd Gatlinburg Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade Dec 5th 2008

2008-10-31T00:31:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe that it's just 5 weeks until the much anticipated Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade in Gatlinburg TN. It is scheduled for Friday, December 5th, 2008 at 7:30pm in downtown Gatlinburg.

There will be more than 100 parade entries including marching bands and giant helium balloons. Santa’s Autograph Party starts at 6 p.m. on Dec. 5 at Riverbend Mall at Light #3 in front of the Gatlinburg Welcome Center. The parade begins at Traffic Light #1A on Hwy 321 and lasts about 1 hour-and 1/2 later at Traffic Light #10.

Be sure to arrive early since a ton of people are expected to be there for the festivities during this second phase of Gatlinburg Winter Magic, the City of Gatlinburg’s popular holiday lights program which is receiving a $1.5 million expansion.

To learn more about these and other events in Gatlinburg, call 800-56-VISIT (568-4748) or visit the Gatlinburg website at http://www.gatlinburg.com/.

Why not come and spend the weekend for this spectacular event, check out these great cabin rentals around the Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg area.

Bring the whole family to start the holiday season in Smoky Mountains!

Gatlinburg Welcomes You-Flickr Photo by allygirl1520

Gatlinburg Christmas Lights-Flickr Photo by Old Shoe Woman

Follow Smoky Mountain Travel Tips & Get All The Updates!

2008-10-30T11:14:00.000-07:00

We love the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee and North Carolina. They truly hold a special place in our hearts and we want to share that with all of you.

We try to bring you interesting news and information about Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Sevierville, Wears Valley, Townsend, Cades Cove, Bryson City, Dillsboro. Sylva, Cherokee and all of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park.

We would love to hear from you about your favorite restaurant, attraction, show, hiking or fishing spot around the Smokies. Please share your stories with us, email me at heavenlycabins@charter.net

NOW, we want you to keep up with all of our updates by following our Smoky Mountain Travel Tips blog - just click Follow this Smoky Mountain Travel blog and you will get all the updates. Be part of our Smoky Mountain Followers !

Follow this Smoky Mountain blog

Rainbow in the Smokies photo by c. gilliam

Fall Is In The Air And On The Trees In The Smokies

2008-10-30T10:18:00.000-07:00

I am thrilled to have somewhat of a Smoky Mountain expert giving us a fall color report from the NC side of the Smoky Mountains this week. Bob and Tonya Williams live in this beautiful area and have cabin rentals and the yummy Dillsboro Chocolate Factory !

Fall is in the Air and on the Trees in the Great Smoky Mountains

By Bob Williams

Fall color is really starting to abound in the Smokies the final week of October. Predicting fall color is somewhat a science and somewhat an art.

Leaf color change is influenced by shortened days as the calendar turns to September and October, temperature of the season, moisture over the growing season. All these play a role in the timing and intensity of the fall colors on hardwood trees. We have had a warm fall until this week with temperatures plunging into the 20s and in the higher elevations and some valleys received nearly 3 inches of snow on Tuesday morning!

Historically fall colors peak in the Smokies around the 2nd or 3rd week. However, the ongoing drought in the Southern Appalachians could be having a positive side effect with prolonged fall color seasons.

Last year here in the Dillsboro/Sylva/Bryson City area we had fall colors on the oaks well past Thanksgiving with intense reds. Perhaps this year we will see the same. Fall foliage will likely be at peak come this week and into next week based observations from my driving around the area.

Up on the Blue Ridge Parkway above 5,000 feet fall is almost finished, but below 5,000 feet and into the valleys fall is going strong. So, if the predictions made in magazine articles and other places got you thinking about fall colors being past their peak? Think again and perhaps take a drive to the Smokies over the next few weeks and experience a cool crisp Smoky Mountain Fall.

Bob & Tonya Williams
Welcome to Smoky Mountain Time!
Luxury Vacation Homes in the Smoky Mountains
http://www.mountainbearcabins.com/

The Dillsboro Chocolate Factory & Espresso
http://www.dillsborochocolate.com/

Smoky Mountain Photos by Bob Williams

Zip, Zip, Zip The Wahoo Zipline near Pigeon Forge TN

2008-10-21T09:50:00.000-07:00

Are you up for a new, exciting way to view the Smoky Mountains? IF so, check out the new WAHOO ZIPLINE, near Pigeon Forge TN. This is not only an absolutely thrilling ride, you even have an amazing view of Mt LeConte.

Age does NOT matter, if you are between 70 lbs and 275 lbs, you can try this exhilarating zipline ride! The Wahoo Zipline in Sevierville, TN offers 5 single zips and 1 dual zip, total 10,000 feet. They are conveniently located just outside Pigeon Forge and just a short drive from Gatlinburg.

I recently blogged about my birthday zip near Boone NC at the Scream Time Zipline. We had a blast, I think it's about the closest thing to flying you can get. I can't wait to try the Wahoo Zipline in TN. You can get more info on Wahoo's website or call 1-877-924-6621

Check out this awesome YouTube video instruction from Wahoo Zip Line -Sevierville TN, Gorgeous views, very long zip over the trees !

See Beautiful Smoky Mountain Fall Color On A Llama Trek

2008-10-21T09:19:00.000-07:00

Sandy Sgrillo owns Smoky Mountain Llama Treks near Pigeon Forge TN. Her company does hiking treks all over the Smokies with her professionally trained pack-llamas.

The Llamas are easy to lead(not ride). They carry all your hiking gear, lunch, etc so you can enjoy your hike through the Smokies.

Sandy kindly shared this great fall color report a week or so ago from the beautiful Smoky Mountains. Check out Sandy's report and photos.

Fall Leaf Report by Sandy Sgrillo - Smoky Mountain Llama Treks Sunday 10/12/08
Hiked up to the Mt Cammerer Lookout Fire Tower today(this restored 1930's fire tower is the last of it's kind in the Smokies)....was DROP DEAD GORGEOUS! If I die tomorrow, it will be OK, because today I was half-way to heaven......

Took Low Gap up to the Appalachian Trail(a constant 5 miles UPHILL...just about killed me)....colors at the top were unbelievable! They're peaking up there now......

At the Tower, it was extremely windy and chilly, upper 50's, but just beautiful. We had lunch inside and spent time walking the catwalk...

Hey locals....if you can, get up there in the next few weeks or you'll miss out!! And for you out of staters...get your butts up here!!!! I'm so lucky to live here. (THANKS Sandy!!)

Folks, IF you hurry you can still see some beautiful fall color around the Smokies. Some of the higher elevations have lost their leaves but there's still color around.

If you don't make it to the Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg area in October, November offers less traffic, it's much easier to get around and the lights of the Pigeon Forge Winterfest kickoff on November 6th with lots of fun activities!

Try our spectacular cabin rentals near Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, some are even pet friendly with approval. Plan to take a Llama Trek with Sandy while you are there !! You will get a whole new perspective of the Smoky Mountains.

Smoky Mtn photos by Sandy Sgrillo

News From The Smoky Mountains!

2008-10-09T09:55:00.000-07:00

Fall is here and the color is starting to show in the Smokies. You still have time for a trip to the Smoky Mountains to see the beautiful fall foliage.

You can keep up with the changing fall colors through several Smoky Mountain Webcams and Podcasts here at NPS.

Here's a new way to keep up with all the news around Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Cherokee and the Park. Raymond Owens has a new website about his beloved Smokies called GoSmoky.com He and his wife Veronica honeymooned in the Smoky Mountains years ago and they have loved the area ever since. I know what he means, I love those mountains as well !

Raymond's website not only has links and info about the area, he also does a BlogTalk Radio Show on his website. He interviews interesting people with all kinds of news about restaurants, attractions and festivals. His show today was sponsered by Dave & Phyllis Baseler with Smokies Rent Direct Cabins and Raymond interviewed Dave to find out how he came to own and rent cabins in the Smokies. They also chatted with some representatives from Dollywood and Pigeon Forge.

Go Smoky has some very informative shows about Asheville, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Sevierville, Townsend, Cades Cove and much more. He will be doing his live show from Cherokee tommorrow so be sure and tune in or catch it later online at GoSmoky.com He loves to hear from listeners also, you can call in to share your own Smoky Mountain memory.

Here are a few other great links:

The Great Smoky Mtn National Park Service Website

More Webcams and Tennessee Info

Check out all these beautiful Smoky Mountain Cabin Rentals available to make your trip the absolutely best ever, some are even pet friendly.

Welcome To Gatlinburg And The Great Smoky Mountain National Park

2008-08-11T18:25:00.000-07:00

When you ask the question: "What does this town have to offer?" few can offer the response of what makes Gatlinburg one of a kind: Gatlinburg Tennessee offers The Great Smoky Mountains National Park!

That would be enough, as the Great Smoky Mountains is the most visited National Park in the United States. Somewhere between eleven and thirteen million visitors every year come to enjoy the unsurpassed natural beauty and the magnificent splendor of creation at its finest! But Gatlinburg has so much more to offer! It has plenty of lodging available for park visitors. Everything from simple motel rooms to deluxe chalets! It also offers every kind of eatery imaginable. Everything from simple fast food to elegant dining is available!

There are also hundreds of merchants, plenty of shopping, novelty and boutique stores as well! Other popular stops are Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies and the ski slopes of Obergatinburg. There is also an extensive arts and crafts community where you can buy one of a kind items created by local artisans.

Gatlinburg has something for everyone. Why not plan a visit to Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park today?

This blog was reprinted with permission from Richard Weisser from his Active Rain Blog/Re-blog. clg Here's a link to Richard Weisser's Active Rain Blog
Photo courtesy of Richard Weisser and SmokyPhotos.com

Richard Weisser, Broker, Associate Broker, Auctioneer, E-Pro, CE InstructorEra United Realty, Newnan Georgia, Coweta Fayette Real Estate, Inc.Serving Coweta, Fayette, Heard, Meriwether, South Fulton, Pike and Spalding Counties770-827-6225, 770-683-8400 X364, 770-683-8401 (FAX)Follow me on Twitter Account cowetafayetteAll content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Coweta Fayette Real Estate, Inc., and may not be used without the expressed written permission of Coweta Fayette Real Estate, Inc. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2003-2008.

Love Classic Cars or Street Rods? See Ya In Pigeon Forge In September!

2008-07-30T11:33:00.000-07:00

If you love any kind of street rod or classic car, truck or motorcyle - then most likely you have visited Pigeon Forge TN in September..

Each year in the spring and the fall - classics start arriving in the Smoky Mountains to show off their stuff.. Lawn chairs line the Pigeon Forge Parkway so folks can enjoy the "parade" that takes place from sun-up to sun-down. For those who might not enjoy all the cars - drop them off at the Five Oaks Outlet Mall in Sevierville -- great shopping to last all day !! You might just see a sweet Corvette like the one above.. This one is owned by our friend - Jim Griffin from Hickory NC.

The Fall Car Shows are coming up again soon - Start planning your trip to the Smokies.

September 5-6, 2008: Shades of the Past Rod Run: National Parks Resort Lodge-Pigeon Forge.

September 11-14, 2008:Grand Fall Rod Run: The Grand Hotel. For more information call 1-800-472-1188. For Vendor info, Contact 865-687-EXPO(3976) -Pigeon Forge, TN

You DO need to plan ahead for traffic when visiting Pigeon Forge during Car Shows. We do have Pet Friendly Cabin Rentals located in Wears Valley off Hwy 321/Wears Valley Rd which gives you easy access to back roads into Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Cades Cove and Sevierville. Check out other great cabins with easy access to Pigeon Forge Come and enjoy the beautiful classic cars and great weather in September - hurry and book early for the best cabin selection.. See you in September....

Want A FRE*E ZORB Ride In Pigeon Forge?

2008-07-22T10:51:00.000-07:00

The New Zorb in Pigeon Forge has been a true phenomenom! The Zorb has become one of the most popular attractions in Pigeon Forge as well as my most visited blog post ! Just imagine how much fun it would be to watch your friends and family roll down a hill inside a giant plactic ball ??? Well, it is definitely something that you want to video especially the end ;-)

We are offering a F R E E ZORB ride ($45 credit) for a LIMITED Time for any Cabin booking(3 Nt Minimum) with Heavenly Cabins (does not apply to previous bookings) . Zorb rides vary in price from $37 for Zydro ride with up to 2 friends and a little water to $ 44 to the single Zorbit dry ride.. There are group rates and you get a special rate for Zorb-Tri-Riffic for any 3 Zorb rides.

Zorb is a large inflatable plastic ball that measures approximately 11 feet in diameter and weighs almost 200 pounds. Zorb Passengers — or Zorbonauts — fit inside the ball and experience crazy fun as the Zorb rolls several hundred feet down a hill. A cushion of air inside the ball protects the Zorbonauts throughout the trip down. Welcome to extreme sports in Pigeon Forge TN.

Zorb Smoky Mountains offers two types of Zorb rides, both very different. The Harness Zorb ride calls for the passenger to be strapped inside the Zorb with a harness. The result — very often a feeling of weightlessness as the ball rolls downhill. During the Hydro Zorb ride, Zorbonauts remain unharnessed but share the Zorb with a bucket of water, creating a very slippery ride. Up to three people can ride inside a Zorb ball. There is also a Zorb experience expressly designed for children under age six.

ZORB SMOKY MOUNTAINS INC. ZORB SMOKY MOUNTAINS INC. -->
203 Sugar Hollow Road Off Pigeon Forge Parkway
Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 Reservations: 865.428.2422
http://www.zorb.com

Come GRAB your FREE ZORB ride ($45 credit) with a 3 night booking with Heavenly Cabins Our luxury cabins are pet friendly with approval, dogs allowed, no weight restriction. Pet fee and approval required. Our Smoky Mountain Cabins all have awesome views, game rooms with pool table, hot tub, fireplace and lots more.... Easy access to the Zorb in Pigeon Forge, also Gatlinburg, Cades Cove and the Smoky Mountain National Park. Email for availability and all the details heavenlycabins@charter.net

Check out You Tube Zorb videos http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vGVIvvdBTYY

OFFER ENDS 8/30/08

Visit the Smoky Mtns TN-Save Money! Tax Free Wkend 8/1-3/08

2008-07-22T10:16:00.000-07:00

What could be better than a Tennessee - Smoky Mountain vacation and saving money too !! Bring the kids for a mini vacation in the Smokies, check out all the Pigeon Forge Outlet Malls for the "tax free - back to school" shopping weekend from Fri 8/1 till Sun 8/3/08.

The State of Tennessee has it’s third annual August Sales Tax Holiday, which gives back-to-school shoppers the opportunity to purchase certain clothing, school and art supplies, and computers free of Tennessee sales tax, will begin on Friday, August 1.

“Getting ready to go back to school is a busy, important time for families to prepare their children for success,” said Governor Phil Bredesen. “This Sales Tax Holiday is an opportunity for families to enjoy savings on those items that kids need to be ready for a successful school year.”

The long weekend of savings begins at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, August 1 and ends on Sunday, August 3, at 11:59 p.m. The state’s dedicated Sales Tax Holiday Web site, http://www.tntaxholiday.com/, has been updated with new materials, including information about exempt items, frequently asked questions and more.

During the designated three-day weekend, consumers may purchase select clothing with a price of $100 or less per item, school and art supplies with a price of $100 or less per item, and computers with a price of $1,500 or less without paying Tennessee's state and local sales tax on the items.

Also, check out beautiful Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg Cabin Rentals for your TN Tax Free Weekend shopping trip.

Take Me Out To The... TN Smokies Ballgame !!

2008-07-22T09:25:00.000-07:00

The Tennessee Smokies Baseball team starts a 5 night series with the Montgomery Biscuits tonight - 7/22/08. Game time is 7:15pm each night, Tues-Sat. They have great specials each night.. Why not bring the family out to the ballpark, eat a hot dog and enjoy the Tennesse Smokies game??

Faith & Family Night Tuesday 7/22/08

Sponsored by Faith Based Partners of Sevier County
Pilot Prize Night
Pilot Prize Night" How does a free year of gas sound? Then make sure to get your Pilot prize card tonight for your chance to win many different prizes at Pilot Food Mart...possibly even that free gas! Sponsored by Pilot

Sevier County Night Do you live or work in Sevier County? If so, you're getting $2 off your walk-up game day purchase of a Field Level or Bleacher seat with proof of residence or employment at our ticket office.
Sponsored by Dana's Golden Leaf Tanning Salon & Boutique, Seymour Herald

Wed 7/23/08 Buck Night
Buck Night" We've got dinner covered for you and yours tonight, as popcorn, hot dogs, small fountain Pepsi products and soft serve ice cream are only $1 each all night long!
And get one of our souvenir game programs for only $1 tonight as well!

Jefferson/Hamblen County Night" If you live or work in either Jefferson or Hamblen County, you get $2 off your game day walk-up ticket purchase of a Field Level or Bleacher seat. Please make sure to bring proof of residence or employment with you to the game! Sponsored by Citizen Tribune

Thurs 7/24/08 CNB Money Grab
CNB Money Grab" Three lucky fans will have the chance to win as much money as they can get their hands on in the Citizens National Bank Money Grab on our stadium concourse! Sponsored by Citizens National Bank
Kids Eat Free! Kids 12-and-under with paid admission for a field-level or bleacher seat at tonight's game will receive a coupon for a free hot dog, bag of chips and a Pepsi! Take your child's ticket to our Fan Assistance center on the concourse behind home plate to redeem. Sponsored by Star 102.1
Kids Run the Bases" All kids 12-and-under in attendance are invited to stay after the game and run the bases! Sponsored by Shoney's Food City/Orville Redenbacher Family Night

Friday 7/25/08 Team Photo Giveaway
Team Photo Giveaway" If you are one of the first 1,000 fans through the gates at tonight's game, you're getting a 2008 Tennessee Smokies team photo! Gates open at 5:30 p.m., so get here early! Sponsored by U.S. Cellular
Fireworks Friday
It our most popular promotion of the year! This thrilling post-game fireworks extravaganza is presented by Pepsi, WIVK and WVLT.
BirdZerk! and Zerk Jr. will be on hand to entertain the crowd with his zany antics. It's their only appearance this year at Smokies Park and one you do not want to miss!

Sat 7/26/08 Golf Umbrella Giveaway Calling all golfers...and those who don't like the rain. Get here early tonight as the first 1,500 fans through the gates with paid admission get a one-of-a-kind Smokies golf umbrella! Sponsored by Comcast, WBIR-10 TV

Knox Harley-Davidson Night
Tonight's dice roll might bring one lucky fan the chance to WIN a new Harley-Davidson motorcycle! Spell "H-A-R-L-E-Y" with the dice to WIN a special edition 2008 anniversary Harley-Davidson motorcycle. Sponsored by Knox Harley-Davidson

Please note the promotions listed above are subject to change.

Check out all the Tennessee Smokies Baseball Info - AA affliate of The Chicago Cubs Next Week - The Smokies travel to Mobile Al.

Why not come to the Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg - enjoy a wonderful cabin and the baseball game. Check out http://www.bestcabinsbyowner.com/ Guide to the Best"By-Owner"Vacation Rentals-Smoky Mtns of Tenn & NC

Family Friendly, Pet Friendly, Awesome Cabins

Patriot Festival In Pigeon Forge - July 4-6

2008-06-17T14:02:00.000-07:00

Pigeon Forge, TN – June 2008 – Pigeon Forge, Tenn., will celebrate Independence Day with the three-day Pigeon Forge Patriot Festival July 4-6. It’s the festival’s 18th year, and the 2008 theme is “A Family Affair – Then and Now.” The festival is set against the backdrop of an American treasure, Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Activity begins at 1 p.m. July 4 (Friday) in Patriot Park with the Kids Karnival that includes a rock-climbing wall, a mechanical bull, a moonwalk, a bungee run and other games and activities.
StarJam 2008, a concert produced by Knoxville radio station Star 102.1, will provide music. Featured artists are “American Idol” contestant Ace Young, Metro Station, Joel and Benji from Good Charlotte, Menudo and Boys Like Girls. Fireworks will cap off the day at approximately 9:30 p.m. All activities on July 4 are free.

Patriot Festival takes a step back in time on July 5 (Saturday) at the Old Mill and Old Mill Square from 9 a.m-9 p.m. Tours of the Old Mill—built in 1830 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places—and pottery demonstrations at Pigeon River Pottery will highlight the traditions, crafts and heritage of East Tennessee. Old-time activities for children include ring toss, seesaws, jump rope and more, and the Carolina Bluegrass Boys will perform at 6 p.m. All July 5 activities are free.

“Family Community Christian Day” will be July 6 (Sunday). A free concert at 4 p.m. at the Smoky Mountain Jubilee Theater will feature the Pigeon Forge Community Chorus and the voices of Everett Hills Baptist Church from Maryville, Tenn. Dr. Deborah Hicks will direct both groups. There also will be a concert at 7:30 p.m. at the Miracle Theater, featuring the Lee Singers from Lee University in Cleveland, Tenn. Tickets for “Voices of Lee” are available through the Miracle Theatre at 1-800-768-1170.

Festival attendees on July 4 and 5 are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs for seating. Food and beverages will be available at Patriot Park. Festival details are online at www.MyPigeonForge.com/Patriot.

Check for last minute Smoky Mountain Cabin Rentals and enjoy a great vacation in the mountains.. Some cabins are even pet friendly...

Smoky Mountains To Celebrate 75 Years in 2009 - Share Your Photos & Stories !

2008-06-17T07:30:00.000-07:00

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has created an interactive Web site to help commemorate its 75th anniversary in 2009. Visitors get a virtual tour of anniversary activities at the park on the Tennessee-North Carolina border and an opportunity to share photos and stories about their park experiences. How cool is that - YOU can be a part of this Great Smoky Mountain celebration !!

The site also provides a history lesson on the creation of this country's most-visited national park, and efforts to protect it.The website is http://www.greatsmokies75th.org/. The site will be updated through the 75th anniversary weekend on June 13-15, 2009.

Share your photos and stories of your Great Smoky Mountains National Park adventures through the decades! Send your friends and family a cyber invitation to enjoy your approved image. After looking at your adventure, they can upload their photo and story to become a part of the Smokies Family Album, too! Images should contain people and a recognizable feature, overlook, or sign that ties the image to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Check out our Beautiful, Pet Friendly Cabin Rentals in the Smoky Mountains, near Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg and Cades Cove. We have just the right cabin for you to enjoy all the fun of the Smokies !!

Info Courtesy of Blue Ridge Now

Photo by C. gilliam

Roller Coaster Fun At Dollywood - Pigeon Forge June 6-8 2008

2008-06-05T11:53:00.000-07:00

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. (Story-Courtesy of Business Wire)---Roller coaster fans from across the country will converge on Dollywood in Pigeon Forge this weekend for the theme park’s first-time Thrills in the Hills event set for June 6-8.

“Thrills in the Hills is a much-anticipated opportunity to see some very unique rides from a really up-close perspective that isn’t ordinarily available,” said Matthew Lambert, American Coaster Enthusiast member, “but everyone is really looking forward to enjoying the warm Southern hospitality that Dollywood is known for.”

Approximately 70 attendees will enjoy exclusive ride time and behind-the-scenes tours of the park’s coasters, including Thunderhead, twice named the best wooden coaster in the world by the Golden Tickets Awards, and Mystery Mine, Theme Park Insider’s 2007 best new themed attraction, as well as the Tennessee Tornado and Blazing Fury. Participants also will see two of Dollywood’s award-winning stage shows—the 2006 international Heartbeat Award winner Dreamland Drive-In and the 2007 winner, The Great American Country Show. The weekend’s itinerary also offers opportunities to visit Dollywood’s Splash Country and Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede dinner attraction.

“It’s an honor for Dollywood to host Thrills in the Hills and showcase all that our properties have to offer,” said Pete Owens, Dollywood Public Relations Manager. “We hope Thrills in the Hills is the first of many events of this type.”

DollywoodDollywood is a 150-acre family adventure park in Pigeon Forge, Tenn. Open nine months a year (March 21, 2008-Jan. 3, 2009), Dollywood offers more than 40 rides and attractions; award-winning live entertainment featuring country, bluegrass, gospel and mountain music; and a dozen crafters authentic to the East Tennessee region. For more information, call 1-800-DOLLYWOOD or visit dollywood.com. Operating days and hours vary.

Article from

http://www.businesswire.com/portal/site/google/?ndmViewId=news_view&newsId=20080605005733&newsLang=en

Roller Coaster photo from http://www.themeparkreview.com/photos/index.htm

Check here for Last Minute Cabin Rental Deals - Smoky Mountain Luxury Pet Friendly Cabin Rentals near Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Townsend and the Great Smoky Mountain National Park.

Plan Your Affordable Vacation in the Smoky Moutains-Save Gas & Money!

2008-05-30T12:20:00.000-07:00

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park will always have free activities as well as very inexpensive, fun things to do. Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Sevierville and Townsend on the TN side of the Smokies and also Maggie Valley, Sylva, Bryson City, Cherokee and Franklin on the NC side of the Smokies are all less than a day's drive from half of the United States population - so, plan your vacation!

With the high gas prices, many of you are concerned about planning a vacation too far away from home.. The Smoky Mountains can offer you a vacation alternative without drving too far.. Plan ahead to save a few extra dollars here and there. If you rent a Smoky Mountain Cabin you can save money in the long run by cooking a few extra meals at the cabin.. Also, most cabins have a game room, hot tub and possibly access to a swimming pool - so those would be no additional expense for your vacation..

Outdoor activities in the Smokies range from hiking, tubing, rafting, and even rock climbing allowing you to enjoy God's wonderful creation. The breathtaking views of the Great Smoky Mountains are just one of the many bonuses.

There are 800 miles of hiking trails to fit any level of experience. Laurel Falls trail is an easier hike that ends at a 75-foot cascading waterfall that you can swim in. A more strenuous hike is the Ramsey Cascade Trail, which opens to crystal clear cascades falling 90 feet into a pool where hikers can cool off. The Sugarlands Visitor Center near Gatlingburg has information on these and other hiking trails.

Also visit the Townsend Heritage Center and Visitor Center for more info about Cades Cove and the trails close by... There's a great biking trail through Townsend and you can have the Cades Cove 11 mile loop all to yourself if you are biking or hiking from sunrise until 10am on Wednesday and Saturday mornings during summer and fall... You can't get much closer to nature than biking or hiking in Cades Cove.. You can also horseback ride or take a hayride in Cades Cove.

The Little River, which runs through the Great Smoky Mountains, provides visitors a low cost way to have fun with guided or self-guided rafting tours, kayak and tubing day rentals. You will see lots of tubes in the summer floating down the river in Townsend, at the foot of the Smoky Mountains. There are many places to rent tubes or equipment at a great price.

You can even do a little geocaching in the Smokies. These outdoor activities are just a few ways you can have your summer vacation in the Great Smoky Mountains, while conserving money and fuel. Why not try some of the F R E E activities around the Smokies.

Check out the great Smoky Mountain Cabin rentals for just the right one for your family.. Many are even "Pet Friendly" so you can bring along the furry member of the family..

Photos by C. Gilliam Top- Cades Cove Field w/Deer, Cades Cove Barn

A Hike In The Smokies

2008-04-30T07:53:00.000-07:00

One of our recent guests was kind enough to share his hiking story with us as well as some of his incredible photos of the Smoky Mountains...

A Hike In The Smokies By Predrag Gojkovic'

Here is what we read on the front page of spring issue of Smokies Guide we picked up at the park information centre:

"A spring hike in the Smokies is usually benign experience accented by wildflowers and singing warblers. However, there can be exceptions. In mid March of 1993. a storm dropped two feet of snow on the park's lower elevations. Above 5,000 feet there were chest high drifts and stranded backpackers suffered severe frost bite and eventually the amputation of extremities."

Is there a better way to start a vacation in the Smokies then to be reminded that you can be mauled by the bear or loose your extremities to frost bites?

We decided not to hike during the storm and to resist the urge to feed bears if we see one in the mountain. That should take care of that, now let's get down to business of planing our hikes.

First, we purchased a map with all hiking trails in the Smokies for only a buck. Then we asked Information centre employees for advice and they delivered. They told us exactly which trails were suitable for our 6 year old and which ones were more demanding. They gave us a nice hiking plan for our entire vacation and it worked really well. Next, we checked weather forecast for the rest of the week, courtesy of the new hi-speed connection at Glimpse Of Heaven cabin. It is really nice to be able to turn on your laptop and get detailed weather forecast for the exact area you're going to.

First we did Laurel Falls, the most popular trail in the Smokies, just to break into the habit of walking and climbing. Falls are gorgeous and hike was fairly easy. Trail is paved and the climb was not too demanding. We met lot's of people with small kids and some older couples.
Following day we hiked Little River trail. It was interesting to see buildings of an old Hunting Club still standing there. They provided us with a nice photo shoot backdrop. Although "Do Not Trespass" signs were clearly visible, we were told at Information centre that it's O.K. to look around as long as you do not enter the buildings.

Next, we drove to Cades Cove and hiked Abrams Falls trail. It was more demanding and rain didn't make it any easier. But still, it was nothing more than a nice walk and our younger boy (the 6 year old) enjoyed it very much and never complained. We were told to avoid hiking that trail on weekends because of the excessive crowds. So we went in the middle of the week. Still there were at least 20 people by the falls the whole time we were there. They were constantly arriving an leaving. We had a hard time getting a descent shot of the falls and we waited for 30 minutes to catch a moment with nobody else in the frame except us and the falls.

We chose a sunny and clear day for our trip to Clingmans Dome, the highest peak in the Smokies. It's only a short hike from the parking lot at the end of the road to the observation tower, but it's pretty steep. We worked out quite a sweat to get there, but the splendid views were more than enough of a reward. Obviously, don't go there on a fogy day.

Then, it was time for a really good stuff. Wife stayed at Glimpse with our younger kid, and me and our 12 year old went to Newfound Gap where we started our 8 mile roundtrip day hike on Appalachian Trail. Our destination was Charlies Bunion, a rock with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. We met and briefly talked with an AT thru-hiker and had lunch at Icewater Spring shelter (one of 250 on a 3500 kilometers long trail, where thru-hikers usually spend their nights). It was nice to be a part of this exciting adventure, even if it was for one day only (thru-hikers usually need 5-6 months to complete the task).

Next day was stormy and we stayed at the cabin and enjoyed all the comfort it offered to rejuvenate our strength. We needed that because on the last day of our vacation we were going to climb Mt LeConte. It was a foggy and rainy day, but at least there were no storms and kid and I put our backpacks on, checked the batteries in our cameras and left early in the morning. Alum Cave trail is a 5.5 mile long, very strenuous climb to Mt LeConte lodge where day hikers can use their office to warm up and dry out before the trip back. Or, if you make reservations well in advance it is possible to stay there overnight and eat in their restaurant. Even on a fogy day like that the beauty of the nature was completely overwhelming. Rocks, caves, mountain streams, trees,... it was just glorious.

That hike was not suitable for our little one as well, so him and my wife stayed at the Glimpse again. I really appreciate her understanding and support for my love of hiking, but I think she also really love being at that cabin. I mean, what's not to love? GH is simply gorgeous!

So that's it from me, I hope readers of your blog will find this helpful, and again, thanks Cheryl for giving us opportunity to enjoy your wonderful cabin again.
Sincerely
Predrag
Windsor, Ontario

Thank you Predrag and family - we look forward to having you back again soon..

Cheryl - Heavenly Cabins

Antique & Classic Car Collectors Unite in Pigeon Forge TN - April 17-20 2008

2008-04-04T18:21:00.000-07:00

Each year at the foot of the Smoky Mountains in Pigeon Forge TN, you will find a passionate group of people... They are passionate about their love of classic automobiles, motorcyles, trucks and vehicles of all shapes and sizes... They come in every conceivable variety - classic, antique, street rods, hybrids and everything in between.

The SWEET 1961 Corvette above is owned by Jim Griffin of Hickory NC. It's a perfect example of the unbelievable cars seen during Rod Run AND one of my favorites..

Classic car owners and enthusiasts gather in Pigeon Forge to enjoy their love for vehicles of days gone by and futuristic ones as well.. It is an awesome sight!! Beware: Traffic jams ahead - but at least you can enjoy the view!!

The Spring Grand Rod Run is the beginning of the 2008 season of car shows. Classic car, truck and motorcycle enthusiasts make the trip to Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Sevierville and Townsend Tennessee and the Great Smoky Mountains each year in the spring and summer for this big event.

Pigeon Forge is the most popular host to rod runs and car shows. Just beware, everyone is so excited to get there, they do start early !! The Parkway in Pigeon Forge and hotel parking lots begin to fill with classic cars normally on Tuesday prior to the show. You will find lost more than just awesome vehicles. Throughout the event weekend, visitors can enjoy interactive displays presented by vendors from all over the country. If it's mechanics that "start your engine" you will find lots of workshops to get answers to your technical questions.

Come on to Pigeon Forge and enjoy a comfortable cabin with fantastic views, game rooms with a pool table, hot tub, fireplace and lots more when you're not out looking at the CARS !! We still have some openings - check out our Awesome Pet Friendly Cabins Our cabins are located in the Wears Valley area off Hwy 321/Wears Valley Rd -which makes it easier to get around the traffic by using the back roads off the main Parkway in Pigeon Forge via Wears Valley Rd.

Here's a list of other upcoming events in Pigeon Forge during 2008:

April 17-19, 2008:
Spring Grand Rod Run: The Grand Hotel. For more information call 1-800-472-1188. For Vendor info, Contact 865-687-EXPO(3976) -Pigeon Forge, TN.

April 24-27, 2008
Goldwing Riders Association: For more information call 1-800-251-4444 -Pigeon Forge, TN
May 5-15, 2008
Chevy Classics Round-up: 1955, 1956, and 1957 Chevy Classics Cars Show. For more information call 865-984-3758 or 1-800-429-7700. -Pigeon Forge, TN.

June 6-8, 2008
Pontiacs in Pigeon Forge Classic Car Show: For more information call 865-983-7374 or 1-800-429-7700. -Pigeon Forge, TN.

June 19-21, 2008
Smoky Mountains F-100 Run: Smoky Shadows. For more information call 1-800-282-2121. -Pigeon Forge, TN.

September 5-6, 2008:
Shades of the past Rod Run: National Parks Resort Lodge.

September 11-14, 2008:
Grand Fall Rod Run: The Grand Hotel. For more information call 1-800-472-1188. For Vendor info, Contact 865-687-EXPO(3976) -Pigeon Forge, TN

October 17:
Corvettes Cruise the Smokies: For more information call (865)687-3976. -Sevierville, TN

October 17-18:
Fall Corvette Expo: For more information call (865)687-3976. -Sevierville, TN

October 17-18:
Horsepower and Hot Rods: For more information call (865)687-3976. -Sevierville, TN

October 18:
Thompson-Carr Collector Auction: Starting at 11 a.m. at The New Sevierville Events Center. For more information call (865)687-3976. -Sevierville, TN

October 18:
NCRS-SE Flight Judging: For more information call (865)687-3976. -Sevierville, TN

Reserve your cabin for Spring Rod Run today, we still have some openings! See our cabin rental website and virtual tours at Heavenly Cabins

Photo above - 1961 Chev Corvette owned by friend and client - Jim Griffin of Hickory NC - What a Sweet Ride !!

Smoky Mountain Visitors Bureau To Host Herb & Wildflower Day In Townsend April 5th

2008-03-31T11:28:00.000-07:00

Smoky Mountain Visitors Bureau To Host Herb Wildflower Day in Townsend

By Iva Butler
of The Daily Times Staff
With the wildflowers in peak bloom during April, the Smoky Mountain Convention and Visitors Bureau (SMCVB) is once again hosting Herb and Wildflower Day on April 5 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. to allow locals and visitors not only to experience and enjoy the beauty of these wildflowers, but also to learn about the practical and medicinal uses of herbs and wildflowers that are found in East Tennessee.

"This is the seventh year for Herb and Wildflower Day, and it has become a great springtime tradition. People really enjoy learning new things about the wildflowers," said Herb Handly, executive vice president of tourism for the SMCVB. "It's a fun and educational event that is great for the family. The mountains really show their true beauty during this celebration. It is so important for visitors to take advantage of this natural opportunity."

At 7:30 a.m. participants will gather at the front porch of the Townsend Visitors Center for a special tour along the Townsend bike path with wilderness wildlife recording expert, Mark Dunaway. Dunaway has an extensive background in avian communication, which explains how and why birds sing.

On the walk, Dunaway will be identifying common species found in the area along with any summer migrants that have returned to breed. Then he will be discussing tips for identifying birds and learning their songs.

"Once you become proficient in identifying birds through their songs, approximately 90 percent of the birds you will detect in a given outing will be by ear. During bird census work, the vast majority of birds that are recorded by ornithologists are detected by ear," said Dunaway.

Dunaway currently specializes in recordings made inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, mostly recording bird songs, particularly those erupting from the Cades Cove area.

The day will continue at 9 a.m., with a talk about the spring wildflowers by senior botanist for the TVA Heritage Program, Dr. Patricia Cox. In addition to talking about some of our more common showy wildflowers, Cox will discuss some of Tennessee's rarest wildflowers and why protecting the plants as well as the plants' habitat is so important. She will also talk about steps that can be taken to help with conservation measures to prevent the loss of these species from our native flora.

Then, at 9:45 a.m., Meredith Clebsch, owner of Native Gardens, a Greenback nursery that grows and sells native plants, will speak about how to garden with plants native to the area. Since 1983, Clebsch and her husband have been operating Native Gardens in Loudon County, where they offer more than 200 different plant species.

At 10:30 a.m., Dunaway will return to give a presentation on planting for the birds. The talk will instruct people on how to create and enhance a backyard habitat for birds through plantings, shelter, food, and water sources.

During lunch, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., visitors will be able to purchase plants, baked goods and pottery as well as view gardening demonstrations.

"We won't be providing lunch, but we encourage visitors to grab a quick bite from one of the Townsend eateries or purchase some fresh bread from Marjie Richardson, owner of The Bakery Lady, a local, home-style bakery in Seymour," said Jeanie Hilten, special events coordinator for the SMCVB.

After lunch, from 1:30 to 5 p.m., Dunaway will be signing copies of the audio CD set, "Bird Songs of the Smokies," which is a soundtrack to the bird sounds in the Smoky Mountain. Each recording was made in the park and offers listeners a detailed narration in how to find the specific birds.

During this time, visitors will also be able to choose between two different hikes that will last from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. or a longer hike that will last until 5 p.m. All hikes are in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

"Ferns and Flowers Stroll," led by Cox; on Chestnut Top trail is a moderate 2-mile hike that can be very narrow in places, so participants are asked to wear sturdy shoes. While on this hike, Cox will focus on ferns and other wildflowers. Some of the wildflowers visitors can expect to see will include bluets, dwarf ginseng, fire pink, little brown jug, Solomon's seal, Solomon's plume, several species of trillium, and wild ginger, just to name a few. Additionally, ferns are abundant including Christmas fern, maidenhair fern, maidenhair spleenwort, marginal shield fern and others.

"The Chestnut Top Trail has one of the most spectacular displays of wildflowers and ferns of any trail in the Smokies. If you have never been on this trail, it is amazing and you will love it," said Cox.

Visitors can also choose to take part in the Tremont area walk called "Bees and Blooms," led by Dr. Jim Lowe, a forest entomologist. The Tremont area is home to a former pioneer Appalachian community and logging town. The hike, considered easy along the wide, flat trail, follows a large stream, which features several scenic cascades and a four tiered waterfall at the end.

Or, visitors can take a nature hike to White Oak Sinks, led by Jim Burbank, a national park volunteer and expert in wildlife management. This popular trail features 60 different species of wildflowers along a moderately difficult 2.6-mile trail. Some of the wildflowers you can see along this route include yellow lady's slipper, Columbine and shooting stars.

"White Oak Sinks is a special place in the Smokies, furnishing a great variety of flowers -- at least three species difficult to find elsewhere in the Park, a 'blow-hole' cave, and a disappearing waterfall," said Burbank. "The hike is moderately difficult but well worth the effort."

Throughout the day, visitors can purchase baked goods from The Bakery Lady, which include home-made bread, sweet rolls, cookies and pies.

Additionally, Stringtown Pottery, a Townsend pottery shop, will have items for sale relating to the day's theme of herb and wildflowers. Honey Rock Herb Farm and Native Gardens will also have plants for sale so visitors can buy a plant and a planter to take home.
Article Courtesy of The Daily Times - Maryville TN

Photo by C. Gilliam Heavenly Cabins
See Last Minute Cabin Openings for this weekend 4/4- 4/7/08 - Come to The Herb & Wildflower Day in Townsend TN, enjoy a cozy cabin with awesome Smoky Mountain Views.

A Surprise Smoky Mountain Cabin Vacation & One Brave Man!

2008-03-28T06:58:00.000-07:00

We truly have the most wonderful guests in the world at our Heavenly Cabins near Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, TN. We are blessed with caring, friendly folks that come back year after year and become like family - even when we may not meet them face to face....

During the last 7 years, we have had honeymooners, family gatherings, business groups, Sunday school classes and others at the cabins but Harold Mann's surprise was a first for me... He and wife, Carol travel quite a bit and love the Smoky Mountains - so they do visit there often.. It is customary for them to rent a cabin near Pigeon Forge around the Wears Valley area but this was their first trip to our Glimpse of Heaven cabin.. He emailed me months in advance and noted that he was impressed with our guest testimonials, Yeah! - you can read them here http://www.homeawayconnect.com/guestbook.cfm?pid=22844&cid=5 ....

We traded emails for a while and Harold shared with me that he was totally in charge of finding the "perfect" cabin for his and Carol's Smoky Mountain trip but with one catch - Carol did NOT want to see any photos or website info about the cabin - NONE, Nada, Zilch!! Wow, I have to say that is one trusting woman or Harold has great taste and she knew it!! Harold seals the deal, months go by and they get another surprise.... Their son will be joining them along with his wife after arriving home from Afghanistan !!! Wow - even better...

The Mann's arrived earlier this month and thankfully - Carol was impressed with Harold's choice - whew, I was relieved also... Not only were they both thrilled with Glimpse of Heaven - they left us a gift - A BAMA bear for our collection!! See the photo above of BAMA bear lying in the hammock at the cabin and their awesome comments below...

Harold's personal email to us.......
I think you can read my feed back(on the online guestbook) and see that we had a wonderful time. Carol was tickled with what she found when we arrived. She said it was worth the wait to finally get to see the beautiful cabin and the surrounding mountains. I did promise you some pictures of the Bama Bear and I am sending a few. I think it is apparent that he is enjoying his stay...lol...but not nearly as much as we did. Thank you for putting this cabin together and allowing your many visitors a chance to enjoy a real "glimpse of heaven".
Harold & Carol Mann

Harold's Online Guestbook Entry
Carol and I truely enjoyed our stay in your cabin. We were joined by our son (just back from Afganistan)and his wife, and we could not have picked a better location for our time together. The cabin was spotless, well decorated and large enough for the four of us to spread out and enjoy ourselves. Since we have stayed in many cabins, I have found from past experience that there are many things usually lacking, so I loaded up lots of my trusty home items and lugged them along. The cabin was so well equipted, that most of them stayed packed up until time to head back home. We loved the bears that your other guests have left and left you a "Bama" bear to join the others. The view from the cabin was spectacular and we were fortunate during the week to experience some beautiful days with the sun shining and the temps in the 70's and spent one rainy day at the cabin watching the mist rising from the surroundng mountains and enjoying the fireplace and had an unexpect snow day and had about 9 hours of heavy blowing snow....a real beautiful site to behold from the decks. Of all the cabins we have visited, this one was by far the best in every manner. We will no doubt become frequent visitors and are already looking forward to our next trip. We, like others who have taken the time to leave comments, really appreciated the beautiful cabin, the very appropriate decor and the beautiful mountain views and feel like you named the cabin just right, because while we were there and since we have left, we know that we have had a "Glimpse of Heaven". Thank you and your husband for making this available to us all....
Harold & Carol Mann, Seneca, SC (lakemann1952@msn.com)

THANK YOU Both and to ALL our Wonderful Guests/Friends - You make all the hard work - worthwhile - Praise God ! Roger & Cheryl Gilliam

Heavenly Pet Friendly Cabins

It's Dollywood Time!! Opening March 21st With Dolly Visiting in April 2008

2008-03-17T17:21:00.000-07:00

Spring is almost here and it's once again time for Dollywood to open for 2008. This year will feature a new, $5 million dollar - River Battle Ride when the theme park opens its doors for the 2008 season on Friday, March 21, 2008. Dollywood will also add a 750-foot walkway to connect Timber Canyon with Craftsman’s Valley, reopen its Thunder Road attraction at Adventures in Imagination and host five spectacular festivals for the 2008 season. There is also a new entrance for 2008 to improve traffic flow into the theme park.

River Battle is a themed water raft ride equipped with powerful soaker guns. Nine rafts, each with room for eight passengers, follow a 500-foot channel. As the rafts navigate the waters, the battle begins as passengers, each armed with a soaker gun, take aim at each other and more than 100 targets along the way, including large-scale “talking animals”— Photo from http://www.dollywood.com/

Dolly will be making her annual appearance at Dollywood on April 11th and 12th to help kick off the 2008 season with press events scheduled during the day on Friday followed by her traditional parade through Pigeon Forge on Friday evening - Aprill 11,2008. The Dolly Parade will begin on River Road near traffic light #7 and will travel north along the Parkway disbanding at the Belz Factory Outlet World at traffic light #3. The Dolly Parade will get underway at 6:00 p.m. Just a taste of the entertainment that can be found all year in Pigeon Forge.

Dolly will also be doing a number of tributes to her late friend Porter Wagoner throughout the weekend including a musical tribute and rose ceremony. The musical tribute will feature many of the original Wagonmasters complete with their characteristic sparkly rhinestone suits. Dolly will also include long-time friend and original Wagonmaster, Don Warden, on steel guitar in the tribute show.

Townsend Winter Heritage Festival February 7-10 2008 Smoky Mountains TN

2008-02-08T07:56:00.000-08:00

What: The Townsend Winter Heritage Festival
A celebration of the history, people, and traditions of Townsend TN, Cades Cove, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Why not a last minute trip to the Smoky Mountains this weekend and stay in a great cabin near Townsend Special Last Minute Rates!
When: Thursday, February 7-Sunday, February 10, 2008

Where: Various locations in Townsend, Tennessee and in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Contact: The Townsend Visitor Center, 800-525-6834; jhilten@smokymountains.org;
http://www.smokymountains.org/winter-heritage.html

The Smoky Mountain Convention & Visitors Bureau, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Great Smoky Mountains Association, Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center, Cades Cove Preservation Association, and other community groups in the Townsend, Tennessee area are working together for the 2008 Winter Heritage Festival. 2007 was the first year, and the festival was a great success, winning an "Award of Distinction" from the East Tennessee Historical Society. Pick up a program brochure and registration form at several locations around Blount County, download below, or call 800-525-6834 to obtain a form.

The event is an in-depth look into the rich heritage of the Great Smoky Mountains and the Cades Cove community, and it is designed to celebrate the culture, history, natural beauty, and heritage of the area. Through classes, tours, exhibits, music, hikes, and demonstrations, visitors can experience:

Stories of mountain life and families of the Smokies
Logging and railroad days
Illustrated talks and displays about people and the land
History, stories, music, and plant lore of the Cherokee Indians
Mountain music and crafts
Cades Cove guided walks
Creation of Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Cades Cove Military History
Displays from family archives and old fashioned portraits at Townsend Visitor
Exhibits at the Heritage Museum, Little River Railroad Museum, Thompson Brown House, Blount County Historic Trust, and Art Exhibit at Mountain Sage Gallery
Schedule:

Thursday, February 7, 2008:

6:00pm--9:00pm Kick-off Reception and entertainment at the Dancing Bear Lodge:
Heavy Hors D'Oeuvres, (fee charged) for reservations, call 865-448-0044
(programs only, free)

Bill Landry, featured guest speaker--"Cades Cove and the Heartland Series"
Mike Clemmer, dulcimer music
Friday, February 8, 2008: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m-talks, walks, music, and tours:

Some of the highlights include a Music Heritage Program with Lisa Free, lunchtime program on "Hiking the Smokies" with Sue Jenkins, "Fire Towers of the Smokies" talk by Charles Maynard, "Geology of White Oak Sinks" with Harry Moore, plus walking tours in Cades Cove, music at Tremont, and Cade Cove Preservation Association illustrated talks at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center

In the evening, Townsend area restaurants are featured at "A Taste of Townsend".

Saturday, February 9, 2008: 9 a.m. to 5: p.m.-talks, walks, art, demonstrations, music, Cherokee history:

A few of the highlights include "Drawing History" workshop with Andrea Wilson, "Cades Cove Military History" with Blount County Mayor Jerry Cunningham, "Wild Edibles of the Smokies", Ila Hatter, Logging and Railroad History and walks, "Cades Cove Photography" with Bill Lea, Cherokee Storytelling and music, plus a wide variety of sessions on the special places and families of Cades Cove.

Saturday, February 9, evening at The Barn Event Center of the Smokies:

Mike Clemmer, dulcimer music
Star-gazing with the Smoky Mountain Astronomical Society
Catered supper by Miss Lily's
Bo Taylor, Native American Culture program
Sunday, February 10, 2008-At the Richmont Inn: "The Walker Sisters", with Robin Goddard and Harp Music with Jennifer Love. At the Valley View Lodge: "Precious Memories--A Cades Cove Homecoming" panel discussion.

Programs and Presenters 2-1-08 A booklet of the schedule describing the activities and leaders, as of 1-24-08. Please call 865-448-6134 for updates, as there may be last minute changes. Note that this document is in booklet format, to be printed front to back, so just follow the page numbers!

Winter registration form Please download this document to register for sessions, and send to info@smokymountains.org or mail to Townsend Visitor Center, 7906 E. Lamar Alexander Pkwy., Townsend, TN 37882.

CONTACT: Most programs are free, but many will fill fast, and pre-registration is required. Please register by February 1. (See program registration form, above). There will be charges for mealtime programs. To obtain registration forms, call 865-448-6134 or 800-525-6834 and to make reservations for meals call 865-448-0044.

Thank you to our Sponsors: Great Smoky Mountains national Park, Great Smoky Mountains Association, GSM Institute at Tremont, GSM Heritage Center, Blount County Historic Trust, Cades Cove Preservation Association, Dancing Bear Lodge, Highland Manor Inn, Valley View Lodge, The Barn Event Center of the Smokies, Little River Railroad Museum, Sister Cats, Miss Lily's, Richmont Inn, Townsend Business Association, Townsend Artisan Guild, and:

Tennessee Arts Commission: This project is funded under an agreement with the State of Tennessee, the Tennessee Arts Commission and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Pick a cabin with incredible views for your trip to Townsend and the Great Smokies.

Metcalf Bottoms Bridge Townsend Tennessee - Photo by C.Gilliam
Info Courtesy of
2007 Smoky Mountain Convention & Visitors Bureau
7906 E. Lamar Alexander Pwy., Townsend, TN 37882

Skiing & Snowboarding in the Smoky Mountains

2008-01-17T12:27:00.000-08:00

If you love skiing, snowboarding, ice skating or any winter sport, there are lots of options around the Smoky Mountain area. Even though the town of Gatlinburg didn't get all the snow they anticipated last night - there is still plenty of snow in the higher elevations of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park as well as Gburg's ski resort, OberGatlinburg Ski Resort & Amusement Park

Need a lesson or brush-up for your snow skills? Why not try something new - alpine skis, shaped skis or snow boarding. Smoky Mountain Snow Sport School in Gatlinburg offers lessons for families, groups or individuals.

The Cataloochee Ski Resort is on the North Carolina side of the Great Smoky Mountains in Maggie Valley. Maggie Valley is home to Ghost Town In The Sky which reopened last year. This is about an hour's drive from the Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge area - why not enjoy all the attractions and cozy cabins near Pigeon Forge/Gburg and try both ski areas.

Have some Smoky Mountain fun in the SNOW !

Best "Shows" in The Smoky Mountains !

2008-01-09T12:57:00.000-08:00

While there's always plenty of entertainment to choose from in either the North Carolina or Tennessee side of the Great Smoky Mountains, the greatest entertainment here is the "Natural' kind... My friend and fellow cabin owner - Bob Williams has kindly shared a few of his "Top Nature Shows" in the Smoky Mountain area below. Bob is an avid hiker, biker, businessman and all around nice guy but his greatest asset is his God given gift of service to others. Check out his "natural faves"....

Best "Shows" in The Smoky Mountains ! By Bob Williams
I have some natural shows for you.
Sunsets ...There are few better places to watch a sunset than atop Mt LeConte at Myrtle Point. Can't spend a night or hike that far try Clingman's Dome.

Waterfalls... Ramsey Cascades in the Greenbrier section is my favorite. It is the highest falls in the park, but getting there is half the fun. The Greenbrier section is old growth forest and there are trees there where 5 grown adult humans can barely reach around the tree.

Wildlife, Cades Cove is great, but Cataloochee has elk and more angry bears. It is on the north east side of the park in NC. It also has a lot less people

Lakes....If you got a boat, Lake Fontana is a fantastic lake. Surrounded mostly by Federal land it is wild and scenic. There are remote trails, waterfalls and excellent fishing to boot. You can explore remote parts of the National Park and barely see another soul.

White water rafting...the Pigeon is a nice river,the Nantahala is the world's most rafted river with class 2s and 3s, but the Ocoee is perhaps the wildest ride within a few hours of Gburg.

Best swimming hole, besides Lake Fontana, I would vote for the "Sinks" on Little River in Townsend where you can jump off rock outcroppings into cool mountain water.

Best day hike with a view...this is a 4 way tie and usually you gotta pay double for that, Andrews Bald off Clingmans Dome with 180 degree views of Lake Fontana, The Nantahala and Plott Balsam Mountains, Gregory Bald over looking Cades Cove both bald hikes feature the native flame azaleas, Chimney Tops and Charlies Bunion are great rocky cliffs(Bob, are these rock cliffs slightly dangerous or what? cg). Fun for the entire family.

Best Drives - Roaring Fork motor nature trail featuring a drive along the steepest stream in the eastern US. The Blue Ridge Parkway is the Grand Dame of scenic roads in America. That's my list of natural shows.

Bob Williams
Welcome to Smoky Mountain Time!
Mountain Bear Cabins http://www.mountainbearcabins.com/
Dillsboro Chocolate Factoryhttp://www.dillsborochocolate.com/

Thanks Bob, this should keep us busy for a while.... Bob and wife Tonya own some great vacation cabins on the NC side of the Smoky Mountains around the towns of Bryson City, Dillsboro and Cherokee, they also own the Dillsboro Chocolate Factory & Espresso Bar in the quaint little town of Dillsboro, NC. (That's where the Smoky Mountain Railroad is located). They not only have killer chocolate, candy and great coffee right there in Dillsboro but you can order a beautiful gift basket of goodies right from their website and they'll ship it for ya - check out the cabins and chocolate on their websites -
Mountain Bear Cabins & Dillsboro Chocolate Factory You won't be sorry - unless you get hooked on those creamy, hand dipped - chocolate turtles - yum!!

We would love to hear from you, what are you favorite "Natural Shows" around the Smoky Mountain areas?? Send me an email at heavenlycabins@charter.net
Cheryl

Remnants of Fall in The Smokies - photo by c gilliam

Pigeon Forge Christmas Cabin 12/14-21 Special 7 Nts-$799*

2007-12-11T08:30:00.000-08:00

All the Pigeon Forge Outlet stores are open and full of bargains!! The spectacular Winterfest Light displays are shining from Sevierville to Gatlinburg... The Christmas tree is up and our Glimpse of Heaven cabin is just waiting for you!!

Due to a last minute cancellation, Glimpse of Heaven is now available from Friday 12/14 till Friday 12/21/07 for a very special rate of $799 plus tax. Why not come and do a little Christmas shopping, enjoy the lights and relax before all the chaos.. You can even bring along the family dog with approval & pet fee).

Glimpse of Heaven has two comfy king size beds, cozy fireplace and absolutely amazing views of the Great Smoky Mountains! Now with WIFI - you can keep a check on your work - if you must!! Enjoy a game of pool in the gameroom or hot chocolate by the fire..

See our full website Heavenly Cabins or you can email heavenlycabins@charter.net or call 828-310-6305 for other available specials..

Gatlinburg Christmas Parade Dec 7th

2007-11-30T15:28:00.000-08:00

December 7- Gatlinburg's 32nd Annual "Fantasy of Lights" Christmas Parade, Presented by Schwan's - This popular Christmas parade in downtown Gatlinburg, Tennessee is recognized as one of the very best by the International Festival and Events Association and as one of the Top Twenty Events in the South by the Southeast Tourism Society.

Enjoy lighted floats, marching bands, equestrian units and giant helium balloons. Parade begins at 7:30 p.m. at Traffic Light #1A and continues through downtown to Traffic Light #10. Pre-Parade "Warm Up" Chili Supper at Our Savior Lutheran Church.

Come spend the weekend, enjoy the parade, do a little Christmas shopping! Check last minute cabin specials for the parade weekend.

Have A "Toasty" Christmas in the Smoky Mountains?

2007-11-30T11:06:00.000-08:00

Christmas in the Smokies is always a magical time!! With the dazzling display of lights during the Smoky Mountain Winterfest Celebration, it's hard not to get in the spirit. You do normally expect cooler temperatures and the possibility of snow then but..... we may have much "toastier" weather for the holidays this year...

With above average temps and extremely dry conditions, fall arrived much later this year in the Smoky Mountains and mild weather has continued. This makes it hard to predict the weather for the upcoming holidays... It's even harder to explain to guests - when they are planning their holiday vacation trips to Heavenly Cabins - expecting snow ! I just tell 'em - that's in the Lord's hands so just pray for some snow !!

For snow and ski enthusiasts, there is always hope for manmade snow in the Smokies... Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort & Amusement Park is still hoping to open by mid December..

You can always pretend it's cold outsite, just take in a little ice skating at Ober's Indoor rink. You can even slide down the mountain WITHOUT snow on the Alpine Slide.

Come experience Christmas in the Smokies - whether it's toasty or chilly - it's still MAGICAL !!

The Apple Barn-Pigeon Forge TN

2007-08-21T08:52:00.000-07:00

Imagine a huge fried apple pie with a tender, buttery crust encasing sweet - cinnamon flavored apples topped with vanilla ice cream! Thirsty now? Add a large cup of fresh apple cider.. Then order a box of freshly baked apple muffins to take home. How does that sound???

My mouth is watering just thinking about these famous fried delicacies.. No need for me to even think about my low-carb diet when we get anywhere close to The Apple Barn and Cider Mill . The Apple Barn is located in Sevierville TN just a couple miles from Pigeon Forge. It sits across from the Little Pigeon River - a beautiful setting to enjoy these apple treats.. It is very hard for us to come to Pigeon Forge without stopping by the Apple Barn and we normally have to take a box of pies home to share with family and friends... Don't miss the Apple Barn, the restaurant and general store on your next trip to the Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge or Sevierville Tn area..

Glimpse of Heaven in the Smoky Mountains

2007-06-26T13:00:00.000-07:00

My fellow blogger and low carb buddy, Jimmy Moore and wife, Christine recently stayed in our Glimpse of Heaven Cabin near Pigeon Forge, TN. They had an awesome Smoky Mountain vacation. You just have to check out the fantastic review he wrote here on his blog Jimmy Moore’s Review of Glimpse of Heaven

Jimmy was there just in time to try out the new Comcast high-speed internet connection at Glimpse of Heaven cabin. We do have to stay "connected" these days and high speed makes it a little easier to stay in touch with work and emails even on a Smoky Mountain vacation..

We also recently added a brand new high-quality king sized bed and mattress with new luxury bedding to our upper-loft bedroom - what comfort ! This king bed offers views of the Smoky Mountain skies from the massive, upper windows. Can you tell that I love home decor and interior design, just can't get enough HGTV !!

We are blessed with some of the greatest cabin guests on earth, many of them even leave us gifts !! We have a collection of plush, stuffed bears in our cabin and lots of folks love adding bears to our "Stair of Bears". Jimmy & Christine kindly gave us a gorgeous plush blue bear that I nicknamed "Livin La Vida Low Carb" Bear. The beautiful stained glass, cross window was a custom design by a well known artist from our hometown of Hickory NC - John Falcone of Aquarius Stained Glass.

Here are a couple other recent guest testimonials for Heavenly Cabins

Just can't find enough words to describe our wonderful vacation at your "Heavenly Cabin", it truly is a "Glimpse of Heaven".. Let me start with the spectacular view that goes so well with the comfort of the cabin--truly a gift. We also found so many activities in the area , from the beautiful sightseeing of mountains and countryside,to adventure in the sky( helicopter ride through the Smokies), adventure in the water (whitewater rafting and tubing on the river), watching wildlife in Cades Cove( 5 Black bear at different sightings, lots of deer, wild turkey and other species), also the history in Cades Cove was very interesting. Of course I can't say enough about all the shopping and family activities between Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. All of this was so wonderful...we just can't wait to go back!! The Abate Family - Wellington, FL

Thank you for sharing your wonderful cabin, "Glimpse of Heaven". We love the peace and solitude of Wears Valley and easy access to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. The cabin is so nicely decorated and the extra amenities are really appreciated. Best of all is the breathtaking view off the deck. We love eating breakfast on the deck and watching the birds. After a day of hiking, sitting in the hot tub and watching the gorgeous sunsets is so relaxing. It just doesn't get any better than that! We have been to "Glimpse" in the spring, summer, and fall and had great vacations each time. I'm sure we'll be back. Thank you for your attention to detail. Sincerely, Jim & Chris Storck, Alliance, Oh

We have been going to the Smoky Mountains for the last four years. We have always gone through a Real Estate company to rent cabins. This is the first year we have rented from Heavenly Cabins a private owner, we were so pleased with the experience that we have already booked again for November. We arrived at the cabin and were pleasantly surprised by the interior design, cleanliness and extras. There was a large basket of candy, microwave popcorn, coffee, creamer, filters and just about all of the condiments that one would need. Beverly, Jim and Abby, Severn, Maryland

Summer Vacation Fun Pigeon Forge-Smoky Mountains

2007-06-12T15:37:00.000-07:00

What's more fun in the summer than cooling off in the water? There are tons of great choices for water fun around Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg.. There's always Dollywood's Splash Country Water Adventure Park with loads of wet and wild fun but one of the most popular is in Townsend near the Great Smoky Mountain National Park border.

The Smoky Mountain River Rat offers tubing and kayaking on the Little River in Townsend. It's only about 20 minutes from Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg and only 5-10 minutes from our Heavenly Vacation Cabin Rentals.

This is my kind of relaxing in the Smokies ;-) just choose your sturdy, colorful tube at the River Rat - walk down to the river and just float in the cool water downstream about 1 1/2 miles.. THEN, the shuttle bus picks you up and carries you back to the "put in" place and you can do it all again!! How cool is that??

Husband and wife team - Shannon and Shannan have made the River Rat a family favorite. They are open all summer - 7 days a week from 10am - 5pm.

Photo courtesy of The Smoky Mountain River Rat

Smoky Mountains Synchronous Fireflies Showtime

2007-05-31T15:14:00.000-07:00

Well, it's that time of year again, time for the awesome Smoky Mountain display of the little firefly better known as a lightning bug - if you're a country girl from the South. The peak flashing period will be from June 8-16, 2007

As I prepared to write this post, I found some truly interesting facts about fireflies/lightning bugs and this mating ritual. The wonders of God's marvelous creation never ceases to amaze me. Flashing Lightning Bugs are trying to attract mates. Among most but not all species of North American Lightning Bugs, males fly about flashing while females perch on vegetation, usually near the ground. If the female sees a flasher and she's ready to mate she responds by flashing right after the male's last flash. A short flash dialogue takes place as the male flies closer and closer, and then, if all goes well, they mate.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park officials announced the transportation schedule for visitors during the mating period of the synchronous firefly beetles at Elkmont. The City of Gatlinburg trolley service will once again operate transportation between the Sugarlands Visitor Center and the Little River Trailhead at Elkmont. The trolleys will start at 6 p.m. picking up visitors from the Sugarlands Visitor Center parking area. The trolleys will continually run until the Sugarlands Visitor Center parking area is full or until 9 p.m., whichever comes first. The last trolley to transport visitors from Elkmont to the Sugarlands Visitor Center is scheduled at 11 p.m. The cost will be $1 round trip per person.

The Gatlinburg trolley service will be the sole transportation mode for visitor access during this period; no private vehicles will be allowed. In order to accommodate the public transportation, starting at 5:30 p.m. each night June 8-16, the Elkmont entrance will be closed except to registered campers staying at Elkmont.

The annual appearance of the synchronous firefly beetles in the Park has become so popular that Park officials began managing the number of visitors to the trailhead. This area has very limited parking spaces that were designed to accommodate day use for several trails.

Deep in the Great Smoky Mountains in a deserted Tennessee logging community known as Elkmont, male fireflies hover along mountainsides and open fields. At dusk, you notice a light blinking here and there. Then as more fireflies join in, their lights blink together in unison. By 10 p.m., whole glades and hillsides flash like massive strings of Christmas lights blinking in unison.

“It’s very magical; it’s unbelievable when you see it,” said Wanda DeWaard, a Tennessee field researcher and educator who leads hikes into the Elkmont area during the brief spring mating season of synchronous fireflies.

Why not plan a trip to see this Smoky Mountain magical miracle. Find a cozy cabin for your Tennessee vacation Guide to the Best"By-Owner"Vacation Rentals-Smoky Mtns of Tenn & NC

Firefly info courtesy - Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Pigeon Forge-Comedy Barn's Ugly Dog Winner?

2007-04-24T17:54:00.000-07:00

I recently posted about dog lover, trainer and Pigeon Forge Comedy Barn star Dawn(Elberson)Goehring and her 9 - oops, make that 11 precious dogs. My prior blog post did state that Dawn had 9 dogs - well that's how many she currently has in the Comedy Barn show but she does have 2 others and a pot bellied pig "in training". This story, however is only about one very special member of the Comedy Canines - her name is Ellie or Miss Ellie. She is on a quest to become the Winner of the 2007 World's Ugliest Dog Contest in Sonoma-Marin Fair in Petaluma CA.

Please click the link below, go to the website and VOTE for Ellie - scroll to bottom of the page to find Ellie, then click - add your email and send your vote... Please forward this to all your friends - we need to get an Ugliest Dog Campaign going here to beat out last years winner and help Dawn and the Comedy Barn in Pigeon Forge have a Tennessee WINNER in 2007 !! http://www.yourfair.org/uglydogvote07.shtml

Ellie is a 10 year old rescued Chinese crested hairless. After Dawn adopted another hairless, she was asked by the owner to keep an eye out for a home for Ellie. Dawn-being a "pushover" for all dogs decided to take her and see if she could find a home. That was four years ago and the rest is history! She likes to gum the other dog's hind legs-yes "gum" because she has no teeth in the front of her mouth. That is why her tongue hangs out.

Dawn says - "This dog is the "other woman" to my husband. He fell in love with her before he fell in love with me! She was even at our wedding!" How can we let Ellie and Dawn down - GO VOTE http://www.yourfair.org/uglydogvote07.shtml At last count, Ellie had 214 votes but Pee Wee Martini had 906 to lead the pack for now - Please ask everyone on your email list to VOTE - Thanks from Ellie and me!

Geocaching in the Smoky Mountains

2007-04-23T16:53:00.000-07:00

Geo-what? Geocaching - pronounced geo-cashing and no, it doesn't have a thing to do with money or a compact car..... Geocaching is a modern day - techno treasure hunting game where you use a GPS(global positioning system-for those of us who are electronically-challenged;-) to hide and seek containers with others. The Great Smoky Mountains provide a great place for this new hobby.

Geocaching is an activity that has appeal for a diverse group of people… individuals and families, young and old, athletic and physically challenged, technological buffs and nature lovers…people from all walks of life. The activity can be done almost anywhere in the world, and requires a relatively small initial investment. There's even a Great Smoky Mountains Geocaching Club . I can't wait to check it out but since I don't have a GPS-I'll need to tag along with one of the real geocache-sters !! Anyone up for teaching a newbie cacher?

The Geocaching sport has grown to caches in all 50 states and over 100 countries. There are many variations of the game, including virtual caches, offset caches, puzzle caches, and multi-stage caches. Blount County- TN is full of a variety of these caches that will delight all that participate in this fast growing sport. There are numerous hidden caches around Townsend, the Smokies and Cades Cove.

So visit the Geocaching.com site for a full listing of all the caches in the Townsend and Blount County area and explore areas that few visitors will ever see. If any of you "geocachers" from the Smokies would like to share your favorite Smoky Mountain cache story - please email me at heavenlycabins@charter.net I would love to hear from you.

Photo by Cheryl Gilliam

Townsend TN Spring Festival 4/27-5/5/07

2007-04-23T15:52:00.000-07:00

Townsend TN is one of my favorite destinations in the Great Smoky Mountains especially in the spring... The quiet, laid back setting of Townsend is the reason it's been nicknamed the "The Peaceful Side of the Smokies". Come see the Smoky Mountain beauty unfold as hints of green and flower blossoms appear.

The 15th Annual Townsend in the Smokies Spring Festival & Old Timers Day offers a wonderful sampling of fun, food, crafts and history. Come, enjoy the festival and stay in a beautiful cabin rental just a few miles from peaceful Townsend in the Smokies.

On the Weekends of the Townsend Spring Festival:
Bluegrass Music and Jammin'
Appalachian Demonstrations and Exhibits
Antique Engine and Tractor Show, April 28
Antique Cars, May 4-5
Arts and Crafts Booths -Food Booths,Bar-B-Que May 4-5
Wildflower Walks and Hikes
Arts and Crafts Demonstrations in Exhibit Room
April 27-28
Basketry: Karen Kenst and Bonny Kate Sugg
Woodcarving: Lendel Abbott
Quilting: Ila Mae Morton and Maetta Conrad
Rug Hooking: Carol McBride

Arts and Crafts Demonstrations in Exhibit Room April 29
Woodcarving: Lendel Abbot

Arts and Crafts Demonstrations in Exhibit Room May 4-5
Charcoal and Pencil Artist: Andy England
Basketry: Bonny Kate Sugg -Woodcarving: Lendel Abbott
Quilting: Ila Mae Morton, Maetta Conrad
Rug Hooking: Carol McBride

Featured Authors and Book-Signing April 27-28
Missy Tipton and Paulette Ledbetter

Featured Authors and Book-Signing May 4
Doris Gove

Featured Authors and Book-Signing May 5
Charles Maynard

Appalachian Demonstrations April 27 and/or 28
Mountain Berry Basket Making and Poetry: Bill Alexander
Lye Soap Making: Sallie Swor - Heirloom Spinning: Esther Gray
Blacksmithing: Clayton Sharp - Bee Hive Observation: Tess Arnold
Cornmeal Making: Ronald Fowler
29th Tennessee Regiment Civil War Re-Enactment April 28
Moonshine Still and "Rivin" Shakes: Bill Leistner

Appalachian Demonstrations May 4-5
Chair Caning: Lois Parker - Heirloom Spinning: Esther Gray

Storytelling April 28
Dwight McCarter, Master of Ceremonies.
David "Buffalo Bill" and Jean Nelson, Lendel Abbott

Other Activities
Clogging Lessons April 27: Jack and Doris Patton
Knoxville “ZooMobile” April 28, 11am—1pm: Steve McGaffin
Old Fashioned Kids' Games April 28: Stacy Robinson
Spelling Bee May 5: Robin Goddard
Dowsing Demonstrations April 29, April 30, May 1, May 3: Charlie & Sandy Monday
Cades Cove Preservation Association Exhibit: both weekendsr
Cake Walk and Bake Sale May 4-5: Hearts and Hands Scholarship Fund

Wildflower Walks and Nature Hikes Friday, April 27:
9:00am—11:00am: Chestnut Top Wildflower Walk with Dwight McCarter.
Meet at the Visitor Center
1:00pm—5:00pm: White Oak Sinks Hike with Liz Domingue.
Meet at the Visitor Center
2:00pm: Hedgewood Gardens Walk with Hope Woodard.
Meet at the Visitor Center
Sunday, April 29:
1:00pm—5:00pm: Cucumber Gap/Little River Trail with Wanda DeWaard.
Meet at the Little River trailhead, above Elkmont
2:00pm: Hedgewood Gardens Walk with Hope Woodard.
Meet at the Visitor Center
Monday, April 30—Thursday, May 3:
2:00pm: Hedgewood Gardens Walk with Hope Woodard.
Meet at the Visitor Center
Friday, May 4:
10:00am—12 noon: Chestnut Top Wildflower Walk with Wanda DeWaard.
Meet at the Townsend Y
Saturday, May 5:
10:00am—12 noon: Tremont Area Wildflower Walk with Liz Domingue.
Meet at the Townsend Y
Need more info call Townsend Visitor Center 865-448-6134
Smoky Mountain Visitors Bureau