The Smoky Mountains are a range of mountains located along the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, in the southeastern region of the United States. The mountain range derived its name “Smoky” from the natural fog that is seen most often after a rainstorm or in the early morning hours. The smoky plumes develop as the humid, warm air from the Gulf of Mexico rapidly cools in the higher elevations of the Great Smoky Mountains. Over the years, many photographers and painters have enjoyed capturing the special beauty of this mountain range. Here is everything you need to know about hiking in the Smoky Mountains: Read More
Looking for a reason to visit the Smoky Mountains? After an exciting day of rafting in the Smokies, come relax to the music and folklore of Appalachia at the 6th Annual Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales Festival. Read More
Who says technology is only for indoors? These five gadgets would be great for the techie in your life while white water rafting on the beautiful rapids of the Great Smoky Mountains. Read More
The annual River Raft Regatta is one of the most highly anticipated Gatlinburg events held each year. This race begins at the River Terrace Bridge across the Little Pigeon River and ends downtown at the Gatlinburg Aquarium. This race allows the true character and imagination of local residents really shine through, as nearly any floatable raft can be entered in this race. Read More
The streets of downtown Gatlinburg, Tennessee will ignite with vibrant colors at the “Stand Here” Fireworks Finale at 10pm on the 4th of July. Gatlinburg has been home to the nation’s first 4th of July parade every year for the past 37 years. This spectacular event kicks off the annual Independence Day celebration that ends with an enormous fireworks display. Read More
Rafting and hiking in the Smokies with the family is a special way to make memories that will last long after you have returned home. What better way to end the day than with this classic family treat: s’mores? These five twists will be sure to satisfy after an exciting day exploring the Smokies. Read More
“Like a mountain in springtime.” Singer John Denver had it right. The Smoky Mountains, in particular, are beautiful in bloom. The online site GORP, Great Outdoor Recreation Pages, named Great Smoky Mountains National Park one of its Top 10 Parks for Spring because of its 1,500 flowering plants, most of them at their loveliest. Read More
The Smoky Mountain Outdoors is the perfect place to relax and get away from the stresses of your regular life. Whether you travel with a large group of friends or set off on a family vacation you can have fun at the 12-acre camping outpost with riverside sites. Make sure that you pack the right items for your journey to keep everyone safe and happy. Read More
You’ve wanted to hike in the Smokies for a long time, and now it’s finally going to happen. With over 80 different hiking trails, you may be wondering how to pick the best trails for your trip. Some trails, like the Toms Branch Falls trail, have gorgeous scenery but are not sufficiently lengthy or challenging for an experienced hiker. Others, like the Hemphill Bald Loop, involve rigorous climbing and all-day hiking.
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