Smoky Mountain Travel Guide
Welcome! Located in Townsend, TN, Tuckaleechee Retreat Center sits at approximately 1400 ft elevation. Situated on the side of Little Mountain in Dry Valley, it provides beautiful views and peaceful surroundings.
While the opportunities for fun and adventure in the Smoky Mountains of Eastern Tennessee are ENDLESS, we have gathered our favorites in this book to help you plan your amazing getaway.
For additional ideas and attractions, use your web browser to search for “Things to do in Townsend, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Sevierville, Maryville, or Knoxville.”
While we update the guidebook regularly, all prices, coupons, and info in this book are subject to change.
Tuckaleechee Retreat Center is…
50 minutes from Knoxville, TN
30 minutes from Maryville, TN
35 minutes from Pigeon Forge, TN
50 minutes from Gatlinburg, TN
45 minutes from Sevierville, TN
1.5 hours from Cherokee, NC
2 hours from Chattanooga, TN
3 hours from Nashville, TN
Nearest Airports
McGhee Tyson Airport, Knoxville, TN
30 minutes from TRC
Tri-Cities Airport, Blountville, TN
2 hours from TRC
Asheville Regional Airport, Asheville, NC
2.5 hours from TRC
Nashville International Airport, Nashville, TN
3 hours from TRC
TUCKALEECHEE RETREAT CENTER
Tuckaleechee Retreat Center
Seasons &
SPRING
Considered by some to be the most exciting time of the year, springtime offers the opportunity to experience the Townsend region at its finest. Wildflowers such as Mountain Phlox, Dwarf Irises, Trilliums, Daffodils, and Pink Lady Slippers form a blanket of color on the hillsides. Toward the end of the season, the Dogwoods, Redbuds, and Azaleas are in bloom. A walk through the woods reveals young wood ducks, turkeys, ruffed grouse, rabbits, and if you are lucky, a glimpse of bear cubs playing on the hillside. The climate is cool and comfortable with the average daily temperature ranging from 41°F to 69°F.
SUMMER
AUTUMN
WINTER
The climate is pleasant with temperatures usually around a low of 62°F & a high of 85°F. July is the warmest month of the year. An abundance of wildlife can be seen in the Townsend region at this time including rabbits, squirrels, raccoons, creek otters, red foxes, and turkeys. The best time to see deer is early in the morning or at dusk. Occasionally, you will see a bear; however, they are generally a nocturnal animal. Over 100 species of birds reside in the Townsend region including red-tailed hawks, yellow finches, red-headed woodpeckers, indigo buntings, and a variety of owls.
When Autumn arrives, the Townsend region is transformed into a glorious display of brilliant color. The colorful mountains are truly a spectacle to behold. A walk through the woods is especially enjoyable at this time as the average daily temperature is 44°F to 69°F. In Autumn, the woods abound with wildlife as all the animals are preparing for the winter. Fall flowers are in full bloom and the air is clear and dry. The cool evenings are perfect for gathering around the campfire for s’mores and songs.
Winters are mild in Townsend. Very often, snow falls only in the higher elevations. Approximately 12 inches of snow falls annually; however, this usually comes in amounts of less than 4 inches at one time. The coldest weather occurs in the month of January. The average low is 25°F and average high is 46°F. A breathtaking sight is the mountains covered with snow. Visit Dollywood, where 5 million Christmas lights sparkle in the night sky. Whether trail hiking in the crisp air, skiing at Ober Gatlinburg, or curled up next to a warm fire, winter in the Townsend area is truly an enjoyable experience.
Experience Local Culture
Rocky Branch Mountain Music
One of the best-kept secrets in the Smoky Mountains, you won’t want to miss this lively Friday night bluegrass jam session. Open to the public and by donation only, come experience mountain music by the locals. 6PM EVERY FRIDAY NIGHT!
For location address and more info: rockybranchmountainmusic.com/Home
Dark Island Swinging Bridge
As a rare and historical spot in Townsend, you can enjoy the Little River from the Dark Island Swinging Bridge. This bridge, treasured by local residents, is free and open to the public. For location and more info: smokymountains.org/a-stop-for-the-brave-of-heart-dark-islandswinging-bridge/
Important Info
If your cabin does not have a washer/dryer, the Townsend Laundromat is located 10 minutes away at 8025 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, 37882.
865.336.2074
Please note that some restaurants & stores in Townsend are open seasonally. Please call to confirm their hours before making final plans.
To give you a true experience of the Smoky Mountain area, the stores and restaurants listed in this travel guide are not franchises. However, should you need access to chain stores or restaurants (including, but not limited to, Target, Hobby Lobby, Walmart, Best Buy, Sonic, McDonalds, etc.), you can find these business in Maryville (30 minutes away) and Knoxville (50 minutes away).
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park boasts over a half million acres of protected land. The park is home to a wide variety of plants and animals, including black bears, deer, turkeys, foxes, and thirty species of salamanders. Because the land was originally home to Appalachian communities, the park has several historic sites with original buildings for visitors to view.
Experience one of the Park’s most popular sights, Cades Cove Loop Road-an 11 mile scenic drive with opportunities to view wildlife in its natural habitat. Whether you enjoy birding, wildflower hunting, outdoor photography, hiking, enjoying a mountain overlook, or sitting beside a waterfall, the GSMNP will be sure to delight!
Parking passes are required if parking in the boundaries of the park for more than 15 minutes. There is no cost if you are simply driving through the park.
Look Rock Hike
Hiking Trails
Clingmans Dome Hike
A short, but steep trail takes you to the highest point in Tennessee and the highest point along the Appalachian Trail. Open April through November, this hike allows you to view 20-100 miles in every direction, from the observation tower at the top of the trail.
For an easy 1/2 mile hike, visit Look Rock along the Foothills Parkway. The trail ends at an observation tower, providing views up to 40 miles across the Smokies on a clear day. This trail is open year-round.
Little Mountain Summit Hike
This hike is right on TRC’s property! Using the TRC map (provided at check-in), continue up our driveway for 4 more switchbacks: past Elk Lodge, Hemlock Haven, our maintenance shop, and Bear Lodge. The hike begins where the pavement turns into a clay road, which continues for 9 more switchbacks to the top of our mountain, where stunning views await.
Hiking Trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
For a full list of other great hiking trails in the Smoky Mountains including difficulty ratings, length, location, and altitude, please visit:
www.hikinginthesmokys.com/alphabetic.htm
Hiking Checklist
It’s always good to be prepared for your hike in the Smokies!! Here is our recommended checklist for a safe and enjoyable hike: www.hikinginthesmokys.com/hiking-checklist/
Bears in the Smoky Mountains
Whether you see a black bear at Tuckaleechee Retreat Center or on a hike in the National Park, it is good to be prepared with bear knowledge. While black bears are generally harmless and often move away when they hear humans, they are unpredictable, wild creatures that can be dangerous. Here are a few do’s and don’ts to protect yourself and also keep these beautiful creatures safe. Please note that willfully approaching a bear in the National Park within 50 yards is illegal.
¨ You can often safely observe a bear from a distance, but if the bear approaches you, slowly back away and find a safe place, preferably in a building or in your car.
¨ Do not, under any circumstance, leave food or garbage sitting outside. Always place in a dumpster or trash can.
¨ Do not leave little ones unattended outside.
¨ Do not feed the bears any kind of food, even if they approach you.
¨ Do not leave food or drinks in your car.
¨ Do lock your car doors.
¨ Do lock your cabin doors and windows, especially when you are away from the cabin.
¨ For more info: www.nps.gov/grsm/learn/nature/black-bears.htm
Fishing
National Park and Cades Cove
To fish in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you need a valid Tennessee or North Carolina fishing license. Licenses are NOT available in the Park, but can be obtained from sources in the towns adjacent to the Park. Non-resident 3-day permits can be purchased in adjacent towns’ outfitters, City Hall, Chamber of Commerce, and online.
Fishing is permitted year round in the National Park from one-half hour before sunrise until one-half hour after sunset. Know your fish before you go—the possession of speckled brook trout is prohibited. A combination of five rainbow and brown trout per day (minimum 7 inches) is the limit. Only artificial lures and flies may be used, and only one hand-held rod is permitted. Some streams are closed to fishing to protect and study the threatened brook trout. Stop by a ranger station to obtain maps and get answers to questions. For more info and pricing for fishing licenses visit:
Fishing for Kids in Gatlinburg
The most well-known children’s section is located by Herbert Holt Park on the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River. Fishing is closed on Thursdays when they restock with trout. Children 13 and under do not need a fishing license. Dudley Creek from Hwy 441 to the West Prong and LeConte Creek, from the National Park boundary to Painters Branch are the other two reserved children’s areas. These areas are easy access and have plenty of trout for kids to catch. During the Catch and Keep season it is legal to use bait while fishing these waters. To get started, go to The Smoky Mountain Angler (865.436.8746 or www.smokymountainangler.com) in Gatlinburg and they will get you everything you need.
Douglas Lake
www.douglaslake.info/Fishing/
Best Fishing Spots
Greenbriar
www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/offbeatenpath.htm
Little River in Townsend
www.insidetownsend.com/townsend-attractions/ brown-trout-fishing-on-the-little-river/
Roaring Fork
www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/roaringfork.htm
The Little Pigeon River
//traveltips.usatoday.com/fishing-permitted-little-pigeonriver-pigeon-forge-tennessee-107900.html
The West Prong of the Little Pigeon River
perfectflystore.com/your-streams/fly-fishing-west-pronglittle-pigeon-river-river-tennessee-gsmnp/
Fly Fishing
Little River Outfitter & Fly Fishing (fly fishing classes)
littleriveroutfitters.com
865.448.9459
Townsend
R and R Fly Fishing (fly fishing tours)
randrflyfishing.com
865.448.0467
Townsend
More Smoky Mountain Fishing Info
www.pigeonforgechamber.com/fishing-in-the-great-smoky-mountains/
www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/fishing.htm
Scenic
Cades Cove Loop Road — 11 miles
The Cove is best seen via Cades Cove Loop Road, which is a one way paved lane that skirts the bottoms of the forested mountains which surround the fields of the valley floor. The Loop Road takes vacationers on a historical tour of early pioneer farms, fields, roads and trails, leaving the Smokies’ visitor with the feeling that they have witnessed something wonderful and wholesome. Cades Cove Loop is open to auto, bicy day of the year from sunup to sundown with a few exceptions. All day Wednesday during the summer months, the Loop Road is reserved for bicycles and hikers.
Foothills Parkway — 44 miles
Approved by Congress in 1944, the Foothills Parkway, located in the mountainous foothills of the Tennessee Valley, mostly travels below and parallel to the Great Smoky Mountains. The Parkway route allows for RVs and trailers as well. This scenic mountain drive is an experience you’ll want to make time for. The Foothills Parkway provides some beautiful views of the Smokies – especially in the fall color season.
If you can’t get enough the Great Smoky Mountains’ scenic drives or you just want to view them from another perspective at a much lower altitude, then you’re going to love the Foothills Parkway. The views from these lower mountain ridges are spectacular. The Foothills Parkway takes visitors above the treetops and foothills from the valley below, offering incredible mountain vistas across the entire face of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
FOOTHILLS PARKWAY WEST: This 17-mile long section of the Parkway travels along the backbone of the Chilhowee Mountain between Chilhowee Lake and the town of Townsend in Blount County.
FOOTHILLS PARKWAY EAST: This 5.5 mile section of the Parkway is in Cocke County cradled just below the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You can pick up the Foothills Parkway East near the town of Cosby in Cocke County.
FOOTHILLS PARKWAY SPUR: This approximately 5-mile section of the Parkway is the most traveled amongst the 4 sections of the Foothills Parkway. Located in Sevier County, this section connects the towns of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. This spur travels between ridge tops rather than over them as compared to the other sections of the Parkway that use only ridge tops.
CENTRAL FOOTHILLS PARKWAY: The “Missing Link” of the Foothills Parkway opened on November 10, 2018. The 16 miles of the “Missing Link” section as it was referred to, provides stunning views of Wears Valley, Townsend, Walland, and the surrounding area. This section from Wears Valley, TN to Walland, TN connects to the existing 17-mile Foothills Parkway West.
Cherohala Skyway — 43 miles
This National Scenic Byway is aptly named as it crosses through the Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests. With elevations as high as 5,400 feet, you will look down on the clouds and the Tellico River where Cherokee tribes and early pioneers travelled and settled in these majestic mountains. Motorcyclists especially enjoy this Skyway for its long-sweeping corners. Experience mile-high vistas and the 100 ft Bald River Falls along your drive. Hiking trails and picnic spots make this drive the perfect spot to experience the southern Appalachian National Forest.
East Tennessee Crossing — 83 miles
East Tennessee Crossing (Hwy 25E) stretches for 83 miles in Tennessee from the Cumberland Gap, heading southeast to the Cherokee National Forest. This road has lots of fascinating history as well as beautiful scenery. It has been known by several names, including the Cherokee Warriors’ Path for the bison & Native American tribes who called the territory home, the Wilderness Road for the settlers moving west, and the Thunder Road for the moonshiners during the prohibition in the 1920s.
Tail of the Dragon — 11 miles
Crossing Deals Gap at the Tennessee/North Carolina state line is the Tail of the Dragon. It is considered by many as one of the world’s foremost motorcycling and sports car roads. Anyone looking for an exciting highway will enjoy this 11-mile stretch of US 129. It is not a road for the squeamish, but if you’re looking for a lot of excitement, don’t miss this one. Beware …. it is not a road to sightsee on. The attraction is the road itself, not the scenery. No need to look at the wooded roadside when the curves are coming at rapid fire. There are 318 curves in this 11 mile drive.
To some, the Dragon begins on the North Carolina side at Fugitive Bridge with a view of the Cheoah Dam where Harrison Ford jumped from in the movie The Fugitive. The dam and old single lane bridge were also in the 1974 movie Two Lane Blacktop. The Dragon ends 14 miles across the mountain in Tennessee at the Tabcat Creek Bridge. US 129 climbs through The Slide, a steep series of “S” curves where one would not want to meet a tractor-trailer. The road then levels and slightly straightens until a series of curves approaching the intersection of Moonshiner 28, another great road in itself.
Take a break and stop at the Tail of the Dragon store. Look for the Big Dragon Tail at the intersection of US 129 and NC 28. Next comes Deals Gap and the Tennessee State Line where the real action begins. This is a very special and unique highway. There are no intersecting roads, no houses with driveways and no businesses. Each and every curve is different. There is very little elevation change. And many of the curves are banked like a race track. Many remember curve after curve after curve and surviving the run of their lives with a hoot and a big smile on their face.
Picnic Areas
Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Pavilion
107 Park Headquarters Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
865.436.1261
Tucked in the mountains under a canopy of cool shade, this picnic pavilion creates a peaceful and secluded environment for visitors, offering the best of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Amenities:
· Accessible Flush Toilets
· Accessible Picnic Shelters
· Birding, Fishing, and Hiking
· Drinking Water
· Charcoal Grills
· Parking Area
Located right along the river, at 1,700 feet elevation, Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Pavilion provides a moderate climate, characterized by mild winters and hot, humid summers.
Facilities:
Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Pavilion can accommodate up to 70 guests and offers a covered eating area and multiple grills, making it an ideal location for a party or family get-together. For guaranteed use of the pavilion, it may be reserved for a morning or evening block, so visitors who wish to use the area for a full day should reserve both time slots. There are also 122 individual picnic spots, available on a first-come, firstserved basis.
Know Before You Go:
· Bear Habitat!! When not in use, all food and items used to store or prepare food, including coolers, MUST be stored inside of your vehicle. Dispose of garbage promptly in bear-proof dumpsters. This rule is strictly enforced at all times!
· Decorations are allowed, provided they do not damage the structure (i.e. no staples) and are cleaned up on departure. Directional signs leading to the site are prohibited.
· Commercial activity (i.e. sales) is prohibited. Use of the pavilion for weddings and wedding receptions requires a Special Use Permit. Call 865-436-1261 for permit information.
· Keep your confirmation notice with you in the event of a conflict with a nonreservation party.
· Potable water is available at restrooms but not at the pavilion.
· Alcohol is allowed at designated picnic areas.
· There are BBQ grills for charcoal fires. Wood fires are not allowed.
· A Tennessee or North Carolina fishing license is required to fish in the park. Special regulations apply. See fishing page for more info.
· Pets are permitted but cannot be left unattended. All pets must be kept on a leash at all times. Pets are not allowed on trails.
· For park information and more picnic areas call 865-436-1200 or visit www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/picnic.htm
Handicapped Accessible Picnic Spot in Townsend
Most of the picnic areas around the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are not handicapped accessible. They feature standard picnic tables, which can be very difficult to access for someone who is differently abled. Most of the picnic areas are also located down small dirt or gravel paths. These hard to maneuver trails can make getting to the picnic areas difficult as well. There is one place where this is not the case - Special People’s Park in Townsend.
Overlooking the Little River in Townsend, this handicapped accessible picnic area is right along the main road in Townsend, and is well worth visiting if you have someone in your group that requires a little assistance to enjoy the family picnic. If you are coming to Townsend from Wears Valley, you will take a right when you get to the junction of Wears Valley Road and Hwy 321. Follow Lamar Alexander Parkway through town. When you see The Dancing Bean/ Apple Valley Café on your left, begin to look on the right-hand side of the road for the small blue signs showing where the handicapped accessible picnic area is located.
These handicapped accessible picnic tables are right beside the water. If the kids want to go splash in the cool mountain water of the Little River, it is right there. If someone wants to fish in one of the best brown trout fishing rivers in the area, it is right there. These picnic areas have all of the amenities of any of the other picnic areas in the park with one beautiful exception; they are designed with the handicapped individual in mind. This is yet another reason why Townsend is the Peaceful Side of the Smokies. Making sure that everyone in your party can enjoy the activities is always on the mind of the people on this side of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
More Picnic Ideas
Chimney Tops — 68 picnic spots along the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River. Includes a short 0.8 hike, charcoal grills, and restrooms.
Cades Cove — Open year round with 81 picnic spots. Tables, charcoal grills, and sits along a creek.
Greenbrier — Open year round with 12 picnic spots. Adjacent to an easy hike on Porter’s Creek Trail.
Look Rock 51 picnic tables placed along the ridge of the Foothills Parkway. Restrooms are available.
Coffee & Sweets
Groceries
865.366.7261
You can have groceries delivered to your cabin!
Smoky Mountain grocery offers a unique online delivery option for you while you are staying at Tuckaleechee Retreat Center. Grocery delivery is a great way to enjoy your vacation.
What could be better than having someone shop for you?
Delivery Cost is $49.99 Sunday/Holiday delivery for $59.99, if available.
(Prices subject to change.)
Customer Service is open Monday through Saturday 8am to 7pm
Deliveries are made Monday through Saturday 8am to 6pm
To Order Groceries:
Order at least 24 hours ahead, but even sooner to get the best options.
Order form link:
smokymountaingrocery.com/grocery-ordering-form-1
Grocery store options are:
Walmart Super Center 1414 Parkway OR Kroger 220 Wears Valley Rd **RECOMMENDED**
Select a pickup time between 8 am - noon on the day of delivery.
Publix Pigeon
Forge 7am-10pm
2656 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Grocery shopping at its finest!! Lots of selection and fantastic brands. If you are coming from the north or the east, you will pass close by on your way to Townsend. $$$
Kroger Pigeon Forge 7am-11pm
220 Wears Valley Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Great selection and brands!! If you are traveling from the north or east, you will pass close by on your way to Townsend. $$
Walmart Pigeon Forge 6am-11pm
1414 Parkway, Sevierville, TN 37862
This is the perfect option if you need to do late night shopping on your arrival trip. If you are traveling from the north, you will pass by this Walmart on your way to Townsend. $$
IGA
Townsend (Hours Vary by Season)
7945 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN 37882
Perfect for those last minute items that you forgot to get with your big shopping trip. Only 5 minutes from Tuckaleechee Retreat Center. $$$
Dollar General Townsend 8am-10pm
7925 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN 37882
Features a Redbox! Only 5 minutes from Tuckaleechee Retreat Center. $
Food Lion Maryville 7am-11pm
1707 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Maryville, TN 37804
Good selection and brands!! If you are traveling from the south, west, or northwest you will drive right past this store on your way to Townsend. $
Kroger Maryville 6am-11pm
507 N Foothills Plaza Dr, Maryville, TN 37801
Great selection and brands!! If you are traveling from the south, west, or northwest, you will pass through Maryville on your way to Townsend. $$
Walmart Alcoa 6am-11pm
1030 Hunters Xing, Alcoa, TN 37701
While the Maryville area boasts two Walmarts, this one is our favorite. If you are traveling from the south, west, or northwest, you will pass through Maryville on your way to Townsend. $$
Sam’s Club Knoxville Mon-Sat 10am-8pm; Sun 10am-6pm
8435 Walbrook Dr, Knoxville, TN 37923
Ideal for bulk buying for a large group! If you are traveling from the south, west, or northwest, you will pass through Knoxville on your way to Townsend. $$
Mountain Nail & Spa
865.738.3446
Townsend - Just minutes from TRC!
Unforgettable View Spa
865-471-8439
Wears Valley
Enjoy the luxury of an in-cabin massage or in-spa massage overlooking the Smoky Mountains through our partners at Unforgettable View Spa. Minimum notice may be required. Call today to book your massage: 865.471.8439 OR book online: unforgettableview.com/massage/
Swedish Massage
Known the world over for relaxation techniques that incorporate long, slow strokes, kneading, and friction to improve circulation, reduce stress and fatigue, alleviate stiffness and promote better sleep.
Couples Massage
Relax as you enjoy the massage of your choice side-by-side.
Other Services
Add any of these services to your massage for a completely wonderful experience.
· Aromatherapy
· Sugar Foot Scrub
· Deep Tissue Massage
· Gazebo Upgrade
Massage and Spa
Pigeon Forge Attractions
For current discounts and combo tickets for Pigeon Forge Attractions visit www.pigeonforgetnguide.com/coupons/attractions/
Pigeon Forge Dinner Shows
For current discounts and combo tickets for Pigeon Forge Dinner Shows visit www.pigeonforgetnguide.com/coupons/
Pigeon Forge Restaurants
For current coupons for Pigeon Forge Restaurants visit: www.pigeonforgetnguide.com/coupons/restaurant-coupons/
Titanic Museum
Discounts offered for large groups and church groups.
Discount info is under the tickets tab:
www.titanicpigeonforge.com
Gatlinburg Space Needle
Family Packages available to enjoy the Gatlinburg Space Needle:
www,gatlinburgspaceneedle.com/products/specials-packages/
Best Read Guide
The Best Read Guide provides an array of discounts and coupons for attractions and eateries in the Smoky Mountains.
www.smokymountainsbrochures.com/best-read-guide-online-coupon-book/
Smoky Mountain Navigator
Check out the Navigator digital coupon book for a wide variety of coupons and discounts for the Smoky Mountain area.
www.smokymountainnavigator.com/download-a-digital-copy/
