VISITING THE SMOKIES SUMMER
EDITION - 2021
Douglas Reservoir offers a bounty of activities Cades Cove remains an East Tennessee staple Dollywood Announces New Resort Property Smoky Mountain Trail Map Hot Springs Trail Map
FREE
Adventure Distilling Company brings moonshine back to Cosby
2 Visiting The Smokies Summer 2021
EXPLORE THOSE BEAUTIFUL BEAN BEGINNINGS Come discover the place where the Bush’s® story started. Housed in the original A.J. Bush & Company general store in Chestnut Hill, Tennessee, The Bush’s® Visitor Center is filled with fun, family and, of course, all things beans.
VISIT BUSHBEANS.COM/VISITORCENTER TO PLAN YOUR VISIT.
Come discoverMUSEUM the place where the Bush’s® story started. | CAFE | GENERAL STORE 3901 U.S. Hwy. 411, | 865.509.3077 Housed in the orginal A.J.Dandridge, Bush &TNCompany general store in Chestnut Hill, Tennessee, The Bush’s® Visitor Center is filled with fun, family and, of course, all things beans. Come discover the place where the Bush’s® story started. Housed in the original VISIT& BUSHBEANS.COM/VISITORCENTER TO PLAN YOUR VISIT. A.J. Bush Company general store in Chestnut Hill, Tennessee, The Bush’s® Visitor Center is filled with fun, family and, of course, all things beans.
FREE
Museum | Cafe | General Store
VISIT BUSHBEANS.COM/VISITORCENTER TO PLAN YOUR VISIT.
ADMISSION
MUSEUM | CAFE | GENERAL STORE Hwy. 411, Dandridge, Dandridge, TNTN | 865.509.3077 39013901 U.S.U.S. Hwy. 411, | 865.509.3077
Visiting The Smokies Summer 2021
VISITING THE SMOKIES Visiting The Smokies is published by The Newport Plain Talk 145 East Broadway | Newport, TN 37821 423-623-6171
MANAGEMENT Duane Uhls Publisher & Editor Matt Winter Assistant Editor
CONTRIBUTORS Eric Rhodes Writer Shelby Harris Writer
ADVERTISING Sharon Bryant Marketing Consultant Vickie Mason Marketing Consultant Janie Holt Marketing Consultant Donna Norris Marketing Consultant Penny Webb Marketing Consultant Abby Swearingen Marketing Consultant Angie Campise Creative Services/ Production Janene Bradley Creative Services
Copyright: 2021 Visiting The Smokies, The Newport Plain Talk. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the newspaper management. Reproduction of advertising and design work is strictly prohibited due to the use of licensed art services and agency agreement.
Features Inside
Reservoir 4 Douglas offers a bounty of activities Cove remains an East 6 Cades Tennessee staple Don’t leave without visiting Great 9 Smoky Mountains National Park Announces New 11 Dollywood Resort Property
14 Smoky Mountain Trail Map 16 Hot Springs Trail Map How to hike safely in the 21 Smokies items on display at 25 Handmade annual Craftsmen’s Fair Adventure Distilling Company 27 brings moonshine back to Cosby golf courses attract 30 Area thousands each year Forge has been a vacation 34 Pigeon destination for 60 years
3
4 Visiting The Smokies Summer 2021
Douglas Reservoir offers a bounty of activities. Set against the backdrop of the Smoky Mountain foothills, Douglas Reservoir is a popular recreation destination, known for picnicking, boating, camping, and fishing. Douglas and other TVA dams built during World War II made a historic contribution by providing hydropower to drive the war effort. The reservoir remains an integral unit in the overall water control system in the Tennessee Valley. .Birdwatchers enjoy the fall migration of shore birds and other waterfowl that flock to Douglas from early July to early October. The birds rest and feed on the muddy shoreline and in areas of shallow water exposed as the level of the reservoir is lowered to winter flood control levels. Douglas Reservoir is located among the rolling uplands of
the Great Valley of East Tennessee. Set against the backdrop of the lush, green Smoky Mountain foothills, Douglas attracts two million recreation visitors a year. Picnicking, camping, boating, and fishing are all popular activities at the reservoir. Douglas is rated in the top five Crappie fishing lakes in the nation, and in the top 10 Large Mouth Bass fishing lakes in the nation. Other good fishing includes: white bass, sauger, black crappie, striped bass, spotted bass, walleye, blue cat, flathead catfish, channel catfish, red horse, red breast sunfish, and bluegill. Most of the shoreline on Douglas Lake is privately owned. Continue on page 5
Visiting The Smokies Summer 2021
5
From page 4
The TVA provides recreational facilities at Douglas Dam. Above the dam is a campground with hookups and showers, a picnic area, all seasons boat ramp, and swimming beach . Even though over a million plus visitors arrive annually, Douglas Lake still offers many secluded coves and hollows to enjoy, never giving you that overcrowded feeling. The best thing about Douglas Lake’s location is its close proximity to the action packed attractions of Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, offering you two vacations in one! Douglas’ drainage basin of 4,541 square miles is the largest of the tributary reservoirs. The reservoir can fluctuate 60 feet from the summer elevation of 1000 feet above sea level to the winter elevation of 940 feet. It is not uncommon for the lake to rise as much as 15 to 20 feet in a day or two if heavy rains occur. However, summer levels can be relatively stable. Thermal stratification is common during the summer months. Low dissolved oxygen concentrations are common during the summer, making fishing tough until cooler fall weather arrives. Thermal stratification can begin forming as early as April, and can be firmly in place by June or July. At that time of the year, fishermen should focus on fishing the lower end of the lake and depths of less than 10-feet (below the thermocline). The French Broad River winds its way westward from the Appalachian Mountains, gaining considerable strength after absorbing the Pigeon River and the Nolichucky River near Newport before eventually joining with the Holston River at Knoxville to form the Tennessee River.
A Jet Skier enjoys a beautiful afternoon on Douglas Lake.
Douglas Dam is located 32 miles above the mouth of the French Broad. The reservoir includes parts of Sevier, Jefferson, Hamblen and Cocke counties. Road access is available by Tennessee State Highway 338 which crosses just downstream of the dam. Interstate 40 (Exit 407) passes a few miles to the north. The Tennessee portion of the French Broad was designated a state scenic river by the Tennessee Scenic Rivers Act of 1968. Approximately 33 river miles in Cocke County, starting at the North Carolina border to the confluence with Douglas Lake, are designated as Class III, Partially Developed. Anglers unfamiliar with the lake should find excellent fishing in the Flat, Muddy, McGuire, and Nina Creek embayments.
A scenic view overlooking Douglas Dam, during the summer months.
6 Visiting The Smokies Summer 2021
Courtesy of Sandy Vandenberg More than 68,000 campers spent time in Cades Cove, and more than 750,000 vehicles drove the loop in 2020. Those numbers will surely increase in 2021.
Cades Cove remains an East Tennessee staple By Shelby Harris
It’s hard to think about Blount County without thinking about Cades Cove. Nestled inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the verdant valley ringed by Cades Cove Loop Road is one of the park’s most popular destinations. “Cades Cove continues to be a popular place,” U.S. National Park Service spokeswoman Dana Soehn said. “It’s always been one of the most popular destinations in the park, and it continues to rise in popularity.” But before it was a prime location to spot wildlife and view mountainous landscape, Cades Cove was known for other reasons. In the 1820s, European settlers claimed the area as their home, establishing a community that grew crops, built homes and raised families, but before that Cherokee Native Americans used the cove for hunting, the Park Service’s website states. “Had it not been for the Cherokee, (the white settlers) might not have made it,” Cades Cove Preservation Association member Richard Anderson said. “The Cherokee did bring them pumpkins seeds and things like that to help
them out.” Anderson is a descendent of members of the Cades Cove community. He now volunteers with the preservation association, whose mission is “to preserve the heritage, history and culture of Cades Cove,” he said. Anderson spends most of his volunteer time staffing the Cades Cove Museum in the Thompson Brown House in Maryville. Surrounded by photographs and artifacts of Cades Cove’s early days, Anderson works to protect the heritage of his family, who had to move from the Cove when the federal government claimed the area and made it a part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. “Approximately around 1934, they made everybody leave,” Anderson said, adding that a handful of families were able to stay and farm. The last Cades Cove property owner died in April 1999. “That was the last land lease that anyone could ever live in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park,” Anderson said. Since then, the Cove has been owned and operated by Continue on page 8
Visiting The Smokies Summer 2021
7
Yoder’s Country Market Watch For Our Signs! Truck and Bus Parking Available! Locally Owned Family Business for 18 Years
We Specialize In Dutch Country Meats & Cheeses | Homemade Breads • Cakes • Pies •THM Baking Supplies Made Fresh Deli Sandwiches (made to order) | Yoder’s Own Sugar Cured Country Ham Hand Rolled Country Butter | Snacks & Candies From The Amish Country Beef Jerky Baking Supplies • Spices • Candleberry Candles | Check Out Our Hemp Products (THC Free) We Also Have A Nice Selection Of Kitchenware and Specialty Toys!
facebook.com/yoderscountrymkt
We Are Easy To Find Take Exit 23 (Greeneville / Bulls Gap) off of I-81. Go South Towards Bull Gap and we are 11/2 Mile on left 15275 W. Andrew Johnson Highway, Bulls Gap, Tenn. | 423-235-9400
Hours: Mon. - Wed. 8:30am- 5 pm | Thur. - Fri. 8:30am - 6 pm | Saturday 8:30am - 5 pm | Closed On Sunday
8 Visiting The Smokies Summer 2021
From page 6
GSMNP with help from the Cades Cove Preservation Association, which assists in maintaining the area. Forcing people to move from the cove had positive and negative effects, Anderson said. “It was a shame that people lost their land like that,” he said. “I mean they went up there and they worked hard. They cleared the land. They made a living, raised their family there and the park came in and took it over.” The positive side, Anderson said, is that people all over the world now get to experience the unique beauty that is Cades Cove. “If I want to go up to my third great-grandfather’s homesite or grave, I can go,” he said. “I don’t have to ask anybody to do it.” Cades Cove is extremely admired. Not only do people drive the loop, they also hike and camp in the area, and even with decreased visitation due to the COVID-19 pandemic — the park closed March 24 to May 9 — the area still saw huge visitation numbers. More than 68,000 campers spent time in the cove, and more than more than 750,000 vehicles drove the loop in 2020, NPS data shows. These numbers contribute to making the Smokies the most-visited national park in the country. But visitor volumes, especially in areas as small as Cades Cove, pose hardships to the National Park Service. “It also has challenges because of the congestion that’s created when so many people flock there particularly
during months like June and July and October, and so that does affect the visitor experience,” Soehn said. GSMNP announced in June 2020 that each Wednesday from May to August, vehicles would be prohibited on the loop. The restrictions were applied to 2021 as well. During the closure, access to the campground, picnic area, horse concession operation, campground store, and hiking/equestrian trails is blocked to accommodate parking for the biking/pedestrian opportunity on Loop Road.
Photo by Tom Sherlin Cades Cove’s Preservation Association is home to artifacts from early inhabitants of the area, before GSMNP forced many to leave the area.
Short Drive To Pigeon Forge & P Gatlinburg 141 Lower Bogard Rd. (close to I-40) Newport, TN 37821 Located at 2765 Cosby Highway, Cosby TN 37722 Open everyday 7am-8pm *Breakfast until 10:30am
423-465-3060 www.triplecreekcampground.com
Visiting The Smokies Summer 2021
9
Courtesy of Great Smoky Mountains National Park The Clingmans Dome Observation Tower is a prominent landmark and destination as the highest point in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Don't leave without visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Many would say a trip to East Tennessee without a stop in Great Smoky Mountains National Park would be a waste. They might very well be right, as it would certainly be a shame to miss out on the natural and historic splendors the nation’s most-visited national park has to offer, officials say. Regarded by some as the crown jewel of national parks, it has not only world-class scenery, abundant wildlife and vegetation, but a rich background of pioneer history. The park preserves the largest collection of historic log buildings in the East. It includes houses, barns and schools, located in Cades Cove, Cataloochee and the Oconaluftee Mountain Farm Museum. Want to see all of the interesting sights without missing any of the major scenic views? Plan a second trip to visit the Townsend/Great Smokies area. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is recognized as having natural resources of international significance.
The Smokies have more old growth or “virgin” forest than anywhere else in the East — more than 100,000 acres — despite the fact much of the park area was timbered before becoming a park. According to the National Park Service, Great Smoky Mountains is the most biodiverse park in the system. “Encompassing over 800 square miles in the Southern Appalachian Mountains, no other area of equal size in a temperate climate can match the Park’s amazing diversity,” the NPS maintains. “Over 19,000 species have been documented in the Park and scientists believe an additional 80,000-100,000 species may live here.” The Smokies also have more types of flowering plants than any other North American national park. As for its mountains? Mount LeConte isn’t the highest (feet above sea level) mountain in the East, but it is the tallest Continue on page 10
10 Visiting The Smokies Summer 2021 From page 9
(distance from base to summit). Its elevation is 6,594; distance from base to summit is 5,301 feet. Want something a little higher? At 6,643 feet, the Clingmans Dome Observation Tower is the highest point in the park. Straddling the North Carolina and Tennessee state line, this site is a prominent landmark and destination. Since 1959, millions of visitors have climbed the tower, where they can see distances of up to 100 miles over the surrounding mountains and valleys. Cades Cove isn’t far, and it’s the most famous spot in the park. A valley of some 6,853 acres preserved as a historic area within the park, it was once Cherokee Indian domain. Three churches, log cabins and a mill can be visited here. Other pioneer structures such as barns, smokehouses and spring houses have been preserved and restored. You also will find native white tail deer, wild turkeys, red foxes, river otters and a few black bears, some of which may be seen, especially in the early morning and late afternoon. For more than 150 years, the scenic beauty of this area has been appreciated by visitors from around the world. Before that, it was the home of the Cherokees and other Native American tribes. Visitors from across the South and from Europe came to enjoy the Blount County area of the Smokies by the 1830s, some 70 years before the lumbering industry moved in around 1900 to cut much of the timber. Most visited of the nation’s 55 national parks, today the Smokies usually attract about twice as many visitors as any other park.
Above
Photo by: Great Smoky Mountain National Park Services
White-tailed Deer Fawn
Below John P. Cable Grist Mill located in Cades Cove
Visiting The Smokies Summer 2021
11
Dollywood
Announces New Resort Property After having just finished a decade of unparalleled growth, The Dollywood Company embarks on an ambitious investment strategy that will see the Smoky Mountain vacation destination invest more than half-a-billion dollars over the next 10 years across its properties. One of the first projects in the campaign is the 302-room Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort. Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort offers guests a one-of-a-kind getaway with themed suites, epic indoor and outdoor pools, an outdoor cove with family gathering spaces and more, and is located adjacent to Dollywood theme park and Dollywood’s Splash Country water park. The new HeartSong Lodge, located adjacent to the much-heralded Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa, serves as the next element in the company’s thriving lodging business. Set to open in 2023, the new property ushers in another
period of tremendous growth for the company and for the entire Smoky Mountains region. Earlier this year, Tripadvisor named Gatlinburg as the number one trending destination in the United States, with Pigeon Forge ranking fourth on the same list. Last year, Dollywood was “traveler-ranked” number six on Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Top 25 United States Theme Parks list and number eight on the Top 25 Worldwide Theme Parks list based on guest reviews. The new investment plan provides Dollywood’s Dreamerin-Chief plenty of opportunities to do what she does best for many years to come. “I’m always dreaming and coming up with new ideas and things I want our guests to experience,” Parton explained. “We wanted to talk about this last year, but with Continue on page 12
12 Visiting The Smokies Summer 2021
Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort offers guests a one-of-a-kind getaway with themed suites, epic indoor and outdoor pools, an outdoor cove with family gathering spaces and more, and is located adjacent to Dollywood theme park and Dollywood’s Splash Country water park. From page 11
everything going on, we knew we needed to pause because it just wasn’t the right time to do it. Things are looking brighter and with the popularity of the Smokies soaring, there are more people than ever wanting to visit our area. “I’m so proud of this place that we’ve been able to build here in the Smokies,” she continued. “I always dreamed of accomplishing two things with Dollywood. I wanted to give jobs to the folks who live here and I wanted to give visitors another reason to come and experience the beauty of the Smoky Mountains. We celebrated our 35th season last year, so I think it is fair to say we’ve been able to do that. I’m so happy with what we are doing to make sure our guests have a great season this year, and being able to announce the new HeartSong Lodge & Resort is just one more way we’re going to be able to help families reconnect, explore and discover together. I truly believe the natural beauty of the Smokies and the warmth of this special place will inspire every guest to nurture the ‘heartsong’ within them.” Tucked away in a beautiful cove in the rolling foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort is a well-appointed, reimagined property that features a variety of accommodations and amenities. The ‘reimagined lodge’ is designed to bring that intangible feeling to life, honor everything that makes the Smokies special, and invites you to experience the wonders of finding your own heartsong.
Welcoming the outdoors in with high ceilings, exposed beams and natural layered textures, Dollywood’s newest resort offers lodging options for multi-generational families and couples. Spacious family suites and bunk rooms feature lovely touches that are inspired by the beauty of the Smokies, inviting guests of all ages to gather for meaningful connections. For one-of-a-kind getaways, the five-story resort also features themed suites and loft rooms tucked into the dormers. Many of the resort’s spacious rooms include balconies, which provide a “place among the leaves” for families to escape everyday stresses while reconnecting. This reimagined Smoky Mountain Lodge features four-story, lantern-inspired windows in the resort’s welcoming atrium, epic indoor and outdoor pools that provide guests a refreshing escape in all seasons, and a picture-perfect outdoor cove with family gathering spaces, communal fire pit and screened-in porch. With 26,000 sq. ft. of flexible indoor and outdoor meeting space, the property can accommodate gatherings for several hundred guests. From the two-story HeartSong Event Center to spacious outdoor meeting spaces and event lawn, the resort offers numerous options to provide a unique and inspiring setting for groups. With more than three million visitors annually at Dollywood theme park and Dollywood’s Splash Country water park, the Pigeon Forge parks comprise Tennessee’s most-visited ticketed attraction. Continue to page 13
Visiting The Smokies Summer 2021 From page 12
“Our state is the proud home of Dollywood, a cherished destination for families from around the globe,” said Tennessee Governor Bill Lee. “Tourism sustains jobs, increases economic opportunity, and highlights the best of Tennessee, and we’re grateful to Dolly Parton, Dollywood, and all who helped bring the new HeartSong Lodge & Resort to this community.” Since 2010, The Dollywood Company has invested more than $220 million into its properties as part of its ongo-
13
ing investment plan. Expansions undertaken since 2010 include Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa, roller coasters Lightning Rod and FireChaser Express, as well as TailSpin Racer at Dollywood’s Splash Country. In 2019, the park opened the $37 million Wildwood Grove. Dollywood celebrates a year full of exceptional experiences, with each season unlike the next. It’s the perfect year for a season pass, as guests will want to return throughout the year to enjoy it all.
Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort welcomes the outdoors inside with high ceilings, exposed beams and natural layered textures. These lovely touches are inspired by the beauty of the Smokies.
Mom & Megg Quilt Shop Just In Time For July 4th. Come See Our New Collection Of Summer Fabrics. (Kits Are Available)
New Fall Fabrics Are On The Way 10% Off Your Purchase With Mention Of This Ad STORE HOURS: TUES - FRI ~ 10-5 • SAT ~ 10-3
808 Valley Home Rd. • Dandridge
865-940-1447
w w w. M o m a n d M e g g . c o m
DJ’S Antiques
DJ’s Antiques and Collectibles has gone from being a local antiques store to an East Tennessee tradition and a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.
Open 7 Days 10-5
(Except Thanksgiving, Christmas & Easter)
“We may look small, but we are 5500 sq. ft. of antiques!” 218 US 25E (Scenic 32) White Pine, TN
865-674-7196
14 Visiting The Smokies Summer 2021
Smoky Mountain Trails
Trail
Location
Trail Features
Greenbrier / Cosby Area
Albright Grove
Maddron Bald Trailhead
Old Growth Forest / Wildflowers / Historical
Brushy Mountain (Greenbrier)
Greenbrier
Views
Grapeyard Trail (Greenbrier)
Greenbrier
Historical / Injun Creek steam engine wreckage
R/T Miles
Elev. Gain
Difficulty Rating
7
1500
10
11.7
3000
17.7
6
850
7.7
Hen Wallow Falls
Cosby
Waterfalls
4.4
900
6.2
Mt. Cammerer
Cosby
Panoramic Views / Historical
12
2470
16.94
Gatlinburg / Mt. LeConte Area
Old Settlers Trail (Maddron Bald)
Maddron Bald Trailhead
Historical / Tyson McCarter Barn
8.8
1650
12.1
Porters Creek Trail
Greenbrier
Waterfalls / Stream / Flowers / Historical / Old Growth Forest
4
699
5.4
Ramsey Cascades
Greenbrier
Waterfalls / Old Growth Forest
8
2375
12.75
Alum Cave
Newfound Gap Rd
Views / Interesting Geological Features
4.4
1125
6.65
Newfound Gap / Clingmans Dome Ar
Baskins Creek Falls
Roaring Fork Motor Trail
Waterfalls
3
953
4.91
Brushy Mountain (Trillium Gap)
Roaring Fork Motor Trail
Views / Wildflowers / Falls
6.8
1745
10.29
Bullhead Trail
Roaring Fork Motor Trail
Views / Interesting Geological Features
5.9
1607
9.11
Chimney Tops
Newfound Gap Rd
Panoramic Views
4
1350
6.7
Grotto Falls
Roaring Fork Motor Trail
Waterfalls
2.6
585
3.77
Huskey Gap (Newfound Gap Rd)
Newfound Gap Rd
Quiet Forest Hike
4.2
1240
6.68
Mt. LeConte (via Alum Cave)
Newfound Gap Rd
Panoramic Views / Geological
11
2763
16.53
Mt. LeConte (via Bullhead)
Roaring Fork Motor Trail
Panoramic Views
14.4
3993
22.39
Mt. LeConte (Rainbow Falls)
Roaring Fork Motor Trail
Panoramic Views / Waterfalls
13.8
3993
21.79
Mt. LeConte (via Trillium Gap)
Roaring Fork Motor Trail
Panoramic Views / Waterfalls
13.9
3401
20.7
Rainbow Falls
Roaring Fork Motor Trail
Waterfalls
5.4
1685
8.77
Andrews Bald
Clingmans Dome Road
Panoramic Views
3.5
899
5.3
Charlies Bunion
Newfound Gap
Panoramic Views
8.1
1640
11.38
Deep Creek Headwaters
Newfound Gap Road
Stream
5
1480
7.96
Fork Ridge Trail
Clingmans Dome Road
Old Growth Spruce-Fir Forest / Wildflowers
8
1500
11
The Jump Off
Newfound Gap
Panoramic Views
6.5
1275
9.05
Mt. LeConte (Boulevard Trail)
Newfound Gap
Panoramic Views / Old Growth Forest
15.6
3000
21.6
Noland Divide
Clingmans Dome Road
Views / Forest Diversity
7.2
1679
10.56
Visiting The Smokies Summer 2021
15
16 Visiting The Smokies Summer 2021
Come enjoy the adventure and beauty of our County. You’ll love it as much as we do!
Most Roadside Services Accepted 860 W. Hwy 25/70 • Newport, TN
423-623-0008 360 East Main Street | Newport, TN 37821 | 423-623-8791
WWW.EVANSAUTOMOTIVE.NET
Visiting The Smokies Summer 2021
Newport Dry Goods
17
Tourists search out this bargain destination
D
uring the past five decades thousands of people, many tourists driving through Cocke County, have discovered the unique retail world that is Newport Dry Goods and its creator, Carroll Kyker, who has lost track of the number of times he’s traveled to New York in search of great values for his Newport store.
Carroll Kyker
Legend in Retailing
swimsuit sale. “We just recently received more swimsuits with more to come.” Junior, misses, and plus swim suits sold in dept. stores to $69.99 carry a Dry Goods’ price of $10.99. After a recent Memorial Day, two different women, one from Alabama and another Local residents already know about the from Georgia, shopped at Newport Dry While many are accustomed to Newport home of “legendary low prices since 1959” Goods and had to get one of Mr. Kyker’s facing the railroad tracks at Main Street Dry Goods, they might take the store for popular T-shirts. And, they asked him and just off Highway 321. Tourists and granted, says Mr. Kyker, who tells the to autograph it. The Alabama woman new arrivals learn of it as if it is a must- story of a Japanese couple who picked remarked: “You’re the rock star of retailing.” visit historic site presenting low prices up a Visiting the Smokies publication at While he is somewhat embarrassed by all every week in a large white-letter-on-black the Hartford I-40 Welcome Center, saw the excitement over him and the store, he the article about the store and stopped advertisement in the Newport Plain Talk. is glad to keep customers satisfied and The 1920s era brick buildings, wood overnight to visit. It was like meeting a signed the shirts. floors, tin ceilings, are packed so tightly celebrity to have a photo made with the People in other towns would like Dry with racks and tables stacked with name Legend of Retail Low Prices. Goods to share this success and open in The store name is known across America brand shoes, clothing for men, women their towns too. But that probably will not from California to Florida and tourists’ and children, you can’t walk more than a happen. So, folks will just have to keep stories often refer to Mr. Kyker. Floridians few feet before finding another low price. driving to Newport and that suits him. More Mr. Kyker says the main reason the store were puzzled when they came across an than a third of his shoppers come from is successful and so much different than East Tenn. friend who had not shopped outside Newport. Tourist shoppers make others is “rarely a day goes by we don’t in Newport Dry Goods. Others reported repeat trips every year to find the latest have a delivery truck with goods arrive for seeing the Dry Goods logo T-shirts in bargains by the railroad tracks. our customers.” If you shop major retailers, California: “Don’t miss a day or you will Sandals, logging boots, overalls, dress the merchandise may be priced from miss a bargain.” You can always find men’s shirts, socks, dresses, ties, belts, even $19.95 to $159.95, but at Dry Goods the sports coats for $14.99 and it is not unusual motor oil, chances are good you will find it for Nashville businessmen to drive three tags most likely carry $1.99 to $29.99. here and cheaper than anywhere else. “One customer told me he had just hours and buy several suits and coats. Newport Dry Goods is located at 255 East moved to Newport and what he liked about Men’s casual and dress shoes sold in retail Main Street across from the old railroad the store was we had quality merchandise chains at $79.99 sell for just $29.99. depot and open from 8:30 a.m. until 5:30 If you chance to meet Mr. Kyker, who likes but at cheap prices.” For example, Dry p.m. Monday through Thursday. Friday to walk the fl oor and greet customers, he Goods has sold thousands of pairs of hours are 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., Saturday ladies department store brand panties that might tell you: “We just got in a shipment of from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Sunday would list for $10.00 and Dry Goods’ price ladies’ tops, eight different famous brands. from 1-6 p.m. For more information, call is $1.99. “New merchandise, name brands, We are selling these $4.99 to $6.99” as (423) 623-2921. arrive everyday and we sell these 25% to he points to full racks. “One of our most popular sales in spring and summer is the 70% off.” PAID ADVERTISEMENT
18 Visiting The Smokies Summer 2021
SUMMER SERVICE EVENT
Visiting The Smokies Summer 2021 19
Love is out there. Find it in the 2021 Crosstrek.
Stock Photo
THE 2021 SUBARU
The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek is the most powerful, most fun to drive, and safest Crosstrek we’ve ever made, with performance, technology, and design updates throughout. A new 2.5-liter direct-injection SUBARU BOXER® engine is available for extra performance, and the confidence of EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology is now standard on all Crosstrek models.
GraysonSubaru.com
Mon.-Fri. 9-8 • Sat. 9-6 • Closed Sunday Now Available! Service on Saturdays! 8729 KINGSTON PIKE • 1-888-660-0184
Email: info@graysonauto.com or VISIT US @ the STORE
20 Visiting The Smokies Summer 2021
The Carver Family Invites you to join the fun at
CARVER’S ORCHARD & Applehouse Restaurant
“A Great Family Atmosphere”
. .
.
The Orchard Offers Fresh Fruits Vegetables Locally-Made Jams & Jellies Homemade Apple Butter & Pies Nuts Fresh Cider Hand-Dipped Chocolates (Including Sugar-Free)
.
.
Grandchildren: Kylen, K.C, Kiersten, and Kaycen,
Danny Ray & Irene Carver Daughters Stacey & Danielle
The Applehouse Restaurant overlooks the Smokies including Mt. Leconte. Each guest starts their meal with apple fritters, apple butter & fresh cider. The Applehouse Restaurant is open Wed. - Sun from 11AM-8PM.
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 8-6 Orchard & Candy Shop Located on Hwy. 321 • Cosby, TN 37722 13 Miles South of Newport Exit 440
IN THE HEART OF THE GREAT SMOKIES ORCHARD (423) 487-2419 | RESTAURANT (423) 487-2710
Visiting The Smokies Summer 2021
21
How to hike safely in the Smokies National parks, like the Great Smoky Mountains, are great places for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy some of their favorite activities. Many such parks allow visitors to camp out after a day spent rafting or kayaking on the water, making these locales the ideal vacation spot for families or groups of friends who share a love of the great outdoors. Hiking is among the more popular activities in the Smokies. Hikers of all ages and skill levels can enjoy trails of varying degrees of difficulty, all the while taking in picturesque landscapes that often cannot be found in fully developed urban and suburban areas. But as much as hiking can be enjoyed even by novice outdoor enthusiasts, this rewarding activity also can be dangerous. Hikers often find themselves in remote locations where cellular phone signals tend to be weak, which can be troublesome, even when hiking in relatively crowded parks. That’s why it’s important to take the following precautionary measures when hiking. • Never go solo when hiking. Many outdoor enthusiasts enjoy escaping from the daily grind and getting some alone time with Mother Nature. While some outdoor activities can safely be enjoyed alone, others, including hiking, should never be done without a friend in tow. There are numerous benefits to hiking in pairs or groups, not the least of which is having
someone there to go for help should anyone suffer an injury on the trails. When hiking with a group or even in a group of two, make sure no one hikes faster than the slowest hiker. This ensures no one will get lost and makes certain that each hiker has someone there to seek help should an accident or injury occur. • Share your itinerary with someone staying behind. Even if you are not hiking alone, it’s best to share your itinerary with someone who is not joining you on your trip. This way someone can alert authorities to you and your fellow hikers’ path if you get lost on a trail and cannot find your way out. When sharing your Continue to page 22
22 Visiting The Smokies Summer 2021 From page 21
itinerary, share your schedule as well, telling friends who are staying behind to alert the authorities if you do not return or make direct contact with them by a given time. • Start early. Starting a hike early is beneficial in a variety of ways. Nature is beautiful at all times of the day, but part of the joy of hiking is taking in all of the beautiful landscapes, which are easier to see during daylight hours than at night. But hiking during the day is also safer, as it’s easier for hikers to make their way on trails when they can see where they’re going than at night, when many hiking trails are cloaked in a thick coat of darkness. Finally, hiking also is legal during daylight hours, whereas many parks ban hiking once the sun goes down. • Know the weather forecast. When planning a hiking trip, know the weather forecast for the day or days you plan to hike. Expect cooler temperatures, even if the forecast is calling for a beautiful warm day. Hiking trails are often surrounded by tall trees, which makes it difficult for warm sunlight to illuminate trails and warm up hikers. So pack an extra jacket or coat, ideally a rain coat that can serve double duty should it start to rain. • Carry water and snacks. Staying hydrated can make a long or challenging hike easier on your muscles,
so be sure to bring plenty of water, which also can quench your thirst throughout your hike. Bring some snacks along as well. Snacks should provide you with energy to continue your hike, so leave behind snacks like potato chips or pretzels in favor of fresh fruit, granola, protein bars, or trail mix. Hiking is a great way to enjoy the great outdoors. But even veteran hikers must take safety precautions to ensure their trips are as safe as they are enjoyable.
Visiting The Smokies Summer 2021
23
Looking For a Great Vacation Rental? Come Stay In Our Cozy 2 Bedroom 2 Bath Home
Best Western 423-623-8713
Michael’s Bar 423-613-5901
1015 Cosby Highway Newport, TN 37821
Furnished House | Washer & Dryer in unit No Smoking | Carport | Rent period: daily Wheelchair Accessible
To Reserve Your Stay Please Call 647-895-1455
2 Bedroom, 2 bath, large island kitchen, fireplace in living room, front porch, wheelchair access, Smokey Mountain views. Property abuts the national park lands. GORGEOUS views and EXCELLENT location. Close to Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Foothills Parkway, Cherokee! Ample parking, A/C, WIFI, great for a family getaway. NO Pets and No Smoking. Property dates back to 1899! Old historical cemetery within walking distance, up the holler from the house, beautiful location. Safe secure vacation rental.
NOTE: There is a 2 Night minimum and security deposit of $360
Our Place A Unique Shop Since 2004
Turn an ordinary weekend into a special memory...
TAKE YOUR FAMILY CAMPING Pool · Horseshoes · Playground · Putt-Putt Golf Arcade Room · WiFi · Special Event · Big Rig & Pet Friendly OPEN YEAR-ROUND | LIVE ENTERTAINMENT (Call for schedule)
M ilit ar y D iscounts
100,000 + Discounted Interesting New & Used Books Exceptional Organic Coffees Smoky Mountain Souvenirs.
Locally Made Items Soaps . Candles Jewelry . Puzzles Shirts . Mugs . Honey Decorative Yard Art & MUCH MORE! booksatourplace.com
& Sign up for our monthly newsletter Conveniently Located Off I-40 Exit 432B Only 45 minutes to Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg
112 Carson Springs Road, Newport, TN 37821 | 423-415-5000 www.tanaseecampground.com
115 Cricket Hollow Rd. Cosby, TN 37722 1.5 miles south of Cosby | Post Office on 321
423-248-6524
Open 7 Days A Week | Hours Vary By Season
24 Visiting The Smokies Summer 2021
Voted Cocke County’s
#1 Real Estate Agent 65Years In AARow Row Years In
Members of 4 MLS Databases World-Wide Internet Marketing
OFFICE : 865-805-0321 CELL : 865-805-0322
E m a i l : M a s s e y @ m a s s e y r e a l t o r. c o m Rae Massey
w w w. M a s s e y R e a l t y. c o m
Massey Realty is a family owned real estate brokerage serving East Tennessee for residential, land and commercial sales. We offer more than 40 years of experience in marketing and sales! We use state of the art marketing strategies and are members of 4 multiple listing data bases serving East Tennessee with complete worldwide Internet exposure from hundreds of website providers, finding clients from all parts of the world! We offer Professional Drone Photography for those hard to get photos and to enhance our Listings for superior marketing!
Visiting The Smokies Summer 2021
25
Around 200 booths of handmade arts and crafts, many demonstrated, and some personalized, are expected at the annual Craftsmen’s Fair, set July 9-18, at the Gatlinburg Convention Center.
Handmade items on display at annual Craftsmen’s Fair The Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair hosts Artisans and Craftsmen from all over the nation. Two hundred booths with unique and one-of-a-kind handmade products are beautifully displayed inside for your shopping pleasure. As these skilled craftspeople demonstrate their talents, you can witness works of art come to life.
Each participant is subject to a rigorous jury process to ensure the uniqueness and quality of their respective products. All items represented are handmade and of the utmost quality. Look for exceptional pottery pieces, painted artwork, molded leather, copper art, local candy makers, photography, and many Continue on page 26
26 Visiting The Smokies Summer 2021 From page 25
more unique items. Come inside for their July event to cool off or dodge rain showers with the kids (Free for Kids 17 and under with a Paid Adult). Kids enjoy the demonstrations, talking with artists about what they make, and always learn something new! Enjoy hands-on arts and crafts the kids can take home: Visit The Kids Korner, operated by teen and adult volunteers from the Smoky Mountain Resort Ministry. Open July 9-18, 2021, open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily at the Gatlinburg Convention Center. Admission is $10 and Includes Multi-Day Pass Upgrade for Free!
Tennessee Readiness In God We Trust
The Prepper Store OUR mission is simply to help you to prepare for ANYTHING may come. We have something for EVERYONE.
Backpackers, Survivalists, ANYONE that just wants to be.
FOOD/STORAGE
CAMP/HIKING
TACTICAL/SURVIVAL
5036 Hooper Hwy Cosby, TN (next to Donna Jo’s Subway) tennesseereadiness.com (Online Store) | 423-237-5742
There is something for everyone at the Fair. Be sure to stop by the daily music shows included with the price of admission. Check out the stage and enjoy the contemporary country, bluegrass, and your favorite gospel tunes daily at noon and 3 p.m. Concessions are available. Free push wheelchairs while they last. Pet-friendly in a carrier or stroller. The Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair usually takes most of the day to see. If you didn’t quite get through it all, be sure to upgrade to your free multi-day pass, available at the Craftsmen’s Fair office located at the end of aisle 500. Upgrade your ticket before you leave for FREE in 2021 to come back again and again!
Visiting The Smokies Summer 2021
27
Ben Ford, at left, handcrafted the still being used at Adventure Distilling Company. The smell of mash once again drifts through the hollers of Cosby. With Ford is Adventure Distilling co-owner Kelly Williamson.
Adventure Distilling Company brings Moonshine back to Cosby
Moonshine Has Returned Home! Cosby, Tennessee has often been referred to as Moonshine Capital of the World. During the first half of the 20th century this Appalachian community, located at the base of the Great Smoky Mountains, was struggling. The coves and forests of the Smokies were the perfect
cover for moonshine stills. With liquor supplies scarce due to prohibition, the demand for their moonshine grew rapidly. Cosby was connected by road to Newport and Knoxville giving them an advantage over other mountain moonshiners. Continue to page 28
28 Visiting The Smokies Summer 2021 From page 27
The explosion of moonshining lead to an ongoing battle of wits between law enforcement and local moonshiners. The illegal distillers would warn one another of nearby revenue agents by igniting dynamite. They would also drive behind the revenuers’ car and form a long chain through the valley. The residents of Cosby despised the intrusion of outside law enforcement and devised many methods to interfere with their efforts. The art of making illegal moonshine declined with the death of dry laws in neighboring counties, but the fame Cosby gained as Moonshine Capital remains today.
Adventure Distilling Company has built a covered event area that can seat 500 with additional seating in a VIP area above the distillery. Events are being planned including concerts, comedy shows, bike rallies and car shows.
A new distillery opened its doors this spring, right in the middle of where it all began, the gateway to the Smokies. Life long residents of Cosby, Kelly Williamson and Sally Jane Clark partnered with Don Smith of NC’s South Mountain Distilling Company to open the doors of Adventure Distilling Company. These three partners have a long family history and deep roots within the moonshine industry. Sally Jane is married to local famous Moonshiner Mark Ramsey. He and his partner, Digger, are often on premises along with many other celebrities. The shop sells JB Rader’s special blend and he is always around to
•
Drag Specialties Motorcycle Parts
• • •
Hot Leather Apparel Helmets Accessories & T-shirts
(Most Next Day Deliveries)
863 W. Hwy 25-70 | Newport TN, 37821
423-532-8411
Kelly Williamson and Sally Jane Clark partnered with Don Smith to open Adventure Distilling Company at the base of the Smokies in Cosby, Tennessee. The shop at the distillery sells a wide variety of moonshine including JB Rader’s special blend. From left are JB Rader, Kelly Williamson, Sally Jane Clark and Don Smith.
make sure it is perfect. Clark’s father and grandfather were well respected in the history of Cosby Moonshine. She has many stories to share with you when you stop by for a visit. You may recognize Williamson as “Moonshiner Kelly.” His family had owned the property that the distillery now sits on for many generations. It was sold and went through several owners. Williamson was able to purchase it back and start construction in 2020. It is located at 4649 Hooper Hwy on the way to Gatlinburg from Newport. It sits on a beautiful spot of mountain land, right beneath the Smoky mountains. They boast a covered event area that can seat 500 with additional seating in a VIP area above the Distillery, a top notch stage for live performances, a retail area with gifts and a tasting bar for moonshine as well as sales by the jar. Concerts, comedy shows, bike rallies, car shows, meet and greet events and so much more is being scheduled daily. You may check to see what is happening on their Facebook page. There is always a delicious food truck around so that you can grab a quick meal. Adventure Distilling Company has big plans for future expansion with an adjoining campground and museum of Moonshine History. They will offer tours of the facility, where you can get a close up look at the handcrafted copper still, made by local legend, Ben Ford. You will find yourself taken back in time, looking over your shoulder, half expecting a revenuer to step out of the smoke. The smell of mash drifting through the hollers and coves has restored the balance to this little mountain community and it’s elders that remember “the good old days.” Moonshine has made its way home, to Cosby, Moonshine Capital of the World, once again.
Visiting The Smokies Summer 2021
Join us in celebrating the legacy of moonshine in our area! Our unique style of making moonshine comes from years of experience and the hard work of our ancestors. We’re bringing moonshine out of the woods and into our distillery.
Moonshine Tasting & Sales | Retail Shop | Weekly Live Music & Food Trucks Handcrafted Still | Distillery & History Of Moonshine Tours Located In Cosby TN “Moonshine Capital Of The World.”
New Events Scheduled Daily-Check Our Facebook Page August 21 Petty Foundation Moonshine Run Located At 4649 Hooper Hwy Cosby TN 37722
adventuresmokies.com
29
30 Visiting The Smokies Summer 2021
Area golf courses attract thousands each year The areas surrounding the Great Smoky Mountains provide ample opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy all that the scenery has to offer. Those looking to enjoy the views can do so at many of the areas golf courses. Each provides a challenging round for the novice and expert alike. More information and pricing for each course can be found below. NEWPORT Smoky Mountain Golf Course and Country Club is located at 1220 Golf Course Road, Newport, in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, and offers players a challenging round of golf with beautiful, panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Smoky is one of the oldest and best golf courses in East Tennessee. Smoky Mountain celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2017. It is also home to the Cocke County High School and state champion Newport Grammar Middle School golf teams. The front nine is relatively open and affords the golfer with ample fairways to hit the long ball, while the
back nine is somewhat narrow and requires a more delicate and controlled shot selection with control and distance rewarding above-average players. The golf course has Bermuda fairways and bent-grass greens with substantial undulation. Two of the holes, numbers 10 and 17, are rated by area golfers as two of the most difficult in East Tennessee. Slope Rating: Blue 122, White 118, Red 115 Shop Hours: April-October 8-8, November-March 8-6 Membership Information: $93.29 (family, tax included) $82.31 (couples, tax included), $71.34 (singles, tax included) Non-Member rates: 18 holes, $31 weekdays, $38 weekend, carts included April through October; $28 weekdays, $31 weekend November through March. Amenities: Pro shop, driving range, putting green, full-service restaurant, lounge, and swimming pool Golf Packages available Tee times are available and recommended on weekends and holidays. Soft spikes required Call (423)623-7321 Continue to page 31
Visiting The Smokies Summer 2021 From page 30
BANEBERRY Baneberry Gold and Resort is located at 704 Harrison Ferry Road in Baneberry, just across the Cocke County line into Jefferson County off highway 25E. An outstanding layout featuring gently rolling land, lakes, streams, and bunkers will challenge golfers of all abilities. Baneberry has twice been the home of the $75,000 Baneberry Classic that was held by the T.C. Jordan Tour. Amenities include two putting greens, a chipping area, driving range, a large swimming pool, tennis court, and a boat ramp into Douglas Lake. The clubhouse has a pro shop, and a restaurant and lounge with a spacious deck overlooking the front nine, Douglas Lake, and the Smoky Mountains. The course plays 6,694 yards from the blue tees and 6,126 from the white tees. Senior and ladies tees are also available. Tom Kammann is the PGA Professional and Dick Kammann is the General Manager. Reasonably priced golf packages include unlimited golf and accommodations of either a two-bedroom villa or large efficiency rooms at the motel. Weekday rates are $62 per adult per night and the Friday-Saturday is $72 per adult per night. Carts are $15 per 18 holes of use. Cart and green fees are $30 on weekdays and $34 on weekends. Senior rates for carts and greens are $22,
31
Monday through Thursday play. Angelo’s Tavern on the Green provides dinners and banquets for the golfers and others who come in. The resort has been designated a “premier resort” by the Tennessee Legislature and thereby can serve liquor by the drink in an otherwise dry county. For more information about the resort, call 800-9514653 or 865-674-2500. DANDRIDGE As one of the first golf courses built in the area, Dandridge Golf & Country Club has developed a reputation as an enjoyable round of golf for the beginner or the seasoned professional. The original 18 holes, designed by Dan Maples, meanders its way through valleys, hills, and woodlands. Then, in 1991, nine more holes were added with the same characteristics of the original design, bringing the area’s first 27-hole golf complex. And if the course itself doesn’t offer enough scenic beauty, you will often find yourself pausing to admire the views of the Great Smoky Mountains and Douglas Lake. Dandridge offers the same Bermuda fairways and bentgrass greens as its sister course (Patriot Hills). All combinations are par 72 and measure approximately 6,100 yards from the back tees, 5,800 yards Continue to page 32
32 Visiting The Smokies Summer 2021 From page 31
from the regular tees, and 4,900 yards from the forward tees. Tee times are recommended daily. Green fees, carts included, are $26-31 on weekdays and $31-36 on weekends and holidays. Dandridge is a public course. For tee times, please call (865) 397-3655 or visit dandridgegolf.com. PATRIOT HILLS The largest development in Jefferson County, Patriot Hills was opened in the spring of 1997 to rave reviews, “The best new course in East Tennessee” being just one! At its inception, Patriot Hills was intended to be more challenging than its sister course (Dandridge). With a similar design, the course has proven to be as tough as you want it to be. The par 72 course measures 6,710 yards from the back tees, 6,068 yards from the regular tees, 5,609 yards from the senior tees, and 4,974 yards from the forward tees. Patriot Hills offers the same lush Bermuda fairways and bent-grass greens as the Dandridge course. The scenery is quite spectacular as well, affording the golfer many scenic views of English Mountain and the Great Smoky Mountains. The golf pro is Gary Franklin. Green fees for Monday through Friday are $26-31 for 18 holes, carts included. On weekends and holidays, the cost is $31-36 for 18 holes, carts included. Soft spikes are required. Patriot Hills is open to the public. For tee times, call (865) 476-4466 or visit patriothillsgolf.com. BENT CREEK GOLF RESORT Bent Creek Golf Course, designed by three-time Masters and British Open Championship winner Gary
Player, is a par 72 course that opened in 1972. The front nine hugs the floor while the back nine offers a challenging mountain course. A beautiful sparkling mountain stream meanders through the entire course making for a breathtaking contrast between water and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The mild weather conditions present in East Tennessee make Bent Creek a year-round resort. Southern Living Travel Guide rated Bent Creek Golf Resort one of the “Top Fifty Golf Courses in the South.” Bent Creek Golf Village is located at 3919 East Parkway in Gatlinburg. Persons interested in more information can visit Bent Creek’s website at www.bentcreekgolfcourse.com or for reservations, call (865) 436-2875 or (800) 424-1943.
Visiting The Smokies Summer 2021
33
Enjoy Rafting In The Beautiful Smoky Mountains.
Family Friendly White Water Rafting Close To Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge
Upper Pigeon Class 3 - 4 Rapids Rafting Scenic Family Rafting On Lower Pigeon River
800-449-7238
3555 Wheat Rd. Hartford, TN 37753
34 Visiting The Smokies Summer 2021
Pigeon Forge has been a vacation destination for 60 years Pigeon Forge (Tennessee) is celebrating 60 years as the top family-friendly vacation destination in the Great Smoky Mountains with a lineup of new attractions to mark the occasion and provide more reasons to visit. “Our top-notch variety of attractions and close proximity to Great Smoky Mountains National Park has endeared Pigeon Forge to multiple generations of families,” said Pigeon Forge Executive Director of Tourism Leon Downey. “We take great pride in the 60 years of cherished memories that have been made in our city and look forward to more.” The Island at Pigeon Forge unleashes SkyFly: Soar America, an indoor flying adventure that takes passengers high above Alaska’s glaciers, the Grand Canyon, Niagara Falls, the Great Smoky Mountains,
Toy Box Mini Golf which is the first toy-themed mini golf course.
and a dozen more of the nation’s most beautiful natural wonders and iconic landmarks. Moving seats combined with sounds, scents, and mists are part of the picturesque journey that takes flight this spring. Toy Box Mini Golf, the world’s first toy-themed mini golf course, is open and features an 18-hole course brought to life by 30-foot-tall recreations of some of the most popular and nostalgic toys from the past and present, each becoming a favorite photo op. A toy store and laser maze completes the experience. Another first in the world is the new Power Coaster at Rowdy Bear Mountain. The two-seat throttle-powered coaster karts travel an approximately 2,000-footlong track that features s-turns. Camp Margaritaville RV Resort offers three distinctly different ways to kick back and relax combined with a unique “five o’clock somewhere” attitude. The 37acre property is the first of its kind and includes nearly 180 RV sites along with upscale bath and laundry facilities. The centerpiece of the $40 million property is a 79-room lodge that features a restaurant, bar, camp store, putting green and pool. Camp Margaritaville RV Resort is conveniently close to the Pigeon Forge Parkway but elevated, providing guests with spectacular mountain views. The RV resort opened in June with the Lodge to follow in early fall. The Mountain Mile adds two new food- and entertainment-focused venues. Guy Fieri’s DowntownFlavortown, opening this fall, is a 43,000-square-foot Continue to page 35
Visiting The Smokies Summer 2021 From page 34
family entertainment center that includes a 300seat restaurant featuring Fieri’s signature cuisine, a 14-lane Duck Pin bowling alley, over 10,000 square feet of state-of-the-art arcade games and more to entertain diners and fun-lovers alike. The Listening Room will serve live music alongside a full menu of American cuisine when it opens in the summer of 2021 at the Mountain Mile. Like its sister property in East Nashville, the 10,000-square-foot venue will feature songwriters and vocalists on an expansive stage while guests enjoy indoor and outdoor dining. The Tower Shops at Mountain Mile welcomes new tenants including BAAK Boutique, J&P Cycles, REI Coop and Royal Bee, while new restaurants include Azul Cantina, Cinnaholic, Cream & Sugar, Currahee Vineyard & Winery. Weather permitting, guests can catch a free Friday evening Movies on the Lawn, too. Pigeon Forge visitors can take advantage of a 600-footlong covered pedestrian bridge that connects the LeConte Center at Pigeon Forge, a city-owned events center, to the new Mountain Lot, home to 2,148 free parking spaces. The walkway, at the intersection of Jake Thomas Road and Teaster Lane, is a few blocks from the city’s new Mass Transit headquarters in Patriot Park. Pigeon Forge’s Mass Transit trolley system operates year-round with one-day passes available for purchase offering visitors convenient, hassle-free transportation to popular attractions along the city’s six-mile Parkway. Visitors can also enjoy a new city-wide beautification project that features 24 “planter people” floral displays, several of which salute essential workers, along with expansive floral beds beaming with colorful blooms. Visitors can refer to the 60th season’s commemorative 2021 Pigeon Forge Travel Planner, available for download or by mail. The Travel Planner is filled with city-wide visitor information, including Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
The Mountain Mile open summer 2021
35
36 Visiting The Smokies Summer 2021
WELCOME TO THE ADVENTURE SIDE OF THE SMOKIES Cocke County, Tennessee
WWW.YALLVISITTHESMOKIES.COM 423-625-9675