Destination Spotlight: Smoky Mountains

Looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and embrace some quiet, country living? You can find all that and more in the Great Smoky Mountains. Located along much of the Tennessee and North Carolina border, the Smokies blend beautiful mountain views with the excitement of several bustling communities. If this sounds like the perfect getaway, keep reading as we explore all that the Smoky Mountains have to offer. 

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a major attraction for nature lovers. The Smoky Mountains are a subrange of the much larger Appalachian Mountains, which extend from Maine to Georgia. At around 200 to 300 million years old, they are among the world’s oldest mountains, predating both dinosaurs and trees. The Smoky Mountains get their name from the bluish-white fog that often blankets the range, a product of dense vegetation releasing organic compounds into the air. Driving through the Smokies amid a foreground of lush, rolling mountains and fog-laden skies creates a scene more reminiscent of a fairytale than reality. You’ll find a plethora of picturesque views and pull-offs to explore while driving through the park, including well-known spots like Newfound Gap and Kuwohi, formerly Clingmans Dome, which is the highest peak in the park.  

You’ll also find an abundance of wildlife within the park. While the Smokies are renowned for black bears, the past few decades have seen the reemergence of elk into the ecosystem. Once hunted to the brink of extinction, the population has been brought back by a concerted effort from the National Park Service. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park website highlights the Oconaluftee Visitor Center and Cataloochee Valley in North Carolina as prime locations for viewing elk. 

Anakeesta

Adventure awaits atop Anakeesta Mountaintop Adventure Park in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. This attraction boasts some of the most breathtaking views while also offering a wide range of adventure, dining, and shopping experiences. Visitors can find thrills at Anakeesta Adventure Park, home to mountain coasters, ziplining, and its popular Treetop Skywalk. Grab a bite to eat at the Clifftop Restaurant, known for delicious burgers and tender steaks, among other mouthwatering cuisine. If dessert is more your speed, Mimi’s Creamery serves ice cream cones, sundaes, and more. They even have homemade cider and coffee, a perfect way to refuel after adventuring. Anakeesta also features a variety of shopping destinations, including The Mercantile, Fur Trader, and Great Outdoors Trading Company, each offering a wide range of products from apparel to kitchen utensils and beyond! 

Dollywood

Who’s ready to ride? Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, is home to its very own theme park! Dollywood offers a diverse range of attractions, including roller coasters, waterslides, and everything in between. One of its most popular rides is the Mystery Mine, a steel roller coaster with inversions, dramatic drops, and even immersive special effects, including fog and fire. Dollywood also offers several attractions geared towards children, including Lil’ Pilots Playground and Black Bear Trail. Summer visitors will revel in numerous water attractions, ranging from a wave pool and lazy river to larger slides, such as Fire Tower Falls and RiverRush. No matter your thrill of choice, Dollywood has something to offer. 

RV Camping Options

If you’re planning to visit the area in your RV this year, there are several camping options in and around the area to consider. For those looking to truly immerse themselves in nature, Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers several campgrounds within the park. However, keep in mind that none of these sites feature water, power, or sewer hookups. Thor Motor Coach owners need not worry, as several models, such as the Gemini AWD®, are equipped with solar panels for off-grid power. For travelers seeking additional amenities, several campgrounds outside the park may be preferable. Camp LeConte, a family-owned RV park in Gatlinburg, offers full hookups and even includes Wi-Fi and cable for added convenience!  

The Smokies are a wonderful place to experience southern hospitality, nature, and adventure all wrapped into one. A treasure trove of memories awaits in the Great Smoky Mountains, so hop in your motorhome, pack the family, and head out in search of unforgettable moments together.

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