Bear's Den Smoky Mountain News

Bear's Den Smoky Mountain News is MOVING!

2009-04-09T05:54:00.003-05:00

That's RIGHT! It's time to move on. Blogger.com has been a great resource for us but the Bear's Den needed a whole new look and level of services.

Our new location is http://www.bearsdenblog.com/ where you'll still find out what the Smokies are all about. We'll keep you informed of all the fun activities like hiking, shopping, fishing, or scenic mountain drives. Learn about all the Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge attractions, restaurants, and shopping.

Not ONLY are we blogging on a new platform but our friends, fans, and guests can now follow us on Facebook and Twitter. Of course you can still find us at http://www.bearsdengatlinburg.net/ !

We've Updated the Bear's Den VRBO Page - New Maps, Profile, and Video

2009-04-05T06:30:00.002-05:00

We've just updated our VRBO property listing with a new "Owner's Map of Gatlinburg", Profile, and video.

The Owner's Map and Profile are now active and will be enhanced with more and more of OUR favorite restaurants, attractions, trails, and loacations. The map is powered by Google and takes advantage of their ability to place "push pins" and descriptions. We think this will be a valuable tool for our guests for a couple of reasons.

First, new guests will be able to see where the Bear's Den is in relation to the Gatlinburg "Strip" and major access roads. One of the first questions that new guests ask is . . . "Where is the cabin?"

More importantly, the map will be an on-going resource to guest. The Bear's Den is equipped with high-speed Internet service. Guests that are traveling with WiFi devices (laptops, iTouch, etc.) can access our map for tips on area attractions and services.

We want out guest to get the MOST out of their vacation time. Providing information that helps them with trip planning and first-hand tips on the "must see" attractions is a real benefit

Bear's Den's Log Cabin "Christmas 2008" Virtual Tour - Gatlinburg, TN

2008-12-07T12:03:00.002-06:00

We invite you to enjoy the best the Smokies and Gatlinburg have to offer!

Remember . . The Bear's Den will be decorated for Christmas from Dec. 1 through Jan. 31!

We JUST had Matt Johnson of Ray of Light Media do a 360 degree virtual tour of the Bear's Den all decorated for the holidays. Click the virtual tour graphic below to launch it.

You can use your mouse to zoom around, up and down, and in and out. The interactive floor plan will let you click on any part of the room and the virtual tour will take you to that view!

It's ALMOST like being there!

Gatlinburg’s 32nd annual Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade is scheduled for Friday, December 5.

2008-11-28T06:40:00.000-06:00

The City of Gatlinburg invites you to bundle up and generate a spirited dose of holiday cheer at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, December 5 in Downtown, with more than 100 parade entries including marching bands and giant helium balloons taking to the streets.

Santa’s Autograph Party cranks up at 6 p.m. on Dec. 5 at Riverbend Mall, in the midst of a main viewing area for the Parade at Traffic Light #3 in front of the Gatlinburg Welcome Center. The parade begins at Traffic Light #1A on Hwy 321 and ends about an hour-and-a-half later at Traffic Light #10.

Jamming sidewalks and balconies along the parade route, a crowd in excess of 80,000 people is expected to soak up the illuminating 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/.

Gatlinburg

Something for everyone - Gatlinburg Itineraries

2008-11-24T19:08:00.001-06:00

Coming to Gatlinburg and have some time to plan but feel like you need a nudge in the right direction or suggestions on where to visit.

We've prepared some terrific sample itineraries to help you experience some of the best experiences that Gatlinburg has to offer, from adventure to attractions, from dining experiences to shopping, and the exploration and enjoyment of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Just click on a title below to see the entire itinerary that might be just what you're looking for!

Adventure (But Not Too Much!)
Arts & Crafts (Seniors)
Empty Nester (Seniors)
Family Vacation
Girlfriend Getaway
Romance

BRrrrrrrr . . .It's Getting Cold! Warm up with the Bear's Den LAST MINUTE "Shoppers Special" Rates!

2008-11-18T05:50:00.000-06:00

Once again the Bear's Den will be decorated for Christmas and ready for you and your family to enjoy a Smoky Mountain Holiday vacation! (December 1 through January 31st)!

To help you we're offering some LAST MINUTE SPECIALS! For arrivals from November 8 through April, you can stay 3 nights and get 50% OFF on your 3rd night . . .OR . . . 1 night FREE on 4 or more nights! Even BETTER . . .stay the week and get 2 nights FREE! Click here for details

The tree is UP (12/1) and the stockings are hung. All YOU have to do is bring the food and presents!

Snuggle up in this cozy log cabin and relax by the fire, play some games with the family, or kick back with a good book.

Our cabin is professionally managed for us by Jackson Mountain Homes of Gatlinburg. Call them TODAY! Toll Free (800) 473-3163 (until 9 PM) and ask for the Bear's Den or you can reserve your cabin 24/7 by using the on-line calendar!

"Last Minute" Vacation Values At The Bear's Den!

2008-09-15T11:40:00.006-05:00

November & December "Winter Magic" Specials - (Specials cannot be combined)

Take 50% off the 3rd night on 3 night stays! Only available on new reservations booked after November 1, 2008. Valid for 3 night stays, excludes Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Holiday Weeks.

1 night FREE on 4 or more nights! Only available on new reservations booked after November 1, 2008. Valid for 4, 5 or 6 night stays, excludes Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Holiday Weeks.

2 nights FREE on 7 night stays! Only available on new reservations booked after November 1, 2008. Excludes Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Holiday Weeks.

Christmas and New Years Holiday Specials - (Specials cannot be combined)

4 night minimum waived. NOW 3 night minimum! Only available on new reservations booked after November 1, 2008. No arrivals allowed on Christmas or New Years Day. Must call to take advantage of this special (800) 473-3163.

DISCLAIMER & RESTRICTIONS: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this information; however, it is not guaranteed. It is subject to errors, omissions, change of price or withdrawal without notice. Until reservation is confirmed, rates and specials are subject to change without notice by Jackson Mountain Homes. Specials and discounts cannot be combined. Specials are subject to JMH pricing and seasons. Specials and discounts do not apply to previously booked or confirmed reservations. Discounts apply to rent only; all other fees and taxes apply. Previously booked reservations cannot be cancelled and rebooked in order to apply discounts.

On-Line Booking Available 24/7 Reservation Lines
Open Daily - (800) 473-3163 8:30AM - 6PM EST - ASK FOR THE BEAR'S DEN!

HikingintheSmokys.com launches new store targeted towards day hikers

2008-08-19T19:49:00.001-05:00

HikingintheSmokys.com, the most comprehensive source for hiking trail information for Great Smoky Mountains National Park, announces the launch of a new online hiking gear store today.

The new store is dedicated to day hikers and offers quality gear and apparel from some of the best outdoor brands, including; Columbia Sportswear, Kelty, Garmin, Leki, Marmot, Mountain Hardwear and North Face. The store also sells books and DVDs for hikers and visitors of the Smoky Mountains.

The Smoky Mountain Day Hikers Store is unique because it focuses on the needs of the day hiker, and shoppers don’t have to sort through backpacking and camping gear to find the gear they need for their day hikes. Online shoppers also enjoy the convenience of shopping for gear and apparel from home or work on the Internet.

HikingintheSmokys.com offers free hiking information on more than 70 trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, including trail descriptions, key features, pictures, videos, maps, elevation profiles, and more. Additionally, the site is organized to make it easier for hikers to compare and choose trails that best suit their hiking preferences.

Before the launch of HikingintheSmokys.com, hikers had difficulty finding web-based trail information for the Smoky Mountains. Most existing sites list only 10 or 15 of the most popular trails, and provide only limited information without regard to individual hikers’ skill level or preferences.

Visit http://www.hikinginthesmokys.com/ for more information.

Great Value, Great Location, and NOW some Great Gatlinburg Vacation SPECIALS!

2008-08-03T18:49:00.011-05:00

Summer is almost over and the owners of the Bear's Den Log Cabin in Gatlinburg have just announced their August and September SPECIALS to help you plan your "Last Minute" vacation!
This romantic 'true' log cabin has it ALL to make your romantic weekend or family get-away all you've dreamed it would be. Enjoy the convenient natural gas grill, outdoor hot tub, the loft bedroom's jetted tub, natural ALL wood interior, and access to free high-speed Internet service.

Labor Day Weekend Opening!! Due to a last minute cancellation, Labor Day "Week" has just opened up (Sunday 8/24 thru Monday 9/1/08) - Click here for our "live" calendar

AUGUST SPECIALS!!

2 night minimum! Includes Labor Day Weekend. (Valid only on reservations booked after August 1, 2008)

Stay 3, 4 or 5 nights and get 15% off! Only available on new reservations booked after July 23, 2008. Valid for 3, 4 or 5 night stays. Excludes Labor Day Weekend. Cannot be combined with other specials.
Stay 7 nights for the price of 5. Only available on new reservations booked after July 23, 2008. Excludes Labor Day Weekend.

Stay 6 nights, get the 7th night free.

SEPTEMBER SPECIALS!!

Stay 3 nights, get the 4th Night free. All 4 nights must be reserved at the time of booking. Excludes Labor Day weekend. Only available on new reservations booked after July 23, 2008. Cannot be combined with other specials.
Stay 7 nights for the price of 5. Only available on new reservations booked after July 23, 2008. Excludes Labor Day weekend.

Stay 6 nights, get the 7th night free.

Click here for our "Live" 24/7 on-line booking calendar

ASK for the "Bear's Den"!

Reservation Lines Open Daily - 800.473.3163
Monday thru Thursday - 8:30AM - 9PM EST
Friday thru Sunday - 8:30AM - 6PM EST

All Aboard! The Polar Express 4-D Experience Joins Dollywood's Smoky Mountain Christmas Festival Lineup

2008-07-30T06:04:00.005-05:00

www.Dollywood.com/ - The Polar Express 4-D Experience pulls into Dollywood's 19th annual Smoky Mountain Christmas festival Nov. 8, 2008 through Jan. 3, 2009, in the theme park's Imagination Cinema.

"This Christmas, I'm inviting families to take a spectacular holiday journey where dreams become real, and everybody knows I dream bigger than just about anybody else," Dolly Parton said. "On The Polar Express 4-D Experience, all you have to do is believe, and I sure do!"

This holiday season...What if there is a place beyond your imagination and to get there all you have to do is BELIEVE! Dollywood guests are invited to come journey to the North Pole where dreams become real and all of their senses come alive in this magical 4-D Experience. When a doubting young boy takes an extraordinary train ride to the North Pole, he embarks on an epic journey of self-discovery that shows him that the wonder of life never fades for those who believe. The Polar Express 4-D Experience is based on the film from Warner Bros. Pictures and Shangri-La Entertainment, inspired by the beloved Caldecott Medal children's book by Chris Van Allsburg, and includes 3-D and 4-D effects that will make you BELIEVE.

SimEx-Iwerks is the worldwide exclusive distributor of The Polar Express 4-D Experience.

"The Polar Express is by far the finest magical cinematic experience of our lifetime," Mark Cornell, SimEx-Iwerks Vice President, Attraction Development said. "This iconic film is further brought to life with the perfected use of our own 4-D Special FX technology, and makes for an unforgettable multi-sensory adventure, leaving all who see with hair-raising goose-bumps!"

"Upon your arrival at the North Pole...it actually begins to snow inside the 4-D Special FX Theater and when the conductor sings "Hot Chocolate" and the dancing waiters begin to pour, the audience can smell the delightful aroma of every cocoa cup!! The state-of-the-art 3-D Digital projection system allows you to see images virtually leap off the screen and when combined with 4-D FX, a blend of realism and fantasy unlike anything seen before is impeccably delivered. A must see for
the whole family!!"

In addition to a winter wonderland of more than four million holiday lights, Dollywood's Smoky Mountain Christmas festival includes a lineup of award-winning entertainment. Dollywood's Babes in Toyland, highlighted by the march of the 21 toy soldiers and a spectacular surprise finale, won the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions Honorable Mention for 2007 Best Overall Production. Rounding out the Christmastime entertainment lineup are Christmas in the Smokies, 'Twas the Night Before Christmas, An Appalachian Christmas, Christmas with the Kingdom Heirs, The Victorian Melodies, O' Holy Night, Carol of the Trees plus the nightly Lighted Christmas Parade. All shows are included with park admission.

Families also can explore Santa's Workshop, a magnificent 500-square-foot home away from home featuring larger-than-life-sized toys including "Jumbo the Elephant," which measures
nine-feet-tall; a seven-foot-tall sailboat; a five-foot-tall tricycle; an eight-foot-tall dollhouse; a six-foot-tall View-Master(R) that displays a variety of holiday images and more. Dollywood is a 130-acre family adventure park in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., and operates mid-March through 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. Source - click
here

Top 10 FREE Things To Do In Gatlinburg

2008-06-26T14:15:00.000-05:00

Check out our list of these Top 10 FREE things to do in Gatlinburg (but there are many more!).

Walk on the Parkway where you'll find more than 200 unique shops, dozens of restaurants and attractions for all ages.

Stroll along River Road that runs along Little Pigeon River one block off the Parkway.

Jump in your car and explore a collection of historical sites on Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.

Drive to Greenbrier for tubing, swimming, hiking, sunbathing, wildlife watching, a nature hike or mountain biking.

Visit Sugarlands Visitor Center located at Great Smoky Mountain National Park's main northern entrance two miles south of Gatlinburg.

Enjoy Cades Cove, a western valley in Great Smoky Mountains National Park where historical cabins, farmhouses and churches are maintained.

See Gatlinburg from a bird's eye view from the two overlooks in the National Park.

Indulge in a little culture as you browse the galleries of Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts.

Take a trolley (the brand new all-day Trolley Pass is only $2.00!) or your car and visit the eight-mile loop of the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community.

Stroll the Parkway and take in the free and fun collection of personalities and performers at Gatlinburg's 3rd annual Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales™.

Come Celebrate The Great Smokies 75th Anniversary!

2008-06-26T06:22:00.001-05:00

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Superintendent Dale Ditmanson has worked closely with his partners, Great Smoky Mountains Association and the Friends of the Smokies, and with our neighboring communities, to develop the GSMN 75th Anniversary site as their “Virtual Visitor Center” to showcase “all things 75th”.

On their site you will find a rich and evolving variety of information on the Park’s history, current issues, and future visions. Throughout 2008 and 2009 you’ll find information about a wide array of activities and events in the Park as well as officially recognized events in all the neighboring communities.

You can even 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. Upload your story to the Smokies Family Album

Click here for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park 75th Anniversary Site!

New Bear's Den Gatlinburg Summer 2008 Specials!!!

2008-06-18T17:25:00.005-05:00

SUMMER SPECIALS!! (June - July - August) 2 night minimum! Excludes July 4th weekend & Labor Day Weekend.

STAY SUNDAY THROUGH WEDNESDAY AND GET 15% OFF!! Only available on new reservations booked after June 12, 2008. Valid for 2, 3 or 4 night stays, must depart by Thursday. Excludes Labor Day Weekend.

STAY 7 NIGHTS FOR THE PRICE OF 5!! Only available on new reservations booked after June 12, 2008. Stay 6 nights, get the 7th night free.

SEPTEMBER SPECIAL!! Stay 3 nights, get the 4th Night free. All 4 nights must be reserved at the time of booking. Excludes Labor Day weekend. Only available on new reservations booked after May 9, 2008.

August 16 & 17, 2008 - Dolly Parton brings her 2008 "Backwoods Barbie World Tour" to her Dollywood theme park

2008-06-16T09:34:00.002-05:00

Dolly Parton brings her 2008 Backwoods Barbie World Tour to her Dollywood theme park on Aug. 16 (2 p.m. and 7 p.m.) and 17 (2 p.m.) with three concerts to benefit her Imagination Library program. Tickets are available ONLINE ONLY on the Dollywood website. (No mail or phone orders accepted.) Limit 6 tickets per person.

Tickets for all three concerts are on sale now exclusively to Dollywood season passholders.

Remaining tickets go on sale to the general public at 10 a.m. Monday, June 23.

Ticket Prices: $35, $60 and $75*

Click here for MORE INFORMATION!

*$30 of each ticket purchased is tax deductible.

Gatlinburg, TN - Should We Stay In a Log Cabin or Hotel This Year?

2008-06-10T12:04:00.008-05:00

Vacation home rentals have many perks for travelers. They are generally much cheaper to stay in than hotel rooms, and there are several things you can do to guarantee yourself that you save money on your vacation home, get the best price available and have a cheaper vacation.

Bear's Den - Gatlinburg, TN

A vacation rental is much more spacious than a hotel room. Instead of being cramped in a small room, you have an entire home for you and your family to stay in. The benefits don't end there, though.

Vacation home rentals almost always have full kitchens. (Double check that the vacation home you are considering has this just to be sure.) You can shop for food at a grocery store and prepare your meals at the vacation rental. This allows you to eat at home and save money on food, instead of spending a great deal of your vacation budget at restaurants.

Another benefit of vacation home rentals is that they are more personal than hotels. The people who own the home are able to make recommendations about things to do and where to go.

Homeowners want to help you and provide you with the best experience possible so that you recommend their home to your friends and family, and come back again yourself.

In order to save money on your vacation rental, consider traveling with another family and renting a home with them. This would cut the cost of your vacation home in half. Also, the longer that a home is rented for, generally the cost decreases. Rent a home for twice as long with another family, and each family spends half of the time there. The cost will most likely be cheaper for you than just renting for the time you would be there.

To find a vacation rental that suits you and your desires for your trip, you need to do plenty of research. Look on the Internet for pictures and reviews. Compare amenities, such as fitness centers, in addition to prices. Ask any family members or friends who have stayed in a vacation home in an area you desire to visit if they would recommend the place where they stayed.

Another important consideration when looking at vacation home rentals is the location. How far is it from town and restaurants? What is the distance to the attractions or the mountains or whatever it is that interests you in this particular location?

Often times vacation homes are booked well in ahead of time. It's common for a family to book a year in advance when their trip ends, so it's important to plan ahead to find the best deal.

Occasionally there are last minute travel deals available, so don't forget to check those out for this summer.

You also should be aware that many vacation home rentals require a deposit when you book, and if for some reason you are not able to take your trip and rent the home, you could lose that deposit. So be sure to check out the deposit and refund policy of the vacation rental.

Vacation home rentals are a great way to save money on your vacation. They also have a more comfortable, inviting atmosphere than a hotel can provide. When planning your next trip, check out the Bear's Den to save you money and provide you with a more relaxing environment.

Gina Clark writes on travel and financial issues. Click

here to learn additional vacation and money saving tips. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gina_E_Clark

Nature Photography in the Great Smoky Mountains

2008-06-09T09:39:00.002-05:00

A couple of years ago I posted an article here: Bear's Den Smoky Mountain News: Great Smoky Mountains Photography - Taking My Camera On The Road as I was getting ready to head down to the Bear's Den for a weeks vacation. As I begin to plan for our July trip, once again photography is on my mind!

In my email this morning I received this GREAT Article from the This Week In Photography (TWIP) blog . . .and thought I'd share it here.

Photo by Brian Davis

#1. Get off the couch. You can’t shoot nature photos indoors. You have to go outside. Don’t worry about waiting for the perfect moment. It will never come. Just go outside and find it. Don’t wait for it.

#2. Dress for success. If you plan to be outside, know what the weather is going to be like when and where you go, and then plan for contingencies. Always bring a spare pair of boots and socks in the car in case your feet get wet. Always have some minimal rain gear. Dress in layers and don’t forget sunscreen.

#3. Gear up for success. Nature photography is a contemplative artform, so bring a tripod to both slow yourself down, and to get steadier shots. Bring a level to make sure your horizons are in good shape. Bring lots of memory cards and backup gear. You never know when a body will fail. Have a spare. Also bring flash and/or reflectors and defusers.

#4. Avoid including the sky in your shots if it is gray or white.

#5. Tell a story. Don’t just set your tripod up at the first location you find and fire away. Approach your subject from several different angles, in different light and using different lenses.

#6. Go early and stay late. You’ve probably heard this before, but in case you haven’t, the best light is the hour around sunrise and sunset. If it looks good at 3:30 pm, it’s going to look great an hour before sunset. Wait.

#7. LUDA - Look Up, Look Down, Look All Around. Looking around and being aware of your surroundings will help you find shots you didn’t know you were capable of getting.

#8. Have a purpose. Don’t just go out shooting everything you see. Give yourself a project. Make sure you have a theme or a goal.

Photo by Brian Davis - Cades Cove

#9. Watch your horizons. Make sure you avoid putting the horizon dead center in your photos.
Try to place the horizon in the top or lower third of the frame. Also watch out for merges. Make sure the horizon doesn’t merge with mountain tops, tree lines or other subjects in your photo.

#10. Look at lots of nature photos if you want to become a better nature photographer. Writers read to get better at writing and photographers study photos to get better at photography.

This post sponsored by Lensbabies. - Share This - View article...

Gatlinburg to Host Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales - June 13 to Aug. 9

2008-06-06T09:18:00.001-05:00

Back by popular demand, Gatlinburg’s 3rd annual run of Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales™ begins in downtown Gatlinburg on June 13 and will run through August 9. Tunes & Tales is a summer-long street performance event featuring costumed musical performers, storytellers and artisans portraying time periods as far back as 1800.

A collection of personalities and performers arrive nightly at 5 p.m. via horse-drawn wagon in the center of town. Visitors witness a magical transformation of sidewalk to stage as the characters disperse along the downtown Parkway for an evening of entertainment and storytelling until 10 p.m.

As many as 14 nightly acts perform throughout the evening. This popular eight-week event truly highlights one of Gatlinburg’s greatest assets – the walkability of the community – and provides guests with an interactive, educational and entertaining experience the whole family can enjoy.
As part of Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales™, visitors can stroll along the Parkway in downtown Gatlinburg and catch a toe-tappin’ performance by “The Back Porch Cloggers,” a group showcasing the original dance of the Appalachians.

In addition, guests can meet Whittlin’ Joe as he demonstrates his craft and shares his stories of living in the Smokies, and Miss Nan the school marm shares her experiences and fun stories as a pioneer teacher. “Zeno the Gatlinburg Bear” also makes nightly appearances during this popular summer special event, dishing out hugs and waving to his new friends.

Other popular returning Appalachian characters include Hammer and Strings, the dulcimer duo, and Animal Mac, who sings about his four-legged friends from the Great Smoky Mountains.

Visitors also get a chance to hear traditional mountain music by the Spring Lizards, a musical husband and wife team, who plays the music of the 1800’s. The pure and rustic music and folk-like lyrics tell stories of the joys and tribulations of life of the early pioneer families.

Folks will enjoy hearing from Annie the Quilter as she shows off her family’s quilt noting that each square has its own story. She even gives tips and show how quilts are made to any would-be seamsters.

Since Gatlinburg is the birthplace of the famous bluegrass tune, “Rocky Top”, Tunes & Tales features traditional bluegrass bands each night such as the Tennessee Mountain Boys, Mountain Mike & the River Road Ramblers and White Oak Flats playing favorite bluegrass standards. All performances are free and happen all along the Parkway, seven nights a week until August 9 making every evening a special event in Gatlinburg.

Gatlinburg’s Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales is an official activity of the City’s Department of Tourism.

Dollywood Hosts Thrills in the Hills Event June 6-8

2008-06-05T13:12:00.001-05:00

First-time event welcomes coaster enthusiasts from across the country.

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Roller coaster fans from across the country will converge on Dollywood 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.”

Dollywood 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.

Debbie Reynolds brings her charm, memories and memorabilia to Pigeon Forge

2008-06-02T07:22:00.002-05:00

Debbie Reynolds Hollywood Motion Picture Museum - Featured at Belle Island Village will be the world's largest private collection of Hollywood memorabilia - preserved by Debbie Reynolds. The museum will feature interactive exhibits including two large state of the art theaters and 10 themed pavilions showing original clips and displaying artifacts from almost every Academy Award-winning film.

The collection is valued at over $50 Million and contains more than 3,500 costumes, including:

Marilyn Monroe's white dress made famous in "The Seven Year Itch"
Dorothy's ruby-red slippers worn by Judy Garland in "The Wizard of Oz".

"The area here is so beautiful," Reynolds explains when talking about the decision to locate the museum in Sevier County. "I lived in Roanoke, Va., for five years and thought this whole side of the world was wonderful. We had an offer (for the museum) in Branson, but it just didn't come at the right time. Here, I love the river, the water and the trees and the people are so America. This place is what we all want America to be like. It's part of the Bible Belt. I think they (Sevier County) will receive this with great warmth.

And we just acquired Davy Crockett (TV show) items. What perfect timing."The museum will be housed inside a replica showboat. "The showboat design was Glen Bilbo's idea," Reynolds said, referring to the Belle Island developer. "He and the others wanted it to be really musical and I had bought the original 'Showboat' costumes from MGM. Items from Kathryn Grayson and Ava Gardner are so colorful and wonderful and we're going to have so much music around the exhibits. There were just a million ways you could go and I thought it was a great idea."

Visitors will also have an opportunity to take home their own piece of Hollywood's history - the museum gift shop will carry original pieces of memorabilia. You can find out more about the collection, the museum and Debbie at the following sites:

www.debbiereynolds.com

www.hmpc.tv

Belle Island Fact Sheet 2008Belle Island Village is located in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., about 35 miles southeast of Knoxville, Tenn., in the eastern part of the state. The development is situated on an actual island where the Little Pigeon River splits, located between the Parkway and Teaster Lane on the south side of Wears Valley Road. Pigeon Forge is a gateway community to the nation's most-visited national park, Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Click here for more information

Your Gatlinburg Log Cabin Vacation - Summer 2008

2008-05-24T08:21:00.005-05:00

Vacations in Gatlinburg offer many options, but few are as wonderful as a getaway to a Gatlinburg cabin.

Just imagine opening your Gatlinburg cabin window to a view of the woods or Smokey Mountains. Maybe relax in front of the the fireplace and let all the stresses from busy city life drift away as you enjoy the cabin home. Whether you’re here on your honeymoon, or here for a family reunion or family vacation, Gatlinburg cabins are available for you year around.

What better way to get back to nature than in a rental cabin? From the comfort of your porch you're in the tree tops. Relax in the hot-tub, early in the morning or after a days hike, listening to the sounds of nature all around you.

A cabin vacation is a great way to unwind and de-stress from the hectic activities of your everyday life. With a private cabin, you can concentrate on spending quality time with the family or simply take an opportunity to rejuvenate. Gatlinburg offers activities for the entire family for every season of the year.

During the winter, enjoy skiing and snow sledding. All the while, enjoy your own spectacular view of the Smokies from your Gatlinburg cabin window.

Gatlinburg also offers miles and miles of opportunity for hiking during nicer weather. For the fisherman, there are hundreds of miles of streams. Not a fisherman? Gatlinburg cabins are close to all the other attractions Gatlinburg has to offer.

Want more inside entertainment? Your Gatlinburg cabin is also located close to museums, and even haunted houses. How about a fun afternoon with the kids at the mini-golf course and bumper cars? If you can think of it, you can find it in and around Gatlinburg, Tennessee; all while enjoying your evenings in your private Gatlinburg cabin.

For those that want more structured outings, try a guided walk in the woods. Equipment rentals are available, and it’s all just a short drive from your Gatlinburg cabin. Don’t want to drive? There are shuttles available to many of the outdoor guided adventures.

Oh, and don’t forget to do a little shopping while you’re visiting Gatlinburg. The city offers hundreds of shops. Reminisce of days gone by in the old-style stores. For those that are looking for something more modern, how bout a fun spree at one of the five Gatlinburg area malls?

Don’t forget the souvenirs for those that didn’t come with you to your Gatlinburg cabin this year.

Handmade arts and crafts are available all over this wonderful city. Local artisans have everything from clothes to leather items available. Not sure when to come to Gatlinburg? Anytime of year is the right time of year.

Gatlinburg has their SpringFest, the Fourth of July parade and fireworks to the Fall Heritage Festival. Gatlinburg offers events throughout the year to make your vacation one to remember for years to come.

It’s all here in Gatlinburg Tennessee and just MINUTES from the Bear's Den! Click here for our Summer 2008 specials!

NEW SPECIALS JUST ANNOUNCED FOR THE BEAR'S DEN - GATLINBURG!

2008-05-12T13:56:00.008-05:00

Reserve the Bear's Den cabin on-line!

NEW SPECIALS JUST ANNOUNCED FOR THE BEAR'S DEN - GATLINBURG!

SUMMER SPECIALS (June & July)

2 NIGHT MINIMUM! Excludes July 4th weekend . . .

Stay 5 nights, get the 6th night free. Only available on new reservations booked after May 24, 2008.

Stay 6 nights, get the 7th night free.

AUGUST SPECIAL! - Stay 6 nights, get the 7th night free.

SEPTEMBER SPECIAL! - Stay 3 nights, get the 4th Night free. . . All 4 nights must be reserved at the time of booking. Excludes Labor Day weekend. Only available on new reservations booked after May 9, 2008.

BEAR'S DEN ALL YEAR SPECIAL - Stay 6 nights and get the 7th night FREE

April 17, 2008 - Gatlinburg's 7th Annual Ribfest & Wings

2008-04-10T13:56:00.002-05:00

Bring your appetite to Gatlinburg's Ribfest and Wings on April 17, where you'll be tantalized by local vendors serving up mouthwatering barbecue set to the wonderful sounds of live music. Come hungry and leave happy!

An armband for Ribfest & Wings may be purchased for $12 that allows as long as they last sampling, or shell out a “buck for a bone or two wings.”

A portion of the proceeds will benefit Gatlinburg Lodging & Hotel Association’s educational scholarship fund.

The 7th Annual Ribfest & Wings is sponsored by Coca-Cola, Star 102.1, Food City, AT&T, Food City, Twin Islands Motel and Hard Rock Café.

For more information about Ribfest & Wings and other Springfest events, visit http://www.gatlinburg.com/ or call 865-436-4178 for mountains of information.

Gatlinburg celebrates wildflowers with 58th Annual Wildflower Pilgrimage

2008-04-06T08:11:00.002-05:00

As spring begins to sparkle throughout the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg blossoms into the center of all things botanical during the National Park’s Great Smoky Mountains annual Wildflower Pilgrimage and National Park Experience.

From April 23-27, everyone from the serious botanist to the weekend gardener will have access to some of the nation’s leading botanical experts as well as Appalachian wildlife authorities. Registration, required, is now open.

The Wildflower Pilgrimage offers more than 150 programs including an array of instructional walks and guided hiking tours tailored to meet individual walking ability, along with demonstrations and guest lecturers. Tours showcase the abundant varieties of wildflowers, plants, ferns, mosses, trees and shrubs, as well as birds, bears, boars, bats, salamanders and insects, all native to the Great Smoky Mountains.

Seminar classes include photography workshops and sessions by leading experts such as Carol Liguori Wolfe, a renowned ecologist, science writer and photographer, and Will Blozan, president of the Eastern Native Tree Society. Other classes include a study of herb lore of the Appalachian Mountains and an armchair tour of Cades Cove. Most educational sessions take place in the W.L. Mills Conference Center in downtown Gatlinburg.

In addition to art and craft exhibits, the 2008 Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage juried art competition highlights the beauty of the botanicals of the Smokies and the talent of the artists who focus on the flowering plants.

Educational programs and entertainment in the evenings will round out the week’s events in Gatlinburg. For more and to download a registration brochure and program schedule, visit www.springwildflowerpilgrimage.org. Registration is required.

Article Source: http://www.citizen-times.com/ Author: Paul Clark at 828-232-5854, via e-mail at mailto:pclark@ashevill.gannett.com?subject=Reader%20Feedback

Get lost in new Gatlinburg Mirror Maze

2008-04-02T06:34:00.002-05:00

Gatlinburg's newest attraction has people seeing double, even triple and going weak in the knees! Ripley's Mirror Maze and Candy Factory has more than a hundred mirrors and flavors of candy.

There is only one way in the maze, and one way out. Guests who navigate through the reflection successfully can reward themselves with a sweet treat.

You can watch Live at Five's Beth Haynes try to feel her way out of the Mirror Maze by clicking on the video link below.

Ripley's Mirror Maze and Candy Factory is located at 623 Parkway in Gatlinburg. If you would like more information you call (865) 436-5096.

Click here for a video
Original Article - WIBR TV
KNOX News Article - Click Here

Dollywood's new season opens new Timber Canyon River Battle ride, walkway & shows!

2008-03-24T11:18:00.004-05:00

A 750-foot walkway connects Craftsman's Valley to the Timber Canyon River Battle, a $5 million ride located in the park's new Wilderness Pass arean Expansion to the Eagle Mountain Sanctuary, where a new gallery for bird viewing has been added

See Press Release

The new River Battle will have a ride capacity of 800 passengers an hour, armed with powerful soaker guns. Nine rafts holding eight passengers each follow a 500-foot channel.

"When I was a kid, me and my brothers and sisters used to sneak away and start a river battle of our own, but I never dreamed that kind of childhood fun would end up creating a great ride like my new River Battle," Dolly Parton said in a statement.

With soaker guns, passengers will be able to take aim at each other and more than 100 targets that include talking skunks, otters and bears. Watch out, as some targets will shoot back. Riders may also shoot water at observers, part of the park's ongoing effort to bring families together, according to Owens.

Click here for full story.

Rekindle Your Spark! See Why Love Is In The Air In Gatlinburg

2008-01-23T06:35:00.000-06:00

The holiday season may be over, but the romance in Gatlinburg never ends. Bring your special someone to the Great Smoky Mountains and experience unparalleled peace and quiet as you rediscover each other and rekindle your spark. You might even ponder getting married or renewing your marriage vows in Gatlinburg: it's the perfect place and the New Year is the perfect time! You can choose any one of Gatlinburg's many beautiful chapels, or embrace nature with an outdoor or cabin wedding. They even have limo services, florists, photographers, caterers, dress shops and tuxedo rentals ready when you are. Plan a trip for February, the month of love in the Smoky Mountains. Cozy up in a mountain cabin or chalet, or drive the beautiful mountain roads. See why love is in the air in Gatlinburg!

BRrrrrrrr . . .It's Getting Cold! Warm up with the Bear's Den LAST MINUTE "Shoppers Special" Rates!

2007-12-09T11:26:00.000-06:00

Once again the Bear's Den is decorated for Christmas and ready for you and your family to enjoy a Smoky Mountain Holiday vacation!

To help you we're offering some LAST MINUTE SPECIALS! For arrivals from December 12 through the 18th, you can stay 3 nights and get 50% OFF on your 3rd night . . .OR . . . you can now stay 2 nights at our ALREADY low regular rates!

The tree is UP and the stockings are hung. All YOU have to do is bring the food and presents!

Snuggle up in this cozy log cabin and relax by the fire, play some games with the family, or kick back with a good book.

Dollywood Christmas 2007 - Be SURE To Take Your Camera!

2007-12-07T06:29:00.000-06:00

Enjoy a family holiday like no other with a heartwarming lineup of Christmas shows, holiday foods, and thrilling rides. Make this a Smoky Mountain Christmas you and your family won’t soon forget!

We go every year and ALWAYS find something NEW! This year we particularly enjoyed the Appalachian Christmans show at the Back Porch Theatre. As ususal, I took along my tiny Kodak V570 digital camera to record a few memories in stills and short videos.

I took all of the photos below "hand held" as I did not want to be burdoned with carrying lots of "stuff" if we went on any rides. If YOU want to take photos there, be sure to learn the basics about your camera before you start shooting.

My Best PhotoTip: Turn OFF your flash . . .and raise the ISO (Film Speed) to 400. There's almost always enough stage lighting to get a decent shot with available light. AND the photos will look more natural than the typical flash shot.

A little girl looks for an angel; three shepherds follow a star. They all find their way to the heart of “The Christmas Story.” 2007 Season Dates: November 10 - December 30, 2007. This is in an open air pavillion and it's easy to get up close for a nice picture.

Again . . .adjust your camera settings. Here we actually lowered the ISO (film speed) so that we didn't freeze the water coming off the old mill.

Celebrate an acoustic Christmas at the Back Porch Theatre with Appalachian Christmas. Let the beautiful sound of the music take you back to a simpler time. 2007 Season Dates: November 10 - December 30, 2007

The Robert F. Thomas Chapel hosts worship services at 5:30 p.m. each Sunday throughout Smoky Mountain Christmas festival. 2007 Season Dates: November 10 - December 30, 2007

For more Dollywood Christmas photos (2006) - Click here!

Dec. 31, 2007 - New Year's Eve Gatlinburg Style!

2007-12-06T18:45:00.000-06:00

Gatlinburg will welcome the arrival of 2008 in grand style with its 20th Annual New Year’s Eve Ball Drop and Fireworks Show at the Space Needle late Monday night, December 31.

At the stroke of midnight on January 1, 2008, the Space Needle area will light up with a fireworks and music show produced by Pyro-Shows of LaFollette, Tennessee. The event is free to the public and will feature music and free party favors provided by Mr. Tablecloth near the base of the Space Needle. Performers from Hard Rock Café will entertain the crowd prior to midnight.

“It has become a tradition for families 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 2008 with their family 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 a 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.

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies offers a “Dance With the Sharks” party from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Only $109.99 per couple includes heavy hors d’oeuvres, champagne toast, fireworks on the Plaza (you can see the Space Needle from the Plaza), and two dance floors, one with an 8-piece band, the other with a DJ. Kids arrangements and programs are also available.

Blaine’s Restaurant is right in the middle of the fireworks area below the Space Needle and offers a champagne toast as well. It’s a local restaurant and bar with a big local crowd, a popular spots

Up on Mt. Harrison, Ober Gatlinburg is offering a New Years Eve special in its restaurant and lounge. For a $10 cover charge from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., they’ll have two bands performing through the night with hors d’oeuvres.

For information on other New Year’s activities, please call the Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce at 800/568-4748.

Nov-Dec 2007: Winter Magic In Gatlinburg - Zeno, Festival of Trees, Sing-alongs!

2007-11-23T09:20:00.000-06:00

Aglow with the charm of the new Winter Magic lighting displays, the city streets look even more beautiful this year following completion of another phase of the undergrounding of utilities. But, the lighting is only part of the pleasure of a stroll down Gatlinburg's Parkway this holiday season.

Beginning Friday (11/23) and running from 5 to 9 p.m. every Friday and Saturday night through Christmas, the popular Tunes & Tales program will feature seven quartets of carolers who will roam the streets singing classic songs of the season. Dressed in Victorian period costumes, the carolers will be delivered to various locations in the city via horse-drawn wagons and carriages.

Saturday (11/24) and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays through Dec. 15. : The Annual Gatlinburg Festival of Trees features dozens of trees decorated in themes ranging from whimsical to traditional and extravagantly different. The exhibit of trees lining the halls of W.L. Mills Conference Center will be open to the public from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Of course, to be perfectly magical, it is a must that the Winter Magic program include appearances by Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus. The Clauses of North Pole, Earth, and their staff of elves work year-round making toys that Santa Claus delivers to children around the world on Christmas Eve. To prepare himself for the big trip, Claus agreed this year that he and his wife should vacation in Gatlinburg during the weekends so they can rest up a bit while visiting with children and the young at heart in the Riverbend Mall right up until Christmas.

Zeno the Gatlinburg Bear is so excited about the Clauses coming to town, and the opportunity to get his picture taken with visitors, that he has decided to postpone his hibernation until after Christmas.

Music will also fill the air every Friday night at traffic light 3 where a Yule Log fireside sing-along will be held to give families a chance to enjoy singing their favorite holiday songs together.
Perhaps even Zeno will try to overcome his fear of fire to hang out with the singers.

Also scheduled at 7 p.m. on Nov. 23 and 24 in W.L. Mills Conference Center is the Nutcracker "Sweet," an adaptation of the classic ballet which will be produced by the Smoky Mountain Regional Ballet Company. Dancers from many area studios and companies will perform in the production. Reservations are encouraged, and may be made by calling 680-7369.

Nov. - Dec. - Gatlinburg Winter Magic Trolley Rides - The best way to view the more than 40 lighting displays and numerous other lights featured in Gatlinburg Winter Magic is to hop aboard the Trolley Ride of Lights and take a leisurely ride through the city. Trolleys depart from the Gatlinburg Aquarium Welcome Center at Traffic Light No. 5 (Mass Transit Center) at 6:30, 7:30, and 8:30 p.m. nightly from November through December 30 excluding Dec. 1, 24 and 25, then continue every Saturday night during January. The Trolley Ride of Lights is a guided narrative tour that lasts approximately 45 minutes. This year tickets are only $4 and advance reservations can be made at the Aquarium Welcome Center or by calling 865/436-0535. Group reservations are also welcomed.

Article Source: Click Here - Lots of holiday thngs to do in Gatlinburg by Candice Grimm:
cgrimm@themountainpress.com

Great Smoky Mountains Fall Foliage Update - November 13, 2007

2007-11-14T18:11:00.000-06:00

November 12-13, 2007 Courtesy of Steve Kemp, Tom Harrington and the Great Smoky Mountains Association

Fall colors are now near or at peak at the lower elevations of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. And they are impressive. Oak trees are showing amazing staying power and their color show may persist through Thanksgiving weekend. At the higher elevations (above 3,500’), colors are now past peak in most areas.

Good places to see fall color include: Newfound Gap Road, Little River Road, Foothills Parkway, and Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. Suggested hikes: Oconaluftee River Trail, Cucumber Gap Loop, Kephart Prong Trail, Old Sugarlands Road Trail, and Sutton Ridge Overlook.

Rabbit Creek (from Cades Cove to Hannah Mountain Trail) - Scattered areas with really beautiful fall foliage, especially on ridge tops and in washes.Hannah Mountain (From Rabbit Creek Trail to Abrams Falls Trail) - Pockets of foliage with nice colors.Abrams Falls (Beginning to End) - Little foliage with nice colors.

Suggested hikes: Oconaluftee River Trail, Cucumber Gap Loop, Kephart Prong Trail, Old Sugarlands Road Trail, and Sutton Ridge Overlook. Rich Mountain Loop, Chestnut Top Trail, Smokemont Loop, Kanati Fork, and Sutton Ridge Overlook (Lower Mt. Cammerer Trail).

Click Here for Basic Fall Color Information
Click Here for Fall Drives
Click Here for Fall Hikes
GSMNP Fall Hikes & Drives

The Hunt for Red October - Great Smoky Mountains Fall Foliage Update - 10/26/07

2007-10-29T14:24:00.000-05:00

October 26, 2007 Courtesy of Terry Maddox, Julee (Crow’s Nest) Brown, and Steve Kemp and the Great Smoky Mountains Association

Colors are at or near peak from 3,000’-5,500’ and are very impressive. Reds are more pronounced now than in recent years, especially on the North Carolina side of the park.

Colors at the very highest elevations (above 5,500’)
are now past peak in some areas.

Good places to see fall color include: Newfound Gap Road from Alum Cave Trailhead to Kephart Prong Trailhead, the Blue Ridge Parkway, Foothills Parkway East & West, and Heintooga Ridge Road to Balsam Mountain Campground. Suggested hikes: Thomas Divide Trail, Alum Cave Bluff Trail, Chimney Tops Trail, Sweat Heifer Trail, Gregory Bald Trail, and Mt. Cammerer.

At the lower elevations, fall colors are quickly developing. Black gum, dogwood, sumacs, and sourwood trees continue to show vivid reds. Golds are present on tuliptree, black walnut, birch, beech, spicebush, and hickories. The peak of color at the lower elevations is still a few days away and will probably spill over into November.

Suggested hikes: Rich Mountain Loop, Chestnut Top Trail, Smokemont Loop, Kanati Fork, and Sutton Ridge Overlook (Lower Mt. Cammerer Trail).

Click Here for Basic Fall Color Information
Click Here for Fall Drives
Click Here for Fall Hikes
GSMNP Fall Hikes & Drives

The Hunt for Red October - Great Smoky Mountains Fall Foliage Update - 10/22/07

2007-10-23T06:32:00.000-05:00

October 22, 2007 - Courtesy of Steve Kemp and the Great Smoky Mountains Association

Despite (or perhaps, because of) the severe drought conditions, fall colors are shaping up to be very good this year. Colors are at peak this week in many areas of the Smoky Mountain high country (above 3,500'). Yellow birch, American beech, pin cherry, American mountain-ash, witch-hobble, and mountain maple are all showing excellent color. Some maples are showing brilliant reds.

This high elevation color peak is a couple of weeks later than average and is more impressive than in many years.

Good places to see fall color include: Newfound Gap Road from Alum Cave Trailhead to Kephart Prong Trailhead, Clingmans Dome Road, the Blue Ridge Parkway, Foothills Parkway East & West, and Heintooga Ridge Road to Balsam Mountain Campground.

Suggested hikes: Thomas Divide Trail, Alum Cave Bluff Trail, Chimney Tops Trail, Sweat Heifer Trail, the spruce-fir self-guiding nature trail, Gregory Bald Trail, and Mt. Cammerer.

At the lower elevations, fall colors are gradually coming along. Black gum, dogwood, sumacs, and sourwood trees continue to show vivid reds. Golds are present on tuliptree, black walnut, birch, beech, spicebush, and hickories. A few scattered maples and oaks are showing colors. The peak of color at the lower elevations is at least a week away and will probably spill over into November.

Suggested hikes: Rich Mountain Loop, Chestnut Top Trail, Smokemont Loop, and Sutton Ridge Overlook (Lower Mt. Cammerer Trail).

Click Here for Basic Fall Color Information

Click Here for Fall Drives

Click Here for Fall Hikes

GSMNP Fall Hikes & Drives

The Hunt for Red October - Great Smoky Mountains Fall Foliage Update

2007-10-17T09:31:00.000-05:00

October 15, 2007 - Courtesy of Steve Kemp and the Great Smoky Mountains Association

Fall colors will be at peak this week in many areas of the Smoky Mountain high country (above 4,500'). Yellow birch, American beech, pin cherry, American mountain-ash, witch-hobble, and mountain maple are all showing excellent color. This high elevation color peak is later than average.

Good places to see fall color include: Newfound Gap Road, Clingmans Dome Road, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and Heintooga Ridge Road to Balsam Mountain Campground.

Suggested hikes: the Appalachian Trail to Charlies Bunion, the spruce-fir self-guiding nature trail, Gregory Bald Trail, and Mt. Cammerer.

At the lower elevations, sunny days and cool nights are nudging fall colors along. Black gum, dogwood, sumacs, and sourwood trees continue to show vivid reds. Golds are coming along on tuliptree, black walnut, birch, beech, and hickories. A few scattered maples and oaks are showing the first signs of fall colors. The peak of color at the lower elevations is over a week away.

Suggested hikes: Rich Mountain Loop, Chestnut Top Trail, Smokemont Loop.

Click Here for Basic Fall Color Information

Click Here for Fall Drives

Click Here for Fall Hikes

GSMNP Fall Hikes & Drives

Smoky Mountains Photography

Stargazing Program Offered in Cades Cove - October 13, 2007

2007-10-11T14:41:00.000-05:00

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Rangers will offer a 2-hour stargazing program in Cades Cove on October 13, beginning a 7 p.m. Several telescopes and in-depth astronomy knowledge will be provided by the Smoky Mountains Astronomical Society.

The scheduled tour in Cades Cove will be a discovery of the autumn sky’s position of stars, galaxies, and constellations. According to Park Ranger Mike Maslona, "Along with preserving wildlife and historic sites, Cades Cove also preserves a dark, clear night sky. In more developed areas outside the Park, the amount of artificial light tends to both reduce the viewer’s night vision and to wash out the fainter stars. We selected this night because there will be no moonlight to mask the stars."

Participants for the program should park near the exhibit shelter at the entrance to the Cades Cove Loop Road, and join Rangers in the field just inside the Loop Road. Those planning to attend should dress warmly, and bring a flashlight and a lawn chair or blanket to sit on. In case of rain, the program will move to the Cades Cove amphitheatre.

Contact: Nancy Gray, (865) 436-1208

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg Craftmen's Fair - Oct. 11-28, 2007

2007-10-10T11:40:00.000-05:00

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. Gatlinburg Craftmen's Fair Local Phone: 865-430-4148 - Toll-Free: 1-800-588-1817

Gatlinburg

Podcasts - Ghost Stories of the Smoky Mountains

2007-10-05T12:23:00.000-05:00

Some things just can't be explained. Listen to these true tales from the Appalachians, taken from books available in the Great Smoky Mountains Association bookstore.

A Cabin On Fire A mountain man has the habit of waking up in the night to discover he is writing prophetic poetry. From The Granny Curse & Other Ghosts and Legends From East Tennessee by Randy Russell and Janet Barnett. Read by Don G. Campbell and Carey Jones.

Rachel An elderly mountain woman has a vision just before her death, revealing facts about her past. From Ghosts & Haunts from the Appalachian Foothills by James V. Burchill & others. Read by Joey Heath.

Snowy Footprints A lost boy's life is saved when a rescuer follows mysterious footprints that lead him to the child. From The Granny Curse & Other Ghosts & Legends from East Tennessee by Randy Russell & Janet Barnett. Read by Carey Jones

Gatlinburg , Smoky Mountains , Pigeon Forge , Cades Cove , Entertainment , Mountain

Ghosts of the Smoky Moutains - Gatlinburg Ghost Tour

2007-10-05T12:16:00.000-05:00

Looking for some little "out of the ordinary" fun while visiting in Gatlinburg this October? Why not try a Ghost Walk? Eeekkkk!!

One of the more popular walks is the Haunted Ghost Tours . This tour will take you on a leisurely stroll and search along the shadowy streets and alleys of Gatlinburg, to hear stories of the unexplained and strange.

This is not a haunted-house tour. It is a storytelling experience with a twist of murder and mayhem. They get your attention, but they don't chase you around with chainsaws. The stories feature a combination of local legends, history, superstition, folk tales and fiction. The tour's purpose is to revisit many historic and forgotten stories of murder and chaos that took place during the past 100 years in Gatlinburg and Great Smoky Mountains National Park."

Just to give you an idea of some of the stories you might encounter, the following accounts are provided by JND infowire who does not neccesarily support the existence of ghosts or hauntings. The following stories should be considered folk tales and nothing more. Do not visit the listed locations without permission of the owner.

Gatlinburg - Greenbrier Restaurant - At the Greenbrier Restaurant the ghost of a young woman who committed suicide in the restaurant can sometimes be seen.

Gatlinburg - Holiday Inn Sunspree Resort - This place is haunted by many spirits and/or demons.? Being one of the oldest hotels in Gatlinburg many events have taken place here over time.?

Gatlinburg - Holiday Inn Sunspree Resort - The kitchens on the property - First a man by the name of Alvin worked for the hotel as a cook since the hotel had opened.

Upon his 30th anniversary the owners purchased a gift for him, a new boat.

The first time Alvin took this boat out it sank and he drowned.

There are two kitchens on the property the Holidome (for restaurant) and the Tower (for Banquet facilities).

Alvin is said to haunt both of the kitchens.

Cooks coming in for the early breakfast hours have reported hearing their names whispered, dishes breaking and flying across the kitchen, and faucets turning themselves on and off.

There are many other stories of this hotel.

Gatlinburg - Holiday Inn Sunspree Resort - TOWER - First, in room 471, in the summer of 1999, a businessman was out of town staying in this room.

He was walking around the pool (next to this room) for most of the evening and into the night hours.? When the pool closed a maintenance man told him that he would have to leave the pool was closed.

This is the last anyone would see of this gentleman because, the next day when he was supposed to check out and did not, a maid went to the room to check things out.

Upon walking into the room, she found the man had committed suicide with a 357.

He had also left a $3.57 tip on the table.

Many have claimed to see a shadow walking around the pool at night in the windows of the rooms around the pool.

Next, in the early 1980’s, a boy scout group had rented the entire 7th. Floor of the building.

This is hard to accurately describe, since no one who was working there at the time cares to elaborate on any details from this event, but all that was gathered is that the boy scout leader had apparently gone crazy and killed some of the scouts before being caught.

When the building was closed for the winter one year (Gatlinburg is a tourist town which is really only full for the summer and autumn months) an employee was making rounds through the building and stopped on the 7 th. Floor and heard running and screams he ran to check for intruders only to find nothing, no rooms were rented in the Tower that evening.

Gatlinburg - Holiday Inn Sunspree Resort

HOLIDOME - 413 - in the front of the complex outside, in the late 1970’s two young girls were staying there for the night.

They went downtown and picked up a guy from a local bar and brought him back to their room.

While the other girl was out smoking, the guy drowned her female friend in the bathtub and put her body under the bed.

Then while leaving he went down the back stairwell outside beside the kitchen and found the other girl smoking, then he proceeded to strangle her as well, and drug her body to the roof of the building (then easily accessible).

Maids over the years have reported hearing noises from the bathroom and objects in the room moving from one place to another, while cleaning the room.

Gatlinburg - Mount LeCounte - At 3:33a.m. a little girl will appear at the edge of the bed and watch the people sleep.

Gatlinburg - Rocky Top Inn - In the old office located in the back of the building, a multiple murder occurred. An estranged local killed two employee’s of the motel. Motif unknown. The killing’s were of such a perverse nature that you can sometimes still hear them screaming for there lives. People have seen ghostly apparitions around the back parking lot, and near the fountain. These murders occurred over 15 years ago. The killer was charged convicted and sentenced to death by lethal injection.

Gatlinburg - Rumor has it that in the heart of Gatlinburg, near a place called the Mysterious Mansion, a young girl about age, 7 fell off a hotel balcony, and landed in a creek below. Every two weeks before her death’s anniversary, you can see her crying and pointing up to the spot where she fell to her death.

Gatlinburg - Terror on the Parkway - Formerly Known as Hauntings this place is haunted by several ghosts. Especially one of a former manager who ran the operation in the early eighties. - February 2004 update/correction: a visitor to our site states, These Stories are very true. However the room 413 has not been in operation since the events of the evening in your story the room was removed from operation.

They claim to have been associated with this facility for many years and the stories and events are well beyond what has been mentioned here. Of course they realize these are events reported by persons directly involved but they are very surprised there isn't allot more of them.

Pigeon Forge - Family Inn by Dixie Stampede - It’s said to be haunted by an old lady who was killed working late…They say that you can see her shadow watching you from wherever you stand, on the same day as her death.

Sevierville - The Old Eledge House - It is said that Mr. Eledge died of a heart attack in the house and has haunted the place since it had happened. The lights flicker on and off at night and noises are heard throughout the house. The noises are of Mr. Eledge and his children talking and laughing. The basement of the house is haunted by ghost of his children.

Sevierville - Bluff Mountain Old hotel site - Apparitions and voices, a feeling of dread have been reported. - October 2003 Update - Popular in the 1920’s. What few people know about is the old cemetery a couple hundred feet off the trail leading to the bluffs. Reason enough, some would say to see a few spirits. The thing dates back to the 1790’s when the bluffs were used as a look out point for the continental army, watching for Indians along the trade route, from North Carolina to what was the lost state of Franklin(now Tennessee). A small post was there and they were attacked by a rouge band of the peaceful Cherokee. Most were slaughtered in there sleep.

Gatlinburg , Bear's Den , Bears Den , Smoky Mountains , Attractions , Entertainment

Thanksgiving In The Smokies - 2007

2007-10-04T16:14:00.000-05:00

Families and Thanksgiving celebrations go hand-in-hand, and you won't find a better place to relax and enjoy some quality time with your loved ones than the Smoky Mountains.

To get an authentic connection to the wooded, mountainous beauty of the Smokies, you'll find that a cabin retreat is the ideal accommodation that affords all the comfort and privacy you could want, and a fully-equipped kitchen to boot! But while you're waiting for that 20 pound turkey to thaw, why not take advantage of the local holiday activities?

The areas in and around the Smokies (Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg) are bustling around Thanksgiving, and whether you're looking for shows, crafts, or a fun-filled trolley ride around town, your family will have plenty to do to get everyone into the holiday mood!

November 7- 18th - Annual Winterfest Kickoff & Chili Cookoff - The City of Gatlinburg kicks off Smoky Mountain Winterfest by turning on over three million Gatlinburg Winter Magic lights including new displays making their debut in 2007. For a small donation, sample chili recipes from local restaurants and businesses and vote for your favorite. Event includes live entertainment and a magnificent fireworks display. Downtown Gatlinburg ($)

November 7 to 30 - 18th Annual Gatlinburg Winterfest featuring Gatlinburg Winter Magic - The City of Gatlinburg magically lights up the winter nights with over three million spectacular lights.

November 7 to 30 - Gatlinburg Winter Magic Trolley Ride of Lights - Enjoy a guided trolley tour of Gatlinburg's spectacular Gatlinburg Winter Magic 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. (GSE) Tickets on sale October 15 ($)

November 11 – Veteran's Day Celebration – Join the City of Gatlinburg in saluting the men and women of America who have served in our Armed Forces. Program includes stirring musical tributes, ceremonial words & recognition of Veterans in attendance.Ripley's Aquarium Plaza.

November 20 to 25 - The Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community Thanksgiving Show is being held at the Gatlinburg Convention Center. Since admission is free, you'll definitely want to stop by and view the handmade crafts and beautiful displays.

November 23 & 24 - The Nutcracker "Sweet"- Presented by the Smoky Mountain Dance Theater Company, enjoy this holiday classic presented in Gatlinburg. 7 p.m. in the W.L. Mills Auditorium. Call (865) 453-9702 for information and reservations.

November 23 & 24 - Gatlinburg's Festival of Trees - Dozens upon dozens of ornately decorated Christmas trees await visitors in this winter wonderland at Gatlinburg Convention Center's W.L. Mills Conference Center.

Gatlinburg , Smoky Mountains

Smoky Mountain Podcasts - Tours and Story Telling

2007-09-22T06:26:00.000-05:00

The Great Smoky Mountains Association has launched a series of podcasts that are available from their website or the iTunes podcast directory.

The podcasts vary in subject matter, including audio tours of Newfound Gap Road and tips on what to do when you encounter a bear in the backwoods. In all, they have 41 podcast episodes available and seem to be adding new episodes frequently.

Visit the GSMA website to download individual podcast episodes. If you are an iTunes user, you can subscribe to the GSMA Podcast to receive updates automatically and easily sync them to your iPod.

Smoky Mountains

September and October bring two great events to Gatlinburg

2007-09-18T08:33:00.000-05:00

The months of September and October bring two great events to Gatlinburg each year, and both abound in beauty and are highly anticipated by those who have enjoyed them in the past.

The warm, sunny days and cool, clear nights of September, mixed with just the right amount of rain, soon transform 800 square miles of lush green forest into a brilliant palette of autumnal color.

Starting at the peaks in early October and moving down to the lower elevations through early November, Gatlinburg becomes surrounded by the most beautiful skylines you'll ever see, bringing about the spectacular finale to another Harvest Festival and preparation for winter and the millions of lights that Winterfest provides.

The storekeepers work hard to match the beauty of the autumn mountains by carrying the same colors into often-elaborate storefront decorations in anticipation of the influx of visitors coming to see the sights.

From October 11 through 28, the award-winning Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair opens the doors of the Gatlinburg Conventions Center for the Annual Fall Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair. Promoters
Sam and Tracey Large have perfected an event that consistently attracts the country's finest craft people.

In fact, the popularity and reputation of the Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair have become so wide-spread that, for the seventh year in a row, it is recognized by the Southeast Tourism Society as one of the Top 20 Events in the Southeastern United States .

Arts, crafts, and music lovers will find over 180 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.

Coming to the mountains? It just makes sense to stay in the mountains of Gatlinburg! For mountains of information, call 800/568-4748 or visit

www.gatlinburg.com

Gatlinburg , Smoky Mountains

Three Days In Gatlinburg - Day 3

2007-09-17T22:13:00.000-05:00

This day's itinerary calls for a wonderful hike and picnic in a lesser-known area of the park.

Greenbrier Cove is referred to as "The Locals' Entrance to the Park" because it is seldom visited by tourists. It offers some of the finest, most convenient, and least crowded fishing, hiking, jogging, picnicking, waterfalls, tubing, wildflower observation and spectacular natural settings to be found in the Smoky Mountains. When driving along the road in Greenbrier, you'll find many designated pull-offs and parking areas where you can stop to enjoy the scenery.

Let this be our little secret! In early June, the trailhead to Ramsay Cascades is the site of the "Firefly Phenomenon," a spectacular display of rare fireflies that seem to light up in a synchronized rhythm that rolls through the forest. Arrive just before dusk at the Ramsay trailhead and sit quietly two or three hundred feet up the trail. As dark falls the show will begin.

There are many trails in Greenbrier, with Ramsay Cascades being arguably the best waterfall in the Park. Be extremely careful walking on rocks along the river. They can be very slippery and severe injury can result!

Stop at the Greenbrier ranger station for maps, or visit the Sugarlands Welcome Center just south of Traffic Light #10. The hike is eight miles round-trip and is challenging. Take extra water!

Bear's Den Smoky Mountain News: Three Days In Gatlinburg - Day 2

Thanks to Jackson Mountain Homes for this article

Gatlinburg

Three Days In Gatlinburg - Day 2

2007-09-16T20:51:00.000-05:00

8:00 a.m. to 12 noon: After breakfast drive to Winery Square and stop in at the Smoky Mountain Angler (865-436-8746) to get fishing and fishing license information. You'll find everything you need, whether you're an experienced angler or novice. Bring your own gear or rent what you need.

In Gatlinburg, you're allowed to fish in many of the city's stocked waters including West Prong of the Little Pigeon River, LeConte Creek, Roaring Fork Creek and Dudley Creek. There are also two designated children's fishing areas that are heavily stocked with trout. These are located at North Gatlinburg Park, at the northern Parkway entrance to the city, and Mynatt Park off Historic Nature Trail.

No fishing is allowed on Thursdays when the city stocks its waters with trout. In Gatlinburg, only one hook is allowed. Corn and other bait is allowed except between December 1st and March 31st - which is strictly "catch and release." During this time, only single hook artificial lures and flies are permitted and all trout must be immediately released unharmed.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is known for the native brook trout, brown trout, and non-native rainbow trout that inhabit it's streams and rivers.

Gatlinburg and the National Park are crawling (or should we say swimming?) with over 900 miles of rivers and streams that are just waiting for you to cast your line.

12 Noon to 2:00 p.m: Have lunch in downtown Gatlinburg at the Smokey Mountain Brewery or Best Italian Cafe & Pizzeria and don't forget a snack in one of The Village Shops on the parkway.

2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m : Naptime!

3:00 p.m. to Dusk : Take a leisurely drive to Clingmans Dome to see the sunset over the mountains. There are many overlooks and trails to explore along the way. Too long a drive? I’ve got the answer: Roaring Forks Nature Trail ! The Smoky Mountain Roaring Forks Nature Trail starts at Stoplight #8 in Gatlinburg and ends only about a 1/2 mile from the Bear's Den's front door! The Roaring Forks Trail is a one-way drive that will quickly give you and the family a feel for the Smokies.

Bear's Den Smoky Mountain News: Three Days In Gatlinburg - Day 3

Bear's Den Smoky Mountain News: Three Great Days In Gatlinburg - Day 1

Thanks to Jackson Mountain Homes for this article

Gatlinburg

Three Great Days In Gatlinburg - Day 1

2007-09-16T19:12:00.000-05:00

Sunrise to 10:00am: Go biking in Cades Cove - it's free if you bring your own bicycle.

Beginning the second week in May, Cades Cove loop road is closed to motor vehicle traffic Wednesday and Saturday mornings from sunrise until 10:00 a.m. to allow bicyclists and pedestrians to enjoy the cove. This closure continues through the second-to-last Saturday in September.

The 11-mile one-way road provides bicyclists with excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and touring 19th century homesites. Bring your own bicycle and helmet or during summer and fall, you may rent bicycles at the Cades Cove store (located near Cades Cove Campground). For information call (865) 448-9034.

10:00 a.m. to 12 Noon Have a picnic lunch in the Cades Cove picnic area next to the stream.

12 Noon to 3:30 p.m. Drive to Townsend where you can rent inner-tubes and get directions for tubing the Little River. A relaxing way to end a great day.

4:45 p.m. to bedtime. Return to the cabin for dinner and a relaxing evening.

Bear's Den Smoky Mountain News: Three Days In Gatlinburg - Day 2

Thanks to Jackson Mountain Homes for permission to reprint this series.

Gatlinburg

Pigeon Forge Music Scene Expands With Addition of Dick Clark's American Bandstand Music Complex

2007-08-21T05:59:00.000-05:00

Pigeon Forge, already home to almost 20 shows in more than a dozen theaters, has a major new entertainment venue with a name inseparably linked to American music, Dick Clark.

The multi-faceted Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Music Complex is in development, and its first venture is an outdoor concert series. The Dick Clark's Bandstand attraction has been a major hit this summer in Pigeon Forge. Artists for the series include Crystal Gayle (June 23), Diamond Rio (July 6), America (July 11), Tony Orlando (June 29, July 18-19), Creedence Clearwater Revival (July 22), Little Anthony & the Imperials (July 27), “Weird Al” Yankovic (Aug. 2), Air Supply (Aug. 17) and Chubby Checker (Aug. 31).

Performances are being held in a 3,900-seat outdoor venue being created at what originally was the Boyds Bear Country building (149 Cates Lane at the south end of Pigeon Forge). Riptide Entertainment bought the 130,000-square-foot, five-story, barn-shaped building in May.

More than 20 dates have been set and many more artists are to be scheduled. Tickets will range from $19.95 to $49 (children age 11 and younger starting at $10.99). Concert tickets will be available through 1-800-933-3066 and online at http://www.bandstandtickets.com/ .

The concert series is just the start of the building’s redevelopment. The building will house the theater’s box office, the Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Grill and a collection of rock ‘n’ roll memorabilia.

Also discover the new American Bandstand Grill and enjoy a unique selection of everyone’s favorite All American foods. From the best hotdogs and hamburgers to fresh salads, wraps and speciality items, you will find a variety of lunch and dinner selections that will please everyone in your family.

Gatlinburg, Smoky Mountains , Pigeon Forge

Your Last Blast of Summer!

2007-08-09T19:47:00.000-05:00

It's not too late to enjoy some family fun before everyone returns to school. Gatlinburg has something for everyone, from strolling the Parkway, to taking in many fascinating attractions, to enjoying great shopping and dining, and much more. And don't miss out on the wonderful Arts & Crafts community that Gatlinburg is famous for. To make your stay as comfortable as possible, there are a wide array of accommodations, from luxurious hotels and chalets to exotic condos and log cabins. Don't forget you can always save on gas and use the trolley to get around. Enjoy your last blast of summer with your family in Gatlinburg!

Gatlinburg , Mountain

Video: Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales Featuring ZENO!

2007-08-07T18:57:00.000-05:00

Picture this… it’s early evening in the Smokies. You are strolling along the Parkway in downtown Gatlinburg and see a gathering of people just ahead. It is Gatlinburg’s Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales – returning for its second season in 2007, featuring costumed musical performers, storytellers and artisans portraying various time periods from the 1800s to today. At 6 p.m. each night, a horse-drawn wagon carries the performers down the Parkway to their designated locations for the evening.

June 8th Marks The Start of Gatlinburg’s Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales

2007-06-07T18:55:00.000-05:00

Gatlinburg's Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales™ the city’s newest summer-long street performance event featuring costumed musical performers, storytellers and artisans portraying time periods as far back as 1800, will begin in downtown Gatlinburg on June 8.

The 84-day event will run through September 3. A collection of personalities and performers arrive nightly at 5:30 p.m. via horse-drawn wagon in the center of town. Visitors witness a magical transformation of sidewalk to stage as the characters disperse along the downtown Parkway for an evening of entertainment and storytelling until 10:00 p.m.

Fifteen to 20 nightly acts involve the audience as they each perform in simultaneous 15-minute productions throughout the evening.

"We’ve used one of Gatlinburg’s greatest assets - the walkability of the community – to create an interactive special event that everyone in the family can enjoy,” said David Perella, executive director of the Gatlinburg Department of Tourism. “Multiple mini-performances come together to create a family-oriented entertainment experience that you won’t find anywhere else.”

Click here for details

Last of the Breed Concert - Smokies Stadium August 21, 2007

2007-06-07T18:43:00.000-05:00

Smokies Stadium in Sevierville will be host to the "Last of the Breed Concert" featuring Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard, and Ray Price on Tuesday, August 21.

Reserved and General Admission tickets for the concert will go on-sale at 9:00AM on Saturday, June 9, 2007 at the Stadium, all “Tickets Unlimited” outlet locations, by phone at 1-877-995-9961, locally at (865) 656-4444, or via the Internet at www.concertsinthesmokies.com.

Tickets for “Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard, and Ray Price” presented by Smokies Stadium, will be $49.00 each plus service charges for reserved seats on the field and $40.00 plus service charges for reserved seats in the seating bowl (regular baseball seats). In addition, General Admission tickets will be available on the field behind the reserved seating areas (festival seating with no chairs) for $31.00 plus service charges. The stage will be set behind second base on the grass with on field-reserved seating located between the pitcher’s mound and the stage.

For the full Merle Haggard story, click here: FULL STORY

June 2007 - Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Opens In Gatlinburg

2007-06-07T13:58:00.000-05:00

Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. will open its newest location in Gatlinburg at 900 Parkway on June 16th!

Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. models itself after the 1994 hit movie "Forrest Gump." The restaurant features the down-home décor reminiscent of the movie’s setting. Film memorabilia and still photos decorate the walls, along with reproductions of script pages, storyboards and costumes, to create a fun family atmosphere. Scrawled "Gumpisms" grace the varnished tabletops inside and guests can try on the plaster casts of Forrest’s running shoes at the famed bus bench in front of the restaurant.

“We know that Gatlinburg residents and visitors will enjoy the fun and casual tone of Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. just the way Forrest and his ‘best good friend’ Bubba would have,” said Scott Barnett, president and CEO of Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. “Our location on Parkway near the Gatlinburg Convention Center makes us very easy to find. We are thrilled to be here.”

The restaurant, which combines quality seafood in a casual family atmosphere, opens on Saturday, June 16 with a benefit for Anna Porter Public Library in Gatlinburg. The Anna Porter Public Library Board of Trustees now has the funds for construction and is now focusing its fundraising efforts on the furnishing of the new state-of-the-art library for the Gatlinburg community. Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. is proud to help. Half of all sales on June 16 will be donated to the library board in hope that their goals are soon realized.

Click here for more information.

June 2007 - Dollywood's Splash Country Opens New Cascades Area This Weekend

2007-05-26T10:30:00.000-05:00

The $3 million Cascades project is the largest expansion in the Splash Country park's history. It offers a zero-depth entry pool studded with things to keep children wet and entertained.

The Cascades™, an 8,000-sq.-ft. lagoon-style pool, features more than 25 interactive elements. Slides weave throughout the giant rock grotto while refreshing 20-foot-tall sprays rise from the pool’s geyser.

"We have areas for little kids and older kids, but this area is just perfect for those in between those two groups," park Senior Operations Manager Mike Brown said. " People had been telling us they wanted a pool in the park, but we didn't want to do just a pool. The goal of this area is to create something like an Abrams Falls swimming hole."

Relax in the contoured seating area or in a chaise lounge chair situated on the 24,000-sq.-ft. deck space. Children can explore hidden misters, bubblers and slides in secret coves around the pool’s perimeter.

Click here for videos and and details!

RED HOT SUMMER 2007 SPECIALS!

2007-05-24T10:15:00.000-05:00

JUNE SPECIALS!!

15% Off June 1 through June 10 Arrivals

Special on the Bear's Den booked May 19 through June 10 Only.

All Year Special - Stay 7 nights for the price of 6!

Discounted rate does not apply to holidays.
Cannot be combined with other specials.
Cannot be applied to rescheduled reservations.

Call 800-473-3163 and say "I want to stay at the Bear's Den!"

Can't call? That's ok - just Book It Online

Bear's Den Gets A New Look!

2007-05-22T05:36:00.000-05:00

You''ll often hear me say that the BEST TIME to visit the Bear's Den is right after the owners have been there! OK . . .Here's your chance!

We just got back from the giving the Bear's Den a:

complete power washing,
new exterior stain,
new hot tub electronics
a new CD / IPod player, and
luxurious new bedding in the romantic loft bedroom.

Here's a few photos of the Bear's Den from this May . . .

Bear's Den Front View

Rear View

Bear's Den Forrest Setting

Hot Tub - Gas Grill - Free WiFi!

All this and a newly announced JUNE SPECIAL!!

15% off June 1 through June 10, 2007 Arrivals.

Click on Make Your Reservations to book the Bear's Den TODAY!

Don't Feed The Bears!

2007-05-01T07:47:00.000-05:00

NO . . .This was NOT at the Bear's Den!

Visitors learn history of Park as Wildflower Pilgrimage winds down

2007-04-29T17:47:00.000-05:00

Wildflowers are a part of every Wildflower Pilgrimage hike, even when the focus of the hike is the rich history of Great Smoky Mountains National Park according to The Mountain Press story by Candice Grimm - click here

But on a hike to the Walker Sisters' cabin and Little Greenbrier School, not even Pink Lady Slippers could steal the spotlight from the history of these hardy mountain women.

All during the moderate hike from the Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area, leader Raymond Palmer pointed out places where buildings had stood and events had taken place.

Although some participants struggled a bit with the heat and the climb, all seemed refreshed by a short lesson learned while seated at a desk inside the cool, dimly lit Little Greenbrier School.

Through pictures of past classes, and long-told stories from students who had attended the school, hike participants learned what it was like to have attended the little log school, as well as some history on how the Park acquired the property.

The lesson was enough to lure the hikers on up the trail to the Walker Sisters' cabin, where Palmer described the lives of the five women who became famous for the way they lived - no running water, electricity or central heat, and by growing what they needed on the 122-acre farm.

Their fame was sealed after a writer mentioned in a 1936 National Geographic article about the new national park that he had come upon two women sitting on their porch paring apples, and they told him they made all their own clothing. The story did not include the women's names, but it had to have been the Walkers, and from then on thousands traveled the narrow road to their cabin to see them, visit, and buy their handmade items.

Walker Sisters of Little Greenbriar - Smokies Store - click here

Little River Road - Sugarlands Welcome Center to Townsend and Cades Cove - Click here

May 2 & 9 - “Mountain Communities: Fighting Creek, Forks of the River, and the Sugarlands”

2007-04-26T10:01:00.000-05:00

May 2 & 9 - “Mountain Communities: Fighting Creek, Forks of the River, and the Sugarlands” - An interpretive one-mile, one-hour easy hiking program is presented at 10 a.m. at Sugarlands Visitor Center in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. (865) 436-1200 (Bicentennial)

Wildflower Pilgimage - Salamander Foray Fun For ALL Ages

2007-04-26T08:43:00.000-05:00

Great Smoky Mountain National Park - The Mountain Press - Getting wet and muddy almost always appeals to children, but it apparently can also bring out the kid in adults of any age.

The Great Smoky Mountains are known as the "Salamander Capital of the World!" Salamanders are an especially abundant and diverse group in the Great Smokies. In fact, the great majority of vertebrate (backboned) animals, including human visitors, in the park on any given day are salamanders.

This week, "Adults comprised about half of the 25 participants in a Salamander Foray led Tuesday by Carey Jones as part of the Wildflower Pilgrimage, but not one of them shied away from splashing through streams or scrambling around the woods flipping rocks and rolling logs in search of salamanders."

Early in the search, an uncommon Spotted Dusky Salamander was captured by an older woman, who turned out to have a knack for locating the slippery little critters with big eyes and long tails.The little kids also caught their share of the 30 species of salamanders living in the Smokies, including a Southern Red-backed Salamander, a Seal Salamander, and many others.

Many guests at the Bear's Den cabin have reported seeing small salamanders up on the deck near the hot tub or on the front porch "sunning" themselves. They are rather elusive but be patient. They'll often come back day after day, so you'll want to keep your camera ready.

The article Photographing Salamanders by Richard D. Bartlett has some great photography tips and images. Click here for the article.

Click here for the complete Mountain Press story.

Smoky Mountain Winery - Gatlinburg, TN

2007-04-25T09:18:00.000-05:00

Are you looking for a tasty experience when you are in Tennessee? If so, then you should really schedule a visit at The Smoky Mountain Winery in Gatlinburg. Located at 450 Cherry Street in Winery Square, this is the place to go for the best wine that Tennessee has to offer.

Directions: From downtown Gatlinburg at traffic light number three, take 321 North (East Parkway). Winery is located 1/2 mile on right in Winery Square. If you're staying at the Bear's Den, just head down the mountain to Roaring Fork Rd and take a left into town at E. Parkway. The winery will be on your left.

Whether you are a big time wine connisseur or not, you are sure to enjoy a visit to this great winery. The Smoky Mountain Winery opened up back in 1981, and since then have received tons of awards for their tasty specialties on regional, national and even international levels. A visit to this winery is actually a great experience that can be fun for your entire family.

When you plan to visit the Smoky Mountain Winery, be sure that you make time to visit their production area so that you can take advantage of the free tour that is offered to guests. After the tour, you are then invited to get yourself a free sampling of a decent number of the stellar wines that are offered in what is called the tasting room.

The different types of wine that are offered through the Smoky Mountain Winery are simply wonderful. If you are into white wine, there are several tasty varieties for your enjoyment.

Choose from Mountain White, Leconte White, and Brookside White to name a few. Others that grace the list of wines include Muscadine Red, Blackberry, Sangria, Peach Blush, Autumn Splendor and Mountain Mist.

If you have any questions, or if you are looking to get information regarding some of the wines
offered, you can call the winery Office at (865) 436-7505 or the Tasting Room at (865) 436-7551.

Other Tennessee wineries to visit: click here.

by US Coachways - The Charter Bus Rental Company

Zeno The "Gatlinburg Spokes-Bear" Invites You To Come Visit Gatlinburg!

2007-04-23T18:09:00.000-05:00

Yawn! Well, I've just awakened from my long winter's nap and I can BEARLY contain my excitement at seeing Spring blooming in Gatlinburg! The city is exploding with activity, so now is the perfect time to visit!

Get your paws on the new 2007 Vacation Guide and plan your perfect vacation! Packed full of fun things to see and do, it's one of the bear necessities you need to make the most of Gatlinburg!

Go here to order a printed guide, or download a pdf version now. So don't wait any longer-get your guide, make your plans, and come see me soon! (And bring some honey, will ya?)

Gatlinburg

Spring 2007 - Dollywood's New Mystery Mine Roller Coaster Ride Opens

2007-04-19T05:25:00.000-05:00

"What if there is no light at the end of the tunnel???" That's the catch phrase for the newest addition to Dollywood's Timber Canyon area - the Mystery Mine!

The largest capital investment in Dollywood history, Mystery Mine is a one-acre expansion of the park's Timber Canyon area. Continuing the area's lumber camp theme, Mystery Mine is set in an abandoned coal mine where eight-passenger mine carts immediately plunge riders into darkness before continuing along a 1,811-foot track through the ruins of an early 1900's mine.

During the two and half minute journey, riders encounter a beyond vertical 95-degree, 85-foot drop in addition to three inversions, a headline roll, rollover loop and an immelmann. The ride finishes with several high-speed twists as the mine cars maneuver their way through a series of uncertain encounters. Mystery Mine, also known as a Euro-Fighter coaster, is the first ride of its kind to be built in the United States. (click here for animation)

Dollywood noted that state-of-the-art special effects will add to the overall ride experience. The entire attraction will last about two-and-half minutes.

"I'm so proud of Dollywood and all we've accomplished through the years," Dolly Parton said. "Maybe I'm most proud of Dollywood being named one of the top three theme parks in the entire world. That's why I thought it was important to build a world-class roller coaster like Mystery Mine "it's got a world of surprises in store for folks."

Dollywood has invested a lot in new attractions over the past several years. Last year, the theme park introduced the new $6.5 million Timber Tower thrill ride. In 2005, Dollywood spent $5 million for a 3.5-acre expansion of the park's Country Fair area and added ten new family rides. In 2004, the park built the $7 million award-winning wooden coaster, Thunderhead.

Additional Mystery Mine coverage is available from:

The Mountain Press - click here.
Coaster World News - streaming video report on opening weekend here.
The Tennessean offered a piece - click here.
The Knoxville News-Sentinel provides an article here and a video interviewing riders here.
Knoxville TV station WATE gives its take on the happenings here.

April 28th - Wildflower Pilgrimage - Special Rachel Carson 100th Anniversary Show!!

2007-04-17T18:24:00.000-05:00

Where else could you get $10 tickets to see a Broadway Star! Order now before they're all gone!
In a special 100th Anniversary performance, Broadway star Kaiulani Lee will appear as Rachel Carson in "A Sense of Wonder."

The best show you'll ever get to see for only $10 and the highlight of this year's Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage.

April 28, 7:30-9:00 p.m., Mills Auditorium, Gatlinburg, TN.

Now you can enjoy the same show she's performed for the Smithsonian, United Nations, Sierra Club's Centennial, and Department of Interior's 150th Anniversary Celebration.

Click here to see all the details.

March 31 - May 7 - Dollywood Festival of Nations

2007-04-17T11:28:00.000-05:00

Irish eyes will be smiling on you as Dollywood shines the spotlight on Celebrate Ireland! Watch as Ireland's renowned musical heritage unfolds right before your eyes during the spectacular show Rhythm of the Dance, featuring fancy footwork, colorful costumes and traditional music. At the Valley Theatre, Irish bands and dance troupes entertain with a lively jig and reel.

Find your rhythm during bodhrán drum lessons or try a tune on the tin whistle. See celebrated Irish artist Philip Gray and his paintings featuring breathtaking Irish seascapes and landscapes. See Irish craftsmen at work in Emerald Isle Marketplace or sample delicious cuisine during Taste of Ireland at various park restaurants.

And don't miss a world of entertainment from The Russian National Theatre, Peru's Yawar Chicchi folk music & dance, Switzerland's Streichmusik Alder, featuring folk music and alpine horns, master yodeler Kerry Christensen, Ukraine's Dyvo Kalynove, children's folk music and dance group, Zambian Vocal Group, Trinidad's Stix on Steel and Ecuador's Atahualpa.

Click here for the complete list of new shows and events at Dollywood!

Spring Car & Motorcycle Shows in the Smokies

2007-04-12T07:09:00.000-05:00

The Spring Grand Rod Run is the kick-off event to a new season of car shows. Thousands of classic car, truck and motorcycle enthusiasts make the pilgrimage to Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg and Sevierville, Tennessee and the Great Smoky Mountains each year.

If checking under the hood of a classic hot rod sounds right up your alley, then this is the time of year for you to visit. Shows vary from displays of big trucks to low rider trucks to antique cars and trucks. People line the streets with chairs to sit and watch the many car show participants show off their prized possessions. Click here to view a YouTube.com of last year's event in Pigeon Forge.

Booking a private log cabin in the Smoky Mountains will top off the vacation to remember, and you can take a short drive down to the Parkway to take in the hundreds of classic cars that will come from all over the country to be part of the car shows. Because of the popularity of the season and the shows, book early to avoid scrambling to find a cabin available at the last minute.

You can catch the shows year round, but a few of the biggest shows coming up are listed below:

April 19 - 22, 2007 - 25th Annual Spring Grand Rod Run Grand Resort Hotel and Convention Center (800) 251-4444

April 21, 2007 - Tennessee Gold Wing Rally (Spring Fling) - Country Inn & Suites (423) 538-8827

April 26-29 2007 - Gold Wing Riders Association. For more Info, Please Call 1-800-251-9100

May 17 - 20, 2007 - '55, '56, '57 Chevy ClassicsGrand Resort Hotel and Convention Center (865) 984-3758

July 13-15, 2007 - 18th Annual Southern Nationals Association Nationals and Open Car Show. For more Info, Please Call 1-800-251-9100

June 1 - 2, 2007 - Pontiacs in Pigeon Forge

Gatlinburg , Bear's Den , Pigeon Forge , Smoky Mountain

'Magic Beyond Belief' plans opening in Pigeon Forge

2007-04-09T13:47:00.000-05:00

Grand Opening - First Week of May! The Fee/ Hedrick Family Entertainment Group is opening a new theater featuring a magic show. Co-owners David Fee and Jim Hedrick will open the 400-seat-theater titled "Magic Beyond Belief" starring Terry Evanswood.

For the past 10 years Evanswood has been the star of Country Tonite's morning "Grand Illusion Show Located in the former Ole Smoky Hoedown Theater at 2135 Parkway, the show will open Thursday with a grand opening during the first week in May.

Throughout the preview month, new acts will be added, including the highlight illusion of a white tiger appearing out of thin air before the audience's eyes. Renovations to the inside of the theater are complete. Renovations to the outside will continue during the next month.

"We will have an intimate magic experience at our new theater and we are thrilled to have Terry Evanswood join our company," said David Fee, co-owner of the theater. "Terry has wanted to have an evening show for a long time and we know it will be a huge success.""I perform like the audience is a group of friends," Evanswood said. "What sticks with people are the personal moments we create. I try to touch people's hearts in every performance."

The magician has been performing professionally since the age of 10. Originally from Chicago, he has appeared throughout the United States.

For Fee and Jim Hedrick, the theater's owners are realizing a magical dream too. "I used to be a professional magician," Fee said, "and my business partner, Jim Hedrick, used to be a professional juggler and we have always wanted to bring a magic show to Pigeon Forge."

Both Fee and Hedrick performed at the 1984 World's Fair in New Orleans and were featured entertainers on Carnival Cruise Lines for over nine years. Their roots go back to being performers at Magic World in Pigeon Forge. When they opened The Comedy Barn they were performers as well as co-owners.

Show times will be 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday with 2 p.m. matinees on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Call 428-5600 for reservations.

Gatlinburg , Pigeon Forge , Attractions

April 13 - 22nd Annual Dolly Parade - Pigeon Forge

2007-04-03T07:25:00.000-05:00

Join Grand Marshal Dolly Parton for the 22nd Annual Dolly Parade! Shamrock 'n Roll at this year’s parade themed “Celebrate Ireland”. The parade will be once again be enhanced by the sounds of a number of high school marching bands competing in the Pigeon Forge Music Festival.

This Dolly Parade kicks off Pigeon Forge Springfest with Sevier County's favorite daughter, Dolly Parton, as its grand marshal leading the celebration. Traditionally, over 50,000 parade watchers line the streets to admire the colorful floats, musicians, cloggers, majorettes, and a number of high school marching bands competing in the Pigeon Forge Music Festival.

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. All visitors who come to the parade will get a real taste of the entertainment that can be found all year in Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge , Entertainment

Roaring Fork Motor Trail - Jewel of the Smokies!

2007-04-02T12:03:00.000-05:00

The Roaring Fork area is a favorite side trip for many people who frequently visit the Smokies. It offers rushing mountain streams, glimpses of old-growth forest, and a number of well-preserved log cabins, grist mills, and other historic buildings. If you have time to make only one trip into the park from Gatlinburg, this should be the one.

To access Roaring Fork, turn off the main parkway in Gatlinburg, TN., at traffic light #8 and follow Historic Nature Trail to the Cherokee Orchard entrance to the national park. The Noah “Bud” Ogle self-guiding nature trail provides a walking tour of an authentic mountain farmstead and surrounding hardwood forest. Highlights include a streamside tubmill and the Ogle’s handcrafted wooden flume plumbing system.

Just beyond the Rainbow Falls trailhead you have the option of taking the one-way Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. This narrow, but paved, road twists and turns for six miles beside rich forests, waterfalls, and mountain streams. Buses, trailers, and motor homes are not permitted on the motor nature trail. An inexpensive booklet available at the beginning of the motor nature trail details landmarks along the route.

“Roaring Fork” is the name of the stream which the road roughly parallels. It is one of the larger and faster flowing mountain streams in the park. Drive this road after a hard rain and the inspiration behind the name will be apparent. Several homes and other buildings have been preserved in this area. And a “wet weather” waterfall called Place of a Thousand Drips provides a splendid finale to your journey.

Roaring Fork Nature Trail terminates at Roaring Fork Rd., which is only a quarter mile from the Bear's Den front door!

Blog Photos by Brian J. Davis

Roaring Forks Nature Trail - The Jewel of The Smokies by Chuck Wickham

Gatlinburg , Bear's Den

April 4-7: Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community Easter Arts & Crafts Show

2007-04-02T10:02:00.000-05:00

Arts and crafts have long held a deep association with the Southern Appalachian Mountains. Nowhere else in the South will you find a richer heritage of fine craftsmanship than in Gatlinburg. Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community, established in 1937, is the largest group of independent artisans in North America. Arts & Crafts Show - Gatlinburg Convention Center

Located on an eight-mile loop at the northeast edge of Gatlinburg, the Community proudly preserves the craft heritage of the Great Smoky Mountains year-round. This area offers you the best in a wide range of craft shops, including pottery, woodcarving, candlemaking, quilting, weaving, broommaking, and painting, among many other fine art forms.

Website/Link: http://www.artsandcraftscommunity.com

Admission: Free

Gatlinburg , Bear's Den

April 23-29 - Experts Teach 174 Classes On Smokies Flora & Fauna

2007-04-01T18:18:00.000-05:00

The park's Annual Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage hikes, lectures, and workshops will be held outdoors all over the Smokies and inside at the Mills Auditorium in Gatlinburg from April 23-29.

World experts in wildflowers, bears, birds, salamanders, trees, moss -- you name it -- will lead hikes and show slides and lecture on a wide range of topics. Yes, 174 different expert-led events are offered! Act quickly to reserve your spot before the most popular events fill up!!

www.SpringWildflowerPilgrimage.org

Gatlinburg , Smoky Mountains , Attractions , Photography, Hiking

Sevierville announces Springfest events

2007-03-31T08:05:00.000-05:00

Sevierville (TN) – Located within a day’s drive of over half the nation’s population, Sevierville and the Great Smoky Mountains will celebrate spring with great events during Smoky Mountain Springfest (March 14 through June 10) in Sevierville, Tenn.

Click here for the complete list of events.

Gatlinburg , Smoky Mountains , Pigeon Forge

April 19th - Gatlinburg's 6th Annual Ribfest & Wings Street Festival

2007-03-15T18:19:00.000-05:00

Roll up your sleeves and dig in at Gatlinburg’s 6th Annual Ribfest & Wings street festival Thursday, April 19 from 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. in Downtown. Come out and enjoy live entertainment, children’s activities and hot wing eating contest, all promising a lip-smackin’ good time!

Enjoy live entertainment throughout the evening featuring the Marshall Tucker Band, the Southern rockers who play everything from country to blues and have turned out popular hits like, “Heard It In A Love Song,” “Fire On The Mountain,” Can’t You See,” and “Take The Highway.” Also performing will be the Beat Daddys and their rock 'n roll blues with a soulful attitude.

Click here for the complete story!

Gatlinburg , Smoky Mountains , Attractions , Photography , Entertainment , Tips

April 7-8: Smoky Mountain Spring Trout Tournament at Patriot Park in Pigeon Forge, TN

2007-03-15T17:51:00.000-05:00

The entire family can get involved with this fun trout tournament geared toward anglers of all ages and skill levels, so pack everyone in the car and make your way towards Tennessee. There will be divisions for adults, children, locals and visitors , so everyone is welcome! Tournament Highlights.

Over 10,000 trout will be stocked in over 20 miles of Smoky Mountain streams, and prizes are awarded for categories including largest trout, smallest trout and more, with $10,000 worth of cash and prizes being given away!

Come by yourself, with some buddies or with the entire family in tow. No matter who you bring, the entire party is sure to find the thrill of the Smoky Mountain Fall Trout Tournament and the natural beauty of the area to provide the perfect break from the daily grind.

When: April 7 - 8

Registration: Click here

Where: Patriot Park

Directions: Middle Creek RoadTraffic light #7Pigeon Forge, TN 37868

Gatlinburg , Pigeon Forge , Photography , Entertainment

Take a break . . .in Gatlinburg!

2007-02-19T08:48:00.000-06:00

Make your Spring Break special this year with a trip to Gatlinburg. It's a popular destination for college friends and multi-family trips alike. Bring the family for spring fun and get ready to experience an unforgettable getaway. Plus, don’t forget Springfest is just around the corner (starting in March). It’s the perfect opportunity to explore Spring Done Right, including great shopping, fine dining, and luxury lodging for your stay.

Zeno will be everywhere this year, Tunes & Tales will be expanded, and when combined with Bicentennial activities, Gatinburg can expect many more tourists in 2007-08.

The city's Bicentennial activities include a partnership with Great Smoky Mountains National Park to kick off events with a concert by Ralph Stanley and the Clinch Mountain Boys as the first in a series of Music of the Mountains concerts. A Civil War battle re-enactment will be held in July, Mountainfest will feature an Old Timers Day in August, and there will be a display of founding families portraits, among other things.

Click here for more.

Gatlinburg , Bear's Den , Bears Den , Smoky Mountains , Attractions , Entertainment ,Tips , Dining , Children , Mountain

Gatlinburg - Spring is on the Way!

2007-02-13T11:38:00.000-06:00

February and early spring are the perfect time to let romance blossom in the Smoky mountains! Come and rekindle your passion with great places to eat, fun things to do, and beautiful places to stay. And if you’re looking to get married or renew your vows, there’s no better place to do so than in Gatlinburg, the Wedding Capital of the South!

Gatlinburg , Bear's Den , Bears Den , Smoky Mountains , Pigeon Forge , Attractions , Mountain

Dolly Parton To Do Benefit Concert in the Smokies

2007-02-11T11:25:00.000-06:00

Dolly Parton will perform a benefit concert with proceeds going to the Dr. Robert F. Thomas Foundation. The foundation is the supporting organization that will be building the new Fort Sanders Sevier Medical and Cancer Center.

When: Sunday, May 20, 2007 - 7:30PM - Gates open at 6:00 PM
Where: Smokies Stadium
Ticket Information:$150.00 / $75.00 / $33.00 + service charge Reserved tickets will be available at the Stadium and all Tickets Unlimited locations. starting Feb. 8th at 9:00 AM or by calling Tickets Unlimited at (877) 995-9961 or www.ConcertsInTheSmokies.com.
Presented by: The Dr. Robert F.Thomas Foundation
Parking info:Event Parking will be at the Stadium for $5.00 per car. Carpooling is recommended. Doors open:6:00 PM

Gatlinburg , Bear's Den ,Bears Den ,Smoky Mountains ,Pigeon Forge ,Jackson Mountain ,Attractions , Entertainment, Tips , Children ,

Gatlinburg - Pigeon Forge - Smoky Mountain Springfest March 10th to June 9th 2007

2007-02-10T10:55:00.000-06:00

Springfest marks the beginning of springtime in the cities of Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg. It is a 3 month celebration beginning in early March packed with events like the Mountain Quiltfest, Arts & Crafts Show, Dollywood Parade, Dollywood's Festival of Nations, Ribfest, Spring Grand Rod Run, Bloomin BBQ & Bluegrass Festival, 56th Annual Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage, Gatlinburg's Scottish Festival & Games, and many more.

Add the colorful flowers along the Parkway, the dogwoods, red buds and other spring trees coming into bloom for one of the most beautiful times in the Smoky Mountains.

March 5- 10:North American Country Music Association International Convention at Country Tonite Theatre. For more information, contact Peggy Franck at 865-992-6409 or 865-922-3438. -Pigeon Forge, TN.
March 8- June 14:Annual Pigeon Forge and Smoky Mountain Area Springfest. - Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Sevierville, TN
March 14-18: 13th Annual "A Mountain Quiltfest" quiltling showcase and classes. For more information visit AMountainQuiltFest.com! - Pigeon Forge, TN.
March 30 - May 7: Dollywood's Festival of Nations, 1-800-DOLLYWOOD. - Pigeon Forge, TN.

Gatlinburg , Bear's Den , Bears Den , Smoky Mountains , Log Cabin ,Pigeon Forge , Attractions , Crafts , Photography , Hiking , Horseback Riding , Entertainment , Tips , Dining , Children , Mountain

Cade's Cove - Winter 2007

2007-02-07T10:01:00.000-06:00

Gatlinburg , Bear's Den , Bears Den , Smoky Mountains , Cades Cove , Attractions , Photography , Tips , Mountain

Twelve reasons to shop Sevierville at Christmas

2006-12-06T14:41:00.000-06:00

The 12 Days of Christmas can be daunting – especially for overwhelmed holiday shoppers. But popular shopping and vacation destination, Sevierville, Tennessee, can help you make the lords on your Christmas list leap with joy this holiday season. Here are 12 reasons to shop Sevierville this Christmas season. Click here for the full article.

1) With over 150 name brand outlet stores, Sevierville is the outlet shopping capital of the Great Smoky Mountains. www.tangeroutlet.com.

2) Location, location, location – Sevierville is located in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and is only a day’s drive from over one half the nation’s population.

3) Boutiques and specialty stores abound in historic downtown Sevierville.

4) Hidden food finds in historic downtown

5) Something old, weird or just plain cool is waiting for you at flea markets like Flea Traders Paradise and the Great Smokies Flea Market www.greatsmokiesfleamarket.com.

6) Spend the day shopping and the night gazing at millions of twinkling lights during Smoky Mountain Winterfest in Sevierville (now through Feb. 28).

7) Dining at Applewood Farmhouse is a tradition for many folks who visit the Smoky Mountains. This 1920s farmhouse sits amongst 4,000 apple trees and serves up original recipes including Applewood Julep and Apple Fritters to start every meal www.applewoodfarmhouserestaurant.com.

8) Shopping is a blast – but so are great family friendly attractions like NASCAR SpeedPark www.nascarspeedpark.com, Ripley’s Old MacDonald’s Mini-Golf and Five Oaks Riding Stables www.fiveoaksstables.com.

9) Find the perfect gift for the outdoorsman or outdoorswoman on your list at the all-new Bass Pro Outdoor World (one of the largest in the chain) www.basspro.com, Orvis Company Store www.orvis.com or Smoky Mountain Knifeworks (an 88,000 square foot knife showplace that includes the just opened National Knife Museum) www.eknifeworks.com.

10) Catch a Christmas show in Sevierville. Whether you laugh it up with Mistle Toe Roaster (a clean, blue-collar music and comedy show) www.mistletoeroaster.com or enjoy James Rogers’ Smoky Mountain Christmas www.fixin2rain.com, you’re sure to get in the holiday spirit.

11) Find hidden gems of stores on Highway 66 (the main route into Sevierville and the Great Smoky Mountains).

12) Learn to play reindeer games! Smoky Mountain Deer Farm & Petting Zoo features a veritable menagerie including live reindeer, camels, cows and goats. In addition, get up close and personal with zebras, kangaroos and ostriches www.deerfarmzoo.com

Gatlinburg , Attractions , Entertainment , Internet , Tips , Dining

Dollywood's Smoky Mountain Christmas Festival 2006

2006-12-02T15:10:00.000-06:00

Enjoy a family holiday like no other with a heartwarming lineup of Christmas shows, holiday foods, and thrilling rides. A visit to Dollywood will make this a Smoky Mountain Christmas you and your family won’t soon forget!

Here are just a few of the picutures that we took this year (2006) at the Smoky Mountain Christmas Festival that runs through Dec. 30th.

Gatlinburg , Pigeon Forge , Attractions , Photography , Entertainment , Children

2006-12-01T10:52:00.000-06:00

On Saturday, December 9, The Sugarlands Visitor Center will host a "Festival of Christmas Past" celebration from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Visitors can join in conversation with area residents, sing along to Christmas Carols and traditional songs, or just reminisce about days gone by.

Musicians and dancers will recreate the old-fashioned songs and dances, and will sing and play traditional music with old-style instruments.

Storytellers, cooks, quilters, weavers, painters, and many others will demonstrate their arts and crafts as well. Click here for a detailed schedule of events!

Gatlinburg , Smoky Mountains , Attractions , Photography , Entertainment , Tips

Pittman Tree Now Ripley's Christmas Centerpiece

2006-12-01T07:55:00.000-06:00

It is common knowledge that trees cannot drive cars. If they could, though, where would they go?

Perhaps, like more than a million people do every year, they might make a trip to Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies. That's where a bark-covered piece of Pittman Center history ended up after its first road trip. A Norway spruce tree that had stood beside Town Hall for more than three decades had begun to cause some concern for local officials. Click here for the full story.

Gatlinburg , Smoky Mountains , Attractions , Photography , Entertainment , Tips

When's the BEST time for a log cabin vacation in the Smokies?

2006-11-17T11:38:00.000-06:00

Everything blooms in the Spring. The entire landscape springs forth with colors you never thought possible. Then there’s Summer. Basking under the warmth of the sun on an innertube or just relaxing next to a splashing river or creek, it’s your best chance to view wildlife. And Fall! Ahhhhh! The brilliant colors of the forest and the memorable crisp autumn mornings. Maybe Winter? Exploring snowy trails in the clear, quiet mountain air.

The BEST TIME to stay at a vacation cabin?

The ANSWER: Right AFTER the owner's have vacationed there . . .regardless of the season!

No matter how well a vacation rental property is managed or maintained, they just cannot compete with hands-on-maintenance by the owner. When the owner shows up it's ususally "ALL Hands On Deck" for a complete status check of the cabin:

Deep cleaning the grill
Wash ALL the dishes, pots and pans
Restock the "Junk Drawer" and other consumables
Organize the games & books
Replace worn items
Check all the appliances, TVs, Internet, etc.
Upgrade and replace dated items
In a nutshell . . . getting it ready for "Mom & Dad"!

The problem is knowing WHEN the owner has just been there, right?

Unless the cabin is "Owner Managed", you know the owner, or you're family you probably won't know when they're planning their vacation.

Well . . .You're in LUCK!

You've stumbled onto this blog post RIGHT before we're heading down to decorate the Bear's Den for the Winter holidays. From Nov. 28, 2006 through late Jan. 2007 the Bear's Den will be fully decorated with Winter Lodge decor.

I've posted some pictures of the Bear's Den from the last time we had it decorated but we'll be updating the pictures next week with all the NEW stuff for 2006. Click here.

We added high-speed Internet at the cabin this Summber so we'll keep you posted on our exploits over our post-hanksgiving Weekend!

We'd love to have you stay with us for the holidays!! Click here to check availability and to book your Winter stay.

I just check our calendar for November and see that some LUCKY guests are coming in RIGHT AFTER we have to leave!!!

It's going to take some getting used to, but a new section of Veteran's Boulevard is now open from Dolly Parton Parkway to Middle Ridge Road.

2006-11-13T10:25:00.000-06:00

SR 449/Veteran’s Blvd. (previously known as New Middle Creek Road): The City of Sevierville announced that the section of Veteran’s Boulevard between Dolly Parton Parkway and Middle Ridge Road was opened to traffic Thursday afternoon, November 9, 2006. This TDOT-funded road will provide a six-lane route from Sevierville into Pigeon Forge.

City officials plan for Veteran's Boulevard to eventually replace Middle Creek Road as the main thoroughfare running from east Sevierville to Pigeon Forge. More long-term plans call for a bridge crossing the Little Pigeon River and an extension that will intersect with the Winfield Dunn Parkway further north.

City spokesperson Bob Stahlke acknowledged the new traffic pattern was confusing rush hour drivers, but said he thought they would adjust quickly when they try Veteran's Boulevard and get used to the different route.

Gatlinburg , Pigeon Forge , Attractions , Tips

New English Pub in Gatlinburg

2006-11-12T12:10:00.000-06:00

The Ship English Pub located in the Arts & Crafts community of Gatlinburg, Tennessee is the realization of the owner's long standing dream to own and operate an authentic English pub. Years of travel to to London and the English countryside on numerous pub crawls, as well as a love of English nautical history, served as the inspiration for The Ship English Pub.

The pub offers a wide selection of beer, both imported and domestic favorites as well as a number of fine English ales both on tap and in the bottle. The pub's restaurant offers an eclectic mix of traditional English pub fare as well as American favorites such as pizza, wings and burgers.

The Ship English Pub done in rustic dark wood and decorated with a wonderful collection of period nautical and English pub memorabilia offers a fine dining experience for the entire family. The pub regularly schedules live entertainment in the evenings which is not to be missed.

Gatlinburg , Bear's Den , Bears Den, Attractions , Entertainment , Tips , Dining

Dollywood's Babes In Toyland! New for 2006

2006-11-09T12:10:00.000-06:00

It’s Dollywood’s most elaborate stage show ever—Dollywood’s Babes in Toyland! Featuring a cast of 20 performers and a fully-orchestrated musical score, this family classic follows “Alan” and “Jane” on their incredible adventure through Toyland. Along the way, the pair encounters a variety of characters who come to life through imaginative puppetry, amazing acrobatics, and spectacular scenery—all highlighted by the magnificent, show-stopping march of the giant toy soldiers! Celebrate an old-fashioned family Christmas sure to mesmerize audiences of all ages at Dollywood’s Babes in Toyland. Read more . .

Gatlinburg , Smoky Mountains , Pigeon Forge , Attractions , Entertainment

Gatlinburg Chili Cookoff Warms Up Winterfest

2006-11-09T11:41:00.000-06:00

Over 20 chili vendors served up the most mouth-watering recipes of mild and delightful to wild and adventurous homemade chili in portions suitable for sampling as Gatlinburg hosted its 17th Annual Winterfest Chili Cookoff on Wednesday, November 8, at Ripley’s Aquarium Plaza and River Road. Judges selected winners in categories including best taste, booth presentation, ,design of aprons and most unique chili name. Click here for the full story.

photo by Tesa Nauman, SevierCountyNews.Com

Gatlinburg , Smoky Mountains , Attractions , Entertainment ,
Tips , Dining , Children

Sevierville Becomes City of Magical Lights with Winterfest Launch

2006-11-08T11:52:00.000-06:00

It was a night of "Music, Lights and Magic" at the Sevierville Municipal Complex Monday as the city kicked off its Winterfest celebration. About 5,000 people attend.

Gatlinburg , Pigeon Forge , Attractions , Entertainment

Country Tonite’s Smoky Mountain Christmas

2006-11-07T14:33:00.000-06:00

Pigeon Forge, TN - For all those who love the Christmas Season, Country Tonite’s 2006 Christmas show is a “must” on all holiday agendas. This spectacular show premieres November 1st and continues 6 nights a week, with a special New Years Eve Show at 10pm.

Join the Country Tonite family in making this your Christmas to remember! Take a break from holiday worries and head to Pigeon Forge for the best show in the Smokies! Call 865-453-2003 or 800-792-4308 for tickets to the Christmas show that will touch your heart. Sevier County Days will run November 6th – November 12th.

For the full Sevier Co. News article click here.

Gatlinburg , Bear's Den , Bears Den , Entertainment , Internet

November 2006 Gatlinburg Event Calendar

2006-10-29T14:33:00.000-06:00

Nov. 8 - Gatlinburg Chili Cook-off - Bring your appetite and a willingness to sample new or improved recipes when the City hosts its 17th Annual Winterfest Chili Cookoff on Wednesday, November 8, at Ripley’s Aquarium Plaza and River Road!

Nov. 8 - Gatlinburg Winterfest Kick-off & Chili Cook-off The City of Gatlinburg magically lights up the winter nights with over 2 million spectacular lights in fantastic displays throughout the town. Gatlinburg Winter Magic launches a new era of winter-long visual entertainment in Gatlinburg. Featuring all new, one-of-a-kind LED lighting displays along Gatlinburg’s famous Downtown Parkway, adjacent River Road, and the triangle juncture of the two, the first phase of a three-year, $1 million rollout of custom designed and fabricated lighting displays will be marked by sections reminiscent of winter forests, romance, and evergreens.

Nov. - Dec. - Gatlinburg Winter Magic Trolley Rides - The best way to view the more than 40 lighting displays and numerous other lights featured in Gatlinburg Winter Magic is to hop aboard the Trolley Ride of Lights and take a leisurely ride through the city. Trolleys depart from the Gatlinburg Aquarium Welcome Center at Traffic Light No. 5 (Mass Transit Center) at 6:30, 7:30, and 8:30 p.m. nightly from November through December 30 excluding Dec. 1, 24 and 25, then continue every Saturday night during January. The Trolley Ride of Lights is a guided narrative tour that lasts approximately 45 minutes. This year tickets are only $4 and advance reservations can be made at the Aquarium Welcome Center or by calling 865/436-0535. Group reservations are also welcomed.

Nov. 11 - Veteran's Day Celebration - Gatlinburg's 4th Annual Veteran's Day Celebration salutes the men and women of America who have served in our Armed Services. The stirring musical tribute and ceremony is held at 11 a.m. on Ripley's Aquarium Plaza.

Nov 21 - Thanksgiving Arts and Crafts Show - Members of the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community Gather for demonstrations and sales at the convention center.

Nov 24-25 - Nutcracker "Sweet" Performance & Festival of Trees Dozens of ornately decorated Christmas trees await visitors to this Winter Wonderland at W. L. Mills Conference Center on Friday & Saturday from 4 to 7 p.m. Then at 7, get in the holiday spirit with the presentation of Nutcracker "Sweet" by the Smoky Mountain Dance Theater Company.

Nov. 27 - Dec. 3 - Christmas Arts and Crafts Show Members of Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community assemble to make Christmas Shopping easy at the convention center.

Dec. 1 - Fantasy of Lights Parade Gatlinburg's 31st Annual Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade ushers in the holiday season at 7:30 p.m. in downtown with millions of twinkling lights and more than 100 parade entries.

Gatlinburg , Bear's Den , Bears Den , Smoky Mountains , Entertainment , Tips , Dining , Children

Ribbon cut on Sevierville's expanded welcome center

2006-10-25T12:28:00.000-05:00

SEVIERVILLE - The Great Smoky Mountains Association, Friends of the Smokies and the Sevierville Chamber of Commerce celebrated their new partnership Monday with the official opening ceremony for the expanded visitor center.Full Story

Gatlinburg ,Bear's Den , Bears Den , Smoky Mountains , Log Cabin , Pigeon Forge , Attractions , Entertainment , Tips , Dining , Children
Mountain,

Thanksgiving In The Smokies

2006-10-22T18:42:00.000-05:00

Families and Thanksgiving celebrations go hand-in-hand, and you won't find a better place to relax and enjoy some quality time with your loved ones than the Smoky Mountains. To get an authentic connection to the wooded, mountainous beauty of the Smokies, you'll find that a cabin retreat is the ideal accommodation that affords all the comfort and privacy you could want, and a fully-equipped kitchen to boot! But while you're waiting for that 20 pound turkey to thaw, why not take advantage of the local holiday activities?

The areas in and around the Smokies (Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg) are bustling around Thanksgiving, and whether you're looking for shows, crafts, or a fun-filled trolley ride around town, your family will have plenty to do to get everyone into the holiday mood!

The Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community Thanksgiving Show from November 21 to November 25, 2006 is being held at the Gatlinburg Convention Center. Since admission is free, you'll definitely want to stop by and view the handmade crafts, beautiful displays, ... Read More. . .

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