Tennessee Whisky Trail

It's all about history, tradition and ingenuity.

Tennessee is know the world over for our music and hospitality.  And our whiskey.  Tennessee has been a leader in spirits distillation throughout our nation's history.  That includes the time before, during and after Prohibition.  Our pride in craftsmanship and our spirit of independence led Tennesseans to make some of the world's finest whiskey and some of the nation's most sought after moonshine.  And it drives us to this day.  Today Tennessee distillers are crafting distilled spirits as diverse as the music born in this State.  From Blues to Bluegrass and from vodka to Tennessee Whiskey, Tennessee distillers are bringing our innovative and legendary spirits to our communities and the world. 

The Tennessee Whiskey Trail is made up of approximately 30 distilleries across the state.  These distilleries range from small, boutique-style operations to well-known distilleries that have been making legendary Tennessee Whiskey for generations.  

On the Tennessee Whiskey Trail, you will experience the history and tradition of Tennessee Whiskey as well as the innovation Tennessee distillers are bringing to whiskey, rum, gin, vodka and even moonshine.  Along the Trail, you'll get to know the rich landscapes, must-see landmarks, and genuine Southern hospitality that has influenced our spirits for generations and that embody the great state of Tennessee.  From The Great Smokey Mountains to the rolling hills and honky-tonks of Middle Tennessee to the jazz-filled streets of Memphis beside the mighty Mississippi River, The Tennessee Whisky Trail is an adventure across our land and our culture.  So come be a part of our story and let your adventures run on Tennessee Whiskey. 

Distilleries of East Tennessee

Home to the mountain folk of legend, East Tennessee is a nature-lover's mecca.  From the Appalachian Trail to Cades Cove, the area is full of beautiful flora, fauna, lively streams and waterfalls.  And don't forget the ever-popular sights and sounds of towns like Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.  East Tennessee is also home to over 13 distilleries that range from Bootleggers Distillery, the smallest batch distillery in the nation (located right down the road in Hartford!), to Sugarlands Distilling Company, which offers not only tours and tastings, but also live music, Appalachian storytelling and outdoor adventure tours of "moonshiner's paradise" in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.  Join us for a spirited mountain adventure!

Download your Passport to the world of Tennessee Whiskey!  Come be a part of the legend!

Click here for more information about the Passport.

Click here for more information about the Tennessee Whiskey Trail.

Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Show

Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Show: Good Food & Funny Show

It's feudin' feastin' family fun at the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Show!  Become part of the longest running feud in history and help the Hatfields and McCoys try to settle their difference mountain-style.  Whether you're city-folk or country cuzins, you'll love the singing and dancing, mighty feats of strength, jaw dropping stunts and side-splitting comedy.  There's something here for everybody!

It's like Springer meets Hee Haw meets Solid Gold Clogging Edition, all served up with an extra helping of salty, fatty, fried objects that you just can't stop shoving in your mouth.

Speaking of dinner, make sure you get there early, at least 45 minutes or so - the dinner service ends when the show begins!  The audience of the Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Show does not go hungry!  The menu includes all of the following: 

Fried Chicken

BBQ Pork

Southern Style Creamy Vegetable Soup

Mashed Potatoes

Corn on the Cob

Cornbread

Coleslaw

Pudding

When you arrive you'll be seated in either the Hatfield or McCoy sections of the theater, making you an honorary member of the family, at least for one night!

Unlike some other theaters in the Pigeon Forge area, the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Show actually lets you get all liquored up on moonshine (for a price), which definitely makes the jokes funnier.  Choose your flavor and don't forget to tip you wait-staff! Which reminds me, make sure to bring cash to tip with.  The theater suggests that you tip at least $3.50 per person.

Guide to the Top 5 Peaks

There is no shortage of breathtaking mountain peaks in East Tennessee!  The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to some of the most spectacular landscapes in the Southeast.  The crest of the Somkies extends in an unbroken chain of summits that rise higher than 5,000 feet for more than 36 miles.  Here is a list of the top 5 highest peaks in the Smoky Mountains...

1 Clingmans Dome

At 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Smoky Mountains and the highest point along the Appalachian Trail!  Millions of people visit the observation tower on the summit of Clingmans Dome each year to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the national park.  When the sky is clear, guests at the tower can see for over 100 miles.  Clingmans Dome is so tall that the peak can be between 10 to 20 degrees cooler than the lower elevations of the Smokies.  If you decide to visit Clingmans Dome, we recommend dressing in layers and bringing a jacket, even during the summer months.  It is also worth noting that the half mile paved trail to the observation tower is quite steep.  Nevertheless, we think being a little winded is totally worth it to enjoy the stunning views from the top of Clingmans Dome!

2.  Mount Guyot

Located on the North Carolina/Tennessee border, Mount Guyot is the second highest peak in the Smokies, with an elevation of 6,621 feet.  Unlike Clingmans Dome, Mount Guyot is not a popular tourist destination, since it is very isolated and extremely difficult to climb.  The upper slopes of this isolated mountain are covered in a dense spruce-fir forest that has remained undisturbed for centuries, since neither Native Americans nor white frontiersmen ever settle there.

The mountain takes its name from Arnold Guyot, a Swiss geographer and professor at Princeton who measured the elevations of many mountains in Southern Appalachia.  Interestingly, there is another Mount Guyot in New Hampshire that is also named after the geographer.

3.  Mount LeConte

While Mount LeConte may not be the highest point in the Smoky Mountains, it is the highest peak that is completely within Tennessee (both Clingmans Dome and Mount Guyot straddle the border with North Carolina) Mount LeConte has an elevation of 6,593 feet, and reaching the top is considered a rite of passage for some of the most dedicated hikers in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

There are a number of trails that lead to Mount LeConte, including the Alum Cave Trail, The Boulevard Trail, Bullhead Trail, Rainbow Falls Trail, and Trillium Gap Trail.  All of these treks are between 11 and 16 miles round trip, so they are only for serious hikers.

While all of the trails are beautiful, we are particularly fond of the Trillium Gap Trail because it is frequented by llamas on many Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings!  The llamas are used to bring supplies to the LeConte Lodge, a special resort that you can only reach by hiking to the summit of Mount LeConte.

4.  Mount Buckley

Mount Buckley is notable for being the nearest mountain to the summit of Clingmans Dome.  At 6,580 feet, the mountain offers some scenic vistas, but unfortunately, most of the views of the surrounding peaks are obstructed.  The majority of people who visit Mount Buckley do so because it is part of the Appalachian Trail.  The mountain is named after Samuel Botsford Buckley, the geologist who first estimated the elevation of the peak.

5.  Mount Love

At 6,420 feet, Mount Love is the fifth highest point in the Smoky Mountains.  Like Mount Buckley, Mount Love is located near Clingmans Dome.  Hikers along the Appalachian Trail pass through the summit of Mount Love when they make their way from Clingmans Dome to Mount Collins.  The peak of Mount Love is densely forested, so there are only a few spots with unobstructed views.

Smoky Mountain Outdoors Rafting

White Water Rafting in the Great Smoky Mountains!

Treat yourself to an unforgettable experience at Smoky Mountain Outdoors (SMO) with one of our many white water rafting adventures in Tennessee.  We've been setting the bar high for whitewater rafting service, safety and fun since 1993.

Experience whitewater rafting in Tennessee and be assured of an exciting adventure as you rm throgh some of our class III and class IV rapids this rafting season!

Make Reservations at the Most Exciting Attraction near Gatlinburg, TN!

During your visit to the Garage Mahal, why not enjoy one of the most exciting attractions in the Great Smoky Mountains?  

All Tennessee rafting trips include an experienced guide in every raft to keep your adventure safe and enjoyable. 

Smoky Mountain Outdoors is right down the road from us in the cute little town of Hartford.  

Water Levels and Rafting Schedule
What you need to know to plan your adventure

When planning a rafting trip, the first question that many ask is "When are rafting trips available here in the Smoky Mountains?" That question is not always easy to answer.

The Pigeon River is dam controlled.  What does this mean for you? Well, when water is released from the dam, rafting trips are just what you expect in a whitewater adventure - crashing waves and exciting rapids.  When water is not released, the river changes significantly.  Rapids decrease in size and there will be more rocks then you can shake a stick at.  Understandably, these low water conditions are not what many guests expect when signing up for a rafting adventure.  

Fortunately, we have scheduled water release days, between 27 May and 3 September rafting trips are Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday. 

Old Dad's General Store

If you are headed out for a day on the trails and are passing through Gatlinburg.  Be sure to stop at Old Dad's General Store.

Located in Gatlinburg, at the south end of town.  Parking is available and easily accessed from Parkway or River Road.  Their location makes them a super spot for breakfast and lunch and is you best bet for picnic supplies at the entrance of The Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

1127 Parkway

Gatlinburg, TN

Call ahead to place your order!  

(865)430-1644

Click here for their deli menu.

** Be advised there are no places to eat inside the National Park. 

Biltmore

Feel like royalty for a day at this 1895 French Renaissance castle built by George W. Vanderbilt.  Explore much of the 8,000-acre estate, including the 250 room Biltmore House, 75 acres of beautiful gardens, the nation's most visited winery, shopping, dining, hiking trails and more for a bucket list vacation to remember for a lifetime.  

Biltmore Estate Top 10 Things to Do

1.  Biltmore House: Experience the wonder of Biltmore House, the largest privately owned mansion in America, with a priceless collection of arts and antiques original to the Vanderbilt home.  Since the house is a self-guided tour, we recommend getting the audio companion tour as soon as you enter the house.  Excellent guided tours may be purchased to go "behind the scenes". After exploring the house, stop at the Stable Courtyard for refreshments or browse the shops.  The Stable Cafe is great for sandwiches, burgers, and salads. Allow at least two hours for the self-guided house tour.  

2.  Gardens: Spectacular gardens and woodlands are perfect for leisurely strolls.  From the house, walk through gardens designed by renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted.  The lush and beautiful reflecting ponds of the Italian Gardens are a fitting entry into a stunning world of garden paths.  A short walk takes you to the four-acre Walled Garden, Azalea Garden and the Spring Garden.  















3.  Conservatory: Adjacent to the Walled Garden is the tropical wonderland all year round, complete with a big orchid collection.

4.  Bass Pond: For a longer walk, follow signs to the Bass Pond to find a more secluded (and romantic) area, especially at the Boat House (below).  In spring and summer, the Meadow Trail features wildflowers and grasses, while the Woodland Trail is ablaze with azaleas in the spring.















5.  Photo Spot: Our favorite view of Biltmore House is along the drive from the house to the winery.  Look for the small lake (Lagoon) on your left.  There is a narrow unpaved road at the far end that crosses a small bridge for a stunning view of the back of the House.  It's a great picnic spot and place to take a hike. 















6.  Antler Hill Village: This mostly "new" village provides a relaxing place for dining, shopping and learning more about Biltmore history.  It's home to the Winery and Farm.  Enjoy live entertainment on the Village Green.  Don't miss the special exhibit at the Legacy and tour the historic barn.  It's base camp for all outdoor activities.  















7.  Winery: Enjoy a self-guided or guided Winery tour (both included with your ticket) and sample Estate wines in the Tasting Room.  Browse the Wine Shop or dine at The Bistro.  Check out cooking demonstrations and wine classes.  














8.  The Farm: Learn about Biltmore's agricultural heritage at Antler Hill Farm, adjacent to the Village.  In addition to displays of historic farm equipment in the impressive 1902 barn, explore the Kitchen Garden and meet draft horses, calves, lambs and chickens at the Farmyard. Watch the blacksmith or woodworkers.

9.  Outdoor Activities: There is much to explore outdoors, including several great hiking trails and greenway.  At the Outdoor Adventure Center, sign up for an array of outdoor fun including biking, carriage rides, fly fishing, Segway tours, horseback riding, river trips and more.

10.  Biltmore Restaurants

There are many options for dining during your visit.  Since all of these are located inside the estate, you'll need a ticket to reach them.  All are open every day of the week. 

Food and drinks adjacent to the House in the former stables: 

     Stable Cafe: Appalachian comfort food for lunch, including burgers and barbecue.

     The Bake Shop has great coffee.  
     
     The Courtyard Market offers quick sandwiches.

     Ice Cream Parlor has picnic to go. 

Restaurants in Antler Hill Village: 

     Cedric's Tavern: Pub with craft beers, full bar and outdoor seating.  Lunch and dinner every day.

     Bistro: Features estate-raised and regionally sourced ingredients, including wood-oven pizzas and hand-made pasta.  Lunch and dinner everyday.

     Village Social: Tucked away in the new Village Hotel, their menu focuses on sustainable seafood with local farm products. Breakfast, lunch and dinner everyday.

     Library Lounge: Elegant setting inside the Inn on Biltmore Estate with a full-service afternoon tea.  Reservations recommended. 

     The Dining Room at the Inn at Biltmore:  The most elegant dining on the estate with four-star service and menu.  Breakfast buffet and dinner.  Reservations recommended.

     The Creamery: Enjoy ice cream and Winky Bar sundaes.

     The Somkehouse: Located in the Barn with Carolina barbecue and Southern favorites. 

     Deerpark Restaurant: Seasonal Taste of the South buffet in an elegant rustic setting for Saturday lunch and Sunday brunch. Closed January-March.

Tips for Visiting Biltmore

Take your time exploring.  Plan to spend the day.

Wear very comfortable walking shoes. 

Arrive early (9 am) to avoid crowds and to make the most of your day. 

Saturdays are the busiest day.  The most crowded day of the year are Saturdays in April, May, October, November, and December.  

Be sure to have an automobile since the drive to the House from the entrance is three miles.  It's another five miles to the Winery.

Bring a picnic or stop by the Ice Cream Shop outside the House to purchase a picnic to go.  There are many great picnic spots on the Estate. 

If you arrive on the estate after 4 pm, your ticket can be validated for the next day at the Reception & Ticket Center.  And you can usually add a day for a great rate. 

Each guest is assigned a reservation time to tour the Biltmore mansion on busy "Reservation Days"

If you plan to visit in November & December, see our Christmas at Biltmore special guide. 

Click here for more information. 

10 Free Things To Do In Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg has been a long-time favorite vacation destination for people looking to spend a few days unwinding from their everyday life.  Not only is this city known for it's delicious restaurants and quaint shops, but there are a ton of fun things to do in Gatlinburg.  The best part about these activities is that a lot of them are free, read on...

1.  People watch on the Gatlinburg Parkway

With millions of visitors each year, it is hard to find a reason why you shouldn't go people watching on the Gatlinburg Parkway.  Not to mention, downtown Gatlinburg is a great city to park your car and just walk around and explore.

There are several benches and resting spots if you want to take a break, or you can duck into The Village and sit by the water fountain on a pleasant sunny day.

2.  Take a walk along the Little Pigeon River

We have already told you how walking on the sidewalk along the Gatlinburg Parkway is one of our favorite free things to do in Gatlinburg.  However, for people looking to enjoy a more scenic view as they stroll around the city, we suggest walking along the city's riverwalk path that takes you by the Little Pigeon River.

Not only is this a great way to catch a glimpse of some of the natural beauty of the area, but is is also a great way to cool down on a warm day. There are also benches and gazebos along the path if you want to sit down and take in he sights for a moment or two. 

3.  Visit a Gatlinburg Moonshine Distillery

Moonshining has been a long standing tradition in the Smoky Mountains, and today guests to the area can witness this tradition by visiting one of the many new exciting Gatlinburg moonshine distilleries.  The best part is that tours are free!  There is a small charge for moonshine sampling, but you can explore the distillery at no charge!

Ole Smoky Moonshine

Hours: 10 am - 10 pm, daily. Moonshine sales on Sundays from 12-7pm

Click here for the website.

Sugarlands Shine

Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am - 11pm, Sundays 12-7pm

Click here for the website.

Doc Collier Moonshine

Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am - 11pm, Sundays 11am - 7pm

Click here for the website.

4. Drive the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

Do you want to explore the area, but you don't feel like walking? You can enjoy a relaxing drive along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail from the comfort of your own vehicle.

The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a 6-mile, one-way, loop road. Along the trail, guests will pass several historic home sites including the Noah 'Bud' Ogle cabin, the Roaring Fork Cemetery, and the remains of one of the early settler's villages that was home to nearly two dozen families over 150 years ago. 

There are stops along the way where guests can pull over and snap a picture or tow, or just enjoy the scenery for a little while. 

If you do decide you want to walk around for a little bit, there are also several Smoky Mountain hiking trail heads that are located near the Roaring Fork Motor Trail.  These trails include: 

Baskins Creek Falls

3 miles round trip

Easy difficulty rating

Features waterfalls

Brushy Mountain 

6.8 miles round trip

Easy-moderate difficulty rating

Features wildflowers and scenic views

Bullhead Trail

5.9 miles round trip

Easy-moderate difficulty rating



Features interesting geology

Grotto Falls

2.6 miles round trip

Easy difficulty rating 

Features waterfalls

Rainbow Falls

5.4 miles round trip

Easy-moderate difficulty rating 

Features waterfalls

Trillium Gap

13.9 miles round trip

Hard difficulty rating 

Features panoramic views

See our post on the Roaring Fork Motor Trial under the "Drives" tab.

5. Visit Cades Cove

Cades Cove hosts over 2 million visitors a year.  That accounts for nearly a quarter of the total traffic that visits the Great Smoky Mountains National Park every year.

The major draw for guests to this area of the national park is the abundance of the breathtaking scenic views that surround you when you are in Cades Cove.  Words can barely do the natural beauty of this area justice. 

Not to mention, Cades Cove is also home to a lot of wildlife, and guests here can also tour several historic home sites that remain from the early settlers to the Cove.  Also, similar to the Roaring Fork Motor Trail, guests to Cades Cove can explore the area from the comfort of their car by driving around the 8-mile loop road. 

With all of the pretty scenery and thing to do, it is no wonder why visiting Cades Cove is one of our favorite free things to do in Gatlinburg.

See our post on "Cades Cove", also under the "Drives" tab.

6.  Stroll through the Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community

For over 70 years, there is a small section of downtown Gatlinburg that has been home to a wide variety of talented artisans and craftsmen.  Known as the Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts community, this section of town is where guests can find tons of hand-made goods to bring back home after their Smoky Mountain vacation. 

The talents found in the Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts community include glass workers, sculptors, painters, broom makers, leatherworkers and more!

See our post on the Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community under the "Gatlinburg" or "Shopping" tabs.

7. Tour Arrowmont School of Arts & Crafts

Speaking of art, the Arrowmont School of Arts & Crafts is another exciting free thing to do in Gatlinburg that will help you discover much of the artistic talent that calls the Smoky Mountains home. 

The Arrowmont School of Arts & Crafts was originally founded in 1912.  Back then it was called the Phi Beta Phi Settlement School, and it provided the first form of formal education to all the early settlers of the Gatlinburg community.

It wasn't until 1926 that the school began to sell crafts and art made by members of the community, and in 1945 the school offered its first art class.  In 1967, the school officially changed its name to the Arrowmont School of Arts & Crafts. 

Over the years, the school has gained international recognition for its continued dedication and education in the art community. 

Today, guests can tour one of the many galleries located on the school's 14-acre campus.  They can also pick up their new favorite craft or art piece for the school's gift shop.  Hours for the school and galleries are Monday-Friday from 8:30am - 5pm.  For weekend and holiday hours, the school asks that guests give them a call at (865)436-5860.

Check out their website here.

8. Listen to Music at Gatlinburg Tunes & Tales (Seasonal)

Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales is easily one of the most entertaining activities included on the list of free things to do in Gatlinburg.  Here, you can sit back and enjoy as a variety of local musicians, storytellers, and artisans demonstrate their skills. 

In addition to the music, the performers that are part of the Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales will also entertain the crowd with their costumes that pay tribute to times gone by, including as early as the 1800s.

The Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales event in downtown Gatlinburg runs daily from mid-June through the end of July.  Performances begin at 6pm.

If you are unable to visit for the summer Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales, be sure to plan a trip to come back to the area in a couple of months for the winter Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales.

The winter Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales takes place on the weekends between Thanksgiving and Christmas. 

9.  Ride the Gatlinburg Trolley on the Parkway (Seasonal)

Out of all the fun free things to do in Gatlinburg, taking a ride on the Gatlinburg Trolley is probably the most convenient.  From mid-June through mid-August, the Gatlinburg Trolley is offering free rides along the downtown Parkway from 10am - 10pm daily. 

If you happen to plan your visit after the free Gatlinburg Trolley rides end, you can still tour around the city for the low cost of $2 for unlimited rides on five of the trolley's routes.  You can find out more about the Gatlinburg Trolley routes, fares and schedules on its website here.

10.  Have a Picnic

Going for a picnic is a great way to take in the scenery of the Smoky Mountain area.  There's many places for picnic in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, so it's easy to pack up a picnic basket and head out to enjoy the Smokies.  There are also a few picnic areas in Gatlinburg, including Mynatt Park and Mills Park.

The Best Pancake Restaurants in Gatlinburg!

While staying with us in the Garage Mahal you'll have a nice selection of breakfast items such as homemade muffins, biscotti and granola, just to name a few of the goodies. But, you can't visit the Smoky Mountains without stopping by one of the pancake restaurants in Gatlinburg.  So, if you find your self in Gatlinburg in the morning in need of fuel for a long hike (or a day of shopping!) here are a few...

1. Log Cabin Pancake House

Log Cabin Pancake House is a favorite for locals and visitors. Their breakfast meals are delicious and they also offer a hot lunch buffet!  Their special treat pancakes are some you won't want to miss. They offer old-fashioned style pancakes in a huge selection of flavors.  Their miniature pancakes are always favorites - classic pancakes, the size of silver dollars, with just enough crisp around the edges!

Even if your not looking for pancakes, this restaurant has plenty of other options, including omelets, waffles, crepes and their "hold the pancakes" specials. 

Address: 327 Historic Nature Trail, Gatlinburg

Click here for the menu.

2. Pancake Pantry

Pancake Pantry is likely the most popular of all the pancake restaurants in Gatlinburg.  They offer over 20 varieties of pancakes, 7 types of omelettes, 8 different kinds of waffles and all of the traditional breakfast favorites you can imagine.  If you want to try something different, Pancake Pantry may be the place for you.  They have some different selections, including Caribbean Pancakes, Sweet Potato Pancakes, Orange-Walnut Pancakes and more.  They have a great selection of breakfast meals, so you'll definitely want to visit at least once during your vacation. 

You can always stop by again, later in the day, to try their lunch, too!  The offer burgers, gourment sandwiches, soups and salads!

Address: 628 Parkway, Gatlinburg

Click here for the menu.

3. Flapjack's Pancake Cabin

Flapjack's Pancake Cabin has locations throughout Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, so you may see more than one during your visit.  If you can't make it to the Gatlinburg location, there's one in Pigeon Forge and Sevierville you can try.  They have all of your breakfast favorites, plus items like Elkmont Egg Platters, Campfire Skillets and more.  As far as pancakes, they have great ones!  Wild Mountain Blueberry, Southern Pecan and Grandma's Peanut Butter and Banana pan

  

cakes are some of the favorites at Flapjack's!

Address: 956 Parkway, Gatlinburg

Click here for the menu.

4. Crockett's Breakfast Camp

Crockett's Breakfast Camp has a cabin-like feel with a modern takes on some of the most classic Southern breakfasts.  Be sure to try some of their "Griddle Cakes" that come in a variety of flavors - cinnamon roll pancakes, fruit and nut pancakes and more.  They also serve skillet meals, waffles, a few varieties of eggs Benedict and classic oatmeal and grits. 

Address: 1103 Parkway, Gatlinburg

Click here for the menu.

Patio, Done!

We have finished the next phase of our patio!  

It's ready for action and BBQing!

Relax, have a drink and enjoy the sounds of the creek below...

Gatlinburg Sky Lift

Often considered the top scenic overlook in Gatlinburg, the Gatlinburg sky lift offers an unparalleled view of the city and the Smoky Mountains.  

Visitors can board the Sky Lift at its downtown station, and enjoy the view as the cable seat lifts over the Little Pigeon River, towards the summit of Crockett Mountain.  At the end of the ride, atop Crockett Mountain, is a viewing platform perfect for taking pictures of the Smoky Mountains.  The picturesque view is definitely something you won't get tired of seeing!

CLIMB Works: Ziplines and Mountain Bikes

Explore one of the most beautiful places on earth by ziplines!

CLIMB Works Smoky Mountains, a true treetop canopy tour, consists of 9 world-class ziplines, unique sky bridges, a fun ATV adventure to the top, and a surprise at the end - making this the ultimate Smoky Mountain experience.  Soaring tree to tree, you'll see why the Great Smoky Mountain National Park is the most visited national park in the country.

Or by mountain bike...

We provide the trail, the bikes and the experience!

Ever wanted to try mountain biking but were a little too nervous to give it a shot?  Like a lot of outdoor sports, mountain biking can be difficult to try.  CLIMB Works has solved the common concerns - Where do I go? What if I don't have a bike? Isn't this for experts only? - that keep most people from ever giving it a chance.

Come, rent, ride!

Click here for more information.

4 Things To Do in Gatlinburg in June

With summer already will underway, we're putting together our list of things to do in Gatlinburg in June, and we couldn't be more excited!  You'll find that your favorite attractions and hotspots are getting into the summer spirit.  Many businesses and organizations in Gatinburg offer fun perks during summertime while others dedicate the entire season to staying open a little later or offering some free fun.  Lean how to take advantage of all the summer excitement below: 

1.  Tour Gatilnburg on the Free Parkway Trolley

Starting in mid-June and lasting until mid-August, the Gatlinburg trolley system offers free rides on Specially painted "Free Parkway" trolleys.  These open-air trolleys run from 10am until 10pm and are operating on a route with additional stops, bring the total number of stops to 40 along the Gatlinburg Parkway, so you'll be able to visit and see plenty of exciting attractions throughout Gatlinburg. 

A typical trolley pass is $2 for a day of unlimited access to the majority of routes.  You can start your Gatlinburg trolley travels by taking a look at the Gatlinburg trolley locator to find the closest to you!

2. Listen in on Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales

Take a stroll along the Gatlinburg Parkway to experience one of the most popular things to do in Gatlinburg in June - Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales.  This tribute to the spirit of Appalachia features local musicians, costumed street performers, and artisans sharing elements of Smoky Mountain culture that date all the way back to the 1800s. 

you'll have a wonderful time strolling through downtown Gatlinburg as you're surrounded by sights, sounds, and people of the historic Smokies.  The performers arrive every evening and set up their camps all throughout downtown Gatlinburg.  The fun and educational show is free and family-friendly.

3.  Chase a breathtaking view

The Great Smoky Mountains are especially lush and green right now, and we can't think of a better way to soak up the warm summer sun than by exploring the Smokies.  It's even better if you make an adventure of it, so we challenge you to a quest of finding the most gorgeous and interesting views you can.  You could hike, climb, and swim for years and not see all the beauty our Smoky Mountains have to offer, so you should get started now!

We've picked out a couple of views that may be of interest to you.  See how many you can see by the end of your trip!

Clingmans Dome - This point of interest is the highest Smoky Mountain View in the National Park at 6,623 feet - and the highest point in all of Tennessee.

Rock Top - Yes, this is the Rocky Top. This hike ends in panoramic views of the mountains that make naming a song after them completely reasonable.

Abrams Falls - While these falls aren't particularly tall at 20 feet high, the power behind the fast-moving Abrams Falls makes it a sight to be seen. 

Tricorner Knob - This resting stop on the Appalachian Trail is one of the most isolated points in the Smoky Mountains, If you can get to it, you will have conquered a great feat with a history-steeped hiking story. 

Mount LeConte - As the third highest peak in the Smokies, Mount LeConte is a tough climb at 2,763 feet tall, but the view from the summit is remarkable. 

4.  Enjoy Dollywood's Summer Festival

Every year, from mid-June through early August, Dollywood take advantage of the extra daylight to indulge in a little bit of summer fun during Dollywood's "Summer Lives Here" festival.  The event lengthens the park's hours, allowing you and your family to enjoy thrilling rides like the Tennessee Tornado, Mystery Mine, Wild Eagle, and Thunderhead under the glow of moonlight - what and incredible view!  Park goers will also enjoy Dolly's Night of Many Colors, a fireworks extravaganza like you've never seen before, to conclude the evening.  We can't think of a better way to spend a day and night in June!