Advice from Smokies Experts

Maximize every single second of your visit to the Smoky Mountains with advice from area experts. As local folks who live here, they are your eyes and ears on the ground. They have an intimate knowledge and understanding of the Smokies and are here to make sure you are in the know. From the best restaurants and hotels to hikes with the most majestic views to prime trout fishing spots and everything in between, you’ll find all the information you need to have the best Smoky Mountains vacation ever.

Cool Off This Summer in These Refreshing Smoky Mountain Waterfalls

Cool Off This Summer in These Refreshing Smoky Mountain Waterfalls

The Smoky Mountains are a top destination during the summer months for a reason. The shaded canopy of lush forests and gorgeous mountain vistas provide a delightful escape from the heat of the day. And the ancient Smokies deliver an abundance of waterfalls to cool off in. We’ve researched the best waterfalls in the Smoky

Jackie TuckerJuly 25th, 2021|

Embark on a Birdwatching Adventure in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Embark on a Birdwatching Adventure in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The sun slowly peeks over the mountaintops outside your cabin. A soft ray of sunlight slips through the curtains and graces its way across your face. The chirp of morning birdsong floats through your window and draws you peacefully from sleep to wakefulness. You lie there, taking it all in, grateful that you don’t have

Jackie TuckerJuly 18th, 2021|

Smoky Mountain Moonshine is History in a Glass

Smoky Mountain Moonshine is History in a Glass

From rustic corn-whiskey to copper stills to the fresh mountain springs where it all begins, the Smoky Mountains are steeped in the history of moonshine. Take a hike in the Smokies, and you’re bound to stumble across hidden caves with the abandoned remains of stills left over from the days when moonshining was at

Jackie TuckerJuly 6th, 2021|

Lace Up Your Boots and Escape to the Newest Hiking Trail in Western North Carolina

Lace Up Your Boots and Escape to the Newest Hiking Trail in Western North Carolina

Courtesy of Conserving Carolina Calling all hiking enthusiasts! There’s a brand new trail in town. The Western North Carolina Smoky Mountains boast some pretty well-known hiking trails, but if you’ve been itching for a fresh challenge and an alternate climb, then check out the new 2.1-mile hiking trail that will lead you

Jackie TuckerJuly 1st, 2021|

Visit Western North Carolina’s Newest Smoky Mountain Heritage Center at the Charming Meadowlark Motel

Visit Western North Carolina’s Newest Smoky Mountain Heritage Center at the Charming Meadowlark Motel

Brimming with Appalachian charm and chic retro style, the Meadowlark Motel in Maggie Valley, NC, exudes timeless roadside inn vibes, evoking the freedom of the open highway and the romance of an adventurous road trip. This historic motel has long epitomized the traditions and customs of the Smokies in Western North Carolina, and now

Jackie TuckerJune 23rd, 2021|

Discover the Heartwarming History Behind the Plott Hound: North Carolina's Official State Dog

Discover the Heartwarming History Behind the Plott Hound: North Carolina’s Official State Dog

Pet-lovers everywhere know that traveling with your beloved furry friends can make a long trip much more entertaining. But what if you were traveling to a new country…across an ocean…with no idea what might be waiting on the other side? Snuggling up with your pup would surely be a source of comfort in the face

Jackie TuckerJune 16th, 2021|

Infuse a Little Magic into Your Summer with Fireflies in the Smoky Mountains

Infuse a Little Magic into Your Summer with Fireflies in the Smoky Mountains

The glinting glow of fireflies on a warm summer night stirs our imaginations and the curiosity of childlike wonder. Watching their lights flicker intermittently in the darkness is an enchanting delight, but have you ever seen them light up in unison? Firefly season is upon us, and with it comes the opportunity to witness

Jackie TuckerJune 9th, 2021|

Don’t Miss These Exciting 4th of July Celebrations in the Smoky Mountains

Don’t Miss These Exciting 4th of July Celebrations in the Smoky Mountains

With more people getting vaccinated and the country starting to open up again, 4th of July celebrations are coming back with a bang in 2021! Discover one-of-a-kind things to do, and expect all your favorite patriotic festivities to return decked out in red, white and blue. Catch a parade, listen to live music, feast

Jackie TuckerJune 4th, 2021|

Find Artistic Inspiration with Handcrafted Pottery in the Smoky Mountains

Find Artistic Inspiration with Handcrafted Pottery in the Smoky Mountains

The Great Smoky Mountains are dotted with small towns whose storied histories are filled with a rich mountain culture that reflect the ancient natural beauty of these haze-covered hills. From the very beginning of Smoky Mountain civilization, people have been creating handcrafted items like pottery. And those traditions have continued and evolved throughout the years,

Adeel AtherMay 27th, 2021|

Spring Cabins & Other Romantic Getaways in the Smoky Mountains

Spring Cabins & Other Romantic Getaways in the Smoky Mountains

The Smoky Mountains are filled with inspiring spots this spring that are perfect for couples in love. From private, secluded cabins with luxury amenities to something a little closer to nature, a spring getaway in the Smokies is a great way to rekindle the romance. Steal a kiss while marveling at breathtaking mountain views,

Jackie TuckerMay 20th, 2021|