Smoky Mountain — Local services in Oliver Springs

These are just a few of the many experiences I have when I was visiting the Smoky Mountains in Tennessee. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, cultural exploration, or family-friendly entertainment, the Smokies have something to offer for everyone.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park: As the most visited national park in the United States, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-visit destination. Explore its vast wilderness through over 800 miles of hiking trails, from short walks to multi-day treks. Don't miss iconic spots like Clingmans Dome, the highest peak in the park, or Cades Cove, a historic valley with scenic drives and abundant wildlife.

Cades Cove: This picturesque valley nestled in the heart of the park offers a glimpse into the region's rich history. Take a scenic drive or rent a bicycle to explore the 11-mile loop road, passing by historic cabins, churches, and a working grist mill. Cades Cove is also a great place for wildlife viewing, with a chance to spot deer, black bears, and various bird species.

Gatlinburg: Located at the entrance of the national park, Gatlinburg is a charming mountain town that serves as a gateway to the Smokies. Wander along the bustling Gatlinburg Parkway lined with shops, restaurants, and attractions. Visit popular spots like Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies or take a scenic ride on the Gatlinburg SkyLift to enjoy panoramic views of the town and the surrounding mountains.

Pigeon Forge: Just a short drive from Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge offers a range of family-friendly attractions and entertainment options. Visit Dollywood, a renowned theme park owned by country music superstar Dolly Parton, or explore the Titanic Museum, which provides an immersive experience into the ill-fated ship's history. Pigeon Forge is also known for its dinner theaters, live shows, and outlet shopping.

Ober Gatlinburg: For some outdoor fun, head to Ober Gatlinburg, a mountain recreation area accessible by a scenic aerial tramway. Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, or snow tubing in the winter months, and during the rest of the year, take part in activities like ice skating, wildlife encounters, and scenic chairlift rides. Ober Gatlinburg also offers stunning views of the Smoky Mountains.

Arts and Crafts Community: Just outside of Gatlinburg, you'll find the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community, an 8-mile loop road dotted with galleries, studios, and shops showcasing the work of local artisans. Explore the diverse range of crafts, including pottery, woodwork, paintings, and jewelry. It's a great place to find unique souvenirs and support the local...

Absolutely GORGEOUS view! Many deer, turkey, and a couple horses. The sight blew me away. No entrance fee to this National Park, so it is free to take in this natural wonder. Fun fact: these are some of the oldest mountains on Earth, with elevations reaching over 6,000 ft!

However, visitor center staff was somewhat condescending, and we only saw a bear at the end of our trip. While it was raining at the time, the visitor center informed us that bears don’t mind the rain, and we will see a couple along the route. It was a very disappointing moment because we traveled all this way for one baby bear, which was the only animal we were eager to see here.

Lovely experience overall, just don’t expect to see many bears...

The Great Smokies are part of an International Biosphere Reserve. The range is home to an estimated 187,000 acres (76,000 ha) of old growth forest, constituting the largest such stand east of the Mississippi River. The cove hardwood forests in the range's lower elevations are among the most diverse ecosystems in North America, and the Southern Appalachian spruce-fir forest that coats the range's upper elevations is the largest of its kind. The Great Smokies are also home to the densest black bear population in the Eastern United States and the most diverse salamander population outside of...