Smoky Mountain Tips

Tennessee Cabin Tip #18 - Pigeon Forge Attractions

2005-07-14T12:59:00.000-04:00

Today few would likely believe that a Smoky Mountain resort city like Pigeon Forge began as a small farming and lumber community. And yet that is the humble beginning of this now thriving Tennessee town. Long before the surrounding area became a national park, Pigeon Forge was a quaint little village. Today Pigeon Forge is an exciting entertainment capital that offers visitors to the Smoky Mountains region, some "man-made" recreational fun to go along with a trip to the unforgettable Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

It was way back in 1930 that the federal government first christened the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. By then it had already become well recognized for its unique beauty and for its unparalleled diversity of life. In latter years, the fame of the Park grew all around the world. Eventually the Smoky Mountains region obtained international recognition as a "international biological preserve". And since then, the fame of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has only increased. Before long this reputation became the fuel that spurned the economic and cultural development of Pigeon Forge- located in the very heart of the Smoky Mountains. By the 1980's Pigeon Forge had grown into well recognized Tennessee tourist center.

Today Pigeon Forge has even more to offer those vacationing in the Smoky Mountains. The foremost attraction, beyond the majesty of the Pigeon Forge mountain cabins that are scattered throughout the area, is the Dollywood theme-park; named after Pigeon Forge's most famous resident. This exciting park offers thrill rides, an enormous water park for the kids called Splash Country, and plenty of Smoky Mountain charm. Other exciting recreational options include: the Speedzone FunPark, the Dixie Stampede, the Smoky Mountain River Run, and Bluff Mountain Adventures. For those looking for more "relaxed" recreation, historic landmark sites like "the Old Mill and General Store" - which dates back all the way back to when settlers first christened Pigeon Forge, are also available in Pigeon Forge.

Another real highlight of Pigeon Forge recreation is the thriving theater district. There are a multitude of theatres to choose from- covering every form of family-friendly entertainment imaginable. Some of the most popular theatres and shows include: the Comedy Barn, the Black Bear Jamboree, the Grand Illusion Show, the Ole Smoky Hoedown Show and the Louise Mandrell Music Theatre. Each of these shows offers something unique to visitors of Pigeon Forge. And this list is just a brief taste of all the Smoky Mountains entertainment fun Pigeon Forge has to offer.

So if you're already planning a vacation getaway to the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, make sure you make a trip into Pigeon Forge while you're here. The theatres, theme-parks, museums, and historical sites of Pigeon Forge will make your Smoky Mountain vacation just that much more of a success. And with downtown Pigeon Forge being only minutes away from the splendor of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, it simple to pop back and forth between the city center, the mountain trails of the Park itself, and the comfortable confines of your Smoky Mountain cabin.

Tennessee Cabin Tip #17: Smoky Mountain Log Cabins

2005-06-30T10:43:00.000-04:00

There are many reasons why people keep coming back to the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, year after year. The mountains themselves are the major draw. These gently rolling hills fill the horizon in local cities like Gatrlinburg, Sevierville, Pigeon Forge and Townsend. But perhaps the best location of all to view the glory of the Smoky Mountains is from the deck of your own Tennessee log cabin. These mountain cabins have become a draw all their own. The beautiful design of these log cabins only compliment the all-natural beuaty of the surrounding hills.

Just as there are many reasons why people vacartion in the Smokies in the first place; there are also many reasons why people choose a Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg cabin to lodge here. A hotel can be had anywhere. Almost everyone has stayed in a hotel before. They may be comfortable, but they're also predictable. A mountain log cabin on the other hand is an entirely different experience. Vacationers don't sacrifice anything in comfort, but they also gain the rustic beauty that really sets these mountain cabins and chalets apart from the other accommodation options.

There are a number of ways to relax and enjoy the Smoky Mountains in the comfortalbe confines of a Tennessee cabin. A favorite for many visitors is a relaxing rest in a cabin jacuzzi. What better whay to enjoy the view than from within a hot tub situated on the deck of your cabin- directly overlooking the spectacular vista of the surrounding Great Smoky Mountains National Park? Beyond this, there are games tables, entertinment centers and comfortable lounging chairs to unwind with. While these Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge cabins may be rustic and authentic, they're also fully equipped for all sorts of recreational fun. This combination makes a Smoky Mountain log cabin experience truly second to none.

Tennessee Cabin Tip #16: The Great Smoky Mountains National Park - A National and International Preserve

2005-05-03T11:44:00.000-04:00

When it comes to recognition and fame, just as with people, there are some park areas that are known regionally, a smaller number know nationally, and a select few known throughout the world. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the latter elite. Its natural beauty and stunning diversity make it not only one of America’s most treasured national parks, but also one of the most treasured natural preserve areas in the world; so much so in fact, that the United Nations has designated the Great Smoky Mountains National Park as an International Biosphere Preserve.

In the more densely populated eastern section of the United States, the Smoky Mountains is the largest protected landmass east of the Mississippi River.The rich variety of life found here is the great calling card of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. What is it about the Smokies that make it so diverse as compared with other mountainous regions on the continent and around the world? Well, mountains, weather and glacial movement are the major factors. Interestingly enough, it is the difference in climate between the highest and lowest points of the mountains that make this possible. Those plants and animal species that are accustomed to a more northern climate live at the higher elevations in the park, while those accustomed to a southern climate make their home at the base of the mountains.

It is hard for most people to imagine that at one time the Smoky Mountains were as high and jagged as the Rockies to the West. The reason of course why this is no longer the case is- age. These are amongst the oldest mountains in the world. Erosion has brought them to a more “humble” elevation as compared with newer mountain ranges. During the last ice age, many species of animals retreated into these hills to avoid the entrenchment of the ice flows. The ice flow that came down from the North never quite got as far south as Tennessee and North Carolina and as a result, many species who had dwelt more to the North ended up making their new home in the Smoky Mountains.

The Smoky Mountains provide natural habitat for a greater number of tree species than any other region in North America. Among the 100 or so species of native trees found in the Smokies, many of these are old growth trees (especially treasured for their connection to the distant past). Nearly 95% of the park is blanketed in trees. In addition, over 1400 flowering plant species and 4,000 species of non-flowering plants are considered native to the park. The Great Smoky Mountain National Park is home to the extremely rare “Lungless Salamanders” and also home to over 200 bird species, 50 native fish populations, 66 mammals, 39 reptile species, and some 43 amphibian species. It is the hot, humid summers and high precipitation rates in the winter months that allow for this lush growth. Truly this National Park is a treasure not only for Americans but for everyone who calls Planet Earth their “natural habitat”.

Tennessee Cabin Tip #15: Smoky Mountain Fishing

2005-04-29T16:52:00.000-04:00

If you're looking to visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in order to do some fishing- you won't be dissapointed! The Park contains approximately 2,115 miles of streams full of several species of fish. In addition to allowing visitors to enjoy fishing in the Park, there is also a mandate to protect what has become one of the very last wild trout habitats on the eastern seaboard of the United States.

Within the boundaries of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park you will find a broad array of angling opportunities; everything from very remote, headwater trout streams, to large, coolwater streams carrying small-mouth bass. The good news is that most streams in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park remain pretty much at their full carrying capacity for fish throughout the year.

Any time of year is a good one for fishing in the Smokies because fishing is permitted 365 days a year. Daily fishing times run from half an hour before official sunrise to half an hour after what is designated the official sunset. The Park allows fishing in most of the streams within the Park boundaries. There are a few posted streams closed to fishing in order to protect threatened fish species. Detailed information, including an exhaustive list of fishing regulations and a map of waters where fishing is and is not permitted, can be found at any of the Park ranger stations and/or visitor centers.

To fish in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park you must first buy a fishing permit from either the state of Tennessee or North Carolina. Only one of the two permits is necessary for fishing throughout the Park territory- regardless of which state you're actually fishing in. It is important to understand that fishing licenses and permits cannot be obtained in the Park itself, but rather must be purchased in nearby Smoky Mountain towns such as Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Sevierville, etc... In addition, there special permits neccesary if you're fishing in either Cherokee or Gatlinburg.

Tennessee Cabin Tip #14: Smoky Mountain Weddings and Honeymoons

2005-04-21T16:05:00.000-04:00

There are many things that cities like Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountain region are famous for. The list of popular recreational activities just keeps growing over time. Yet another activity or event that the area has become famous for is weddings. Many couples find that nothing quite compares to getting married in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee.

When it comes to weddings, Gatlinburg is king. Outside of Las Vegas, there is probably no more popular vacation destination in the United States when it comes to weddings. And as the popularity of Smoky Mountain weddings has increased, so to has the businesses that have built up in this region of Eastern Tennessee to meet the market. Though there may be a thousand and one things to plan for a wedding, businesses in the area can help make the process relatively simple.

In local Eastern Tennessee cities it’s easy to connect with people and businesses ready to help make every aspect of your wedding a success. Whether you’re looking for floral arrangers, licensed ministers (1-877-237-9055), limousine rental companies, caterers, cake bakers, Church rentals, wedding chapels, or what have you, the area is packed full of quality and experienced service providers.

The first draw of course is the Smoky Mountains themselves. People are looking to get married with the beautiful Tennessee mountains as their perfect backdrop. It makes for a perfect picture. Speaking of which, there are a host of photographers and photo studios in the area that can help snap the shots on your big day.

For many couples coming to the Smoky Mountains, the honeymoon in the Smokies is just as important as the wedding itself. The area is a perfect, romantic getaway for couples in love. A stay in a log cabin near Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg is perhaps the best way to cap off your wedding experience here. Whether it’s the wonder of the Smoky Mountain vistas from every window, or the prospect of cozying up next to a blazing fire as evening sets in, a Smoky Mountain cabin is a Honeymooners delight.

Tennessee Cabin Tip #13: Camping in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

2005-04-15T11:24:00.000-04:00

For some who visit the region of the Great Smoky Mountains, a stay in local cities such as Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Seymour, Townsend and/or Sevierville is the goal. For others, a majestic log cabin retreat in the foothills of the mountains feels more "all-natural" and is a better fit. For others, being even closer to nature is the key. And for those brave folks there is a plentitude of camping available in the area. The Great Smoky Mountain National Park itself has all sorts of camping available to visitors of the area; everything from established and fully-equipped sites, to back-country camping for those who really want to "rough it".

For those looking to have the best of both worlds- (i.e. a camping experience with the addition of restrooms, picnic tables, fire grates, etc...) the National Park service has developed campgrounds in ten separate locations throughout the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. These sites are located in Abrams Creek, Cades Cove, Big Creek, Cataloochee, Cosby, Elkmont, Deep Creek, Look Rock, Smokemont, and Balsam Mountain. These sites will give you the "next to nature" experience you're looking for with the aid of more "civilized" luxuries.

However, if you're the sort who considers this form of camping a "sham", there is also backcountry camping at your disposal. For those who want to try this, a free backcountry permit is required. And while this is the backcountry, overnighters must stay in designated sites and shelters- for the sake of preserving the area and preventing erosion. To say in the shelters and some of the tented areas, a reservation is required. If you have further questions about backcountry camping in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you can contact the backcountry office at (865)436-1297.

If this is your first time doing backcountry camping be sure and be prepared. That means getting a local weather forecast before going in and bringing proper supplies along (adequate food, clothing, water, and safety equipment). And lastly, remember this is a wilderness area. That means this is natural habitat for wild animals including bears and cougars. So keep a look out when you're hiking! With that in mind, get out there and enjoy the great outdoors and the Tennessee backcountry. You just might like it so much that you won't want to come back to civilization!

Tennessee Cabin Tip #12: Rafting in the Smoky Mountains

2005-04-13T13:39:00.000-04:00

Outdoor fun is the name of the game for those visiting the Smoky Mountains of North Carolina and eastern Tennessee. While some spend time shopping and enjoying the recreational attractions in Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, Gatlinburg and Townsend, most come here to experience the outdoor wonder that is the Smoky Mountains.

Beyond hiking and sightseeing, a less common, though equally enjoyable outdoor experience is a white water rafting trip in the Smokies. There's nothing quite like rafting down a raging river such as the famous Big Pigeon River- with the glory of the Smoky Mountains rushing past you. This kind of adventure is a great "hands-on" way to experience the Tennessee wilderness.

There are several rafting companies that will take you "down-river". Don't worry; while the trip might be breathtaking, it is very safe. These professionals will get you wet, but they'll also get you home! Is this your first time? No worries. There is no experience necessary. Your expert guides will do most of the work. Your job is to come and have some white water fun. Children must generally be 8 years of age or older to take part in these rides.

If you are a family with younger children, or you just prefer to "take it easy", there are also more "gentle" trips to take advantage of as well. A float trip is a great way to navigate the river at a more leisurely pace. The float trip is available to anyone 3 years old and up. A white water rafting ride is a great way for your family to enjoy the Smoky Mountains from a fresh, and all natural, perspective.

Tennessee Cabin Tip #11 : Elkmont in the Smokies

2005-04-11T13:10:00.000-04:00

Another popular attraction for those visiting Tennessee, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is the remains of the historic town of Elkmont. Located along the shores of the Little River near modern-day Townsend, Tennessee, this town was originally a place where employees of the Little River Lumber Company resided while the area had its "virgin lumber" harvested.

This little hamlet for loggers dramatically evolved later in the century to become a summer home for the affluent and politically prominent population of nearby Knoxville. Some people came from as far south as Chattanooga to vacation here. The region was famous for those who were hobby hunters of deer, bear and other game animals. Fishing quickly became a favorite past-time here as well.

Eventually the local train company expanded the regional line (The Little River Railroad) into Elkmont and beyond. Soon many travelers came through the region in order to observe the natural beauty of the area. The log boom that helped to kick start the existence and early growth of the town soon became a bust and the town settled a little more into small-town obscurity.

Today Elkmont is home to the skeletons of the town that once thrived here. The historic buildings are a favorite for those visiting the Smoky Mountain region. It's well worth a trip out from Pigeon Forge and/or Gatlinburg to see these historic homes. For many who frequent the area, these log cabins and homes that speak of a long ago time are as much a part of the wondrous environment that is the Smokies, as the natural Tennessee landscape itself.

Tennessee Cabin Tip #10: Driving through the Smoky Mountains

2005-04-07T13:52:00.000-04:00

Many vacationers to the Smoky Mountains plan to come in order to hike the hundreds of trails that are dotted throughout the region that crosses between Tennessee and North Carolina. Others come to experience the unique character of local cities such as Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. Others just want to relax and be rejuvenated within the confines of a comfy Tennessee cabin. However, regardless of all of these potential activities, one that should be shared by all is a trip through the Smokies by car. It is the best way to see the wide open expanse of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in its entirety.

The central access road that transverses the Smoky Mountains of both Tennessee and North Carolina, is U.S - Route 441, (a.k.a. the Newfound Gap Road). For those traveling by car through the Park, you can expect to see blooming wildflowers (in the right season of course), majestic mountain-top vistas, low canyon views of foliage on fire with color, historic national monument buildings/cabins and much more, as you meander gently through the winding mountain route.

There is nothing quite like getting out beyond civilization and the crowds, and seeing the wonder of the natural environment in its untarnished glory. A trip through the Smokies by car is guaranteed to relax, enthrall and entertain. Each season of the year offers something unique for those visiting the area. And best of all, it’s an activity that anyone, of any age, can enjoy.

Tennessee Cabin Tip #9 : A Pigeon Forge Fun Time Trolley Ride

2005-04-04T13:21:00.000-04:00

While Gatlinburg has much to offer to the Smoky Mountain visitor, its neighboring city of Pigeon Forge has plenty to attract as well. Besides a plethora of shopping opportunities, theme parks like Dollywood, artist galleries, etc, one of the most popular activities for those new to Pigeon Forge, is a ride in its world-renowned "Pigeon Forge Fun Time Trolley".

The trolley operates March through October from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 midnight; every day of the week; November and December from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. - every day of the week. It is closed in the dead of winter (January and February). In addition, the Pigeon Forge Fun Time Trolley does not operate on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.

The trolley ride will take you back in time. Open air transportation helps to make you feel as if you're right in the middle of everything going on around you. And the trolley travels along at a leisurely speed so that those onboard have plenty of time to check out all the attractions along the way in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg.

There are also trolleys operating in Gatlinburg. Under normal conditions (i.e. not on some weekends and holidays). The Main Street trolleys run about every 25 minutes. The Wears Valley trolleys run every 45 minutes. The Dolly's Splash Country trolleys run every20 minutes or so. Trolleys to Dollywood go about every 20 minutes. The Gatlinburg Welcome Center trolleys runs every half hour.

Tennessee Cabin Tip #8 : The Mountain Farm Museum

2005-04-01T20:48:00.000-05:00

Beyond the spectacular natural environment, one of the more popular "man-made" attractions within the grounds of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park itself is a one of a kind collection of farm buildings known as the Mountain Farm Museum. These unique and historic buildings are located throughout the Park.

Tennessee tourists can explore the numerous log structures that make up the museum; including- a barn, an apple house, a farmhouse, a springhouse, and a functioning blacksmith shop. An exploration through these buildings will take you back in time and provide you with a sense of lifestyle for those who populated these Smoky Mountains in the 19th century.

One of the real highlights of the museum is the Davis House- which is constructed of a very rare type of wood- Chestnut Wood. Chestnut wood trees were largely wiped out by the Chestnut blight in the middle 20th century. Other highlights of the museum buildings include: fee admission, farm animals, fully costumed old-time dramatizations, and the Mountain Life Festival- which takes place every year in the middle of September.

Tennessee Cabin Tip #7: A Hike to Abram's Falls

2005-03-30T20:05:00.000-05:00

One of the most popular activities for visitors to the Smoky Mountains is hiking. The vast area known as the Great Smoky Mountain National Park has literally hundreds of trails to choose from. One of the most popular hikes in this area of Tennessee is "Abram's Falls". This hiking trail follows Abram's Creek up to Abram's Falls- which is a 20 foot waterfall that spills into a large pool. This pool is a welcome refuge after the hike up to the Falls. Many people wade or swim in the pool when they get to the top.

The Falls and the trail are named after Chief Abrams- of the Cherokee tribe native to the area. Along the way the beautiful natural scenery is topped off with some historic man-made monuments to enjoy as well. Among these is the Elijah Oliver House- named for the son of the first European settler to the area of Cades Cove (in the year 1818).

The trail is a relatively easy one and is popular for families with young children and/or for people who find tougher terrain difficult to navigate. The trail gradually meanders up between two ridges. You'll follow several switchbacks before arriving at the "summit" where Abram's Falls is located. This trail is just one of the many popular outdoor hikes available to those visiting the Great Smoky Mountain National Park of Tennessee.

Tennessee Cabin Tip #6: A Log Cabin for a Refuge

2005-03-29T16:38:00.003-05:00

While it is undoubtedly the majestic wonder of the Smoky Mountains that drew people to this area in the first place, the infrastructure that has built up around the Smokies over time has only added to the allure of the area. Resort cities like Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge have grown like icing on a cake to round out what is already a marvellous mountain experience.

But when it comes to "man-made" attractions that have really added to the experience here- nothing compares to a stay in one of the region's spectacular, Tennessee cabins. Relaxing in one of these magnificent log cabins is the perfect way to maximize one's enjoyment of the Smokies. Cabins in the area are designed both with beauty and "down to earth" functionality in mind. The beauty of these log cabins is tied to the way they blend in seamlessly with the natural landscape of the Smoky Mountains. These rustic yet sophisticated cabins offer unparalleled mountain views of the Smokies of Tennessee and North Carolina.

Tennessee Cabin Tip #5 - Gatlinburg Attractions

2005-03-28T18:13:00.000-05:00

As the popularity of the Smoky Mountains has increased over the years, so to have the popularity of local cities such as Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. While these places were once "out-of-the-way" villages- (playing host to people who wanted to get away from the business of larger cities), they are now thriving resort centers.

Gatlinburg in particular has really emerged as a first-class tourist destination. The town has maintained much of the "old European" flavor that its name suggests. While a trip to Gatlinburg is a trip to the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, the old town flavor might just make you think you've landed amongst the Swiss Alps! And the city takes pride in that. The goal is to maintain the architectural and cultural heritage as the city continues to grow and expand in east Tennessee.

In the city center of Gatlinburg there are numerous attractions designed to please any and every tourist to the area. Amongst the attractions are favorites like: Ober Gatlinburg (whether to ski or just to take the gondola ride to the top!); visiting museums like Ripley's Believe it or Not, the Guinness World of Records, and the World of Illusions; taking in a show or two, or three- amongst the area's many live theaters; or meandering through the many artist galleries that are dotted throughout the downtown area. Whatever your entertainment preference, Gatlinburg is not likely to disappoint!

Tennessee Cabin Tip #4 - Clingman's Dome

2005-03-26T21:00:00.000-05:00

One of the most famous spots for tourists in the Smoky Mountains is Clingman’s Dome. It is by far the highest point in Tennessee (over 6600 feet above sea level). Mt. Mitchell in North Carolina is the only point higher anywhere east of the Mississippi River. Clingman’s Dome belongs both to Tennessee and North Carolina as it straddles the border between the two states along the Smoky Mountain range.

To access the Dome you must drive from Newfound Gap to Clingman’s Dome Road. That’s not a far drive if you’re coming form nearby cities such as Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge. The final ascent is a steep, half-mile walk up a nicely groomed trail. The world famous Appalachian Trail (which runs for an astonishing 2,144 miles) crosses Clingman’s Dome at this point. The final spiral rise is a paved trail in which you loop higher and higher.

Once you reach the summit you’ll quickly understand what all the fuss is about. The views from the top of Clingman’s Dome are stunning. On a clear day, one can see 100 miles into the distance. Believe it or not, seven states can be viewed from this one spot. If you’re picking a time of day to go, try morning or evening because sunrises and sunsets are something to behold here!

It's important to remember, if you’re going anytime other than summer, to dress appropriately. Conditions atop Clingman’s Dome can change suddenly and drastically. It is an alpine environment after all! While the trail leading to the Dome is open year round, because of the ferocity of the conditions in winter, the Smoky Mountain park road leading to the Dome is closed from December till April.

Tennessee Cabin Tip #3- Activities in The Great Smoky Mountain National Park:

2005-03-26T14:31:00.000-05:00

The Smoky Mountain are famous for, among other things, the beauty of the rolling hill terrain, the bountiful wildlife in the region, and the remnants of the ancient Appalachian culture that once existed here. For visitors today, there are numerous activities designed to keep you enthralled and entertained. While Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Sevierville, and Townsend offer many in-town recreational activities, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the main attraction for most visiting tourists.

No matter what the age of the Tennessee visitor, or what his/her interest, the Park has much to offer. Popular activities in the park include: hiking (through more than 800 miles of trails!) picnicking, sightseeing (from car or on foot), horseback riding (guided and solo), fishing, wildlife observation, camping, and photographic expeditions. Without a doubt, the Park alone can keep you one occupied for days on end. And because the Park territory is so large, many people make plans to return again to see what they missed the first time around.

Of course many people like to round out the experience with a stay in one of the many beautifully crafted log cabins dotted throughout east Tennessee and more specifically- the Smoky Mountain region. One can explore the wonder of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park in the daytime, and relax and socialize with friends and family by the fireside in a Tennessee log cabin in the evening. Then get up the next morning, to a blazing sunrise over the Smokies, and do it all over again.

Tennessee Cabin Tip #2- The Smoky Mountain Wilderness:

2005-03-26T11:27:00.000-05:00

The one great attraction to this region of the country is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The park is a huge area of protected wilderness that is amongst the largest of protected areas on the Eastern part of the United States. There are numerous animal species that make their home in the Smokies- only moments outside of thriving tourist centers like Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Many of these animals, including 66 species of mammals, 50 native fish species, over 200 species of birds, and nearly 85 types of amphibians and reptiles, are protected by law in the Park.

Of course, the most famous animal of all is the American Black Bear- and rightly so. The black bear is a tremendous animal - and there are plenty of them (1,800 or more) that make the Smoky Mountains their home; you might just spot one from the comfortable confines of your Tennessee log cabin! You can certainly see images of them on signs and postcards all over Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville. You also might happen to spot one while out for a Smoky Mountain hike. Don't worry though- these bears are as anxious to get away from you as you are from them! There's plenty of room for everyone to enjoy the beautiful natural environment of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. So come prepared to make some friends- human and otherwise on your next Tennessee mountain vacation to the Smokies!

Tennessee Cabin Tip #1- The Weather in the Smoky Mountains:

2005-03-26T11:26:00.000-05:00

When travelling to the Smoky Mountains its a good idea to bring clothing to suit any kind of climate condition. Tennessee gets a little bit of everything when it comes to weather. And locals in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg will tell you that the weather can change on a dime- and change back again before you know it. One evening you might retire for the night- with 70 degrees plus conditions outside, only to wake the next morning to find frost on your cabin windows and snow capped hills in your view of the Smoky Mountains. No matter what the weather, and what season of the year you visit these Tennessee cabins, its always beautiful. Just remember to be prepared for a tropical paradise and/or a winter wonderland.

TEMPERATURE STATISTICS IN THE SMOKY MOUNTAINS:

January H=51 L=28
February H=54 L=29
March H=61 L=34
April H=71 L=42
May H=79 L=50
June H=86 L=58
July H=88 L=59
August H=87 L=60
September H=83 L=55
October H=73 L=43
November H=61 L=33
December H=52 L=28