Experience the 25th Annual Wilderness Wildlife Week in Pigeon Forge

Every season of the year offers enticing and luring reasons to travel to the Pigeon Forge and Smoky Mountain regions of Tennessee. Winter is no exception. The winter months are a magical time to visit this area. There are endless sites and events during winter including holiday lighting and decorations, Christmas shows, festivals, and parades. The cool air of Smoky Mountain winters coupled with the holiday season brings about boundless vibrancy of the region’s culture.

While end-of-the-year activities are filled with shopping, shows, and socializing, the new year brings with it a new air in the Smokies. Although the close of the year allows little time to relax and enjoy the scenery, the start of the new year is a renewed opportunity to do just that. The region’s attention shifts from a holiday celebration to a celebration of nature and heritage. The beauty and natural habitat of the mountains are the focus of the 25th Annual Wilderness Wildlife Week scheduled on January 24-31, 2015.

Because of holiday indulgences, family budgets are often miniscule in January. This should not be a deterrent in attending Wilderness Wildlife Week activities. All of these events are free to the public and are based at the LeConte Center in Pigeon Forge. Offering affordability along with a renewed spirit are perfect reasons to take part in these unique Smoky Mountain cultural opportunities during Wilderness Wildlife Week.

The culture of the region will be celebrated in music highlighted throughout the week. Music enthusiasts will enjoy listening to performers native to the Appalachian region. Features of the musical entertainment will include traditional mountain instruments, bluegrass genre, spiritual hymns, and traditional mountain ballads. Players of instruments such as banjos, fiddles, and dulcimers make Appalachian music breathe a life of its own.

In addition to enjoying the celebration through music, the culture and heritage of the region will also be celebrated through exhibits, workshops, panel discussions, and presentations. Historical enthusiasts will enjoy learning how the plights of early generations have shaped the cultural communities of today. Individuals unique to the region, from the Cherokee Indians to families such as Mr. and Mrs. Willis P. Davis to a country music sensation known as Dolly Parton, helped define the current way of life. By discovering interesting facts about the early American Cherokee and pioneer settlers of the region, attendees will gain a respect for past and present inhabitants of the Smoky Mountain area.

Discovering the culture and heritage of the area would not be complete without appreciating the scenery and natural habitat. The beauty of the Smoky Mountains National Park can be best experienced by hiking the landscape. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate events scheduled during the week such as leisurely walks and challenging hikes. Each trail offers different visual stimulations and different levels of intensity. Viewing waterfalls and mountainous overlooks will make either short treks or higher difficulty excursions worth every step. During these walking activities, a camera is every bit as essential as hiking shoes.

All events offered throughout the week’s festivities are family oriented. There are some activities known as Kids’ Track that are specifically designated for children. Some topics designated for children include safe and fun hiking techniques, storytelling, cartooning, and explanation of civil war history. With different offerings provided each day, there will certainly be activities to entice children of all ages. The offerings will combine educational aspects with entertaining delivery methods and will make it difficult to decide on final choices to attend.

If musical, historical, walking, or children’s events are not of particular interest to you, there is still a large variety of activities that you may want to attend. Examples of other topics that may spark your interest include photography, bears, fly fishing, rock formations, edible weeds, cougars, drawing, whittling, and writing. A wide array of exhibits and vendors will be on hand to highlight merchandise unique to the region. In addition to hiking activities, there are also multiple guided field trips scheduled daily such as bus tours of destination-specific areas, bird and owl watching, and photography tours.

While some events will have an unlimited number of participants, other events will be limited to a specific number of participants depending on availability of equipment, safety precautions, and supplies. There will also be certain activities that require each participant to bring his/her own equipment such as dulcimers, pictures, tools, and clothing. Because of the specific requirements of some sessions, it is recommended to review a class schedule prior to attending in order to be prepared for the desired classes. Pre-registration for limited classes will be held the morning of the specific event.

All activities included in Wilderness Wildlife Week are free of charge, so your budget may accommodate more splurges for dining and lodging. No matter how you choose to attend, this week in the Smoky Mountains is certain to be one consisting of events and activities that you will remember for years to come. Celebrate the new year by renewing your interest in Smoky Mountain heritage at the 25th Annual Wilderness Wildlife Week.

Enjoy Autumn Colors on These Smoky Mountain Drives and Hikes

Autumn is a wonderful time of year to be outdoors and relish in the beautiful colors of the changing leaves. The Smoky Mountains in North Carolina and Tennessee are an ideal destination to enjoy an autumn drive or hike. The colors in the Smokies actually last about seven weeks as they move down the mountains. Because of the considerable array of trees - over 100 different native species - in the Smoky Mountain areas, the colors that can be seen throughout the autumn season are quite diverse.

The first area of the Smokies on our trip is the lowest drivable pass in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with an elevation of 5,046 feet - the Newfound Gap. This drive will allow you to experience diverse forest ecosystems and has many scenic overlooks. From this journey, you can take a 7-mile side road called Clingmans Dove Road. Coming from the lowest drivable pass, Clingmans Dome is not only the highest peak in Tennessee, but also the highest peak along the Appalachian Trail reaching up 6,643 feet; it is also the third highest mountain east of the Mississippi. This road will take you to a dead end; but you can continue on foot for a half-mile hike to the 360-degree observation tower, which is a sublime vantage point to view the beauty autumn brings to the land. On a clear day - which are, unfortunately, limited due to air pollution - it is possible to see over 100 miles. Clingmans Dome Road is also home to several other trailheads for those who want more adventure, one of which is the Sugarland Mountain Trail. This is a seven mile roundtrip hike that offers the forest solitude some are looking for.

The Albright Grove Loop Trail should also be on your to-do list. This path is located in the Cosby area, which also houses Hen Wallow Falls, which is just over 2 miles, and Sutton Ridge Overlook, which is only 1.4 miles and is best for an autumn visit in late October. The Albright Grove Loop is part of the Maddron Bald Trail, which was built in the 1930s by the CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps). This hike will start off with 2.3 miles of gravel road. Once you have traveld just under two and half miles, the trail turns into a dirt path and begins to lead you through old-growth forest. Keep going for about another half mile and you will come across the Albright Grove Trail. This is a 0.7-mile loop that is stunning in the Fall due to the diversity in the forest and the fact that it contains trees that are among the oldest in the area. If you are looking for a motorized journey for viewing the fall colors, visit Parsons Branch Road. This is an eight mile, gravel road that only goes one way and is quite narrow. Motorists are able to drive along a creek and see the remarkable coloring of the forest.

Next we'll visit the Cades Cove Loop Road, which can be found in Tennessee. Cades Cove is the most popular area in the Smoky Mountains National Park. This drive will take you 11 miles one way and will offer prepossessing scenery. This paved road is closed off to motor vehicles until 10:00 a.m. to allow bicyclists and hikers the opportunity to enjoy this delightful path safely. Cades Cove Loop contains the access point for Abrams Falls, a favored day-hike in the area. This trek through a pine-oak forest will take you on a five-mile roundtrip hike to a waterfall consisting of a 20-foot drop into the pool and stream that lie below. Due to the strong currents and undertow, it is highly recommended to avoid swimming in the pool for your own safety. During the autumn months, the Abrams Creek, which can be found at the foot of the waterfall, is lined with the beautiful colors of changing leaves. There is a lot of wildlife in this area hikers and motorists may spot, including coyotes, turkeys, and the occasional black bear. In fact, the highlights of this drive and hiking trails are the wildlife that can be viewed and the historic buildings. Make sure to bring your camera on this trip.

Another scenic drive is along Rich Mountain Road, which begins at Cades Cove and goes north, ending in Townsend, Tennessee. This road is a stretch of gravel that takes you 8 miles one way. If you're looking to visit in autumn, October is best for this route.

For hikers that are looking to explore the higher elevations, Mt. LeConte is a good choice. There are plenty of trails in this area. Taking the Trillium Gap trail offers wonderful panoramic views of the area. You'll travel through old-growth forest. After 1.3 miles hikers will reach a waterfall they can walk behind - Grotto Falls. You will reach the summit 6.9 miles after you begin your hike.

Autumn is a beautiful time to visit the Smoky Mountains for a drive or hike. The air is crisp and dry, and the fall colors are one of nature's most serene pieces of artwork. With the advantage of a long fall season, there is no reason to miss out on this unparalleled scenery.

Fall Festivals and Events You Can't Miss in Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a small, scenic town near the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Gatlinburg is one of the most beautiful resort destinations in the country and attracts people from all over the world. The Appalachian community has dozens of restaurants, shops, and attractions that are all within the Great Smoky Mountain foothills. The resort has a wide array of accommodations.

A Scenic Town in the Great Smoky Mountains

One of the things that visitors love about Gatlinburg is that it's easy to walk around. The Downtown Parkway runs straight across town, with restaurants, shops, and attractions. For visitors who prefer a scenic walk, the River Walk winds around Little Pigeon River and has benches and gazebos along the river. The East Parkway also has quite a few shops and restaurants.

Fall Foliage in Gatlinburg

Although Gatlinburg is a beautiful destination for a vacation in the Smoky Mountains during any season, in the autumn the area is breathtaking. The Tennessee fall foliage season is a perfect time to see the autumn colors and enjoy the festivals and special events in Gatlinburg. Here are some of the fall events in Gatlinburg that you won't want to miss.

Autumn Color in the Smokies

The spectacular foliage in the Great Smoky Mountains usually begins in the higher elevations around the middle of September. As the days grow shorter during the fall, the colors change to crimson, gold, and orange on the trees in the lower elevations, and the brilliant colors last for about seven weeks. Planning drives across scenic roads and hiking the nature trails are the best ways to view the Smoky Mountain foliage.

Oktoberfest at Ober Gatlinburg

Oktoberfest is the most popular festival in Bavaria, Germany, and all the fun begins in Gatlinburg during the last week of September and continues through November 2nd. The original Oktoberfest was to celebrate the marriage of Prince Ludwig in 1810, and is held every year in Bavaria. The celebration in Gatlinburg features authentic Bavarian-style costumes, folk dancing and music, Oktoberfest beers, and traditional foods of Germany.

Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival

In mid-September, the Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival begins and runs through Halloween. Gatlinburg decorates for autumn, there's live entertainment, and exhibits by local craftspeople.

Gatlinburg's Fine Arts Festival

The Arrowmont School of Arts & Crafts in Gatlinburg is the location of the annual fine art festival which showcases the work of artists in 16 categories. Ceramics, wood crafted items, glasswork, and paintings are among the categories. The festival that Gatlinburg hosts on the grounds of the school is on October 1st through the 3rd.

Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair

The Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair which has been a tradition in Gatlinburg for more than 39 years, is in October at the Gatlinburg Convention Center. The fair is one of the most colorful events that Gatlinburg hosts. Local artisans sell their artwork and handcrafted items, talk to visitors about their work, and offer demonstrations. Many of the artisans are also local shop owners, and they decorate their storefronts with colorful autumn displays.

Annual Taste of Autumn

The Gatlinburg Convention Center hosts the Annual Taste of Autumn, featuring dancing and sampling some of the most delicious foods and drinks that Gatlinburg has to offer. The event is a great opportunity to socialize and to support a local charity.

Great Smoky Thanksgiving Arts & Crafts Show

The local artisans of Gatlinburg present the Thanksgiving Arts & Crafts Show each year. Some of the crafts available are beautiful items including quilts, pottery, brooms with carved handles, jewelry, handwoven fabric items, stuffed animals, painted landscapes of the mountains, and handmade dulcimers.

Winery Tours in Gatlinburg

Several wineries are in the Gatlinburg area. In addition to the festivals and special events, take the time to tour one or all of the local wineries. It's a great opportunity to learn about the winemaking process, tour the winery, and sample some of the best wines in Tennessee.

Halloween Events in Gatlinburg

Get into the spirit of Halloween and take the family to a spooky haunted mansion. The haunted house is open all year but is especially fun to visit just before Halloween. The Trick or Treat Kick Off Carnival at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies Plaza begins at noon on Halloween in downtown Gatlinburg, with plenty of candy for all.

Nearby Pigeon Forge hosts Halloween At the Island, a safe, family celebration which includes candy, costume contests, and entertainment. The Pigeon forge Safe Halloween celebration is another fun event for the entire family.

Appalachian Arts & Crafts

Arts, crafts, and culture are part of the heritage of the people who live in the Southern Appalachian Mountains. The Great Smoky Mountains Arts and Crafts Community has its roots in Gatlinburg. The community is in the northeastern part of Gatlinburg and features a wide array of craft shops. Local artisans create quilts, candles, pottery, and a variety of other forms of art.

When you visit Gatlinburg for the fall foliage season, you'll be able to experience all the events that the friendly town of Gatlinburg has to offer.

Honeymooning in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

photo credit: bdogggut34 via photopin cc

For centuries, the Cherokee nation trod the area then known as "Indian Path" to access game in the area and traverse the passes of the Great Smoky Mountains. As settlers came in, the development of the power band saw made the area popular with loggers, and today, US 41 closely follows the original Indian Path through the area - now a delight for vacationers from all over the world, and especially honeymooners.

The town, deep within a bowl of the surrounding mountains, with a balance of relaxation and excitement, is the perfect place for a romantic honeymoon.

The combination of traditional Southern charm melded with modern attractions provide travelers with their choice of laid back relaxation, non-stop entertainment, or a combination of both.

Wine Tasting

With five wineries in the area, couples desiring to sample and purchase the local vintages, some of which are unique to the area. A stop at one can be a relaxing visit, or an organized tour of some or all of the vineyards can be arranged.

Dollywood

Honeymooners in search of recapturing their youth will have the opportunity at the nearby theme park "Dollywood" in Pigeon Forge. A small amusement attraction that was started in the early 1960s adopted the new name when celebrity country music star Dolly Parton become a part owner in 1986, and under her watchful eye and marketing savvy, the park has doubled in size. The attraction features thrill rides, shows that feature the music and comedy of the Smoky Mountains. Shop sells crafts and gifts indicative of the area.

Fine Dining

Whatever cuisine you and your new spouse prefer, you'll find it available in the Gatlinburg area. From gourmet fine dining to every day casual fare, there are outlets to satisfy your palate. Many restaurants feature the culinary specialties of the area, including pit barbecues with ribs, chicken, brisket and more. Gaze into each other's eyes sharing exotic fondues for two featuring lobster, prime steak, or more traditional dipping chunks. Southern cooking is highlighted at many restaurants, where you can dine on the classic dishes of the old South like fried chicken, catfish, and a host of delicious sides.

Shopping

Forget something at home? Need to tote back gifts for the new in-laws? The shops of Gatlinburg and the surrounding towns can accommodate your every need, from things as simple as toiletries to the latest couture, local crafts, or fine gifts. Two nearby outlet malls offer all your favorite brand names of merchandise and apparel at prices substantially less than your home town mall.

Whitewater Rafting and Kayaking

While some may not think whitewater rafting as necessarily romantic, trips in the Gatlinburg area are some of the most popular attractions for couple. Enjoy the thrill of navigating the rapids while holding on to your new life spouse and yelling with delight.

Hiking - Horseback Riding

Fancy a romantic stroll or equestrian trip through the scenic environs of the surrounding Smoky Mountains? Organized hikes or rides, as well as "on your own" adventures await you; extend your outing by taking along a picnic lunch available from one of the local delis, groceries or take out shops. Horseback rides will provide you with unique views of the area and scenery not able to be taken in by foot hikes or auto tours.

Taking in the View

The ultimate in romance for you might be a hot air balloon ride over the towns, rivers, and mountains. Sunrise and sunset rides are available departing from a number of locations throughout the area. As is the tradition, a glass of champagne is shared with your fellow passengers and crew upon touch down. For the ultimate photo op for the new couple, head for the Gatlinburg Scenic Outlook, the best view of the town, surrounding scenery and area attractions. Want to get even "higher?" Take the glass elevator to the top of the 400 foot Gatlinburg Space Needle with a 360 degree view from the observation deck that tops the spire.

Another skytop adventure can be had riding the Gatlinburg Sky Lift, a tradition for over forty years. Heading to the 1800 foot peak. catch the view and snap pics of the scenery during the day, or taking in the romantically lit town lights of Gatlinburg by night.

In Winter

Area ski resorts offer challenges for every skill level, but some resorts offer year round activities like indoor ice skating. Grab your spouse's hand and take a few hours on the ice for fun and romance. It's like 'dancing on ice.'

Relax, Relax

End one of your high activity days with a trip to one of the Gatlinburg spas, for head to toe relaxation including spa treatments and couples massages.

Regardless of the time of year, Gatlinburg is the perfect destination for honeymooners of all ages, as well as for second or third honeymooners for those renewing their vows.

Exciting Gatlinburg Events for Spring 2014

With winter transitioning into spring and summer, most people are changing out their wardrobes, uncovering their dormant flowers, and planning vacations. Several states and cities offer unique vacation opportunities, but Gatlinburg, Tennessee tops the list. From music to mountain biking, festivals and food to hiking and heritage, Gatlinburg covers a plethora of tourists' interests. Set deep in the Great Smoky Mountains where Scottish, Irish, German, and Cherokee roots combine, the city is also host to a rich array of world cultures. Below are listed some of the most popular spring events for Gatlinburg and the surrounding areas, as well as enjoyable year-round activities.

Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales

Tunes and Tales will enter its ninth season in 2014. Beginning on weekends in April and May, and continuing through the summer months until August 9 (including weeknight performances during summer months), this event features everything from single acts to quartets. Vocalists and instrumentalists mix as they spread out through Gatlinburg, allowing visitors to walk through the community to view each act (5-10 PM on weekends and 6-11 PM during the full season). Shows especially for children are included. Musical styles include gospel, folk, country and bluegrass.

Earth Day 5K

On April 25, 2014, Gatlinburg will host its annual Earth Day 5K at 10:00 PM in downtown Gatlinburg. Students and youth get a reduced entry fee of $15, while advanced pay (before April 1) is $20 and payments from April 1-25 are $25-$30. You can also purchase an Earth Day 5K T-shirt. Official registration takes place at the Nantahala Outdoor Center at 8:00 PM.

Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage

This event dates back to 1951 and takes place both outdoors and in a classroom setting, as several classes are offered from April 15-19, 2014. Several guest lecturers, including Appalachian botany and wildlife experts, are always in attendance. Guided walks and hiking tours take place in abundance, and no need to worry if you're a senior, have small children, have difficulty walking, or have other needs. Each guided tour is tailored to specific groups and skill levels. Classes, tours, and demonstrations include: fauna identification, bird-watching, and flora identification, as well as arts and crafts.

Smoky Mountain Trout Tournament

If you have a fisherman, or woman, in the family, he or she will love this spring contest. The fifteenth annual trout tournament is open to adults and kids and has several categories for judging. Read up on Gatlinburg and Tennessee fishing regulations before entering.

Wine, Dine, and Art Crawl/Smoky Mountain Wine Fest

The Wine, Dine, and Art Crawl, which includes a walking tour of Gatlinburg's art galleries, food sampling, and wine-tasting, occurs on April 11. The Wine Fest is on April 12, 2014, from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Ripley's Aquarium Plaza. Lectures include Wine Making, Cigar Appreciation, Pairing Wine with Food, and many more. Of course, the Wine Fest also includes more wine-tasting. Seating is limited, so call ahead, and valid identification is required. Patrons must be 21 or older. If you wish, you may purchase a combo ticket for both events.

World Storytelling Day

On March 22, 2014, the Fanny Adams Theatre will host World Storytelling Day as a fundraiser. The event runs from 2-4 PM, and this year's topic is Dragons and Monsters. Children must have adults with them, and both seniors and children get a reduced ticket rate ($5 for seniors, $3 for children, students, or groups). All others pay $7 at the door. Call ahead or email for more information, including info on signing up to tell a story.

Easter Sunrise Service at Ober

On April 20, 2014, the Gatlinburg Ministerial Association will host its seventeenth Annual Easter Sunrise Service beginning at 6:30 AM at Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort. Tram rides to the top of the mountain will begin at 5:45 AM and continue at fifteen-minute intervals until 6:30, at no charge to worshippers. The ski resort's restaurant will serve a breakfast buffet from 7:30 AM-10:30 AM. An offering will be taken for the community's needy.

20th Annual Mountain Quiltfest

From March 19 to March 22, 2014, quilters from all over the country will enter their masterpieces for prizes upward of $20,000. The show includes ten categories for judging, and for a nominal fee, quilters can have their work personally and professionally critiqued. Vendors will also be at the event, offering threads, fabrics, and other quilting materials. More than sixty quilting classes are also offered, to quilters of all skill levels. Sponsored by the City of Pigeon Forge and Sevier Valley Quilters Guilds.

Dolly's Parade

This gorgeous parade, starring none other than grand marshal Dolly Parton, takes place on May 2, 2014. The parade features floats, marching bands, and all sorts of other entertainment. Its route stretches from traffic light #6 in Pigeon Forge to traffic light #3 on the Great Smoky Mountain Parkway.

Dixie Stampede

Open most of the year, but popular in the spring and summer months, Dixie Stampede is known for its dinner theater events. Diners choose from two options per night for their meal (call ahead and ask for vegetarian options if needed). The show features a comedic version of the Civil War, with actors on the North and South sides competing in silly contests with the audience's encouragement. The grand finale includes horseback riding and music.

Pigeon Forge Car Shows

These events take place throughout the year, but again, are popular during the spring and summer. Tourists visit from all over the United States to view cars, both new and classic. The shows also include vendors and swap meets.