Get Off the Beaten Path in the Tennessee Smoky Mountains

Posted by Jon Hoffman in Things To Do

Did you know that Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in America? Each year more than 14.1 million visitors flock to the park and surrounding areas to explore familiar sites ranging from Cades Cove and Clingmans Dome to Anakeesta and Dollywood.

But there's more to this picturesque region than its most popular trails and attractions. If you go just a bit off the beaten path, you'll discover lesser-known sites just as fabulous as the famous ones. What's more, these less-traveled places offer a prime advantage: fewer people.

So, why not start exploring the unsung treasures of the Tennessee Smoky Mountains? You'll be glad you did!

Hike a Low-Traffic Trail

Everyone loves familiar Smoky Mountains trails like Alum Cave and Laurel Falls. But, if you're seeking a trail with a tad less traffic, try hiking one of these beauties:

• Spruce Flats Falls: Just 1.8 miles round-trip, this out-and-back Townsend trail offers beautiful wooded views, possible glimpses of wildlife, and a breathtaking 30-foot waterfall. Technically it's not on the National Park's official map, but no worries: The path is well worn, the trail is easy to follow, and the hike is considered easy to moderate.
• Hen Wallow Falls: Covering 4.4 miles round-trip, this Cosby, Tennessee trail takes you to a spectacular 90-foot waterfall. You'll spend about 3 to 4 hours hiking out and back through scenic shady woods. It's considered a moderate hike, so it's ideal for the entire family.
• Metcalf Bottoms Trail: At just 1.2 miles round-trip, this easy Wears Valley trail is perfect for children and seniors. Its wide shaded path takes you along the Greenbriar River, over rustic footbridges, and past a vintage 1930s schoolhouse.
• Plus, Porters Creek Trail, Baskins Creek Falls, and other gorgeous less-trod pathways.

See the Llamas at Trillium Gap Trail

Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday morning, National Park Services personnel load a small pack of llamas with vital supplies before leading them up a 7-mile trail to the top of Mount LeConte. If you'd like to see these beautiful beasts up close – a huge treat for animal lovers and little kids – hike Gatlinburg's easy 1.5-mile Trillium Gap Trail to picturesque Grotto Falls. The “Llama Train” departs early, so be sure to get to the falls no later than 7 a.m.

Go Underground at Forbidden Caverns

How would you like to take a magical tour through a series of massive caves underneath the Tennessee Smokies?

Come to Forbidden Caverns at 455 Blowing Cave Road in Sevierville anytime between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. (closed Thursdays and Sundays).

Here you and your family will discover underground grottos galore, a sparkling subterranean stream, huge stalactites and stalagmites, towering natural chimneys, and an entire wall made of onyx.

The expertly guided tour takes about an hour to complete. Special lighting creates an enchanted atmosphere, while strategically placed handrails help keep you safe along the way.

You'll find many other hidden gems in the Great Smoky Mountains, from Wears Valley's Goats on the Roof (yes, there really are goats on the roof) to Pigeon Forge Snow, a temperature-controlled indoor attraction where you can literally play in real snow anytime all year-round.

Book Your Smoky Mountains Getaway Now

You'll never run out of fun things to do in the Tennessee Smoky Mountains. Contact Volunteer Cabin Rentals now to reserve your Smoky Mountains cabin close to all the cool sites and attractions.

This content posted by Volunteer Cabin Rentals. Visit our home page, www.volunteercabinrentals.com to book your next vacation cabin today.

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