Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg offer much more than the typical tourist attractions. For those who love exploring lesser known gems, this five day itinerary will take you off the beaten path to discover some hidden treasures and unique activities in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. These charming towns nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains are packed with secret spots waiting to be explored.
Day 1: Forbidden Caverns
Begin your adventure with a visit to Forbidden Caverns, located just outside the busy city limits of Pigeon Forge. These remarkable underground caves are filled with fascinating geological formations, including sparkling stalactites and towering stalagmites. The guided tour takes you through well lit pathways, providing deep insights into the history and natural wonders of the space. Kids and adults alike will be amazed by the clear underground streams and the eerie beauty of the caves.
The caverns hold incredible historical significance, serving as a vital source of flint for Eastern Woodland Indians and later as a hidden refuge for moonshiners making illegal liquor during Prohibition. The temperature inside stays at a constant fifty eight degrees Fahrenheit all year long, making it a perfectly cool escape during hot summer afternoons. It is a fantastic way to kick off your off the beaten path journey.
Forbidden Caverns
Address: 455 Blowing Cave Rd, Sevierville, TN 37876
Phone: (865) 453-5972
Day 2: Greenbrier Picnic Area and Ramsey Cascades
Spend your second day exploring the Greenbrier area of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This heavily wooded, less visited section offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful picnic spots situated right alongside the rushing waters of the Little Pigeon River. After a relaxing riverside lunch, embark on the hike to Ramsey Cascades, the tallest waterfall in the entire national park.
The trail is considered highly challenging but incredibly rewarding. You will hike four miles inward, climbing over two thousand feet in elevation as you navigate around massive boulders and cross rustic log bridges. The surrounding old growth forest features some of the largest trees in the region. Upon reaching the falls, you will watch water drop one hundred feet over rocky outcroppings into a small pool below. It is a perfect day for nature lovers seeking solitude and breathtaking scenery.
Greenbrier Picnic Area
Address: Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Ranger Station Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone: (865) 436-1200
Day 3: Bush’s Beans Visitor Center
On your third day, take a short scenic drive out to the Bush’s Beans Visitor Center in Chestnut Hill. This unique, family owned attraction offers a fun and highly educational experience, showcasing the long history of the famous bean company dating back to its founding in the late eighteen hundreds.
Explore the interactive museum exhibits, watch a short film detailing the manufacturing process, and snap a family photo in front of the giant replica bean can. The on site Family Cafe serves delicious, hearty meals featuring their signature recipes, and the general store is perfect for picking up tasty, nostalgic souvenirs to bring home.
Bush’s Beans Visitor Center
Address: 3901 US-411, Dandridge, TN 37725
Phone: (865) 509-3077
Day 4: The Great Smoky Mountain Arts & Crafts Community
Discover the Great Smoky Mountain Arts and Crafts Community on day four. This historic eight mile loop road, located just outside downtown Gatlinburg, is home to the largest group of independent artisans in North America. The community was established in the nineteen thirties by local craftsmen wanting to preserve Appalachian traditions.
You can spend the entire day browsing through independent galleries and working studios showcasing handmade crafts, including thrown pottery, hand carved woodwork, intricate paintings, and custom jewelry. You will have the chance to meet the artists directly, watch live demonstrations, and purchase unique souvenirs. The community offers a charming and creative escape from the usual tourist spots, providing a beautiful glimpse into the rich artistic heritage of the region.
The Great Smoky Mountain Arts & Crafts Community
Address: 668 Glades Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone: (865) 436-6921
Day 5: Elkmont Ghost Town
Conclude your journey with a visit to Elkmont Ghost Town. Once a bustling logging community and later an exclusive resort destination for wealthy families, Elkmont is now an abandoned town quietly sitting within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Explore the eerie remnants of historic buildings in the Daisy Town section, including several restored rustic cabins and the stone foundations of the former Appalachian Club. The quiet, overgrown pathways and decaying structures create a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere. It is a fascinating and highly unusual destination that offers a poignant look at the past, providing excellent opportunities for landscape photography.
Elkmont Ghost Town
Address: Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Elkmont Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone: (865) 436-1200
Your Home Away from Home
SkyView Rentals offers a diverse selection of luxurious, custom built homes and log cabins right in the heart of Pigeon Forge. Our rentals are ideally situated, providing easy access to all the major attractions, local shopping, and dining, yet offering a peaceful retreat where you can relax and unwind. Imagine staying in a spacious home with breathtaking mountain views and massive outdoor decks.
Our homes are perfect for family vacations, offering plenty of space and premium activities to keep everyone entertained. Whether you are planning a large family reunion, a quiet getaway with friends, or a special holiday celebration, SkyView Rentals has the perfect accommodation to meet your needs when finding hidden things to do in Pigeon Forge. The blend of comfort and luxury ensures a memorable stay. Exceptional service and thoughtful details make your vacation as enjoyable and stress free as possible. Browse through our diverse selection of properties and find the ideal home base for your trip today.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs About Hidden Gems
Do I need a parking pass for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
Yes, vehicles parking for more than fifteen minutes anywhere within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are required to display a valid parking tag, which can be purchased at visitor centers.
What is the temperature inside Forbidden Caverns?
The temperature inside the caverns stays at a constant fifty eight degrees Fahrenheit all year long. It is highly recommended to bring a light jacket even during the hot summer months.
FAQs About SkyView Rentals
Are the indoor bowling alleys open to the public?
No. The authentic duck pin bowling alleys are private amenities reserved exclusively for the guests renting those specific homes.
Do your cabins provide full kitchens for preparing meals?
Yes, every luxury cabin features a modern, fully equipped kitchen. This makes it incredibly easy to pack picnic lunches and prepare hearty breakfasts before hitting the hiking trails.
Do you provide property management for mountain cabins?
Yes. Our professional property management team handles everything from local marketing and dynamic pricing to round the clock guest support, ensuring maximum return on investment for cabin owners.