Archive for the ‘General’ Category

Fall Color Update

Sunday, October 17th, 2010

Fall Colors

The yearly displays of colors bring visitors to the Smokies in mass amounts. Both beautiful and busy the mountains are washed with bright yellows, oranges, and reds.

Top 6 Places To See The Fall Colors

  1. The loop in Cades Cove
  2. Newfound Gap Road
  3. National Park
  4. Gatlinburg
  5. Pigeon Forge
  6. Wears Valley

The Fall Color change is almost impossible to predict. From the higher to lower elevations in the wilderness there are 3 factors that influence the change in leaf color: leaf pigments, the length of night, and the weather. The process begins as the days grow shorter and the nights grow longer and colder.

Colors characterized by particular tree species

  • Hickories: golden bronze
  • Dogwood: purplish red
  • Beech: light tan
  • Sugar maple: orange-red

With October being a busy month in the Great Smoky Mountains, it is always best to make plans as early as possible. Come and see the spectacular display of colors. Book your room now.

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Fall Color Update

Wednesday, October 6th, 2010

Fall Colors

Each year, the Great Smoky Mountains are celebrated for their Autumn beauty. Beginning in October, the higher elevations slowly transform to brilliant shades of orange, red, and yellow. The spectacle continues throughout the Fall as the mid- and lower elevations change later in October and the beginning of November.

As we move thorugh the season, Smoky Mountain Resorts will keep you posted on the current colors. Check back often.

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Hiking In The Smoky Mountains

Tuesday, September 28th, 2010

Hiking the Smokies

Everyone can enjoy hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains. There are more than 900 miles of trails and 500,000 acres of land. Take joy in the wonders of nature in every season. Here are some great hiking tips and acclaimed trails.

Hiking Tips:

  • Be prepared for a range of temperatures & conditions
  • Wear the correct footwear of boots to support the ankles
  • Always bring rain gear
  • Stay on the designated trails & retrace steps when lost
  • Cross streams carefully
  • Bears are dangerous when bothered or harassed
  • To avoid crowds hike during the week & early in the morning

Short Hikes in the Smoky Mountains

  • Abrams Falls
  • Alum Cave Bluff
  • Chimney Tops
  • Clingman’s Dome Tower
  • Grotto Falls
  • Laurel Falls
  • Rainbow Falls

Day Hikes in the Smoky Mountains

  • Alum Cave to Mt. LeConte
  • Charlies Bunion
  • Gregory Bald
  • Ramsay Cascades
  • Spence Field/Thunderhead

There are several different types of hiking trails to choose from. Hiking to the stunning waterfalls, over streams, and crossing ridges all over the Great Smokies is one of the best ways to get in touch with nature.

Smoky Mountain Resorts offers hiking packages with your reservation. For more information on the trails of the Great Smoky Mountains, visit the Great Smoky Mountains Association.

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Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival

Tuesday, September 21st, 2010

Harvest Festival

Come to the Smoky Mountains Harvest Festival! Watch as the Smoky Mountains transform with fall’s vibrant colors, and enjoy a variety of seasonal events. The Harvest Festival began September 1st, and it will continue until October 31st. The county-wide celebration includes special shows and attractions. Numerous craftspeople are here to demonstrate their skills, answer questions, and sell their beautiful artwork. Featuring an array of craft shows, live music, and artistic events, the Harvest Festival is sure to entertain and delight.

Gatlinburg Craftsman’s Fair
The award-winning Gatlinburg Craftsman’s Fair is annually held at the Gatlinburg Convention Center. Open October 7th through 23rd there’s only a $6 admission fee. Artisans try to match the beauty of the autumn mountains with elaborate displays and decorations. Featuring 200 booths, the crafts for sale include: pottery, woodcarving, broom making, candle making, quilting, weaving, painting, and much more!

Foothills Fall Festival
Ruby Tuesdays presents the Foothills Fall Festival October 8th thru 10th in Maryville, Tennessee. Concerts, crafts, activities and more! For more information, visit foothillsfallfestival.com.

Dollywood’s Harvest Festival
Continue exploring in the Great Smoky Mountains this fall by taking in all of the scenic attractions. During the entire month of October, Dollywood will be hosting the Harvest Celebration which features: master craftsman, Southern Gospel singers, and a delicious autumn cuisine.

  • Crafts: Walk down “Craftsman’s Valley” and watch the craftsman make their stunning artwork, as well as showcase their impressive artistry.
  • Music: Dollywood’s Harvest Festival will be hosting national and local performances of: Southern Gospel, bluegrass, and country music. Celebrate and enjoy 4 weeks of 250 FREE concerts!
  • Food: Throughout the Park, discover special dishes of harvest season’s best recipes. Prepared with the taste of fall, also try Dollywood’s signature fried green tomatoes.

The beauty and serenity of the Smoky Mountains have long inspired my life and music. I want to share my love for this very special place, our heritage and the spirit of our people.” -Dolly Parton

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