Gatlinburg is a beautiful city nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It’s a popular tourist destination, and for good reason. The city offers a wide variety of attractions, from its many shops and restaurants to its hiking trails and waterfalls. But if you’re looking to get away from the crowds and experience the true beauty of Gatlinburg, here are seven secret places you should visit.
Gatlinburg is a great place to visit any time of year, but July is a particularly special time to visit. The weather is warm and sunny, and the city is alive with activity. There are also a number of special events that take place in Gatlinburg in July, including the Fourth of July celebration and the Gatlinburg Summer Crafts Festival. If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable vacation, consider visiting Gatlinburg in July.
There are many ways to get to Gatlinburg. The city is located just a few hours’ drive from major cities such as Nashville, Knoxville, and Asheville. You can also fly into the nearby McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS). Once you’re in Gatlinburg, you can get around easily on foot, by car, or by using the city’s public transportation system.
Secret Place #1: The Gatlinburg Trail
A Hidden Gem for Hikers
The Gatlinburg Trail is a 3.5-mile hiking trail that winds through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The trail is relatively easy to hike, making it a great option for families and beginners. Along the way, you’ll see beautiful waterfalls, lush forests, and stunning mountain views. The trail is also home to a variety of wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for bears, deer, and turkeys.
Secret Place #2: The Gatlinburg Space Needle
A Unique Observation Tower with Stunning Views
The Gatlinburg Space Needle is a 120-foot observation tower that offers panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains. The tower is located in the heart of Gatlinburg, making it easy to get to. Once you’re at the top of the tower, you’ll be able to see for miles in every direction. You’ll also be able to see the city’s many attractions, including the Gatlinburg SkyLift, the Gatlinburg Space Needle, and the Anakeesta Fire Tower.
Secret Place #3: The Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community
A Haven for Artists and Art Lovers
The Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community is a 8-mile loop road that is home to over 100 artisans and craftsmen. The community is located just a few minutes from downtown Gatlinburg, making it easy to get to. Here, you’ll find a variety of handmade items, including pottery, jewelry, woodworking, and more. You can also watch the artisans at work and learn about their unique techniques.
Secret Place #4: The Gatlinburg SkyLift
A Scenic Chairlift Ride with Breathtaking Views
The Gatlinburg SkyLift is a chairlift that takes you to the top of Crockett Mountain. The ride is just over a mile long and takes about 10 minutes. Along the way, you’ll see stunning views of the Great Smoky Mountains, the Gatlinburg Space Needle, and the Anakeesta Fire Tower. Once you’re at the top of the mountain, you can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking, picnicking, and sightseeing.
Secret Place #5: The Anakeesta Fire Tower
A Historic Fire Tower with Panoramic Views
The Anakeesta Fire Tower is a 60-foot fire tower that offers panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains. The tower is located just a few minutes from downtown Gatlinburg, making it easy to get to. Once you’re at the top of the tower, you’ll be able to see for miles in every direction. You’ll also be able to see the city’s many attractions, including the Gatlinburg SkyLift, the Gatlinburg Space Needle, and the Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community.
Secret Place #6: The Gatlinburg Whitewater Rafting Adventure
A Thrilling Whitewater Rafting Adventure for the Whole Family
The Gatlinburg Whitewater Rafting Adventure is a whitewater rafting adventure that takes you down the Pigeon River. The trip is about 5 miles long and takes about 2 hours. Along the way, you’ll experience Class III and IV rapids, as well as stunning scenery. The trip is suitable for all ages and experience levels, making it a great option for families and beginners.
Secret Place #7: The Gatlinburg Ziplines
A Thrilling Zipline Adventure for the Whole Family
The Gatlinburg Ziplines is a zipline adventure that takes you through the Great Smoky Mountains. The course is about 1 mile long and consists of 10 ziplines. Along the way, you’ll experience stunning views of the mountains, the Gatlinburg Space Needle, and the Anakeesta Fire Tower. The course is suitable for all ages and experience levels, making it a great option for families and beginners.
Gatlinburg is a city with a rich culture and history. The city is home to a number of museums and historical sites, including the Gatlinburg Welcome Center, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Visitor Center, and the Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community. Gatlinburg is also home to a number of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Fourth of July celebration, the Gatlinburg Summer Crafts Festival, and the Gatlinburg Winter Magic Festival.
The best time to visit Gatlinburg is during the fall, when the leaves are changing color. However, Gatlinburg is also a great place to visit during the summer, when the weather is warm and sunny. Gatlinburg is a great place to visit any time of year, but July is a particularly special time to visit.
Gatlinburg is a great place to visit for a variety of reasons. The city offers a wide variety of attractions, from its many shops and restaurants to its hiking trails and waterfalls. Gatlinburg is also a great place to experience the culture and history of the Great Smoky Mountains. If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable vacation, consider visiting Gatlinburg in July.