Nestled in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are popular tourist destinations, but the Smokies still boast several local secret spots where you can escape the big crowds and enjoy a serene and authentic experience.
From lesser-known nature trails to local restaurants, pubs, and parks, there’s always a fantastic off-the-beaten-path spot to uncover in the Smokies. Wondering how to find them? In this blog, we asked the locals about some hidden gems in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and the surrounding areas, so the next time you visit this part of Tennessee, you can enjoy it like a local.
At Smoky Mountain Holiday, we offer a variety of cabins with amenities like hot tubs, full kitchens, fireplaces, cinema and game rooms, and even pet-friendly options. Check out our website to find the perfect cabin for your stay.
For more tips on what to do during your visit to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, head over to our destination blog. From the best rainy day activities to the top eats in each town, we’ve got tons of local spots and insider tips just waiting for you!
Ready to learn some local secrets? Let’s jump in!
Local Tips for Exploring Gatlinburg, TN
Off-the-beaten-path Hikes
Gatlinburg is the gateway to a wide variety of stunning hiking trails that cater to all levels of hikers. While these trails are very popular among tourists visiting the Smokies, there are many lesser-known and uncrowded hikes — from short, easy walks to more challenging backcountry treks — where you can join the locals who prefer to escape the more touristy natural attractions and enjoy a more tranquil path and atmosphere.
Here are some local-favorite hikes—all located within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park—that are easily accessible from Gatlinburg:
- Spruce Flat Falls: Spruce Flat Falls Trail is another lesser-known yet beautiful hiking trail in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering a relatively short and rewarding hike to a stunning waterfall, which is the highlight of the trail. This multi-tiered waterfall cascades down a series of rock ledges into a clear pool at the base. The falls are about 30 feet tall, and the serene setting makes it a perfect spot for a peaceful rest and photos. While the water is cold, the locals enjoy wading or swimming in the pool at the base of the falls, especially on hot days.
- Kephart Prong Trail: This is a scenic and historically rich hiking trail. Kephart Prong offers a moderate hike through lush forested areas, following the Kephart Prong stream, and provides a glimpse into the area’s history with remnants of old Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camps and a trout hatchery. There’s also the opportunity to spot black bears, wild turkeys, and various bird species.
- Brushy Mountain: The Brushy Mountain Trail is a scenic and somewhat challenging hike that offers hikers a chance to experience the Smokies at their finest, including lush forests, wildflowers, and stunning views. Although less visited, the highlight of the hike is reaching the summit of Brushy Mountain, which stands at an elevation of about 4,911 feet and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including Mount LeConte.
Arts & Crafts Community
The Arts & Crafts Community in Gatlinburg is the largest independent organization of artisans in the United States. While it does attract a lot of tourists, it’s not your typical tourist-town souvenir spot. The community offers a fantastic glimpse into Appalachian culture and craftsmanship—if you ask the locals, almost all of them will say you can’t skip this attraction.
Located along an 8-mile loop road just outside downtown Gatlinburg, this community is home to over 100 artists and craftspeople. These local artists engage in a wide variety of arts and crafts, such as pottery, woodworking, painting, photography, weaving, and much more. You can explore studios, galleries, and shops where artisans create and sell their unique handmade goods. The community offers a charming and authentic experience, allowing you to meet the artists and watch them at work.
Greenbrier
Greenbrier is a hidden gem and tranquil area of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, located a few miles east of Gatlinburg. Known for its natural beauty and fewer crowds, Greenbrier offers a peaceful retreat with several hiking trails, picnic spots, and opportunities for fishing, swimming, and wildlife viewing.
Key highlights include the Porters Creek Trail, which leads to historic sites and a beautiful waterfall, and the Ramsey Cascades Trail, a more challenging hike to the park’s tallest waterfall. You can also enjoy swimming in clean, crystal-clear waters in a swimming hole surrounded by stunning scenery. Greenbrier is especially famous for its breathtaking wildflower displays in the spring. The area’s relatively low profile makes it a favorite among locals and those seeking a quieter experience in the Smokies.
Ely’s Mill
Ely’s Mill is a historic and charming destination situated at the end of the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. This rustic site offers visitors a glimpse into the past with its authentic Appalachian heritage, featuring structures that evoke the feel of “old Gatlinburg.” Since it doesn’t always make it onto tourists’ bucket lists, you won’t find big crowds while visiting.
Established in 1925 as both a sawmill and a woodworking shop, Ely’s Mill still showcases much of the original equipment and tools. The site includes other historic buildings, such as a general store, cabins, and a blacksmith shop, offering a peek into the life of early 20th-century mountain communities.Ely’s Mill also hosts a variety of local artisans who sell handmade crafts, including pottery, jewelry, woodworking, textiles, and other Appalachian crafts.
Boudicca’s Celtic Pub
Although it’s located at The Village Shops, a popular tourist attraction in Gatlinburg, Boudicca’s Celtic Pub doesn’t attract large crowds of visitors. This local gem offers award-winning pub food, superb drinks, and a taste of Celtic culture in the heart of the Smoky Mountains.
The menu focuses on traditional pub fare with a Celtic twist, with highlights including Pepper Crisps & Onion Rings, Fish & Chips, Beer Cheese & Chips, and the mouthwatering Frickle Burger, voted the best burger in Gatlinburg.
The best way to enjoy your food is by pairing it with their extensive selection of beers, which includes a variety of local craft brews, as well as imported favorites from Ireland, Scotland, and other Celtic regions. The warm, cozy atmosphere with rustic wooden furnishings, Celtic symbols, and traditional music playing in the background enhances the dining experience even more.
Local Tips for Exploring Pigeon Forge, TN
Parrot Mountain and Gardens
Parrot Mountain and Gardens is a unique and enchanting attraction located in Pigeon Forge, offering visitors an immersive experience with exotic birds and beautifully landscaped gardens featuring thousands and thousands of flowers and plants and trees.
The main attraction at Parrot Mountain is the opportunity to interact with a wide variety of exotic birds. You can see, touch, and even feed a range of species, including parrots, toucans, macaws, and cockatoos. The park also features several walk-in aviaries where birds fly freely where you can get up close and personal with the birds, many of which are friendly and accustomed to human interaction.
Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster
While it’s gaining popularity, the Alpine Coaster is still considered a hidden gem for its thrilling ride through the mountains. It’s a local favorite for an adrenaline rush, especially in the evening when the track is lit up.
This is the longest downhill alpine coaster in the country, stretching over a mile in length. Riders control their speed as they descend the mountain on a track that winds through the natural landscape of the Smoky Mountains, offering a unique and exhilarating experience. When the track is lit up at night, it makes the experience even more magical.
Bullfish Grill
While many tourists flock to the more commercial restaurants, locals often dine at Bullfish Grill for its high-quality steaks, seafood, and local craft beers. It’s a bit of a hidden gem for those looking for a more upscale dining experience.
The menu features high-quality steaks, fresh seafood, and Southern-inspired dishes. Some must-try items include Barbecue Baby Back Ribs, Ribeye, Filet Mignon, Pistachio Encrusted Trout, Fried Seafood Platter, Jambalaya Pasta, and the Bullfish Chicken. The restaurant’s upscale yet casual atmosphere, with warm, inviting decor that combines Southern charm with a touch of sophistication, enhances the dining experience. Additionally, the full bar offers an extensive wine list, craft beers, and a variety of cocktails.
Local’s Secrets for Exploring Sevierville
Bigfoot Philly Cheesesteaks
Mostly known by locals, this locally owned eatery in Sevierville is celebrated for its hearty and flavorful cheesesteaks, inspired by the classic Philadelphia sandwich but with a Southern twist.
The star of the menu is, of course, their Philly cheesesteaks. They offer a variety of options, including the traditional beef cheesesteak with onions, peppers, and melted cheese on a soft hoagie roll. They also have unique variations with different toppings and flavors. The restaurant has a fun, playful theme centered around Bigfoot, which adds character and local flavor to the dining experience. This theme is reflected in the décor and the names of some menu items.
Elvira’s Cafe
Here’s one of the Smoky Mountains’ best-kept secrets: Elvira’s Cafe, nestled in Wears Valley, is a breakfast spot where you can relax on the porch, soak in the amazing views, and enjoy a homemade morning meal prepared just for you with local ingredients.
The menu features mouthwatering options like sandwiches, hashbrown casserole, chicken and waffles with spiced honey, and eggs and bacon. Lunch and dinner are also available, offering more incredible dishes to savor while enjoying the scenic and peaceful surroundings.
Local tip: Whether you visit for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Elvira’s crepes are a must-try. There are both sweet and savory options, with the Scrambler Crepe and Cafe Signature Chicken Crepe being local favorites.
Where Should You Stay in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg?
Our short-term rental cabins provide the ideal blend of privacy, stunning mountain views, and a cozy atmosphere, ensuring a truly relaxing escape in the Smokies.
At Smoky Mountain Holiday, we offer cabins of various sizes and amenities, including hot tubs, full kitchens, fireplaces, cinema and game rooms, and even pet-friendly options. Explore our website to discover our fantastic range of cabin choices.
We’re dedicated to ensuring you and your family have the best possible experience in the Smokies. With Smoky Mountain Holiday, your vacation memories are guaranteed to be unforgettable.