Blue Mountain Cabins Blog

Getting around in the Tennessee Smokes: Transportation options

Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

You may be used to rideshare services like Uber or Lyft, but due to terrain and spotty cell coverage, they are not very reliable in the Smokies. Find the options for transportation to take you to your destination safely.

Pigeon Forge Restaurants - Family and Price Guide

Tue, 15 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

When you stay with Blue Mountain Cabins, you’re just minutes from Smokies' best restaurants, attractions, and mountain adventures - with the comfort and space of a private cabin to come home to.

What Airbnb Superhost & Vrbo Premier Host Status Means for Guests at Blue Mountain Cabins

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

When you’re planning a Smoky Mountains getaway, you’ll often see badges like Airbnb Superhost and Vrbo Premier Host. But what do they actually mean for you as a guest? At Blue Mountain Cabins, we proudly hold both — along with being named Pigeon Forge Best Small Cabin Company 2025 - because they reflect our commitment to exceptional hospitality.

Cades Cove Loop - The Classic Scenic Drive in the Great Smoky Mountains

Wed, 09 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Cades Cove is the most visited destination in Great Smoky Mountains National Park for good reason. This broad, mountain-ringed valley offers open meadows, abundant wildlife, and the largest collection of historic buildings in the park - all connected by an 11-mile one-way loop road.

Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail - A Must-Do Scenic Drive in the Great Smoky Mountains

Tue, 08 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Everyone flocks to Cades Cove for its famous loop, but if you're looking for a quieter, more magical drive through the Smokies, head to the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. Tucked just minutes from bustling Gatlinburg, this winding one-way road delivers lush forests, sparkling streams, pioneer history, and jaw-dropping waterfalls - all without the massive crowds.

Winter Events in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge & Sevierville (2026 - 2027 Guide)

Sun, 06 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Planning a winter trip to the Smoky Mountains? From dazzling holiday lights to festive parades and winter activities, Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg offer something special from mid-November through mid-March. Even better, early to mid-November, early December, January, and February are some of the best times to visit if you're looking for lower lodging rates and fewer crowds.

2026 Smoky Mountain Concerts and Music Festivals: Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg & Sevierville

Thu, 03 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

If you're planning a Smoky Mountain getaway in 2026, you're in for more than just scenic views. The towns of Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and Sevierville host an exciting lineup of concerts, festivals, and live music experiences throughout the year. From bluegrass and gospel to rock and country, there is something for every music lover. This guide highlights the music events and concerts in the Smokies for 2026, along with tips on when to visit and where to stay.

Anakeesta in Gatlinburg: A Mountain Adventure for Everyone

Wed, 02 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

If you’re looking for a fun, scenic outing during your Smoky Mountains vacation, Anakeesta is one of Gatlinburg’s most popular attractions - and for good reason. This mountaintop adventure park rises 600 feet above downtown Gatlinburg and blends panoramic Smoky Mountain views with treetop walks, gardens, play areas, and family-friendly thrills.
It’s an easy half-day or full-day outing from your Blue Mountain Cabins stay.

When Is the Best Time to Visit the Smoky Mountains on a Budget?

Wed, 26 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

We see this question asked on social media quite often: "We are on a budget. When is the best time to visit the Smokies?" See the budget-friendly times and tips to help you out.

2026 Smoky Mountain Fall Color Forecast

Sat, 22 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

When will the leaves change in the Smoky Mountains? That is one of the most common questions from visitors planning a fall getaway to Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Hiking Trails in the Smokies During Winter

Thu, 13 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Frozen waterfalls...snow-covered mountaintops.. stunning views. The Smoky Mountains can be a winter wonderland. If you don’t mind a little cold weather, you’ll love hiking and exploring while enjoying the beauty of the Smokies during this season. We’ve made a list of several most popular hiking trails in the Smoky Mountains during winter.

Best Things to Do in the Smoky Mountains for First-Time Visitors

Tue, 11 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

If you're visiting the Smoky Mountains for the first time, it can be difficult to decide what to put at the top of your list. There is far more to see and do than you can fit into a single vacation - from scenic mountain roads and waterfalls to wildlife viewing, hiking, family attractions, and quiet places to simply enjoy the scenery.
The good news is that you don't have to do everything to have a great Smoky Mountain vacation. A first visit is often best when you combine a few of the area's most memorable experiences with plenty of time to slow down and enjoy the mountains.

Vrbo Fees Explained (2026) - What You Are Really Paying

Mon, 10 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

If you are trying to understand Vrbo fees, you are not alone. Pricing has changed, and it is no longer as simple as a clearly labeled service fee. Today, many platform costs are built directly into the nightly rate.

Fireflies in the Smoky Mountains: When and Where to See Nature’s Light Show

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Many visitors hear about the famous synchronous fireflies in the Smokies, but you do not need a special ticket to enjoy fireflies during your vacation. While the annual synchronous firefly event is limited through a lottery system, ordinary fireflies can often be seen throughout wooded areas across the Smoky Mountains during warm summer evenings.

Yes, There Are Scorpions in the Smoky Mountains - Here's What You Should Know

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Scorpions are part of the natural wildlife in eastern Tennessee, including the Great Smoky Mountains. You may be surprised to learn that two species of scorpions are found in the state - one native and one introduced.

First Time Visiting the Smoky Mountains? What You Need to Know Before Your Trip

Mon, 03 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Whether this is your first visit or your tenth, the Smoky Mountains always offer something new to discover. With a little planning, you can spend less time worrying about logistics and more time enjoying the scenery, wildlife, and memories that make this area special.

How to Choose the Best Cabin Location in the Smoky Mountains

Sat, 01 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Not all Smoky Mountain cabins are created equal. Learn how to choose the best cabin location based on hiking, attractions, privacy, views, road access, and your vacation priorities.

Rainy Day in the Smoky Mountains? What to Do in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge & Sevierville

Fri, 31 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

A little rain doesn't have to put a damper on your Smoky Mountain vacation. Whether you're staying in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, or nearby, there are plenty of ways to enjoy your trip - even if Mother Nature has other plans.

Historic Structures in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Thu, 30 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is known for its scenic drives, waterfalls, and mountain views, but it is also home to one of the finest collections of preserved log structures in the eastern United States. From grist mills and churches to cabins and schoolhouses, these preserved sites tell the story of the families who once lived deep within the Smokies before the national park was established in the 1930s.

Zipline Adventures Near Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge & Sevierville, TN

Thu, 30 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Ziplining in the Smoky Mountains is one of the most thrilling ways to experience the region’s scenic beauty - soaring through treetops, across valleys, and along mountain ridges. Below are the best zipline tours to consider during your stay near Ridge View Lodge or Appalachian Escape Cabin.