Blue Mountain Cabins Blog

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.

Best Less-Crowded Picnic Areas with Scenic Views in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge & Sevierville

Wed, 29 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The Smoky Mountains are packed with picnic areas - but many of the most popular spots fill quickly, especially on weekends and peak summer days. If you’re looking for quieter alternatives with better views, there are still plenty of hidden-feeling riverfront parks, overlook areas, and lightly used national park picnic areas that offer a more relaxed experience.

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

Wed, 29 Jul 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.

Skiing & Snowboarding Near the Smoky Mountains

Tue, 28 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Many visitors are surprised to discover that you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding during a Smoky Mountain vacation. While the Southeast doesn't receive the massive snowfall of the Rockies, several nearby ski resorts combine higher elevations with advanced snowmaking to provide excellent winter recreation throughout much of the season. Whether you're staying at one of our Tennessee vacation rentals or planning a future getaway to our upcoming Blue Mountain Escape in Western North Carolina, you'll find several ski areas within driving distance.

Tennessee Smoky Mountains Waterfall Hikes and Scenic Drives

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The mountains of Great Smoky Mountains National Park contain more than 100 waterfalls, ranging from small cascades along mountain streams to large, dramatic falls deep in the forest. Many of the park’s most beautiful waterfalls are accessible by scenic drives or moderate hikes, making them a great activity for visitors of all experience levels. If you are visiting the Smokies during your stay with Blue Mountain Cabins, exploring a few of these waterfalls is an excellent way to experience the natural beauty of the area. Below are some of the most popular and accessible waterfall hikes and scenic drives near Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.

River Wading Spots and Swimming Holes Near Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and Pittman Center

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

On a warm day in the Tennessee Smoky Mountains, few things are better than stepping into a cold mountain stream. The rivers flowing through Great Smoky Mountains National Park create countless places to cool off - from shallow creeks perfect for wading to swimming holes surrounded by scenic views.

Fall Events & Festivals in the Smoky Mountains - 2026

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Autumn in the Smokies is one of the most magical times of year to visit East Tennessee. From vibrant fall foliage to seasonal festivals, family-friendly activities, and harvest celebrations, there is something for every type of traveler.

Porters Creek Trail Guide: Fern Branch Falls, Historic Cabins & Spring Wildflowers

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The first mile of the Porters Creek Trail is an old gravel road, which meanders through a lush forest of moss-covered trees and rocks as it follows along the banks of Porters Creek. If you happen to have the opportunity to hike this trail during the spring, you’ll likely be treated to a display of yellow trillium near the trailhead.

SkyLand Ranch Sevierville TN (2026 Update): What’s Open, Tickets & Visitor Guide

Sun, 12 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

If you’re planning a Smoky Mountain vacation and wondering whether SkyLand Ranch in Sevierville, TN, is open in 2026, the answer is yes. The attraction has resumed operations with select experiences available while rebuilding continues after the February 2026 fire.

What to Pack for a Smoky Mountains Cabin Vacation (Season-by-Season Guide)

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Planning a Smoky Mountains cabin vacation is exciting, but packing for a mountain getaway can be different from packing for a typical hotel stay. Whether you are visiting for hiking, wildlife viewing, relaxing on a cabin porch, or exploring Great Smoky Mountains National Park, bringing the right items can make your trip more comfortable. Cabin amenities vary by owner, so always review your specific rental listing before arriving. What one cabin provides may not be included at another property.

Best Places to See Wildlife in the Smoky Mountains (Many Without a Long Hike)

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

From black bears and elk to white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and countless smaller animals, the Smokies are home to one of the most diverse ecosystems in North America. While wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, knowing where and when to look can greatly improve your chances. Whether you're staying near Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, or Sevierville, these are some of the best places to experience Smoky Mountain wildlife

Appalachian Log Cabins - Then and Now

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Appalachian log cabins came from the influence of German and Scandinavian traditions brought by settlers to the area in the 18th century. The masonry can mostly be traced to Scotch-Irish influence, and the design has a resemblance to that of English. Most logs used during that time would have been chestnut, oak, spruce, and poplar.

Strange Names, Curious Places: Boogertown, Tennessee

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

In the foothills of the Smokies in Sevier County, Tennessee, there is a place with one of the most unusual names in the region: Boogertown. Officially tied to the historic Oldham community, the name “Boogertown” has become the far more recognizable and enduring local reference. It’s the kind of name that makes visitors slow down and ask the same question: Where did a name like Boogertown come from?

Free Things To Do in the Smoky Mountains (That Are Actually Worth Your Time)

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Looking for free things to do in the Smoky Mountains? Explore scenic drives, hiking trails, rivers, wildlife viewing, and hidden gems near Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville.

Hiking Trails from the Greenbrier Road Entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The Greenbrier Road area is one of our favorite places to send guests who want to experience the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains without the crowds. From peaceful creekside walks to challenging waterfall hikes, these trails offer unforgettable adventures just a short drive from your Blue Mountain Cabins stay.

The Quiet Side of the Smoky Mountains: Places to Escape the Crowds Near Gatlinburg

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The Great Smoky Mountains are one of the most visited national parks in the country, but that does not mean your vacation has to feel crowded. Many visitors come to Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville expecting beautiful mountain scenery, peaceful mornings, and time in nature - only to find themselves stuck in traffic or surrounded by crowds during peak seasons. We often recommend these areas to guests who want to slow down, enjoy the scenery, and experience the mountains' quieter side.

Waterfalls in the Smoky Mountains That Are Worth It Without Heavy Hiking

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The Smoky Mountains are filled with waterfalls, but not all of them are easy to access or worth the effort for every type of visitor. Some require long, steep hikes, while others are surprisingly easy to reach from scenic roads, short walks, or moderate trails that still feel manageable for most travelers. If you are staying near Gatlinburg, Pittman Center, or the eastern Smokies, there are several waterfalls that strike a good balance between effort and reward - from roadside cascades to short and moderate hikes that lead to some of the most beautiful water features in the park.