Feature Story
THIS STORE IS LIKE TIME TRAVEL
Walking into the Mast General Store feels like stepping into another era.
Barrels of old-fashioned candy.
Classic outdoor gear.
And enough nostalgia to make you rethink your entire lifestyle.
It’s part shopping trip, part time machine — but is it actually worth a stop?
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Smoky Mountain Lodging
SPRING AND SUMMER CABIN ESCAPES
Ready for fresh mountain air and long summer nights? Discover top-rated cabins, featuring bubbling hot tubs, stunning views, and everything you need for the ultimate warm-weather retreat.
Sip your morning coffee while taking in sweeping, unobstructed vistas of the Great Smoky Mountains right from your private deck.
Melt away your stress after a long day of exploring in these highly reviewed cabins featuring premium, bubbling outdoor hot tubs.
Treat your family to the perfect vacation in a fully loaded cabin that combines breathtaking views, endless game-room fun, and relaxing hot-tub soaks in one cozy setting.
Escape the everyday hustle and reconnect with nature in these warm, inviting, and perfectly sized cabins designed for a peaceful getaway.
Adventure in the Smokies
EXPLORE ASHEVILLE ON A FUN TROLLEY RIDE
See the best of Asheville without the hassle of parking or planning - this hop-on hop-off trolley tour lets you explore top spots at your own pace while learning the city’s history along the way.
Local Insights
OFF THE BEATEN PATH
THE SCENIC DRIVE MANY VISITORS MISS
If you've never driven the Cherohala Skyway, you're missing one of the most breathtaking 43-mile stretches of road in the entire Southeast — and the best part is, it's never crowded.
SECRET ABANDONED TUNNEL
Hidden just off the road near the park's highest peak, this forgotten stone tunnel was cut off from its original trail decades ago and now leads to a stunning cliff-edge view that almost nobody knows about.
10 HIDDEN GEMS IN PIGEON FORGE
Beyond the go-karts and dinner shows, Pigeon Forge has a surprising side — including a waterfall hiding the entrance to a 200-year-old iron mine that most visitors never discover.
”HIKE” THIS TRAIL FROM YOUR CAR
The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a winding 5.5-mile one-way road through old-growth forest, historic log cabins, and waterfalls — and on a good day, you might spot a black bear from the comfort of your front seat.
Adventure in the Smokies
ONE OF THE NEWEST ATTRACTIONS IN THE SMOKIES
If you’ve already done the shows, the rides, and the usual stops, this off-the-beaten-path Sevierville experience might be exactly what you’re looking for. From scenic chairlift rides to a thrilling mountain coaster, SkyLand Ranch is quickly becoming a must-do stop in Sevierville for families and adventure seekers alike.
News & Events
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE SMOKIES
⚠️ Insider Alert: Wildfires in the Smoky Mountains
Two wildfires, the Rabbit Creek Fire (~111 acres ) and the Fox Gap Fire (~48 acres) are currently burning in the Smoky Mountains. There are ongoing fire suppression efforts. The Rabbit Creek fire is 75% contained, and the Fox Fap fire is currently 0% contained. Fire crews are working in steep, remote terrain with support from multiple agencies.
Expect temporary closures and road restrictions in parts of the park. Visitors should heed all signage and avoid closed areas for safety.
😃 SEASONAL FUN IN THE SMOKY MOUNTAINS
March in the Smokies is a transitional time when the crisp air of winter slowly gives way to hints of spring, making for truly unique outdoor experiences.
Anakeesta Adventures: As part of a 5-year development project, there are new food options and other exciting improvements coming down the pipeline.
Run Katie Run Tribute: The popular group Run Katie Run, performing at Dollywood for the past five years, is adding its unique style to Dolly Parton's classical music, celebrating the spirit of the Smokies' beloved star.
Take advantage of the generally lighter crowds before the peak of spring break. This is a great time for scenic drives like the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail (weather permitting for opening) or the Foothills Parkway.
🐦🔥 GUARANTEED GOOD TIMES (Rain or Shine)
Even if the weather is a bit unpredictable this time of year, there's always something fun happening indoors in the Smokies!
Ponies in the Smokies: A week-long event, March 23-28, 2026, showcasing those famous mustangs. There’s a full schedule of events capped by the car show at the Sevierville Convention Center on Friday & Saturday.
Catch a dinner show in Pigeon Forge! Options like Dolly Parton's Stampede or Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud offer fantastic entertainment and a hearty meal, perfect for any weather. Check their schedules for this week's showtimes.
Indoor attractions and dining at The Island in Pigeon Forge - especially nice in the early evening when the lights come on.
Hidden Gems
WORTH THE DETOUR
ENJOY THE VIBE
A comfortable place to dine outside the hustle of Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge.
Insider Secrets & Tips + Discounts
THOUGHTS FROM THE SMOKIES
INSIDER SECRETS
Skip the Parking Headache in Gatlinburg
Driving into Gatlinburg and can’t find parking? Most visitors make the same mistake—circling the Parkway and fighting for spots in the first lots they see.
Here’s the insider move: head straight to the city parking garages instead. They’re larger, turn over faster, and are usually much easier to get into—especially before 10 AM or after 4 PM. Once you park, walk or hop on the trolley and avoid moving your car again.
The people who know this trick spend more time exploring—and a lot less time circling for a spot.
LOCAL TIPS
GSMNP visitation trends…visitor numbers have declined from a peak of over 14 million in 2021 to about 11.5 million last year, returning to pre-pandemic levels.
Park Safety: Visitors are advised to be aware of prescribed burn areas and any temporary closures or restrictions for their safety during these forest management activities.
DISCOUNTS
Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort & Spa: Stay near the heart of the action and save on Hotels and Special Packages.
Rocky Top Mountain Coaster: Zip through Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains on a mountain coaster.
Ripley’s: Save up to $27 with the Ripley’s Gatlinburg Aquarium + 2 attractions combo!
Nantahala Outdoor Center: Pigeon River rafting in the Smokies
SkyLand Ranch: Experience mountain coasters, scenic views & live entertainment
Until next time,
Your Smoky Mountain Adventures Await
