Finding Seclusion In The Mountains
Posted by Leif Palmer in Rental Cabins
You ever get that feeling that you just need to get away from it all? From time to time, we all fall prey to the stress and anxiety that can mount from work and family responsibilities. Fortunately, that's exactly what vacations are for.
But what about those times you really want to be alone, to experience the kind of re-charging you can only get from peace and tranquility? Believe it or not, even through the Great Smoky Mountains is the nation's most visited national park – welcoming nearly 10 million visitors a year – you can find peace and quiet here without finding yourself smack dab in the middle of the vacationing throngs. Read on to discover a few tips for finding solitude in the middle of the Smokies, even in the peak season we're currently experiencing.
We like to think we can help you take that first step with our selection of secluded Pigeon Forge cabins. Our properties are located primarily in scenic mountains and valleys, well off the beaten path. Instead of traffic, the main sounds you'll hear are those of nature.
You'll be able to truly unwind and let go as you kick back on the deck or porch of your cabin, enjoying the beauty of a sunrise or sunset. Or, weather permitting, you can let the invigorating jets of your outdoor hot tub melt the stress away as you tune in to the sounds of rustling trees and chirping birds.
There are also plenty of places you can visit in the Smokies to get away from the masses. Instead of plunging into the heart of Pigeon Forge, consider visiting Townsend, TN, which is known as the “peaceful side of the Smokies.” The pace of life is a little slower over there, there aren't as many visitors or cars, and you can immerse yourself in a true Smoky Mountains experience at places like the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center and the Little River Railroad/Lumber Museum.
The national park itself is full of potential for getting away from it all, provided you pick the right spot. Avoid heavily trafficked destinations like Cades Cove, Laurel Falls, the Chimney Tops, Elkmont and even Mt. LeConte. Instead, chart a course for less-traveled sites like Cataloochee Valley, the Middle Prong Trail, Charlies Bunion and Greenbrier.
One of our favorite spots is the Cosby entrance to the national park. There you'll find a campground and several interesting hiking trails that often get overlooked by most people traveling to the Smokies.
In summer especially, we can't promise you'll have these places completely to yourself (you won't), but the population will definitely be less dense than some of those other spots we mentioned.
Some other tips to consider for finding solitude include arriving at destinations early in the day, visiting them on weekdays instead of weekends and avoiding traveling to the Smokies during holiday periods.
About Leif Palmer
Leif Palmer loves residing in the Smoky Mountains. He is an avid outdoorsman: rowing for exercise on the lake, trail hiking, and free climbing rocks in the mountains. He indulges his arty side by periodically beating up pieces of marble by sculpting. He is always frustrated by his inability to sink long putts, and hates his curly hair (but his wife loves it). Leif has been known to muster enough courage to change a diaper, and hopes his son will become a chip off the old block.
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