Great Smoky Mountains National Park Is Once Again Open!

November In The Smokies

On Wednesday morning, roads and trails into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park were finally re-opened, 15 days after being closed due to the recent government shutdown. Traffic was lined up outside the Townsend entrance to the park before it opened as tourists waited to enter. A ceremony celebrating the reopening had to be moved to the Tremont campground because of the traffic.

“We had traffic backed up at the Sugarlands and we also had traffic backed up from here at the “Y”  all the way into Townsend,” said Blount County Mayor Ed Mitchell. “That gives you an idea of what we were missing on a daily basis by this park being shut.”

Due a recent deal between Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam and North Carolina Governor Pat McCrory, as well as support from county leaders in Sevier and Blount Counties, the park was temporarily re-opened from Wednesday, October 16th, until this Sunday, October 20th, at 11:59 P.M. However, the recent ending of the government shutdown as of last evening by the federal government further means that the National Park will remain open for the foreseeable future, past this Sunday at 11:59 P.M.

The National Park costs $60,100 to operate per day, according to the National Park Service. Prior to the resolution of the shutdown last evening, it would take $300,500 to keep the park open for the five days called for in the state-to-state brokered deal. All national parks were closed October 1 when Congress failed to pass a funding bill, leading to a partial government shutdown. However, the federal government agreed last week to allow states to re-open national parks if they paid for the operating costs. In addition, bills introduced in the U.S. House and Senate would reimburse states within 90 days for any costs associated with reopening the parks during the shutdown. Now that there is a resolution to the shutdown by the federal government as of last evening, the National Park is on track to remain open for the foreseeable future.

What does this all mean? For now and into the foreseeable future, it appears that the National Park will be open, and will remain open, to the public, following the last evening’s resolution to the recent government shutdown by the federal government. This comes during the middle of the changing of the leaves in the fall season here in the Smokies, which attracts many people to the area every year and is expected to do so again this year.

While enjoying the wonder and splendor of the Great Smoky Mountains, as well as the now re-opened National Park, why not see what else the Smokies can offer you? Please feel free to browse our available properties, and see what is available for you if you are thinking about buying a new home in the area. Let our team help you realize your home ownership dreams today, as we have many great properties available!

 

Here Are A Few of My Featured Listings:

Unique Contemporary Home w/Mtn Views Come & enjoy this one of a kind, unique, contemporary home! This 5000+ sq ft, 4 BD/3 BA home is located just off the Parkway in Sevierville in a beautiful, private neighborhood! Type: Single Family Home Location: Sevierville,TN Price: $325,000 Get more information >
Chalet w/ Amazing Mtn. Views Beautiful 3 BD/3 BA Mountain Contemporary Chalet located minutes from downtown Gatlinburg and Ober Gatlinburg! Type: Single Family Home Location: Gatlinburg,Tennessee Price: $299,900 Get more information >
Beautiful Mountain Sunsets Incredible large diameter log construction creates a special, solid, and timeless appeal. Type: Single Family Home Location: Pigeon Forge Price: $450,000 Get more information >


The Jason White Team
Century 21 Four Seasons Realty
1441 Wiley Oakley Dr
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Toll Free: 877-678-2121
Fax: 865-436-7227
Email: jason@jasonwhiteteam.com
Website: www.SmokyMountainLifestyle.com

Why The Smoky Mountains?

Smoky-Mountains-WaterfallThe Great Smoky Mountains National Park is America’s most visited national park. With a strong sense of Appalachian culture, the ancient mountains, over 800 miles of trails and something for everyone in the surrounding communities it is easy to see why. Let’s explore a few of the things that this awe-inspiring region has to offer and why it is such an appealing location for your real estate purchase.

If you are looking for a place to kick back, get away from the rush of day-to-day life and get in touch  with nature The Great Smoky Mountains region offers multiple opportunities. From easy walking trails to  longer back packing trips you will not run out of chances to hike and enjoy waterfalls, an abundance of  wildlife and amazing mountain views. A trip to Cades Cove offers a chance to visit historic buildings and can be taken in with a walk, an auto tour, a cycling trip or even on horseback. As you are out and about expect to see elk, deer and black bear as part of your Smoky Mountain experience.

If you are looking for a more intense adventure venture to Pigeon Forge and give Dollywood’s newest roller coaster a try. As America’s first winged coaster it is sure to get the adrenaline going. Want something more hands on? There are a multitude of options for a day spent whitewater rafting, flying through the sky on one of the local zipline tours or even indoor skydiving.

As the gateway community to The Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg is a picturesque traditional mountain town. With bits of nature and history at every turn it is easy to lose yourself in the local mountain heritage. With a stroll down the gorgeous streets you can encounter pieces of history, street performances and a wide variety of shopping opportunities.

With the quiet beauty and many entertainment options of the area there is no question why this has become a top tourist destination. Add this to a recently improving housing market and it equals a great location for anyone considering a real estate purchase. It is the perfect choice of locations whether you are looking for a vacation home, a money-making investment or a special place for retirement. Take a look at all of the available homes by visiting our website.

Here Are A Few Of My Featured Listings:

Over $30,000 Rental Income! Over $30,000 in gross rental income for 2012! This is a turn key authentic log cabin in excellent condition. Type: Single Family Home Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee Price: $217,000 Get more information >
Top Floor With Amazing Views First time on market! Top floor unit – best location in the building & best view in the building. Type: Condo Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee Price: $550,000 Get more information >
Near Ski Resort & Downtown A great opportunity to own a lot in desirable Chalet Village and has a winter view of the mountains. Type: Land Location: Chalet Village Price: $29,900 Get more information >

 

 

The Smokies Come To Life With Spring Just Around The Corner

Spring Wildflowers In The SmokiesThe Great Smoky Mountains offer their own beauty in every season but it is always thrilling to watch as spring approaches and gains steam transforming the mountains with new life, increased wildlife activity, the blooming of flowers and the budding of trees. There are numerous reasons to plan a visit during spring, with a multitude of festivals, activities and workshops. Today registration opened for the 63rd Annual Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage. The 5 day event in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park will be held from April 23rd-27th this year and fills up quick. Let’s take a look at a few of the offerings and reasons to register now. It’s an event not to miss if you love the Smokies.

All 5 days are packed with activity. Most programs are held outdoors in the park with some classes and seminars being held at various indoor venues in Gatlinburg. This year’s program will offer 146 professionally guided walks and presentations allowing participants the opportunity explore the region’s flowers, fauna and natural history.  Many walks offer the chance to explore the back country, led by seasoned hikers. For those of you who have photography as a hobby, you are invited to enter the photography competition as well. The competition includes categories for flora, fauna and landscape. Winners will be chosen by votes of those registered for the pilgrimage and an awards ceremony will be held. Just looking to improve your photography skills? A beginner’s photography workshop will be offered with outdoor, hands-on instruction.

In recognition of the 175th anniversary of the Trail of Tears, Wednesday’s indoor events focus on Cherokee culture. There will be talks about the Trail of Tears, Cherokee Culture After The Trail and Cherokee plant lore. Prefer an outdoor experience while learning more about the Cherokee? Join Native American, Karen LaMere at Metcalf Bottoms Picnic area on Wednesday morning for “Native People’s Use Of Nature’s Garden” and listen to a history that has been passed down through the generations as well as taste and learn uses of native plants gathered from nature. Davy Arch, a Cherokee woodcarver and storyteller will also lecture on Cherokee culture and demonstrate carving, mask making and more. His presentation is a great time to learn how plants played a part in Cherokee arts all the way back to the ice age.

If you are a seasoned hiker you are sure to enjoy one of the longer, more strenuous hikes. A Wildflower Hike along Ramsey Cascades Trail will allow you to see a diverse range of wildflowers as you walk through one of the old-growth forests up to the 100′ falls. Looking for a beautiful but easier hike? Take the opportunity to walk the Noah “Bud” Ogle Trail and see many different wildflowers and American chestnut tree remnants in the fields of the homestead. Interested in the wildlife in the mountains? Join David Whitehead, Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency Manager as he describes the history, tracking signs, human impact and environmental issues of the areas black bears and wild hogs while enjoying a 2-3 mile easy walk at Little River Trail head.

This is just a very small sample of the wide variety of events and opportunities offered at the event this year. There is something for everyone who is interested in spending more time on the trail and learning more about the area’s heritage and the Smoky Mountains. You may download a full event schedule, register and more at the official event website.

The mountains offer year round beauty, events and chances to get closer to nature. One of the ways to make it easy to spend as much time as possible surrounded by the majesty of the mountains is to purchase an investment property or Smoky Mountain home away from home. The market is busy with homes moving at a steady pace but there are plenty of great opportunities available. Spend some time at our website searching what’s available and we are certain you will find your perfect Smoky Mountain get away.

Here Are A Few Of My Featured Listings:

Enjoy Resort Living In The Mountains Great rental income: 2012 – $32,195 & 2011- $24,226.Private three bedroom, three bath log cabin with great mountain views from three decks. Type: Single Family Home Location: Pigeon Forge Price: $299,900 Get more information >
This One Has It All Conveniently located cabin consistently produces over $40,000 in annual rental income! Just minutes to Pigeon Forge and Dollwood. Type: Single Family Home Location: Pigeon Forge Price: $199,900 Get more information >
Gone With The Wind Almost $22k in rental for the first 10 months of 2012!! If you have dreamed of having a luxury chalet on top of the mountain with sweeping views of the valley, city and mountains then you have to look at this one. Type: Single Family Home Location: Chalet Village Price: $299,900 Get more information >

 

Why Purchase In The Smoky Mountains?

Whether you are considering a permanent move, looking for an investment or a second home there are numerous reasons why the Great Smoky Mountain area is a great choice to consider. With a variety of locations, year round beauty and the inspiring mountain backdrop it is a wonderful place to call home.

Gatlinburg is a rare gem. This tiny city may very well have been lost such as many remote southern rural towns. However, the creation of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park changed the destiny of this city immediately. Restaurants and hotels sprang up rapidly to accommodate the influx of tourists coming to see the “Nation’s Most Visited National Park”. Hemmed in by mountains on all sides, Gatlinburg is never at a loss for magnificent views. Clean, rocky, boulder-strewn creeks and rivers run through the city with a beautiful zen-like quality. Wildlife such as; deer, black bear and turkey roam the area even into the city. Ober Gatlinburg gives the city the allure of being a ski resort/winter sports center. Year-round activities and festivities keep this tiny burg hopping. The topography of this location makes it easy to access the city amenities and within minutes you can escape to the seclusion of your own private cabin, chalet or condo.

The greatest appeal of Pigeon Forge is the natural surroundings that boast four distinct and mild seasons to satisfy the lifestyles of all residents and visitors alike. It is close to The Great Smoky Mountains National Park Entrance and a short drive to Cades Cove. Homes for sale in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee are reasonably priced and exceptional in value. Buyers looking to relocate or invest in a second home, will find the real estate market in Pigeon Forge to be varied in styles and amenities, offering mountain charm and modern conveniences, surrounded by the tranquility and hanging blue mist of the Great Smoky Mountains.

Located between Pigeon Forge and Townsend, Wears Valley is a peaceful and secluded setting surrounded by breathtaking mountains and within reach of the Great Smoky National Park by way of Metcalf Bottoms, its own entrance to the National Park and one of only five. Wears Valley is a prime location for investment properties, second homes for peaceful vacations, or single family homes for full-time residents. The low crime and tax rates of Sevier County, along with excellent public schools run by the Sevier County School District, are what make Wears Valley a fabulous location to own property.

These are just a few of the distinctive locations to consider in the Great Smoky Mountain region. Looking at just these three locations leaves no doubt that Sevier County is a prime location to consider a real estate purchase. All of this coupled with an improving real estate market make now a great time to start looking. We invite you to begin at our website to search out the right opportunity for you.

Here Are A Few Of My Featured Listings:

Gone With The Wind Almost $22k in rental for the first 10 months of 2012!! If you have dreamed of having a luxury chalet on top of the mountain with sweeping views of the valley, city and mountains then you have to look at this one. Type: Single Family Home Location: Chalet Village Price: $299,900 Get more information >

 

Walk To The Parkway Three level log cabin in the heart of Pigeon Forge that is walking distance to the action packed Parkway and the trolley stop. Type: Single Family Home Location: Pigeon Forge Price: $199,900 Get more information >

 

87 Gently Rolling Acres Await 87 gently rolling mountain top acres with outstanding 270 degree uninterrupted panoramic views of the major peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park including Mt. Cameror, Geyot, Webb, Greenbriar, and LeConte. Type: Single Family Home Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee Price: $1,750,000 Get more information >

 

Enjoy Holiday Festivities In The Smoky Mountains

The holidays are an almost magical time in The Great Smoky Mountains.  As the leaves have passed their peak for the fall color change and we move in to winter months there are numerous opportunities to celebrate the Appalachian way.

As the City of Gatlinburg is sparkling with millions of lights for the Gatlinburg Winter Magic Festival the city trolley has begun their Ride Of Lights. Enjoy the holiday displays from the comfort of a Gatlinburg Trolley. The journey includes a ride through downtown, River Road and then follows the displays along Highway 321. Tickets are only $5 and may be purchased here.

If you are looking for an opportunity to take a little bit of the mountains home for the holidays the artisans of the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community will be presenting their annual Thanksgiving show at the Gatlinburg Convention Center. The show begins on November 21st and runs through the 25th. You will be able to explore a wide variety of handcrafted Thanksgiving gifts that are unique to the area. This will be followed on the 26th with the Great Smoky Christmas Arts & Crafts Show.

While you are in town to enjoy the presentation of the Arts & Crafts Community make reservations to see the Nutcracker “Sweet”. Presented by the Great Smoky Mountain Dance Theatre shows will be on the 23rd and 24th at 7PM in the W.L. Mills Auditorium.

In the Smoky Mountains holiday cheer is widespread and during your visit as you stroll down the Parkway on a Friday or Saturday night you will be able to meet characters, storytellers and carolers during the fourth annual Winter Magic Tunes and Tales event. Deborah Hicks will direct the carolers with many of the performers being from the Walter State Community College Chorus. This year a barber shop quartet from Gatlinburg-Pittman High School will join the lineup as well.

There are plenty of opportunities to get in the Holiday spirit while you are visiting Gatlinburg. If you would like the chance to make your visits a little less stressful and more frequent it is a great time to consider purchasing your own home away from home in the mountains. There are plenty to choose from and we are happy to help with your search when you come to visit. Take a look here to see what get away opportunities are available.

Here Are A Few Of My Featured Listings:

Add Your Own Touches Here is your opportunity to create a mountain getaway with your own unique style and personality. High quality materials and construction are a great jumping off point to add your finishing touches. Type: Single Family Home Location: Sevierville,TN Price: $112,500 Get more information >

 

Amazing Views & Unique Features This charming home offers a spectacular view and some really unique features. The living room has soaring ceilings, warm wood flooring and a unique see through fireplace with the dining area on the other side. Type: Single Family Home Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee Price: $208,700 Get more information >

 

Log Home On Over 3 Acres Charming farmstead Appalachian style log home on over 3 beautiful wooded acres of idyllic Smoky Mountain countryside. Enjoy ridge views along with lots of hardwoods, rhododendron, mountain laurel, hemlock and dogwoods throughout the four seasons. Type: Single Family Home Location: Pittman Center Price: $159,900 Get more information >

 

 

With Fall Around The Corner Gatlinburg Is Full Of Activity

The Grand Fall Rod Run in Pigeon Forge is being held this weekend. Though it is one of the most anticipated events in the region each year for those who love classic cars it is far from being the end of events for the year. If you were unable to make it to the show there are plenty more activities and sights to see in the Great Smoky Mountains this fall. With the breath taking color display in the mountains from the changing of the leaves right around the corner, there are several events planned that make now a great time to visit the area.

Today starts the Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival which will continue through October 31st. Throughout Gatlinburg you will enjoy local craft displays, hayrides and much more as this mountain town celebrates fall in the Smokies. On Thursday, September 27th the Gatlinburg Convention Center will host Gatlinburg’s Taste of Autumn. Tickets are $25 and all proceeds will be donated to charity. At the event you will enjoy unlimited samples from numerous area restaurants and attractions. From five until eight that evening, live jazz music performed by Millie Palmer Jazz will set the background for dancing and a great day of entertainment.

The Smoky Mountain Trout Tournament will be held on September 29th & 30th, Ripley’s Haunted Adventure will be celebrating it’s 14th annual “Fright Nights” show beginning on October 5th and the Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair will bring the nation’s finest artisans to the area again from October 11th until the 28th.

These are all great reasons to come take part in celebrating fall in the Smokies but of course one of the biggest attractions will be the vibrant leaf display taking place in the mountains. The change usually spans over seven weeks with different elevations showing its unique variety of trees and colors at different times. Mid September is a great time to view colors at higher elevations from a location such as Clingman’s Dome. A hike to higher elevations such as Mt. LeConte or Andrews Bald would be sure to deliver beautiful autumn views. Early through mid October provide a wide diversity of colors as the mid and lower elevations begin to change and include many varieties of very colorful trees. If you love to hike, the National Park website is a great guide for suggested trails for all skill levels however a drive through Cades Cove or along the Roaring Fork Motor Trail are also fantastic ways to take in the beauty of fall in the Smoky Mountains.

It is a great time to plan a trip to the area, but what if you could eliminate the stress of finding a place to stay? Or get rid of the worry that you won’t be comfortable in your accommodations when you get here? Owning a second home in the Gatlinburg area is a certain way to avoid these hassles and make sure that each trip you make to the Smoky Mountains will offer you the peace and serenity that you deserve on your vacation. There are many to choose from and we believe there is a mountain get away that is perfect for you. Spend some time browsing available properties on our website, plan an autumn visit and let us know if you would like to begin the search for your home away from home while you are in the area.

Here Are A Few Of My New Listings:

Spectacular Mountain Views Custom built home with Crystal Clear mountain views! Great rental income with $25,750 for 2010 and $27,713 for 2011! Type: Single Family Home Location: Chalet Village Price: $279,900 Get more information >

 

Indoor Pool & Mountain Views Consistently produces over $60,000 a year in rental income! This is an exquisite log cabin with an indoor heated swimming pool! You will find it nestled on a private lot just outside of Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Type: Single Family Home Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee Price: $269,900 Get more information >

 

Walk To Downtown Gatlinburg Classic and charming vintage Gatlinburg cottage is walking distance to downtown Gatlinburg or to the trolley stop. No need to worry over traffic or parking should you like to stroll to town for coffee, dinner or a shopping excursion. Type: Single Family Home Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee Price: $139,900 Get more information >

 

 

Summer Events In The Smokies Will Delight The Whole Family

The South’s largest children’s festival kicks off at Dollywood on June 22nd and continues through July 29th. This year Dollywood will welcome back The Gazillion Bubbles Show. Sure to enchant both young and old this is a spectacular interactive show featuring stunning bubble artistry paired with lasers and special lighting effects. It has been featured on The Oprah Winfrey Show, David Letterman and many others and will find a home right here in Pigeon Forge this summer.

Love animals? Watch out for flying dogs at the newest edition to KidsFest; Chris Perondi’s Stunt Dog Experience. With a dozen of America’s most talented canine performers on center stage this is a show not to be missed. Enjoy gravity defying jumps, tricks and stunts as seen on Nickelodeon and Animal Planet. Chris started training dogs in 1996 and has entertained millions nationwide with one of the most thrilling dog acts in the world.

Of course one of the long time favorites at KidsFest will be featured again this year;The Penguin Players. At Dolly’s Imagination Playhouse they will bring your favorite storybooks to life on stage including the classic The Little Engine That Could. Each segment is filled with interactive sing along songs and music written by Dolly herself.

No vacation to the Great Smoky Mountains is complete without a visit to Dollywood but the other entertainment choices are endless. During the same time as KidsFest, The Inn At Christmas Place will be celebrating Christmas in July. This month long event will feature story telling, Christmas character visits, cookie decorating and children’s crafts. on July 27th, Country Tonite Theatre will host George Jones in concert. And of course there are plenty of outdoor opportunities within The Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Enjoy rafting, hiking, horse back riding or just a relaxing day on a quiet walking trail taking in the beauty of the park.

No matter what your interests there is something here in the Smokies to delight everyone. Summer is a special time in the mountains with a flurry of activities, festivals and displays of nature. We believe it is a top vacation destination and it only makes sense as a great place to purchase either a second home or investment property. Why not take a look at all the area has to offer in real estate choices at our website? When the time is right we are available to assist you in your search and guide you through the process from the very first search through the day that your Smoky Mountain dream becomes a reality.

Here Are A Few Of My Featured Listings:

A Place To Remember Step inside this beautiful mountain home and you will quickly see why it is named A Place To Remember. Features five private master suites and did over $30,000 in rental income for 2011! Type: Single Family Home Location: Chalet Village Price: $389,900 Get more information >

 

Designed With Distinction In Mind It’s graceful presence combined with thoughtful design, hand crafted quality and a stunning mountain vista create an atmosphere of peace and tranquility one can rarely find in a home today. Type: Single Family Home Location: Chalet Village Price: $637,000 Get more information >

 

Busy Location for Office/Residential! Great, busy location ideal for commercial office site. Has a separate entrance for lower level so could be used for two businesses or in-law quarters if used for residential. Type: Office Location: Sevierville,TN Price: $279,900 Get more information >

 

 

 

 

Immerse Yourself In The Beauty Of The Great Smoky Mountains

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is America’s most visited national park. With a strong sense of Appalachian culture, the ancient mountains, over 800 miles of trails and something for everyone in the surrounding communities it is easy to see why. Let’s explore a few of the things that this awe-inspiring region has to offer and why it is such an appealing location for your real estate purchase.

If you are looking for a place to kick back, get away from the rush of day-to-day life and get in touch with nature The Great Smoky Mountains region offers multiple opportunities. From easy walking trails to  longer back packing trips you will not run out of chances to hike and enjoy waterfalls, an abundance of wildlife and amazing mountain views. A trip to Cades Cove offers a chance to visit historic buildings and can be taken in with a walk, an auto tour, a cycling trip or even on horseback. As you are out and about expect to see elk, deer and black bear as part of your Smoky Mountain experience.

If you are looking for a more intense adventure venture to Pigeon Forge and give Dollywood’s newest roller coaster a try. As America’s first winged coaster it is sure to get the adrenaline going. Want something more hands on? There are a multitude of options for a day spent whitewater rafting, flying through the sky on one of the local zipline tours or even indoor skydiving.

As the gateway community to The Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg is a picturesque traditional mountain town. With bits of nature and history at every turn it is easy to lose yourself in the local mountain heritage. With a stroll down the gorgeous streets you can encounter pieces of history, street performances and a wide variety of shopping opportunities.

With the quiet beauty and many entertainment options of the area there is no question why this has become a top tourist destination. Add this to a recently improving housing market and it equals a great location for anyone considering a real estate purchase. It is the perfect choice of locations whether you are looking for a vacation home, a money-making investment or a special place for retirement. Take a look at all of the available homes by visiting our website.   

Here Are A Few Of My Featured Listings:

A True Mountain Retreat This Smoky Mountain chalet is just minutes to Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort. Main level master bedroom features private bath & deck access. Type: Single Family Home Location: Chalet Village Price: $189,900 Get more information >

 

Smoky Mountain Dream Come True Produced $24,329 in rental income for 2011! This is what Smoky Mountain dreams are made of, the perfect mountain get-away that combines the best features the area has to offer. Type: Single Family Home Location: Gatlinburg, Tennessee Price: $259,900 Get more information >

 

High on a Ridge outside of Gatlinburg Log cabin high on a ridge with spectacular views of the Smokies. Excellent location- only 5 mins to Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge. Cozy log construction. Type: Single Family Home Location: Gatlinburg, Tennessee Price: $129,900 Get more information >

 

 

 

A Step Back In Time At Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales

Gatlinburg’s seventh annual Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales begins on June 15th and goes on through August 11th. This summer long event features musical performances, storytelling and artisans portraying characters from the 1800’s forward. It is an interactive event that is educational and fun for the whole family. As you walk through downtown Gatlinburg after 6:00 PM you will be drawn in to as many as 12 nightly acts along the streets of Gatlinburg.

Enjoy many acts including clogging groups that will perform seven nights a week for the duration of the event. Musical performances will include the older Appalachian sounds of acts like Rattlesnake Holler & the Whiskey Bent Valley Boys to traditional bluegrass of Flicker Tail Holler and the Holloway Sisters.

You will be able to take advantage of educational opportunities such as how mountain and lap dulcimers and gourd banjos are made by local craftsmen like Denton Bragg and Mark Edelman. You can even learn a few fun moves and steps from the Back Porch Cloggers. Appalachian characters like Miss Nan and Quiltin’ Annie also teach the young and old about their old-time Smoky Mountain ways. After enjoying music and learning about a few Smoky Mountain trades, you can settle in and enjoy stories of the Great Smoky Mountains from characters like Ol’ Rowdy and Whitlin’ Joe.

Gatlinburg is truly a unique mountain town rich with Appalachian history and unique events. Special Events Manager, George Hawkins, said of Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales, “Our intent is to take what we feel is one of Gatlinburg’s greatest assets – the walkability of the community – and provide something that is fun and somewhat different than what most places are doing.”

With these types of events throughout the year in a unique town like Gatlinburg it is no wonder that this is such a top vacation destination. Gatlinburg is not only a great place to visit but also a unique and charming place to live sitting against the wonders of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The real estate market is moving, there is plenty of inventory to choose from and we believe Gatlinburg is a great choice of locations to consider for purchasing a second home or investment. You can see the wide variety of choices the area has to offer by visiting our website and browsing available homes for sale. It is a great time to plan a visit, enjoy an evening stroll through Gatlinburg to enjoy the performances of Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales and schedule a time to visit a few homes in the mountains.

Here Are A Few Of My Featured Listings:

View City Lights Against The Mountains Absolutely amazing views of downtown Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Incredible close up night lights view, you can actually see people on the sidewalks with a dramatic mountain backdrop. Type: Single Family Home Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee Price: $359,900 Get more information >

 

Close Up City & Mountain Views Over $40,000 rental income for 2010 & 2011! This is designed to be a year around home or an income producing rental. Type: Single Family Home Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee Price: $459,900 Get more information >

 

Your Key To Prestigious Riversong Own this lot in a premium neighborhood for 25 cents on the dollar! Over an acre with Mountain Views, river access and more! Type: Land Location: Pittman Center Price: $15,000 Get more information >

 

Nestled In The Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge Is A Great Place To Call Home

This month we would like to shine the spotlight on the quaint mountain town of Pigeon Forge. Let’s take a look at some of the history of this town and everything it has to offer to today’s home buyer.

Surrounded by the blue mist of the Great Smoky Mountains, the community of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee is filled with rivers and streams, waterfalls and native flowering plants and trees. Pigeon Forge is packed with southern hospitality and as many as 11 million tourists visit each year making the town not only one of the fastest growing tourist destinations in the southern states, but a charming real estate market with a strong economy.

Located along Highway 441 only five miles from Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge is an action-packed town nestled in the breathtaking setting of eastern Tennessee. It is a wonderful place to call home, or to invest in a home away from home. Some of the more popular attractions in Pigeon Forge are the Dollywood theme park and water park, golf courses with rolling hills, tubing, hiking, backpacking, camping, horseback riding and helicopter rides over the misty blue mountains. Follow any of these activities with dinner at one of many diverse restaurants offering cuisines to inspire all tastes.

Ultimately, the greatest appeal of Pigeon Forge is the natural surroundings that boast four distinct and mild seasons to satisfy the lifestyles of all residents and visitors alike. If the never-ending recreational opportunities of this outdoor mecca do not inspire homebuyers, perhaps they will be by the distinction given by Southern Living Magazine Readers™ Choice Award in 1996 as being the shopping paradise of the south, with unlimited outlet malls and retail shops, surrounded by a thriving real estate market.

One of the earliest settlers to the Little Pigeon River in the Sevier County region was a man named Richard Fanshiers, and the town held his name, Fanshiers, until the early 1800s. Along the beautiful river that flowed through the land grew beech trees and the beech nuts feed the now extinct species of Passenger Pigeons that flocked to the river. In 1820, Isaac Love built an iron forge along the river, and in 1841 a post office was established under the name of Pigeon Forge. In 1885, a mill was built in the location and is still in operation today, using the same machinery. The mill is a National Historic Landmark and a proud part of the history of Pigeon Forge.

In 1946, changing the face of history, an old tobacco barn was sold and became Pigeon Forge Pottery. This sale officially marked the first tourism-related business in the region and the beginning of what would transform cornfields into tourist attractions to create the backbone of the local economy. This once sleepy mountain community is now a bustling real estate market in Pigeon Forge offering single family homes, cozy or resort style log cabin homes with stunning mountain vistas, gated communities, condos and townhomes, golf course homes and large estate homes. Sevier County is proud of its low crime rate, exceptional educational systems and healthcare, along with a booming work environment.

The small town atmosphere of Pigeon Forge, filled with genuine southern charm and hospitality, is one of the other many reasons to call this community home. Homes for sale in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee are reasonably priced and exceptional in value. Buyers looking to relocate or invest in a second home, will find the real estate market in Pigeon Forge to be varied in styles and amenities, offering mountain charm and modern conveniences, surrounded by the tranquility and hanging blue mist of the Great Smoky Mountains.

With something for everyone, why not take a look at all the real estate choices Pigeon Forge has to offer. You can start by browsing available homes at our website.

Here Are A Few Of My Featured Pigeon Forge Listings:

Private Log Cabin In The Mountains Did over $20K in rental income in just six months of 2011! This is a really fantastic log cabin. Huge rooms, great lay out, high ceilings and all wood interior. Type: Single Family Home Location: Pigeon Forge Price: $275,000 Get more information >

 

Enjoy A Mountain Sunset From Here Incredible large diameter log construction creates a special, solid, and timeless appeal. Type: Single Family Home Location: Pigeon Forge Price: $450,000 Get more information >

 

Smoky Mountain Money Maker Smoky Mountain money maker did over $26,000 in rental income for both 2010 & 2011. Nestled in a resort like neighborhood this large cabin is filled with amenities & is close to Dollywood. Type: Single Family Home Location: Pigeon Forge Price: $179,900 Get more information >