Smoky Mountains

gatlinburg overlook off of the gatlinburg bypass

5 New Attractions Coming to the Smokies in 2024

As the Smoky Mountains continue to allure visitors with their breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture, the Smokies (Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and Sevierville) stands out as a hub of endless adventure and discovery. In 2024, the region is set to welcome an array of new attractions, each promising unique experiences that will enchant both first-time visitors

Top Romantic Date Ideas in the Smokies

Embark on a romantic adventure in the heart of the Smokies, where the enchanting landscapes of Gatlinburg, Tennessee, beckon lovers from all corners of the world. Whether you're celebrating an anniversary, kindling a new flame, or simply seeking a memorable escape with your significant other, Gatlinburg offers a plethora of date spots that promise both romance and adventure. And for those looking to complete their visit with a stay that epitomizes comfort and convenience, look no further than Black Bear Inn & Suites.  
gatlinburg trail foot bridge

Everything You Need To Know About The Gatlinburg Trail

If you’re new to hiking or are simply looking for an easy hike to take the kids on, The Gatlinburg Trail is the best place to start! It’s a must for families, couples, or solo hiking enthusiasts– you won’t regret adding The Gatlinburg Trail to your schedule. Keep reading to learn more about this family-friendly hiking trail in the Smokies: 
clear day in the smoky mountains

Top 5 Reasons Why You’ll Love Visiting the Smoky Mountains in the Summer

When it comes to the ultimate summer vacation, there is no better destination than the Smoky Mountains! There is truly something for everyone in the Smokies, including scenic hiking opportunities, white water rafting, amusement parks, unique restaurants, and more! Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway with your sweetheart or an exciting vacation for the whole family, don’t miss out on a beautiful summer in the mountains! Here are the top 5 reasons why you’ll love visiting the Smoky Mountains in the summer: 
hyatt lane in cades cove scenic loop

A Guide to Visiting the Cades Cove Scenic Loop

It’s no wonder the Great Smoky Mountains National Park welcomes millions of visitors every year. If you’ve ever been here before, you know how captivating the area is, with sweeping mountain views, babbling brooks, and wildlife wandering through the woods. The top destination in the park is Cades Cove, and once you visit this little valley, it’s easy to see why. If you’ve never traveled this scenic drive before, we want to share the information you need to know about visiting the Cades Cove scenic loop. 
newfound gap road

4 Gatlinburg Scenic Drives You Don’t Want to Miss

When you stay with us, you’re probably looking for fun things to do that aren’t too far away. That’s why we’re recommending some Gatlinburg scenic drives you don’t want to miss experiencing! From gorgeous mountain views to unique historic spots you can explore on foot, there’s so much to see along these roads. Find out more about these scenic drives near Gatlinburg below. 
spruce flats falls in the great smoky mountains

Hidden Smoky Mountain Waterfalls You’ll Want to Find

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is full of natural wonders people from all over the world come to see. If you’ve visited before, you’ve probably seen the most popular waterfalls in the Smokies. But, some of the most interesting falls aren’t that well known, and we want to share them with you! Check out these hidden Smoky Mountain waterfalls you’ll want to find: 
Baskin Falls

Top 3 Hikes to Explore Along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

One of the most popular scenic drives in the Smoky Mountains is the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, a one way loop road that travels for 5.5 miles along one of the largest streams in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! The road offers beautiful views of the Roaring Fork stream, glimpses of an old-growth forest and the chance to see several well preserved historical structures! You’ll also want to spend some extra time stopping to visit some of the fantastic hiking trails, so be sure to explore these top 3 hikes along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail: 
elkmont troll bridge

3 Places You Need to Visit in Elkmont in the Smoky Mountains

Before the national park was established, the Great Smoky Mountains were used as a vacation spot, a place where people lived, and home to various businesses. One of the most well-known historic towns in the Smokies is Elkmont, a region in the upper Little River Valley section of the park. If you’re trying to decide where you should go within the national park, Elkmont should definitely be at the top of your list! Here are 3 places you need to visit in Elkmont in the Smoky Mountains: 
great smoky mountains national park

4 Reasons to Stop by the Sugarlands Visitor Center on Your National Park Visit

One of the huge benefits of staying at the Black Bear Inn & Suites is that our hotel is right on the doorstep to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! If you are planning to visit the park for the first time, there is no better place to start your visit than at the Sugarlands Visitor Center! This official visitor center is open daily and has all the information necessary to plan an active and fun-filled day in the park! Here are the top 4 reasons to stop by the Sugarlands Visitor Center: 
andrews bald

4 of the Best Smoky Mountain Hikes With a Mountain View

With over 800 miles of hiking trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you have plenty of trails to choose from! There are certain features you can choose from if that’s what you want to see, and we want to share some of the best Smoky Mountain hikes with a mountain view. There are other sights along the way on these trails too. Here are 4 of the best Smoky Mountain hikes with a mountain view: 
black bear

Everything You Need to Know About Smoky Mountain Animals

Everyone wants to see wildlife when they come to the Smokies and visit the national park. We want to help you learn more about these creatures so you can possibly see them when you come to the area. You’ll find out about the most common Smoky Mountain animals, where you are most likely to see them, and when you are likely to see them. Here is everything you need to know about Smoky Mountain animals: 
gatlinburg overlook

Top 5 Things You May Not Know About Gatlinburg Tennessee

Gatlinburg Tennessee is full of so much history. There are a ton of things you may not know about this popular town near the Smoky Mountains. We want to share some of those facts with you! Here are the top 5 things you may not know about Gatlinburg Tennessee: