Nance’s Creek Front Restaurant

Nance’s is known for their Local Oyster Roasts. Although seasonal, this is one of the favorites for locals and visitors alike. Clusters of oysters are served and guest open the shells and enjoy the savory flavor of the local oysters.

The creek front view actually shows where the local oysters are harvested and the restaurant participates in recycling oyster shells to provide new habitats for oysters to create new clusters in the creek beds.

Other Seafood and Steaks

The restaurant also serves delicious seafood offerings including crab legs, clams, shrimp, and lobster. Many of the specials offered include a variety of seafood and can be prepared several ways including deep fried or broiled.

The Inlet Shore Dinner includes a Shrimp Cocktail, Clam Chowder, and a side salad for starters. The shrimp cocktail was extremely fresh and delicious leaving you to want more.

Nance’s also offers a variety of steaks including a Filet Mignon, Ribeye steak or New York Strip along with a few chicken entrées.

Saving Money at Nance’s

The best way to save money at many of the restaurants in the area is to dine early. Nance’s offers a buy 1 adult entre get the second half off when you arrive before 5 pm.  A child’s menu is also offered and reduces the overall cost of the meal when you have little ones with you.

Fully Licensed Bar

Nance’s boast large flat screen televisions for view favorite sporting events. “If there is a ball game or race happening we have it playing in our bar,” (Nance’s, 2011). The full Sunday liquor license allows drinks to be served 7 days a week and the bar is stocked with plenty of variety to suite any customer’s needs.

Creek Side View

The entire back of the restaurant is fitted with large windows for optimal viewing of the creek. Waterfowl and other wildlife can be seen as you enjoy your meal. Seating is plentiful and the establishment can accommodate large groups for seating.

Finding a restaurant while traveling is a difficult task, but Nance’s is a favorite for locals and tourist alike. Have you been to Nance’s? Feel free to post comments about your experiences below.

Dantanna’s Downtown Location

Dantanna’s Downtown is located at One CNN Center, Suite 269, Atlanta, GA. Or if you want to put it in your GPS it is 190 Marietta St. NW #1, Atlanta, GA. The restaurant is a short walk from many of the downtown attractions and provides a great before and after game experience.

Dantanna’s Menu

The restaurant boast high quality in all dishes prepared by the expert kitchen staff and nothing we tried was below that standard. Many of the items on the menu include aged steaks and chops, fish, gourmet burgers, sandwiches, soups and salads.

Although the menu changes to accommodate seasonal flavors, many of the main dishes remain the same.  The restaurant also provides challenges such as The Longest Yard (a 3 foot long Boar’s Head hot dog) during football season.

“All American” Wine List and Beers

Dantanna’s is a great place to unwind or to gear up for the game. The restaurant’s wine list features more than 100 selections with 50 available by the glass. Choose from your favorites from Blackstone to Silver Oak. All wines featured are from wine regions in the United States.

Dantanna’s also provides an extensive list of beers available to customers–50 to be exact. Customers can enjoy draft beer or bottled beer; domestic or imports from Budweiser to  Aspell Organic Cider.

Dining Areas at Dantanna’s

Guest can dine indoors or on the patios. Each area offers a unique feel in a comfortable setting. Flat screen televisions with DirectTV allow customers access to pregame shows, games, and other venues. Wine lockers and dinning at the bar along with carry out options help to provide people on the go or frequent guest to enjoy their time at Dantanna’s.

The Longest Yard

During football season the restaurant offers an eating challenge called “The Longest Yard”. This Falcons Game Day Special is “three feet of all-beef, locally made hot dog on an extra long bun; topped with your choice of: all beef chili, shredded cheddar cheese, and sauerkraut” served with fries.  This is one I don’t think even Adam Richman could finish (Man v. Food on the Travel Channel). Adam, are you up for the challenge?

Finding a restaurant worth trying is a difficult task. Being satisfied with the quality may be even more difficult. With Dantanna’s you can rest easy that you will receive great food, great service, in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.

Have you been to Dantanna’s in Atlanta? What are your thoughts and recommendations? Feel free to post questions or comments below.

What to Expect from the Sky Lift

A small building in downtown Gatlinburg is the home of the Sky Lift ticket sales. Each person riding the lift must first purchase a ticket from the office. Once purchased, the ticket is good for one ride anytime during the day. Hop in line and wait your turn with your camera ready (wrist strap securely fastened) and board the lift.

The chairlift takes visitors from downtown Gatlinburg high atop Crockett Mountain (1,800 feet) proclaiming it to be “Gatlinburg’s #1 Scenic Overlook,” (Gatlinburg Sky Lift, 2011). Going up the mountain it is difficult for sightseeing since visitors face the mountain, but on the way down many photo ops await as you descend.

At the top of the lift, attendants help guest off of the chairlift where they are free to view the mountains, browse the small gift shop, or eat a snack such as ice cream or drinks that are available for purchase.

Looking south visitors can enjoy the beauty of The Great Smoky Mountains National Park with spectacular views of the forest and below at the hustle and bustle of Gatlinburg.

Tips on Taking the Sky Lift

Tip #1: Avoid long lines and wait for a less busy time of the day. If the lift is crowded then the viewing platform will also be crowded. It is not as spacious up on the mountain as desired, so choose a good time to go so you can sit and enjoy the view.

Tip #2: For a small fee you can turn your ticket into an all day ride ticket. The lift typically opens at 9 am so you can see the low lying fog in the valleys and then return later in the day to see the mountains, and then again at night to see Gatlinburg all lit up nestled in the valley of the mountains.

Tip #3: Ask about discounts such as military or veteran and look for discount coupons in local coupon books before going. Group rate are available for groups of 15 or more people. Saving money is always a great option.

Tip #4: Don’t forget to pack your camera and binoculars to use while on the viewing platform. Just keep them secured while on the chairlift!

Tip #5: Near the top of the lift, smile for the camera. Yes, the company offers souvenir photos while you are riding the Sky Lift. Don’t forget to view the picture before heading down the mountain–it may be one you can’t live without.

Taking the Sky Lift to the top of Crockett Mountain will provide a lasting memory and beautiful sights of The Great Smoky Mountains.

Feel free to share your tips and advice about visiting Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, or The Great Smoky Mountain National Park below. We would love to hear about your vacation experiences.

Chicago is known for many things including Chicago style pizza. A great pizzeria in the Chicago area is Lou Malnati’s (1120 North State Street, Chicago, IL 60610). It is considered “the oldest family name in Chicago pizza” when Lou Malnati started his own restaurant in 1971 in Lincolnwood after being in the business for over twenty years. From there the operations expanded throughout the Chicago area and now there are 33 locations. The following will provide a brief overview of the experience you can expect when you visit one of the many Lou Malnati’s locations.

Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria

One thing you will find at all Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria locations is quality and good food. Many people consider it to be the “BEST Chicago-style deep dish pizza in the world!” (Lou’s News, 2011)  The pizza crust is a “secret recipe” originating from Grandpa Malnati during the 1940′s. This one of a kind taste combined with house recipe sausage and hand selected tomatoes for a perfect sauce, combine to make the best Chicago-style deep dish pizza around.

Making the Pizza

As with any Chicago-style pizza, the toppings are placed backwards from traditional pizza. The cheese is placed on the bare curst, then the toppings such as mushrooms, sausage, or pepperoni, and finally the tomato sauce made from pear and plum tomatoes. To round out the taste combination a thin layer of cheese and spices are added to complete the pizza. You will need to use a fork and knife to enjoy this pizza.

Making the Sauce

Each year a team from Malnati’s travels to California to meet with the growers of the tomatoes used to make the pizza sauce. Specific tomatoes are used and quality guidelines are implemented to ensure only the best tasting tomatoes make it into the Malnati’s pizza sauce.

Pizzeria Atmosphere

Many people are sure to agree that the atmosphere at each of the Lou Malnati’s 33 Pizzeria locations is a welcome home attitude with smiling faces and delicious aromas in the air. As you walk through the door you are greeted by a host and seated at a table. From there the server takes your order, answers any questions you may have, and provides you with top- quality service throughout your meal.

Menu Options

Items are often made in-house and you can taste the difference, from the breads to the Pizza. Lou Malnati’s offers appetizers such as Lou’s Bruschetta served on homemade toasted garlic rounds, fresh, crisp salads such as the Malnati Salad served with a house red wine vinaigrette, and Pizza such as the “Lou” with fresh spinach, mushrooms and sliced tomatoes.

The menu also includes thin crust pizza, pasta, and sandwiches such as the Beef Sandwich using Malnati’s own slow roasted beef, melted mozzarella cheese and served with curly fries.

Taking the time to visit one of the 33 Lou Malnati’s locations when visiting Chicago will add pleasure to any trip even if your simply in the city on business. Have you had the opportunity to try Lou Malnati’s? What is your take on the “Best Chicago-style, deep dish pizza?” Feel free to ask questions or leave a comment below. Our readers would enjoy your feedback.

Crabby Mike’s All-You-Can-Eat Buffet

Crabby Mike’s is an all-you-can-eat seafood buffet offering a wide variety of choices (over 120 items on the buffet) including crab legs. The seafood comes carefully prepared in many ways to included broiled, steamed, fried, baked and boiled. Since there are many different offerings anyone can find something they enjoy eating.

Many of the items on the buffet are not seafood. These items include tasty fried chicken, slow roasted prime rib, baked spaghetti, spinach lasagna, ravioli, pizza, chicken Alfredo, baked honey ham, and a great variety of vegetables including potatoes, peas, carrots, sautéed mushrooms, sweet potato casserole and more.

The buffet also includes four types of soups: Baked Potato, Crabby Mike’s Crab soup, New England Clam Chowder, and Seafood Gumbo. The rich soups are a great addition to any meal at Crabby Mike’s.

Salad, fresh fruit, and a dessert bar are also included in the buffet. The salad bar has crispy greens, fresh vegetables, pasta, chicken, and tuna salads, along with cottage cheese, pickles and more. The fruit on the bar are seasonal items such as strawberries, melon, or oranges and the desserts vary from cobblers to cookies and soft serve ice cream.

What to Expect at Crabby Mike’s: Decor and Friendly Atmosphere

The restaurant provides a down home feel with huge fish hanging from the ceiling, boats, and dock side views. Many colors abound around the ceiling and on the walls depicting crabs, fish, and other sea life creating a fun atmosphere for the whole family.

The table staff was friendly and ready to help with any needs of the guest. Seating can accommodate large parties or small gatherings and provides adequate room for children to move around.

Comfortable clothing is a must when you visit Crabby Mike’s. Come prepared to enjoy delicious food, relaxing atmosphere and creative decor as you dine at Crabby Mike’s.

How to Save a Few Dollars

As with other buffets such as Capt George’s Seafood Buffet, Crabby Mike’s offers online coupons and coupons in the local savings books. The internet coupon can be printed in black and white and offers two or three dollars off each adult buffet for dinners arriving before 5 pm.

Crabby Mike’s is a nice seafood buffet to visit while in the Carolinas and would enhance any trip to the East Coast. Take your time and plan for a few hours of dining.

Do you have any Crabby Mike memories to share? What were your thoughts on the restaurant, food quality and service? Feel free to share with our readers.

Driving through southern Pennsylvania will take travelers through the Allegheny Mountains, near Pittsburgh and through many state parks. The countryside is beautiful and many small towns invite travelers to visit and stay awhile. Just off the beaten path on SR-40 is the Forbes State Forest. This area is home to various wildlife and beautiful mountains in the Allegheny Mountains. It is also home to Laurel Caverns.

Finding Laurel Caverns

Traveling to Laurel Caverns is an adventure in itself. The small road leading up to the state forest is paved, but unlined. Trees line each side of the road and taking it from the North (coming from Uniontown) the road starts with a huge incline sure to create problems in the winter. The caverns are open from May 1st through the end of October and open for holidays and weekends in April and November.

The drive up the mountain is calm and beautiful. On the right side of the road very little is present other than the young deciduous forest with a thick ground covering of ferns.  A few residents can be seen on the left side of the road, although sparsely spaced along the way.

Once travelers reach the Laurel Caverns turn off the road is gradually declining. The turn off is clearly marked with a large sign. This is helpful because GPS systems rarely indicate the correct spot to turn to reach caverns.

The road leads to the picnic shelter where parking is available and then continues on turning back to the left to the parking area near the visitor center. The visitor center houses the entrance to the caverns, the restrooms, gift shop, and miniature golf course.

Access to a balcony is in the rear of the building. Visitors are welcomed by scenic view of the mountains and on a clear day Pittsburgh can be seen in the distance.

Laurel Caverns

Tickets are required to tour the caverns and can be purchased at the front counter in the gift shop. Tours leave every 20 minutes or as needed. The guided Family tour last about 60 minutes with a brief history of the caverns, how the caverns were formed, and other interesting information provided along the way.

Be sure to stay with your group and wear quality shoes for the tour such as gym shoes or hiking boots. Steep declines, wooden stairs, and wet areas make the tour treacherous for some. If you need assistance, walking devices can be borrowed from the establishment. A cane or walker may help those who are unsteady on uneven surfaces.

The caverns were formed when the crust of the earth was forced upward millions of years ago and as the layers of Earth descended forming mountains the empty space beneath created the caverns.

The rock is limestone and sandstone combinations. Since the caverns are not formed like other caves such as the Tuckaleechee Caverns in Tennessee, there are very few cave formations. Only a few stalactites exist in a small area of the cave.  Most of the area is covered with a fine sandy layer covering visitors’ shoes as they tour the caverns.

The cave walls are not “living” and therefore visitors can touch the walls without harming the caverns. Historical evidence show the caverns were visited or used for centuries to include Native American artifacts, wall carvings of initials and dates, and other items used in the early part of the 18th century during the colonization of America and the establishment of the United States.

The caverns are only affected slightly by ground water filtering through the layers of rock and soil above. There isn’t a natural stream or water source running through the caverns, although a small pool of water can be seen in the initial stages of the tour. It takes about 2 hours for the water to seep through the ground and reach the caverns after a hard rain or when the snow is melting.

Longer Spelunking Adventures

Longer tours are offered at Laurel Caverns to explore deeper into the caverns. These tours last about 3 hours and are not included in the Family tour. Personal equipment is needed such as gloves and flashlights, but hardhats are provided.

This tour provides a look at the caverns in a more natural state with small spaces and true darkness for adventurers. The paths are not paved or constructed as they are for the Family tour and better physical condition is expected to take this tour.

Boy Scout Adventures

Laurel Caverns is home to many local Boy Scout adventures to include Rock Climbing, Rappelling, and camping. Boy Scouts can earn badges and learn new skills. For more information contact the director at Laurel Caverns.

Places for Picnicking

With a beautiful view and fresh mountain air, Laurel Caverns makes a great place for a mid-day stop. Many school groups and travelers use the covered picnic area to enjoy the day. You can also sit on some of the grassy area to enjoy the view of the mountains before or after your tour of the caverns.

The gift shop provides a few snacks and drinks, but it is recommended packing your lunch before you arrive. Trinkets, artifacts, and other items are on sale and display in the gift shop.

Taking the time to visit Laurel Caverns in south eastern Pennsylvania can provide a lasting memory of a small adventure under the surface of the Earth. Whether it is your destination or if you are simply passing by, Laurel Caverns is a pleasant experience and one your sure to enjoy.

Have you been in Laurel Caverns? What are your recommendations to future visitors? Feel free to post questions or comments below.

The United States Department of Labor says “Labor Day…is a creation of the labor movement…[and] constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country,” (DOL History of Labor Day, 2011)  Many cities throw parties and celebrations for people along with private parties by local citizens. Federal employees are given the first Monday in September off as Labor Day and many private business, doctors, and dentist also close allowing employees time to celebrate and enjoy.

For many, Labor Day is the unofficial end to summer. Children are back in school, local outdoor pools close, and other recreational activities are ended. Getting together with friends, family members, and coworkers is a great way of enjoying the weekend. The following will provide a great idea if you are visiting Cincinnati, Ohio over the Labor Day weekend.

Labor Day in Cincinnati

One of the largest firework displays in the Midwest happens along the banks of the Ohio River between Cincinnati, Ohio and Newport, Kentucky on Sunday before Labor Day Monday. For over 30 years WEBN has teamed up with Rozzi’s Famous Fireworks, other sponsors such as Cincinnati Bell and Toyota, and the cities along the banks of the river to produce a free display topping off a day long party at Sawyer Point in Cincinnati, Ohio called Riverfest. The party starts at 12 noon on Sunday before Labor Day and the fireworks are scheduled for 9:05 pm. Rozzi’s shoots fabulous fireworks from barges on the river and from the bridges connecting Ohio and Kentucky.

Tips on Attending Riverfest and the WEBN Fireworks

Tip 1: Plan for the banks of the river to be crowded. The event draws at least a half a million people on each side of the river. This means lots of people and lots of traffic.

Tip 2: Arrive early. Arriving early will help eliminate problems with traffic, finding a parking place, and help to avoid any road closures/rerouting that occurs to control traffic during the event.

Tip 3: Have a meeting place if your group becomes separated. Cell phones are often unable to work because the network is busy. With a million people in one location this is bound to happen.

Tip 4: Bring things to do: cards, Frisbees, and other games. This will help the day go by more quickly.

Tip 5: Bring a radio. WEBN, the local radio station that sponsors the show, plays a coordinated musical accompaniment as the fireworks go off. The more radios in the crowd the better.

Tip 6: Leave your alcoholic beverages at home. Both sides of the river are alcohol free events to support a family atmosphere. You may be escorted off the banks of the river or sited for public intoxication if you are caught drinking.

Tip 7: Have everything you need with you by about 3 pm. Access to your vehicle may be cut off based on closures of certain access points to the river banks until after the show. This helps to maintain the flow of people.

Tip 8: Be prepared to leave late. Everyone tries to rush out to beat the crowd, but if you have small children or older adults it may be best to take your time to get to your vehicle. You can avoid wasting gas while sitting in traffic by letting the crowd clear before you make your attempt. Drive safe.

Tip 9: Carry an umbrella if you are sitting on the riverbank all day. This can help with the heat of the sun or protect you in the event of a summer rain.

Tip 10: Finally, have fun. People break rules, a few may act obnoxious, but for the most part people attend the event with happy intentions. Don’t cause trouble by moving someone’s tarp or blanket and be respectful of others around you.

What to Expect

Various food venders, live entertainment, and novelty booths are set up for people similar to a large festival. Skyline Chili, Papa John’s pizza, BBQ, Coca-Cola and Pepsi booths, funnel cakes, shaved ice, and more are available for purchase on both sides of the river. Commemorative t-shirts are for sale along with Mardi-Gras beads, face painting, and night time novelties such as glow sticks.
Expect a friendly atmosphere where people have come to enjoy the last big weekend of the summer. Many people there consider it a tradition and attend the fireworks annually. Families and friends gather together to party all day.

Attending the P&G Riverfest (Cincinnati side) or the Party at Newport (Kentucky side) are both exciting and fun. There is no smoking on the Serpentine Wall in Cincinnati and as mentioned, no alcohol is permitted on either side of the river. Plan to spend the day in Cincinnati or Newport and enjoy one of the most memorable fireworks displays you can witness.

What are your favorite memories of the WEBN fireworks? Do you have any attendance tips for someone visiting from out of town or attending for the first time? Feel free to make comments below.

Tuckaleechee Caverns Townsend, TN

The Tuckaleechee Caverns are less than an hour drive from Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg, Tennessee. The historical significance of the caves dates back to a time when Cherokee Indians used the caverns in the 1800′s. The discovery of the caverns my early settlers was not until the middle of the 19th century.

The naturally cool air in the caverns makes this a great summertime destination when visiting the Smoky Mountains. The cavern air is around 58 degree year round.

A stream flows through the entire length of the cavern and is feed by local rain waters. The water is filtered by the ground as it makes its way to the depths of the cavern and provides a crystal clear stream for visitors to see.

The only changes to the caverns are the area near the entrance and the pathways leading around for visitors to witness firsthand the great awesomeness found only under the mountains. The caverns are estimated between 20 and 30 million years old and are filled with cave formations such as stalagmites, stalactites, chandlers, and columns all made out of cave onyx.

Tips on Touring Tuckaleechee Caverns

Tip #1: Take a jacket or light sweater. Even though you may be visiting in the middle of a very hot summer, a light jacket will come in handy on the tour. The caverns can feel quite cool on the hour long tours.

Tip #2: Bring your own flashlight (Mini Maglights brand flashlights work the best). Although not a necessity as the walkways are well lit and the tour guide uses a flashlight to point out cave structures, it is fun to have your own. You can explore crevices and darker areas of the cave along the tour and may even catch a glimpse of a rare guest such as a bat, frog, or spider.

Tip #3: Call ahead to ensure the caverns are open. Seasonal variations in weather may cause the cavern tours to be suspended. (865) 448 -2274. Typically the caverns are open 7 days a week from 10:00 am until 6:00 pm.

Tip #4: Arrive early. Smaller groups will be on the tours early in the day. This will make asking questions easier and tours more private as you explore “The Greatest Sight Under the Smokies”.

Tip #5: Were comfortable shoes such as hiking boots or gym shoes. The floor of the caverns can get slippery when wet. Wearing flip-flops or high heels are not the best choices of footwear.

Discount Coupons

Check at restaurants or hotels for discount coupons and brochure packets advertising Tuckaleechee Caverns. You can save a few dollars for each person taking a tour with coupons for Tuckaleechee Caverns. Even if you don’t find coupons it is still worth the trip to see this beautiful natural formation.

Taking time to visit the Tuckaleechee Caverns in Townsend, Tennessee as part of a family vacation to the Smoky Mountains will add adventure and excitement to any trip. Plan a day around the caverns by packing a picnic lunch or planning on stopping by a roadside BBQ on your way back to Pigeon Forge.

Have you toured the Tuckaleechee Caverns? How was your experience and do you have any tips to share? Please feel free to post questions or comments.

What to Expect from the Smoking Pig

At first impression the roadside stand has little to desire and many passersby may not give it a chance. At closer look the stand is a farmers market selling jams, jellies, pickles, breads, sauces, fruits, vegetables, and boiled peanuts and should not be overlooked.

The Smoking Pig is a small building to the left of the main parking area where a smoker sits out front pumping the sweet smell of barbeque cooking over hickory coals in the air. A picnic area is provided with limited shade, but provides a respite for weary hikers looking for a bite to eat.

The menu is more varied than expected from such a small establishment. Menu items include pulled pork, sausage, chili dogs, beef brisket, ribs, homemade potato salad, coleslaw, bean salad, cucumber salad, corn-on-the cob, chips, homemade ice cream, homemade fried apple pies, and apple cobbler. The menu also changes with the season providing seasonal favorites such as fried green tomatoes and okra along with other delectable items such as kettle corn.

To quench your thirst the stand offers fresh squeezed lemonade, ice cold water, and a variety of sodas.

Taking a Picnic: Pack the Smoking Pig

If you are heading to Cades Cove in The Great Smoky Mountains National Park from the south, be sure to stop in Wears Valley to fill up your gas tank (fuel stations are not available in Cades Cove) and pick up a picnic lunch from the Smoking Pig.

The roadside stand provides a ready to go picnic for 2 or a picnic for 4 including ribs, pulled pork, bread, and sides.

The food was good and is often quoted as being “the best BBQ in the Smokies.” The sauce on the ribs is a sweet tangy BBQ and the pulled pork was tender and had very little fat.  The brisket was a top choice and the sides had unique flavors. The potato salad was homemade and had a hint of dill mixed in with the mustard/mayonnaise dressing. The beans included peppers, bits of brisket and bacon cooked together to provide a unique twist on this common side dish.

Festivals at the Smoking Pig

Seasonal festivals are hosted at the Smoking Pig to include a Flower Festival (April & May), Independence Day Festival (July), Pumpkin Festival (October), Christmas Tree sales (late November-December), and the Neighborhood BBQ (daily). The location is a perfect backdrop to enjoy the mountains and some great local flavor.

If you’re driving on US-321 from Pigeon Forge to Townsend and looking for a great place to eat, the Smoking Pig Bar-B-Que is the place to go.

Have you eaten at the Smoking Pig? What are your thoughts or recommendations? Feel free to comment and let our readers know your opinion of this roadside barbeque and produce barn.

Waterfall Sightseeing

Many of the trails in the park lead to summits, camping areas, or other natural formations, but adding a waterfall as the destination can entice even young hikers to take on a challenge. Eleven trails lead to waterfalls in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (distance roundtrip, difficulty level): Abrams Falls (5 miles, moderate), Grotto Falls (3 miles, moderate), Hen Wallow Falls (4.4 miles, moderate), Indian Creek Falls and Tom Brach Falls (1.6 miles, easy for both), Juney Whank Falls (0.8 miles moderate), Laurel Falls (2.6 miles moderate, but paved), Mingo Falls (0.4 miles, moderate), Mouse Creek Falls (4 miles, moderate), Rainbow Falls (5.4 miles, moderate), and Ramsey Cascades (8 miles, strenuous). Each trail is given a difficulty level rating of easy, moderate, or strenuous, but personal physical condition will determine the true difficulty rating. Be sure to play it safe when hiking in the woods or in remote locations and follow all park safety guidelines to avoid injury or death.

Rainbow Falls

Each waterfall has its own unique characteristics. Rainbow Falls Trail leads to an 80-foot high waterfall that has a rainbow over it appearing on sunny days. The rainbow is formed when mist from the falls hits the sunlight and refracts it creating the rainbow.

The trail is considered moderate, but it is advisable to pack a light weight jacket, water, and snacks. The chance for rain during many parts of the year is extremely high, so be prepared.

The trail leads up the mountain and gains about 1,500 feet in elevation. Taking small breaks will help less adapt hikers acclimate to the atmospheric changes with the increase in the elevation. Many scenic areas make great spots to rest. The falls creek is visible for much of the hike an provides a peaceful setting for bird watching, picnicking, or wildlife viewing. Please remember to pack out what you pack in to include candy wrappers, beverage containers, and cigarette butts.

Rainbow Falls Trailhead

Visitors to The Great Smoky Mountains National Park can pick up trail maps at the Surgarlands visitor center.

The trailhead for Rainbow Falls can be accessed from “the parkway in Gatlinburg, turn at traffic light #8 and follow Historic Nature Trail into Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Continue past the Noah “Bud” Ogle home site to the clearly signed Rainbow Falls parking area,” (GSMNP Waterfalls, 2011).

Recommendations for Hiking Rainbow Falls

This trail is accessible in early spring through late autumn and is even open during the winter months. Be sure to understand the different risk at various times of year and be prepared when on the trails. Over 1500 bears live in the state park along with other wildlife. Precaution should be used if wildlife is spotted while hiking. Carrying a small pack with basic essentials such as water, medical supplies, extra clothing, and food is advisable even for day hikes. Stay on marked trails and keep a trail map and compass with you to guide you as you hike. Also plan to carry two flashlights or headlamps in-case darkness falls before you get off the trail. Plan accordingly and follow weather advisories for the park. Weather can be drastically different from the trail head to the falls and temperatures can rise and fall with the elevation. Be prepared and have fun.

Hiking to Rainbow Falls in The Great Smoky Mountains National Park was exciting and fun. The time spent with family or friends will build many lasting memories and provide natural experiences in this ever changing world. Enjoy!