Beyond Blessed

100 years ago today, important steps were taken toward creating Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

While the Smokies weren't officially established until 1934, it was on May 22, 1926, that President Calvin Coolidge signed the bill authorizing its creation.

Whether you come to the Smokies to hike the 848 miles of trails, drive the eight scenic auto tours, discover the 22,000+ documented species, or learn about the region's rich cultural history, thank you for being part of the Smokies story. Your love for this place helps us protect Great Smoky Mountains National Park for the next 100 years and beyond.

Heading to the Smokies? Don’t forget your parking tag 👀🏔️🚗

If you’re parking for more than 15 minutes inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you’ll need a valid parking pass.

You can grab one at spots like:
📍 Sugarlands Visitor Center
📍 Cades Cove Visitor Center
📍 Kuwohi Parking Area (formerly known as Clingmans Dome)
📍 Newfound Gap Overlook kiosk
📍 Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area kiosk

Or purchase one online before your trip.

🎟️ Daily: $5
🎟️ Weekly: $15
🎟️ Annual: $40

The fees help support and preserve the park so we can all keep enjoying these views for years to come 🌲

https://www.pigeonforge.com/park-it-forward/

CADES COVE TIMING: check timing, parking, crowds, routes, and practical local notes before you go.

A beautiful time to be at beyond blessed! As long as you don’t have a problem, staying at the cabin and not driving. 

Absolutely beautiful! ❤️ but cold

Here are a few fun, new places to check out.

7 Local Secrets in Gatlinburg That Most Tourists Miss

You’ve walked the Parkway. You’ve ridden the chairlift. Maybe you’ve even sampled the moonshine.

But did you know that just a few blocks or bends off the main drag, there’s a whole other side to Gatlinburg—one that most tourists never experience?

We’re talking quiet nature escapes, hidden historic sites, and hole-in-the-wall favorites that even some regulars haven’t stumbled into yet. These are the places where the crowds thin, the locals smile, and the memories hit a little deeper.

Here’s a sneak peek of what’s waiting for you:

Emerts Cove Covered Bridge – A peaceful photo op tucked away near the edge of town.

Twin Creeks Trail – A quiet, forested escape just minutes from downtown.

Mynatt Park – Bring a picnic, skip the traffic. Locals love it for a reason.

Glades Road Arts & Crafts Community – 8 miles of Appalachian artistry, away from the noise.

Roaring Fork’s Hidden Cabins – Most drive past without realizing what they’re missing.

The overlook locals go to for sunrise (hint: it’s not the Space Needle).

The shortcut road that saves you 20 minutes—and offers better views, too.

This is the real Gatlinburg—the one you only find when you step off the sidewalk and into the stories.

Want the full list, location tips, and how to enjoy them like a local (without the crowds)?

It’s all waiting in the first comment.