Gatlinburg

Over 10,000 acres of wilderness and home to more species of flora than anywhere in North America, the Great Smoky mountain national park is the #1 visited park in the USA.  Elk Springs Resort borders the foothills parkway section of the park and is only 5 minutes to the Greenbrier entrance, the Little Pigeon River and only 10-15 minutes from the main entrance and Sugarland Visitors center.

Elk Springs Resort is located at the edge of the Arts and Crafts Community which is comprised of over 100 artisans actively practicing their talents and trades.  It's how downtown Gatlinburg gained it's popularity and as the town grew these artisans migrated their shops to the famous "Artists Loop".  There are many shops and Cafe`s to explore and enjoy from pottery, to wood carvers to glass blowers.

Many outfitters can accommodate varying skill levels of rafters with rapids ranging from class I to class IV. For those looking for a smooth glide down the stream several tubing companies are close by to provide the equipment and transportation.

The hottest trend in outdoor adventure activities - try zip lining at 200 feet from tree to tree while experiencing and enjoying the Great Smoky Mountains.  Rated the number 1 attraction in Gatlinburg, the Climbworks Canopy tour and zip lines are only 15 minutes from Elk Springs Resort.

Many outfitters feature horseback riding across varying terrain within minutes of the Resort and most are suitable for all ages.  Looking to Hike as opposed to ride?  Numerous hiking trails are within minutes of Elk Springs Resort and most are within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.  Whether you want to ascent Mt. LeConte or walk on a leisurely paved trail there are many options.  Be sure to check out one of the many waterfall hikes!

Pigeon Forge is the home to Dolly Parton's famous Dollywood.  Carved into a valley it's a major amusement park featuring the world's number 1 ranked wood roller coaster as well as many other theme rides; the park also features many country music venues and traveling entertainers. Adjoining Dollywood is "Splash Country" which is Dollywood's 30 Acre water park.  Both parks are only 15 minutes from Elk Springs.

With miles of rivers and streams located inside and outside of the national park there are many fishing options depending on the season.  With a hatchery in Gatlinburg the release program provides kids the opportunity for success off the Little Pigeon River during season.  Several fly-fishing guides and outfitters are available to assist you on your trip and a 1-3 day license is inexpensive.

Elk Springs Resort is located about 20-25 minutes from Ober Gatlinburg ski area which is accessible by car or by the aerial tramway from downtown Gatlinburg.  It's the longest tram in North America and many say worth the trip.  Ober Gatlinburg features excellent seasonal skiing, tubing and many summer activities such as go karts and an alpine slide.

Downtown Gatlinburg is certainly unique and offers visitors a chance to stroll the parkway and the many shops along the river.  Looking for big box stores?  With over 1.1 million square feet of outlet malls within 25 minutes of the resort property - if hiking isn't on your agenda for the day, shopping certainly can should!

Two championship golf courses carved through the mountains are located just 15 minutes from the resort property. Gatlinburg Golf Course and Bent Creek Golf Club each offer unique course experiences.  Be prepared to golf through valleys, the forest and to tee off from elevated tee boxes.