Elk Springs Resort Blog

Gatlinburg Breakfast Guide!

Gatlinburg — Wed, 15 May 2013 17:00:58 +0000

After a restful night’s sleep, what better way to start a vacation day than with a hearty breakfast? Since you’re on vacation let someone else do the cooking for you. Pamper yourself by taking the time to enjoy a leisurely meal and think about how to spend your time relaxing and having fun in the Great Smoky Mountains.

Gatlinburg and the surrounding area have a slew of great breakfast spots, especially when it comes to pancakes; a specialty in these parts, with a pancake house around every bend.
So before you hit the trail or the outlet malls, read about these delicious breakfast options and get ready to indulge.

Log Cabin Pancake House

This is the perfect place to remedy that morning sweet tooth. Wither it’s good old fashioned pancakes or specialty French crepes, Log Cabin Pancake House’s menu features a variety of pancake combinations. From more traditional selections like chocolate chip pancakes to more exotic Caribbean pancakes with bananas and coconut, there is something for everyone here. There’s even whole wheat pancakes for those seeking a healthier option.
The menu also offers Belgian waffles of many varieties. Be adventurous and try something new, like the unique chopped ham waffle. For those people in your party that prefer a more savory morning meal, there are plenty of good old-country breakfasts, with eggs, grits, biscuits and gravy to boot.

For more information visit: www.logcabinpancakehouse.com/gatlinburg.html

Pancake Pantry

The Pancake Pantry claims to be Tennessee’s first Pancake House. With real butter, freshly whipped cream, and a made-from-scratch syrups and compotes, who is going to argue? This breakfast/brunch spot has long been a favorite of visitors to Gatlinburg. In operation since 1960, the Pancake Pantry is located in the heart of downtown Gatlinburg just adjacent to the Village Shops.

Their menu features anything from old-fashioned buttermilk pancakes to new favorites such as the Austrian-Apple Walnut stack served with an apple cider compote. This is just one of over twenty-four different pancakes verities to choose from. The restaurant also specializes in omelets and waffles. And for those choosing to dine later in the day burgers, sandwiches, soups and salads are available.

For more information visit: www.pancakepantry.com

Donut Friar

If you’re the type that prefers a light breakfast and a coffee in the am, this is your spot The Donut Friar offers the best in made from scratch donuts, cinnamon bread, and pastries daily. They open at 5 am too, for you early risers too, and beware; these are not just any donuts. They are sinfully delicious sort that will make it hard to have just one.

For more information visit: www.thevillageshops.com/donutfriar.html

Flapjack’s Pancake House

With six locations throughout the Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg area, you can’t miss this breakfast restaurant around every bend. Serving a wide range of pancake options such as local specialties like Wild Mountain Blueberry pancakes to fun and super sweet varieties like Peanut butter cup & Chocolate chip pancakes. No doubt, there is something for everyone at Flapjack’s Pancake House. Flapjack’s also serves waffles and French toast, and don’t miss their “Campfire Skillets.” These savory treats include different combinations of eggs and fixins’ served over a skillet of potatoes. Now that is something to sing about!

For more information visit: www.flapjackspancakes.com

Little House of Pancakes

A favorite spot among the locals, Little House of Pancakes serves breakfast and lunch all day. Featuring an assortment of fruit pancakes, plus waffles and French toast, their menu features the best of country cooking. Don’t miss their big country breakfast platters or try their “Panhandler omelet,” for a treat. For those looking for lunch fare there’s chicken tenders, catfish, country fried steak with all the traditional southern fixins’, in addition to homemade soups, salads, and burgers.

For more information visit: http://littlehouseofpancakes.com

Springtime Snacks with the Kids

Gatlinburg — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 15:09:17 +0000

As an adult, I look back on my family vacations with a great fondness. It was a time for my family to be thrown out of our usual routine and share an experience that was different than our everyday lives. More than anything I remember the time I spent with my parents, my grandmother and brother, and it always felt special that my parents made this a priority for our family every year.
Vacations are about quality family time, being together laughing, relaxing and having fun. In my family one way we like to relax and have fun is to cook. When my nieces come to stay with me they always want to cook something, and this feels very special. They enjoy measuring, cracking eggs, being a part of creating something with me. This is an experience I am happy to share with them, and I hope these are memories they will have as they grow older and look back on with delight.
This year on your Smoky Mountain Vacation, take some time to play and cook with the kids. Elk Springs Resort’s luxury cabins feature fully equipped kitchens with everything you need to make a meal or these delicious snacks. So read over these recipes with the kids, grab some groceries, and get ready to make some memories. These fun, kid-friendly recipes will have you all laughing and smacking your lips.

Apple Monster Mouths
2 Apples
peanut butter
candy corn
Directions:
1. Core the apples.
2. Spread a teaspoon of peanut butter on one apple slice
3. Arrange candy corn in alternating directions like teeth
4. Spread 1 teaspoon of peanut butter on second apple slice and press on first apple slice with candy corn teeth to form the “Monster Mouth”
Worms and Dirt
Pre-packaged chocolate pudding cups
2-3 chocolate sandwich cookies (such as Oreos) per pudding cup
gummy worms
pastel sprinkles
Directions:
1. Remove pudding cup covers
2. Let kids help remove frosting from sandwich cookies,
3. Then have them crumble sandwich cookie sides inside a zip-lock bag
4. Kids can then place cookie crumbs as dirt over the pudding, insert gummy worms, and decorate with pastel sprinkles before digging in.
Dipped Pretzel Sticks
1 bag pretzel rods
1 package milk chocolate chips
Variety of pastel/springtime sprinkles
Wax paper
Directions:
1. Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave for 1 ½ minutes.
2. Stop and stir every 30 seconds.
3. Let kids help dip pretzel sticks into chocolate and use a spoon to help cover 2/3 stick
4. Wipe off excess and help kids decorate quickly with various sprinkles
5. Lay on wax paper to cool completely.
Chocolate Marshmallow Cherry Kisses
16 large marshmallows
16 maraschino cherries
1 package (8 squares) Semi-Sweet chocolate, melted
Directions:
1. Have the kids wash their hands and use their finger to make an indentation in the top of each marshmallow.
2. Insert the cherry, leaving part of the cherry exposed.
3. Using two forks to support bottom and top of marshmallow and cherry dip marshmallow and cherry in the melted chocolate, turning to evenly coat the marshmallow and cherry.
4. Gently shake off excess chocolate and set on a wax paper-covered baking sheet.
5. Place in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes until chocolate is firm. Then enjoy with the kids!
A Sweet Pizza
1 package (8 squares) Semi-Sweet chocolate
1 and 2/3 package (14 total squares) White chocolate, divided
2 cups mini-marshmallows
1 cup crisp rice cereal
1 cup peanuts
¼ cup maraschino red cherries, drained and halved
¼ cup maraschino green cherries, drained and halved
1/3 cup coconut
1 tsp oil
Directions:
1. Microwave all of the semi-sweet chocolate and 8 of the 14 white chocolate in a large microwavable bowl for 1-2 minutes: stir. Microwave for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until all squares are completely melted.
2. Add marshmallows, cereal, and nuts; mix well.
3. Spread onto the bottom of a 12 inch pizza pan sprayed with cooking spray.
4. Let kids help sprinkle coconut over the sweet pizza and dot with cherries.
5. Meanwhile, microwave remaining white chocolate squares (6) on high for 1 minute; stir. Microwave 30 sec. to 1 minute or until chocolate is completely melted.
6. Drizzle over sweet pizza and let stand until firm.

Sweet Pretzels
Canned breadstick dough
Colored sugar
Cinnamon
Directions:
1. Pre-heat oven to break stick package directions. Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray.
2. Let the kids create their favorite pretzel shapes by molding the bread sticks into their own design.
3. Let kids decorate the clover with colored sugar and cinnamon.
4. Bake according to package directions and serve to your lucky little leprechauns.

Green Foam Milk Shakes
1 ½ cups mint chocolate chip or pistachio ice cream
1 ½ cups milk
½ cup seltzer or club soda
Directions:
1. Pulse ice cream and milk in a blender to combine.
2. With Blender running pour in seltzer or club soda.
When shake is smooth and foamy pour into 2 chilled glasses and serve immediately.

Smoky Mountains Tunes and Tales in Downtown Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 14:01:09 +0000

Tunes and Tales in Gatlinburg

When I was a kid one of my favorite memories is my grandmother playing her guitar and singing old country ballads and folk songs to me. She would strum and sing, and though I didn’t realize it at the time, she was passing on a part of herself and our southern heritage to me.
Gatlinburg is seeking to do something similar and share the rich heritage of Appalachian culture during their 13th annual Smoky Mountains Tunes and Tales series. This is an event like no other where downtown Gatlinburg comes alive with story, song, dancing and much more. The Smoky Mountains Tunes and Tales series take visitors of Gatlinburg back to the days of yore as costumed musical performers, storytellers and artisans portraying various time periods from the 1800s to today perform in simultaneous ten-minute performances throughout the night in downtown Gatlinburg.
These performers arrive in downtown Gatlinburg each night in a horse drawn carriage ready to share their Appalachian heritage and art with visitors all over downtown. Their performances cover the gamut, ranging from delicate dulcimer playing, clogging routines, and blue grass to mountain storytellers and gospel groups. The Smoky Mountains Tunes and Tales series makes it a priority to teach the audiences about the rich Appalachian heritage that hails from the Great Smoky Mountains region and audience members are often asked to interact with performers and practice or learn certain musical or dance numbers.
Previously this event series has been exclusively held during June and July. However, this series will begin in downtown Gatlinburg in April and continue through May on Fridays and Saturday nights. Starting June 14th Smoky Mountains Tunes and Tale

s will be featured seven nights a week through August 10th. Visitors can enjoy these mini-performances each night from six to 11 pm throughout downtown Gatlinburg, and the best part is these events are absolutely free.
If you’re visiting Gatlinburg this April through August this exceptional arts series that offers fun surprises around every bend is something not to miss. Not only can you shop, dine, and stroll the Gatlinburg Parkway during your Great Smoky Mountains vacation, but you will have the opportunity to learn about the days of yore and interact with a variety of talented Appalachian performers and artists du

ring your leisurely evenings spent in downtown Gatlinburg. Come celebrate and take part of this extraordinary showcase the rich music and arts traditions of the Great Smoky Mountains!

For more information visit:
www.smokymountaintunesandtales.com

Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage and Best Wildflower Hikes in the Park

Gatlinburg — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 14:27:50 +0000

Springtime in the Great Smoky Mountains holds a sense of wonder and awe. As the frost and snows recede and the ground thaws, a rebirth unfolds in the ancient forests of the park. Visitors to the park at this time of year will witness the budding of new blooms and green buds and hear a chorus of birds chirping with spring excitement.
The Great Smoky Mountains is home to more than 1600 species of flowering plant, and during the brief window of mid-April through mid-May the wildflowers in explode in a rainbow of colors across the park. In fact this celebration of wildflowers is so big that one of biggest spring festivals in the park is the Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage.
The Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage is a five day event celebrates the unique flora and fauna so special to the park and area. This event features a variety of wildflower, fauna, and natural history walks, motorcades, photographic tours, art classes, and indoor seminars. Most events are held outside in various venues throughout the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. However, some events take place inside at specified venues throughout Gatlinburg.
Many programs are conducted directly on trails in the Great Smoky Mountains Park, however other sessions will take place in Mills Conference Center and Sugarlands Training Center.
The Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage is in its 63rd year, and this year it will take place April 23rd through April 27th .This year’s event will feature over 147 professionally guided walks and indoor presentations on the unique wildflower, fauna, ecology, cultural and natural history of the park.
However, if you can’t make the dates for this year’s Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage, buy a book on flora in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and take a hike of one of these trails for some impressive wildflower viewing on your own.
Oconaluftee River Trail- This is an easy, 3 mile round trip hike that starts at the Oconaluftee Visitors Center, two miles north of Cherokee. Hikers will stroll along a riverside trail and have the chance to view more than 40 species of wildflowers. Some of the most popular wildflowers viewed along this trail, are a variety of trillium and violets, jack-in-the-pulpit, squirrel corn, stonecrop and May apple can be viewed along this trail.
Deep Creek Tail
Located outside Bryson City on the North Carolina side of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this trail is well worth the drive. This trail starts at the end of Deep Creek Road, a half mile past the campground turnoff. This moderate 4.6 mile loop is abundant with wildflowers in the spring. Hikers can see trilliums blooming at different times, as well as foamflower, galax, crested dwarf iris, beard tongue, Solomon’s seal, cinquefoil, bloodroot, bluets and blue-eyed grass. Jack-in-the-pulpit is also abundant, but is sometimes hard to locate among the wild geranium, clinton’s lily and large houstonia. As the trail rises in elevation rhododendron, mountain laurel and flame azaleas can also be viewed.

Schoolhouse Gap
This trailhead can be found 3.9 miles west of the “Townsend Y” on the road to Cades Cove. Hikes can choose to do this easy, out and back, 3.8 miles round trip, or just walk up the lower portion of the trail. Hikers can expect to see Virginia bluebells as well as beaked violets, pink lady’s slippers, fairy wand, golden aster, star grass, red clover, Robin’s plantain, sun drops, Catesby’s trillium and lyre-leaf sage. As hiker’s gain elevation rhododendron and mountain laurel can also be seen.
Little River Trail
This trail boasts a wide footpath which follows the Little River towards its headwaters. This trailhead can be found on a side road just before you enter Elkmont Campground. Hikers can expect to see spring beauties and trailing arbutus. As the season progresses, look for hepaticas, yellow trillium, dwarf cinquefoil, stonecrop, Canadian violets and umbrella leaf. They may also see mountain mint, orange and pale jewelweed as early as June. Hikers can choose to hike the first mile or so of the trail to make it an easy out and back or add Cucumber Gap and Jakes Creek trails to make it a pleasant 5.1 mile loop hike.
Porters Creek Trail
This trail is spectacular for wildflower viewing. Located in the Greenbriar area of the park hikers can do this moderate 4 mile roundtrip hike and see a plethora of wildflowers such as find yellow trillium, toothwort, wild geranium, May-apple, dwarf ginseng, blue phlox, baneberry, foam flower, halberd-leaved violets, woodland bluets and Jack-in-the-pulpits. This trail also features a waterfall.

For more information about the Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage visit:

http://www.springwildflowerpilgrimage.org/

To purchase a book on Smoky Mountain Flora before your trip visit: http://www.hikinginthesmokys.com/store.htm
To download a Great Smoky Mountain Park wildflower hikes trails map visit: http://www.nps.gov/grsm/naturescience/wildflower-walks.htm

Plan Your Spring Trip to Gatlinburg with These April 2013 Events

Elk Springs Resort — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 16:16:58 +0000

Spring is finally here! Well, it may still be a little chilly outside but we can still feel the difference that spring brings to Gatlinburg, TN. As the weather starts to creep towards higher temperatures, we are already planning our spring influx of regular visitors and first-time guests. Not sure when to visit? Take a look at these upcoming April 2013 events in Gatlinburg to decide what dates would be ideal for your Great Smoky Mountains adventure!

Gatlinburg Gateway Triathlon: Do you love running, biking and swimming? How about all on the same day? Then you should participate in the 7th annual Gatlinburg Gateway Triathlon. This ever-growing Gatlinburg event is open to anyone 15 years and older, making it a family-friendly event! This year the event will start at 8:30 at the Gatlinburg Community Center. Participants will swim one half of a mile, bike 20 kilometers and run 5 kilometers. At the end of the event, awards will be given out in multiple categories. If you can’t join as an athlete, you can join the locals to root on the participants!

Smoky Mountain MABC Regional Bridge Tournament: While Gatlinburg is best known for its proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, it is also known to bridge players around the United States. That is because each spring, for one week, it holds the Smoky Mountain MABC Regional Bridge Tournament. This year the event will be held from April 15 to 21 at the Gatlinburg Convention Center. The event is expected to draw 4,000 players from around the country, even some from other countries! Players will be able to play from 9 AM to 2 AM, all in the hopes of winning the big pot. With over 9,500 tables in play during the 7-day event, it is certain to be an exciting weekend in Gatlinburg for bridge players of all skill levels.

Food Ministry Fiesta: If the words “food” and “fiesta” make you excited, then you will definitely want to mark your calendar’s for the third annual Food Ministry Fiesta. This annual Gatlinburg event helps to raise funds for the Sevier County Food Ministries, with 100% of the proceeds going directly to the non-profit organization. Your ticket price includes full admission to the aquarium, food, music and a chance to win door prizes like a trip to Florida and a flat screen TV. There will also be a silent auction, so bring your checkbooks and get ready to have fun while helping out a great cause. The event will be held at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies on April 18th, 2013 at 6 PM.

Mountain Man Memorial March: If you are visiting Gatlinburg on April 20th, 2013 and see hundreds of men and women in uniform, don’t worry. They are participating in the sixth annual Mountain Man Memorial March. Each year men and women from in and around the Gatlinburg, TN area join in the march to honor those who still serve and who served our country bravely both domestically and overseas. The event is open to active and retired members of the military, as well as civilians, who are able to join in the 26.2 mile march. It can also be completed as a full marathon, a half marathon or a 10K race by runners who wish to show their support at a faster pace. You can also show your support by rooting on the runners and walkers from the sidelines.

What will you do during your stay at the Elk Springs Resort this spring? No matter how you spend your upcoming Gatlinburg vacation, we are here to help. Call us today to book your favorite luxury cabin rental and learn more about upcoming Gatlinburg events.

Smoky Mountain Music Festival

Gatlinburg — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 03:26:06 +0000

Dolly Parton

Gatlinburg is famous for many things, undoubtedly a favorite tourist destination set just outside the magnificent Great Smoky Mountains National Park. But who would guess they are also host to one of the most exciting and unique music festivals of its kind in the country, the Smoky Mountain Music Festival?
Every year hundreds of students travel to Gatlinburg from across the country, elementary through high school aged, to compete in musical competitions of every variety during the Smoky Mountain Music Festival. The competitions cover a variety of categories such as Concert Band, Orchestra, Jazz Band to Street Parade, Winterguard, Drum Line, Concert Choir, Chorus, and much more. Since its inception this competition has featured 6,500 bands from over twenty-eight states and even bands from our Northern neighbor, Canada. The festival director is none other than, WJ Julian, the Director of Bands Emeritus of the University of Tennessee at Knoxville.
The Smoky Mountain Music Festival not only involves the musicians competing, but it brings the music and competition to downtown Gatlinburg. Everyone can join in on the fun of this festival during Saturdays when the town of Gatlinburg comes alive with the musical parade. Competing bands attending the festival form a parade that winds through the strip of downtown Gatlinburg as visitors and supporters can enjoy and cheer on their favorite band.
Established in 1983, the Smoky Mountain Music Festival is celebrating its 30th year this spring. Though, the competition is held several times during the year. The first of the competitions in Band, Choral, and Orchestra categories will be held April 19th-20th in downtown Gatlinburg. Competitions will continue through the weekends of April 26th-27th and May 3rd-4th. City officials work closely with the festival coordinators to make sure it is an amazing visit for students and other tourists enjoying the town at the time. So don’t miss your chance to hear some fantastic musical talent from across the nation and cheer on your favorite band this April as a part of the Smoky Mountain Music Festival.
For more information visit:
www.smmfestival.com

Hop, Skip and Jump to Gatlinburg for Easter Weekend 2013

Elk Springs Resort — Fri, 15 Mar 2013 13:01:19 +0000

Gatlinburg Sunrise Mass

Looking for a place to spend the Easter holiday? Look no further than the beautifully majestic Gatlinburg, TN. This year Easter falls on March 31st, which gives you just enough time to pick out your favorite cabin at the Elk Springs Resort. We are gearing up for a busy Easter holiday weekend with guests visiting us from around the country. There is no place quite like Gatlinburg to spend not just Easter but any holiday with family and friends.

Besides days of relaxation and time spent with loved ones, you may be wondering what exactly there is to do in Gatlinburg for Easter. If you ask the locals, there is only one place that you should really consider for your holiday weekend: the Easter sunrise service at Ober Gatlinburg. Each year the folks at Ober Gatlinburg hold an Easter service that will take your breathe away. Take a tram to the top of the mountain (on Easter Day the tram is free) and take a seat. While you wait for the service to begin, you will be able to watch the sun rise over all of Gatlinburg, a sight that is definitely camera-worthy. The complimentary tram rides start at 5:45 AM and will run every 15 minutes until the start of the service at 6:30. Since it tends to be a bit chilly in March, be sure to wear warm clothing and bring a blanket to warm cold legs. Once the service has finished, you can opt for a buffet breakfast at the Ober Gatlinburg restaurant. Join locals and travelers alike celebrate another beautiful Easter holiday weekend in the Great Smoky Mountains.

If you are traveling with children then you will not want to miss out on the Easter Egg Hunt! This year the event will be held on March 30th at Mynatt Park. Thanks to the Gatlinburg Community Police Program, the kids of Gatlinburg and visitors can join in on the fun of a classic Easter egg hunt. Children aged 1 to 12 can search for as many eggs as possible starting at noon; there will even be prizes given out during the day! Don’t forget to bring an Easter egg basket and your appetite as hot dogs and refreshments. Of course, you can hold your own Easter egg hunt in and around your luxury cabin rental at the Elk Springs Resort. With several families staying at the resort over the holiday weekend, you may find yourself hosting an eggstravaganza!

While you are in town don’t forget to stop by the Gatlinburg Convention Center for the annual Great Smoky Easter Arts and Crafts Festival. Each year local artists gather at the convention center to show their best and most exciting wares to the public. All of the pieces shown are for sale, making this a great opportunity to do some shopping for your home or friends and family. Some artists will even be giving live demonstrations of their craft! Everyone in the family from grandkids to grandmas will find something to enjoy at the show.

Have questions about your upcoming trip to Gatlinburg? Don’t hesitate to contact us at the main office via email or by phone. We look forward to your stay!

Elk Springs Resort1088 Powdermill Rd.
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
865-233-2390

A Fly Fisherman’s Wife Learns the Ropes

Gatlinburg — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 16:26:23 +0000

Gatlinburg Fly Fishing

I’ve been enchanted with fly-fishing ever since I saw the movie, A River Runs Through It, as a teenager. It wasn’t Brad Pitt’s devilish good looks; it was the surrounding nature, the serenity of the water, the rhythm and peace he seemed to feel as he cast his fly rod.

I had no way of knowing then that I would marry an avid fly-fisherman. In fact the first night I met him almost nine years ago now, he was off to the Smoky Mountains to fly fish.

Needless to say, he has been fly fishing since I have known him. While working in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park a veteran fly fisherman mentored him on different casting methods, and he got to fish some of the most remote mountain streams on the east coast.

He has asked me to join him countless times, but I have been reluctant. It’s his passion, and I felt intimidated. I feared I couldn’t keep up, my fly line would constantly tangle in the trees, and I might grow bored doing the same task all day.

Last fall during a stay at Elk Springs Resort located in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, I relented, “Ok, I am ready to try-to see what this is all about, to see what keeps you from me for hours on end.”

We drove into the heart of old growth forest at Greenbrier, a smoky mist rising from the forest floor and up from the mountain streams. We put on special fly-fishing boots with felt bottoms, and stepped into the rushing mountain stream of Porters Creek. Surrounded by thick mossy rocks, fall foliage, and pristine mountain water, I had stepped into another world, away from all the worries and demands of that reality outside.

My husband cast his rod, a fluid rhythm back and forth and dropped his dry fly in clear mountain pools, or above small waterfalls, and near giant rocks that cast shadows on the pulsing mountain stream. “That’s where the trout like to hide, under rocks,” he grinned.

He showed me how to creep up stream, sneaking up on new fishing holes, “You don’t want to spook the fish. They can see your shadow, its instinct they know it’s a predator, and they will hide,” he explained.

Brad handed the rod to me, “Your turn.”

“Ok,” I gulped trying to balance myself in the middle of the stream.

Holding onto the rod, I cast into a clear pool in front of me. I was shaky at first casting back over my head, trying not to hook a tree or my husband. No luck at the first hole, so Brad and I forged up stream.

I understand then, the hunt, the suspense, the push to try just one more fishing hole, to see if you big beauty might be waiting to strike on your line.

Brad caught a small trout, not big enough to keep, “Awesome, I did it. Now, I don’t have to say I was skunked-which means you don’t catch a fish at all on a stream.’ then we forged upstream casting into new fishing holes, move up and over rocks, and water. As the forest light grew dim, the hours having flown by, we agreed on one more hole.

“Your turn, again,” Brad handed me the fly rod. I cast over my head and into the wide water hole. Suddenly a strike, the fly was pulling my fly under, my heart skipped a beat.

Brad shouted, “It’s a big one.” I cast again, another strike, and big splash, I pulled up, nothing-disappointed. I wanted to catch the fish badly, but I had yet to learn how to move the rod fast enough and in the right direction to hook one.

“This ones yours, I don’t think I can get him.” I handed the rod to Brad, he cast quickly, and before I could blink my eyes there was a large rainbow trout flopping at my feet, its bright scales glittering in an array of colors.

My heart leapt with joy, I started clapping. “We did it!”

“He’s definitely a keeper, big enough to eat!” Brad quickly gutted our rainbow trout, put him in our water bag, and we slipped out of the stream to hike back to our car.

We went back our cabin at Elk Spring’s resort and grilled our rainbow trout that night. Though, I didn’t catch that rainbow trout on my own, I like to think it was a team effort. It was also a joy to be a part of my husband’s world, his passion, his devotion, and I am already looking forward to our next fly-fishing trip soon and our next stay at Elk Springs Resort nearby.

Going out in Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg — Mon, 04 Mar 2013 15:18:24 +0000

Gatlinburg Brew Pubs

For a small mountain town Gatlinburg has a lively nightlife. So when you’ve got cabin fever and are ready for a night on the town, there’s a variety of hot spots, both family friendly and twenty-one and older, within several miles of Elk Springs Resort sure to delight.

Sherlock Holmes Pub
One of the newest additions to the Gatlinburg bar Scene, this family-friendly pub offers the finest of draft beers, American and Irish cuisine and live music. Their beer list features Irish favorites such as Harps, Newcastle, Smithwicks, Guinness; as well as domestic favorites like Bud, Coors, and Miller products. Guests can enjoy live music on the patio each week and dine on their favorite American and Irish fare such as Fish and Chips.

For more information visit: http://sherlockholmesgatlinburg.com/

Smoky Mountain Brewery
For craft beer aficionados Smoky Mountain Brewery will not disappoint. Their craft beer list includes: Thunder Road Pilsner, Cherokee Red Ale, Windy Gap Wheat Beer, Appalachian Pale Ale, Black Bear Ale, Tuckaleechee Porter, Velas Helas, Mountain Light and seasonal brews.

With two locations in both Gatlinburg and Sevierville, this micro-brewery and restaurant is the perfect place to take the family, enjoy a pint of micro-brewed beer and relax. The restaurant serves quality USDA choice and prime graded beef, fresh seafood, fresh made breads and desserts, and house sauces and dressings made daily.Smoky Mountain Brewery and Restaurant also features live music and pub trivia each week.

For more information visit: www.smoky-mtn-brewery.com

Hogs and Honey’s Saloon

Open daily from 10-1 am, this is a popular sports bar by day and a wild west saloon by night, where sometimes things get a little rowdy. Known for their award-winning ribs and wings, this restaurant and saloon also has a balcony for guests to enjoy the view of downtown Gatlinburg. Hogs and Honey’s Saloon features daily specials and has Karaoke every Thursday night.

For more information visit: www.hoggsandhoneys.com/

Puckers Bar and Grill

With a slogan like, “Eat, Drink, Play,” you can expect to have fun at this grill and sports bar. Located on the strip downtown, Puckers is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The dark paneled bar is known for their great happy hour specials.
There are lots of fun ways to kill a lazy afternoon or night with pool tables, dartboards, and numerous HDTVs. Puckers entertains nightly with Karaoke, DJs, and dancing.

For more information visit: http://www.puckerssportsbar.com/

Hard Rock Cafe Gatlinburg
The world’s only Hard Rock Cafe with a wedding chapel, the Hard Rock Cafe Gatlinburg dishes up family and late night fun with handmade food and live music. This restaurant and bar offers the best of food and drink combined with rock memorabilia that has deep roots in Tennessee, where the likes of country music and rock and roll got its start

Make sure to visit the Hard Rock Cafe Gatlinburg during the months of February and March to see the “Hard Rock Rising 2013 THE Global Battle of the Bands.” Enjoy a drink and cheer on your favorite local band who could be the next “big thing.” This competition, being held at Hard Rock Cafes around the globe, lets area bands compete for a chance at the Grand Prize-a world tour, album, and video as a part of Hard Rock Records.

For more information visit: http://www.hardrock.com/

Blaine’s Grill and Bar

Located at the corner of Gatlinburg Parkway and the historic Nature Trail Road, Blaine’s Bar and Grill has been operating at this Gatlinburg hot spot since 1998. Established by the Smith family, a family descended from one of the original Gatlinburg Families, this popular sports bar is a must. This three story building designed in the New Orleans style has a popular balcony where visitors can have a drink, relax and relish a view of the Great Smoky Mountains and birds eye view of downtown Gatlinburg. Blaine’s features an extensive menu with a variety of American Fare Favorites such as St. Louis Spare Riibs to pickle chips and gluten-free options.

For more information visit: http://blainesgatlinburg.com/

Club 812

Located just above Blaine’s Bar and Grill, this dance club is the place to be on Friday and Saturday nights from 10-1am. Featuring a live DJ who spins top 40 hits and special requests, this club has the largest dance floor in Gatlinburg. Featured drinks are created each week by top-notch bartenders. the club also frequently features guest DJs. So, if you’re ready to dance the night away this should be first on your list.

For more information visit: http://812gatlinburg.com/

Mark your Calendars for Smoky Mountain SpringFest in Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg — Tue, 26 Feb 2013 15:01:36 +0000

Gatlinburg Spring Fest

Smoky Mountain SpringFest in Gatlinburg, TN.

Birds are chirping, flowers and trees budding, and old man winter is saying adieu! It’s springtime in the Smoky Mountains, and there are many reasons to celebrate a new spring and summer fun to come. Smoky Mountain SpringFest offers three months of special events, celebrations, and contests to commemorate this special time of year and this coupled with spring specials at Elk Springs Resort Gatlinburg cabins. This year’s Smoky Mountain SpringFest will run from March 12th through June 2nd.

This three month festival is marked by numerous special events.
Here are some highlights:

Great Smoky Mountain East Arts & Crafts Show
This annual Arts & Craft show features handcrafted works from regional artists. Conveniently located in the downtown Gatlinburg Convention Center, admission is free and visitors can meet and greet members of the area Arts & Crafts Community. There is a rich mountain heritage shared by these local artisans and they crafts they have been creating in this region for decades. Shoppers can browse the works of hundreds of vendors and talk with the artisands who make these one-of-a-kind crafts. This event will run Thursday March 28th-Saturday March 30th.

For more information visit: www.gatlinburgcrafts.com/craftshows.html

The Spring Grand Rod Run
The Spring Grand Rod Run is one of 3 annual car shows held in Piegon Forge. One of the largest car shows in the country, this show brings together classic cars, every make and model from everywhere to Pigeon Forge. Visitors to the area can stop view, sit in, and look under the hood of classic Fords, GMCs, and Gold Wings to name a few. Vendors also set up to sell customized, antique, and hard-to-find car parts. This Spring Grand Rod Run runs from April 19-21st.

For more information visit: http://www.pigeonforge.com/Minisites/Pigeon-Forge-Car-Shows

Ribfest and Wings
Gatlinburg’s annual “Ribfest and Wings,” is a favorite for locals and visitors alike. This fun festival brings vendors from far and wide to share some of the best in sauces, ribs, and wings. The Gatlinburg Parkway transforms into a street fair, with live entertainment and plenty of food to sample. One ticket allows visitors to sample ribs and wings to their heart’s delight. This year’s festival will be held on April 25th.

The Dolly Parade
National singer/celebrity and Sevier County native, Dolly Parton, comes home to proudly lead and serve as the Grand Marshall of the famous “Dolly Parade.”Dolly’s annual homecoming parade draws more than 50,000 spectators every year. This parade is a spectacular event as colorful floats, entertainers, marching bands, and local celebrities cruise down the Pigeon Forge Parkway. This parade draws Dolly Parton fans and admirers from around the globe. This year’s parade will be held on May 10th. The event will start at 6pm and will begin on River Road and traffic light # 7 and run north to the Belz Factory Outlet World and traffic light # 3.

For more information visit: http://www.pigeonforge.com/Annual-Dolly-Parade

Be sure to check out the Gatlinburg Event Calender to find out more information on all the events taking place durinig the 2013 Smokey Mountain Spring Fest: http://www.gatlinburgtnguide.com/events/gatlinburg-events-calendar