News Around the Smokies

by: Naomi Hillmer Posted: Apr 30, 2026 / 12:30 PM EDT Updated: Apr 30, 2026 / 12:26 PM EDT COCKE COUNTY, Tenn. (WATE) — Hiking prevails as one of Cocke County’s biggest draws in tourism, known as the “Adventure Side of the Smokies.”   Between three rivers, a national forest and a national park, there is an abundance of recreational activities in […]

by: Hope McAlee Posted: Apr 21, 2026 / 12:27 PM EDT GATLINBURG, Tenn. (WATE) — Synchronous firefly season is approaching and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has announced the dates for its annual viewing event and when guests can sign up for a chance to see the fireflies. From May 20-27, the GSMNP will be hosting its […]

by: Naomi Hillmer Posted: Apr 23, 2026 / 12:15 PM EDT TELLICO PLAINS, Tenn. (WATE)  — The Cherohala Skyway in Monroe County is gearing up for one of its busiest times of the year. The 43-mile road connecting Tennessee to North Carolina sees around 10 million people pass through each year, and the Monroe County Department of Tourism said summer travel is growing in popularity.   Smokies announces dates for synchronous firefly viewing “You get all […]

I’ve got a mountain of news to share this week. From record-breaking spending to some major event updates for the weekend of April 24th–26th, here’s what’s happening in my neck of the woods.

by: Naomi Hillmer Posted: Apr 16, 2026 / 12:05 PM EDT Updated: Apr 16, 2026 / 05:40 PM EDT TOWNSEND, Tenn. (WATE) — Tourism in Townsend offers visitors a look at the peaceful side of the Smokies, outside the hustle and bustle of large cities or amusement attractions. Serving as a gateway to the Smokies, shop owners say […]

by: Naomi Hillmer Posted: Apr 9, 2026 / 12:28 PM EDT Updated: Apr 9, 2026 / 05:25 PM EDT GATLINBURG, Tenn. (WATE) — Millions of people visit Sevier County each year. While many of them stop along the 441 Parkway on their way up to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, there are several attractions off the beaten path, from local artisans to niche museums.  “You never […]