News Around the Smokies

by: Naomi Hillmer Posted: May 28, 2026 / 12:20 PM EDT Updated: May 29, 2026 / 07:26 AM EDT HARTFORD, Tenn. (WATE) — Rafting season has kicked off along the Pigeon River, the second season since Hurricane Helene devastated the Cocke County community and upended rafting companies in the region.   As one of the largest tourist attractions in the area, rafting brings thousands of […]

by: Matt Hollingsworth Posted: May 20, 2026 / 10:22 AM EDT Updated: May 20, 2026 / 10:22 AM EDT GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS, Tenn. (WATE) — If you plan to visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for Memorial Day weekend, you’re not alone, and you’ll need to be prepared for crowds, traffic and limited parking. AAA predicts that Tennessee will […]

by: Naomi Hillmer Posted: May 21, 2026 / 12:33 PM EDT Updated: May 21, 2026 / 12:25 PM EDT TELLICO PLAINS, Tenn. (WATE) — Tellico Plains is one of the many gateways into the Smoky Mountains, as the last town you reach before entering the 43-mile Cherthala Skyway. While the skyway draws motorists up the mountains, many visitors are discovering […]

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 […]