Log Cabin Blog

Since the visitors to the Smoky Mountains drive this economy this seems a good place to start. Why do people come to the Smokies and who are they?

Due to our central location, the Smokies are within a day’s drive of over 75% of the U.S. population. Look at a map you will see I-75 running north/south and I-40 going east/west. These are the corridors that bring tourists to the Smokies primarily from the eastern half of the U.S.. From Minnesota to Florida and west through Texas is our primary market area though at one time or another you’ll see license plates from every state.  

The Great Smoky Mountains National park is the most visited park in the country and 40 years ago it was the primary draw to this area. It’s still a major feature but as this area has developed, major attractions have added to the drawing power of the Smokies.

Aside from hiking, etc. in the Park, outdoor activities such as golf, horse back riding, skiing and tennis occupy much of our guests time. For years the Gatlinburg Country club (interestingly located in the heart of Pigeon Forge) was the only golf course in the area. Now, five courses provide golfers with a variety of challenges.

Dollywood rivals the Park in its drawing power. Currently open from April through December, Dollywood, along with its water park Splash Country, hosts millions of guests each year.

Shopping also ranks high on tourists’ “to do” list. Five Oaks Mall is touted as one of the largest outlet malls in the country with many high end stores. With at least five other outlet complexes, Sevier County has become a bargain shopper’s paradise. On the other end of the scale from national brand outlets, the Glades Road Craft Tour in Gatlinburg hosts numerous artist’s galleries, craft shops and unique “crafty” specialty shops and has a devoted clientele.

Add to this all of the race tracks, bungee jumping, mini golf courses, music theaters and other shows, the Smokies offer plenty to keep the tourists busy during their stay.

All of this having been said, it’s the beauty and magic of the Smoky Mountains that bring people here and keep them coming back. You can put an amusement park anywhere but you can’t reproduce the natural majesty of the Smokies.

That’s the “why” of the popularity of the Smokies. Next time I’ll discuss who our clientele is.

For your Free guide to buying a Smoky Mountain cabin go to: www.willquinn.com .