Townsend - Tennessee - United States. Guide & Hotel Reservations from Cheap Hotels

The quiet scenic village of Townsend, Tennessee, is an excellent choice when you are looking for a place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. It is known as the Peaceful Side of the Smokies as it is nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. There are many attractions in and around the village and is adjacent to the Great Smoky National Park. From here you can drive to Gatlinburg and Knoxville for a full day of shopping and return to the peace and quiet of a small village at night.

No matter what time of year you visit, the breathtaking scenery surrounding you at every turn will astound you. It is not hard to see the wildlife of the area with the many rabbits, squirrels and foxes that roam freely in the region. The early morning is the best time to see deer and you can occasionally see a bear. Winters are very mild and snow only falls in the higher elevations.

Visit the Great Smoky National Park where 95 % of the area is forest. Here you will find an exquisite wilderness sanctuary and many nature trails where you can be alone with your thoughts and the natural beauty. Cades Cove is located in the park and has a 2000 acre open air museum depicting the mountain life of the early settlers. There are many homesteads and farms still visible and the best way to see this village is by walking or by bicycle.

Make plans to be in Townsend for one of the two main events that take place here each year. There is an Old Timers Day held in conjunction with both the Spring Festival and the Fall Festival. Here you will dance to the sounds of Bluegrass music and hear the stories of the old people who bring out the true traditions and culture of the people of the Appalachian Mountains.

Enjoy trout fishing in Little River and visit the Tuckaleechee Caverns where there are high caverns and waterfalls deep underground. Learn about the days of the railroad with a visit to the Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum. Tee off at the Laurel Valley Golf Course and drive along the scenic Foothills Parkway. There is so much beauty here that you won't ever want to leave.