Gatlinburg is much more than just a charming mountain town full of family-friendly attractions and unforgettable natural beauty. One of the most fascinating parts of any trip to the Smoky Mountains is all the history that exists throughout Gatlinburg! These rugged hills echo the stories of pioneers and settlers who first inhabited the land. We recommend learning more about the area’s rich history and connecting with the character of the Smokies by visiting these 5 Gatlinburg historical sites:
1. Historic Ogle Log Cabin
Located in the heart of downtown, the Historic Ogle Log Cabin is one of the most-visited Gatlinburg historical sites. Completed in 1807, this cabin is the first permanent home in Gatlinburg! Today it stands as a reminder of what life was like for the Smokies’ earliest settlers. Simple in design, built with hand-hewn logs, and featuring just a single room, it provides guests with a glimpse into the past. This cabin is located at traffic light #3, next to Gatlinburg Welcome Center and near Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies.
2. Bud Ogle Cabin & Tub Mill
Another of the most fascinating Gatlinburg historical sites can be found along Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, one of the most popular scenic drives in the Smokies. This historic site features an original homestead as well as a tub mill and a barn that reflect the self-sufficient nature of life for the early settlers. With a trip to this site and a drive along Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, you’ll get an authentic Smokies experience that highlights the best of the area.
3. Little Greenbrier School & Walker Sisters Place
Little Greenbrier School and Walkers Sisters Place are musts when it comes to Gatlinburg historical sites! Located just a short distance from one another, guests can reach these landmarks via the Metcalf Bottoms area of the national park. The school was built in 1882 by the community and served as both a school and a church. Walker Sisters Place is a historic homestead with a log cabin, a springhouse, and several other buildings that were built in the 1840s. The Walker sisters are known for refusing to sell their land when the national park was established in 1940.
4. Cades Cove
Cades Cove is often referred to as the most beautiful area in Great Smoky Mountains National Park! Along with the breathtaking beauty, you’ll find a variety of history lessons at its many Gatlinburg historical sites. Preserved buildings in Cades Cove include the John Oliver Cabin, Dan Lawson Place, the John P. Cable Mill, and 3 different churches. Take a scenic drive along the Cades Cove Scenic Loop to see these structures and much more!
5. Elkmont Ghost Town
One of the most distinctive collections of Gatlinburg historical sites is Elkmont Ghost Town. Located in the Elkmont area of the national park, it gets its name from the abandoned historical buildings that are still present to this day, giving it a dilapidated appearance. This area was once a logging town and a vacation retreat for wealthy travelers. Decaying cabins, overgrown pathways, and the remains of a once vibrant society make Elkmont one of the most unique places to visit in the Smokies!
You don’t want to miss these Gatlinburg historical sites to get a taste of Smokies history and early mountain life! This vacation, stay just a short distance from these historical spots by staying in one of our Gatlinburg cabins!
