Townsend Tennessee calls itself “The Peaceful Side of the Smokies”, because they are on the other side of the Great Smoky Mountains from Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. But during the summertime there are a lot of activities for people to do in the area.
The Little River runs through Townsend and there are several tubing companies that provide long, scenic rides on high quality inner tubes. River Rage Tubing, Cowboy Tubin and River Rage all provide pick-up and delivery services to and from the river, restroom and changing rooms and life jackets. Some have gift shops and picnic and recreation areas, and restaurants are nearby to all. Cruisin’ down the river on a hot summer day is a great way to relax, enjoy the views and let your cares float by.
Horseback riding is available with several stables in Townsend. Davy Crockett Riding Stables has the most trails available in the area and several longer-than-usual trail rides. Cades Cove Stables offers guided waterfall tours to the 110 foot Fall Branch Falls waterfall, and hayrides and carriage rides.
Townsend in also the home to Tuckaleechee Caverns, “the greatest site under the Smokies!” Going underground with a guided tour takes you back 25 million years and allows you and your group to cool-off in the approximately 50 degree temperature that the cave provides.
If you are looking for more adventure, visit Next To Heaven Ziplines, the “fastest and most scenic zipline in the Smokies!” They offer a 9 line canopy tour with guides and instruction.
When you have worked up an appetite you can visit any one of several good restaurants. Miss Lilly’s Café offers “Southern Cuisine for the Discriminating Taste!” Little River BBQ has ribs, pork, beef and chicken served on a screened-in porch right on the river. And Elvira’s Café serves-up fresh food made from quality ingredients for breakfast or lunch.
Townsend Tennessee is located close to Cades Cove, one of the most visited areas of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and is a short drive from Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge, TN.