Deep in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, you can find the intriguing Elkmont Historic District, an abandoned town whose quaint wooden cabins hark back to a bygone era. From a Cherokee settlement to a logging town to a bustling holiday resort for East Tennessee elites, this quiet corner of the Smokies has served various purposes over the years. Elkmont was gradually abandoned when the Great Smoky Mountains National Park was established, and over time, its empty cabins, hotels, and overgrown trails have taken on an air of mystery that has enticed many intrepid explorers to the area. Embarking on a private driving tour is a wonderful way to discover the sights and secrets of Elkmont, as your experienced local guide can navigate the mountain roads with ease and treat you to a thrilling off-road adventure through lesser-known parts of the iconic mountain range.
On this half-day driving tour, you will:
- Discover a less-travelled part of the Great Smoky Mountains from the comfort of a customised off-road Jeep;
- Enjoy the personalised attention of your private tour guide;
- Set off on a scenic journey through Wears Valley and see Cove Mountain, one of the most prominent peaks in the Smokies;
- Explore the Elkmont Ghost Town and hear what life was like for its inhabitants as you wander the deserted cabins;
- Hear stories of “the Wild East” from rebellious mountaineers, early logging communities and runaway trains;
- Soak in the serenity of the rolling hills, babbling brooks and deep hollows along your route;
- Tour the newly restored, historic Daisy Town cabins, the Wonderland Hotel and the Appalachian Clubhouse;
- Learn about the clans and characters who made their mark on the area;
- Experience the Smoky Mountains’ dense forest, diverse ecosystems and wildlife, and find out about the incredible phenomenon of the synchronous fireflies;
- Take in epic mountain views at the Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook, which boasts incredible vistas of Mt. LeConte;
- End your tour with a thrilling off-road adventure on private land.
Venture deep into the hidden history of the Great Smoky Mountains on this exclusive three-hour private Jeep excursion, designed for travellers eager to uncover the region’s forgotten past and untamed landscapes. Departing from Pigeon Forge, your journey begins with a scenic drive through Wears Valley, a quiet haven nestled between rolling hills, before ascending Cove Mountain, one of the highest peaks in the Smokies. Along the way, your expert guide will bring the land to life with stories of rebellious mountaineers, early settlers, and the boom-and-bust logging towns that once thrived in these rugged Appalachian territories.
Once you arrive at the Elkmont Historic District, your guide will take you on a trip back in time to explore one of the Smokies’ most intriguing ghost towns. You’ll wander through abandoned cabins, where nature has begun to reclaim the remnants of an era long past, and imagine the lives of those who once called this remote outpost home. You’ll hear riveting tales of the most eminent clans to inhabit the Elkmont area, from the Wear family, who gave their name to the nearby valley, to the remarkably resilient Walker Sisters. You will also have a chance to enter the recently restored Daisy Town, which offers a glimpse into the glamorous mountain retreat that Elkmont became in the early 20th century, where wealthy vacationers built rustic yet elegant summer homes. You’ll hear about the legendary Wonderland Hotel, the exclusive Appalachian Clubhouse, and the railroad that once ferried visitors into this secluded paradise.
Beyond its human history, Elkmont is also known for its breathtaking natural beauty and throughout your tour, your guide will take you through deep hollows and moss-covered streams, drawing your attention to the native wildlife that thrives in this lush environment. If you happen to be visiting in June, you may be able to catch the extraordinary phenomenon of the synchronous fireflies that flock to the area once a year, a mesmerising display that draws in visitors from far and wide. Your guide will make sure to pause at the Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook, where you will take in stunning panoramic views of Mt. LeConte and the Smoky Mountain ridges.
Last but certainly not least, your adventure will culminate in a thrilling 4x4 off-road ride on private land, where the rugged terrain promises an exhilarating finale to your Smoky Mountain expedition. You’ll return to Pigeon Forge with lasting memories of your immersive, history-rich journey through Elkmont and the Wild East.
Please note: We kindly request that you arrive at the meeting location at least 30 minutes prior to the scheduled tour start time. This allows sufficient time for check-in, verification of documentation, and any necessary pre-tour arrangements. Late arrivals may miss the tour departure and will not be eligible for a refund.
