Travel

My husband and I went and visited the Smokies. Learn what I thought about my first time in the Great Smoky Mountains!

Driving Through the Smoky Mountains – My First Time

Yee-haw, ya’ll! I just got back from the doggone best trip ever to the Great Smoky Mountains, and I can’t wait to tell y’all all about it! Let me tell you, the Smoky Mountains blew my cowboy boots off. As soon as I caught my first glimpse of those rolling green peaks disappearing into the misty blue horizon, I tell you what, my jaw dropped faster than a calf at branding time. That’s right, the views in this neck of the woods are absolutely stunning.

So buckle up and get ready for the ride of your life, because I’m gonna take you through the highlights of my first trip to the most visited national park in the good ole US of A. From scenic drives prettier than a painted pony, to hiking trails that’ll have you happier than a pig in slop, to exploring mountain towns full of more Southern charm than granny’s sweet tea. Yessir! This is gonna be more fun than a square dance at the county fair!

Related: Read my post about how to go car camping!

Scenic Drives and Overlooks 

Now I know I got a little carried away with all those “yeehaws” and “doggos” earlier. And while I do love me some Southern slang – I did move to Kentucky in 2021 after all – I actually do want to tell you properly about how jaw-droppingly beautiful the scenery is in the Smokies. 

In all seriousness, driving through the mountains here is like cruising through a real life oil painting. The smokey blue ridges just roll on forever into the horizon. We’re talking views more stunning than your Granny Betty Lou’s wedding photos.

Hi Granny Betty if you’re reading this!

The Newfound Gap Road winds right through the middle of the park with one picture-perfect vista after another. Make sure to stop at the overlooks for iconic views like the one from Clingmans Dome, the highest point in Tennessee. Just be ready for some serious crowds trying to sneak into your pictures!

No seriously! We found ourselves in lines more than once as we tried to snap the perfect Facebook worthy pic!

Further down Newfound Gap, stop at the Chimney Tops overlook for one of the best panoramas of the ancient mountain peaks shrouded in silvery mist. No fancy camera skills needed, the views look like professional postcards no matter which way you point your lens.

And be sure not to miss the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail loop, where you’ll feel like you passed through a time portal to the old days of log cabins, churches, and tub mills. The mountain farmsteads are sure to spark some wholesome nostalgia.

So if you’re looking for that perfect profile pic, just take one of the scenic drives. The Great Smoky Mountains will give you all the camera candy you can handle!

Hiking Trails for Next Time

Now on this first trip, my husband and I only had one day to explore the Smokies. So sadly, we didn’t actually get to hit any of the amazing hiking trails. I know, I know, that’s like going to Disney World and only riding the merry-go-round once. 

But from the car, we could glimpse some of the incredible trails weaving through the lush forests and up into the misty mountains. And let me tell you, it took everything in me not to jump out and start trekking those wooded paths! 

We drove by trailheads that lead to iconic routes like the Appalachian Trail and saw hikers on their way up to stunning destinations like Laurel Falls. Watching those tiny people marching up the steep slopes, I felt my hiking shoes get a bit jealous.

I was especially bummed we couldn’t make the tough climb up to the Chimney Tops. That panoramic view from the unique dual-peaked summit looked absolutely magical in the brochures I found at the rest stop on our way into Tennessee! But a mile-high hike is not something we could squeeze into a quick day trip.

However, this just gives us all the more reason to come back and spend a whole week immersed in the mountains. I cannot wait to finally hit trails like Hen Wallow Falls and experience the roar of water crashing down a 90-foot cascade.

I reckon we’ll have to get some doggy backpacks for Baileys and Kahlua because I don’t see my doggos trekking up the rocks – ya know what I mean?

And we definitely have to come back and spot some of the iconic Smoky Mountain wildlife, like black bears, turkeys, and whitetail deer. Safely viewing these creatures in their natural habitat would be the experience of a lifetime!

So while we made the most of the scenic drives on this first trip, we are already counting down the days until we can return to the wonderland of trails in the Great Smoky Mountains! I just know those views overlooking all that was below were just a teaser for the beauty awaiting us on foot.

Exploring the Nearby Town

After soaking up the natural splendor in the mountains, head down to the local towns for some fun. The mountain resort city of Gatlinburg offers family entertainment, kitschy shops, and Southern cuisine. But one of my favorite stops was the Gatlinburg Winery shop.

This winery has been crafting specialty wines with unique local flavor right at the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains since 2017. We visited their tasting room to try their famous cotton candy wine – and let me tell you, it was deliciously sweet bliss in a glass!

The winemaker Nolan has nearly two decades of experience perfecting his craft. His goal is for every sip to capture the essence of Gatlinburg’s beauty and Southern hospitality. 

Thousands flock to the winery to try the signature cotton candy wine that started it all. The blush-colored, carnival-inspired sipper tastes exactly like the sugary pink cloud we all know and love. It’s no wonder this wine spawned a nation-wide cotton candy wine obsession!

But cotton candy is just one of many fruity, flavorful wines offered. You can get a free tasting flight to sample award-winning wines like their Blueberry Muffin. Or join the Gatlinburg Winery Club to get new specialty releases shipped to your door.

With the misty blue Smoky Mountains as the backdrop, the tasting room provides the perfect atmosphere to sip these one-of-a-kind wines. The exceptional pours and welcoming hospitality encapsulate the charm that makes Gatlinburg a true gem.

So next time you’re exploring the mountain towns, make the Gatlinburg Winery a sweet stop. Their wines offer a delicious taste of this special region!

I Can’t Wait to Go Back!

The Great Smoky Mountains exceeded all my expectations for natural splendor on my first visit. While we only had time to experience the park by car, the scenic drives gave us a taste of the breathtaking vistas, misty peaks, and wooded wilderness that make this the most visited national park. 

Driving through paradise-like panoramas on Newfound Gap Road and the Roaring Fork Motor Trail was just a teaser. I cannot wait to return and dive deeper into those mountains on the amazing hiking trails. Walking beside thundering falls and climbing to the summits of the iconic peaks is now at the top of my travel bucket list. 

And the local mountain towns like Gatlinburg and Cades Cove offer such a fun way to soak up the culture, history and cuisine of the Smokies region. From moonshine distilleries to wineries serving up specialty sips, there is so much still left to explore.

While this trip may have been a quick introduction, the stunning scenery and warm hospitality have me hooked. I’m already counting down the days until I can return to the wonderland that is the Great Smoky Mountains!

Going to your first drag race? There are some things you should know. Check out my Dos and Don’ts of Attending a Drag Race!

8 Things to Consider When Attending a Drag Race

Over the weekend for my husband’s birthday I attended my first drag car races. I learned a lot about the dos and don’ts of attending a drag race. In this post, I’m sharing my top lessons. From what to wear to where to sit, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to know to make your day at the races enjoyable and safe. So buckle up, grab your earplugs, and let’s dive into the world of drag racing!

What is a drag race?

A drag race is a type of motorsport event that involves two drivers competing against each other in a straight-line acceleration contest. The goal is to see who can reach the finish line first, with the winner being determined by timing and speed. Drag races typically take place on a designated track or strip, which is usually a quarter-mile long.

Attending a drag race can be an exciting experience for spectators, but it’s important to follow some dos and don’ts to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable time. For example, one “do” is to arrive early so you have plenty of time to find parking and get settled in before the races begin. Another important “do” is to bring ear protection, as drag racing engines can be incredibly loud.

On the flip side, there are also some don’ts when attending a drag race.

Do: Bring Earplugs!

When attending a drag race, one of the most important things to bring with you is earplugs. Drag races are notoriously loud and can reach decibel levels that can cause permanent damage to your hearing. By bringing earplugs, you can protect your hearing and still enjoy all the excitement and adrenaline of the race.

Not only do earplugs protect your hearing, but they also allow you to focus on the race itself without distraction. The noise level at drag races can be overwhelming, making it difficult to concentrate on anything else. With earplugs in place, you’ll be able to fully immerse yourself in the experience without being distracted by the deafening roar of engines.

We messed up here and forgot ours. Luckily, they were only $1 a pack at the race we attended!

Don’t: Forget to Check the Weather

One of the most important things to remember when attending a drag race is to check the weather beforehand. While it may seem like an obvious task, many people forget to do so and end up getting caught in unpleasant weather conditions. It’s essential to know what type of weather you’ll be facing so that you can dress appropriately for the occasion.

If it’s going to be hot outside, be sure to wear light clothing and bring plenty of water with you. On the other hand, if it’s going to be cold or rainy, make sure you have appropriate outerwear such as jackets or raincoats. You don’t want weather conditions ruining your day at the drag race.

Do: Dress for the occasion

When attending a drag race, it is important to dress for the occasion. This means putting together an outfit that is both comfortable and stylish. Drag racing events are often held outdoors, so it’s important to dress appropriately for the weather conditions. For example, if it’s going to be hot and sunny outside, you’ll want to wear lightweight clothing that will keep you cool.

In addition to dressing for the weather, it’s also important to think about the type of event you’re attending. If you’re going to a high-profile race with lots of VIPs in attendance, then you’ll want to dress up a bit more than if you were just going to a casual race with friends. A good rule of thumb is to always err on the side of being slightly overdressed rather than underdressed.

Overall, your goal should be to put together an outfit that makes you feel confident and comfortable while still fitting in with the overall vibe of the event. By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that you make a great impression at any drag race event!

Don’t: Bring prohibited items

One of the most important things to remember when attending a drag race is to avoid bringing prohibited items. These can vary depending on the specific event, but common examples include outside food and drinks, weapons, drugs, and alcohol. Bringing any of these items can result in removal from the event or even legal consequences.

It’s also important to note that some events may have specific rules regarding cameras or recording devices. Be sure to check with event organizers before bringing any equipment with you. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to double-check the event’s website or social media pages for any updates on prohibited items.

Bringing prohibited items not only puts yourself at risk but can also disrupt the entire event for others in attendance. Play it safe and leave these items at home so everyone can enjoy the race without interruptions or safety concerns.

Do: Follow safety guidelines

When attending a drag race, it is crucial to follow safety guidelines. These guidelines are put in place to keep both the spectators and racers safe. First, always stand behind the designated spectator area. This area is usually fenced off, and it is important to stay within its boundaries at all times. Secondly, wear ear protection such as earplugs or noise-canceling headphones. Drag races can be extremely loud, and prolonged exposure to these high decibels can cause hearing damage.

Third, stay alert and watch out for flying debris or spills on the ground that may cause you to slip or trip. It is also essential not to run around the track during a race or cross the track while it’s in use; these actions could result in severe injury or even death. Lastly, refrain from consuming alcohol or drugs before attending a drag race event as they impair judgment and can lead to risky behavior.

By following these safety guidelines when attending a drag race event, you’ll ensure your own safety and that of those around you while enjoying an exhilarating display of speed and power. Remember that safety should always come first!

Don’t: Disrespect the performers or other attendees

When attending a drag race, it is important to remember that the performers are putting themselves out there and giving it their all. Disrespecting them in any way is not only rude but also takes away from the experience for everyone else in attendance. This includes heckling, booing, or making derogatory comments towards the performers. It’s okay to have an opinion on who should win or what you think of their performance, but keep those thoughts to yourself.

In addition to respecting the performers, it’s also important to be considerate of other attendees. Drag races typically attract a diverse crowd with people from all walks of life. Making fun of someone’s appearance or mocking their gender identity is unacceptable and can make others feel uncomfortable and unwelcome. Remember that everyone is there to have a good time and enjoy the show.

Overall, showing respect for both the performers and other attendees will help create a positive atmosphere at drag races. It will allow everyone to fully enjoy the show without fear of being ridiculed or judged by others in attendance. So sit back, relax, and let yourself be entertained by some fabulous queens!

Do: Cheer on your favorite racers

Attending a drag race is not just about watching the cars go down the track; it’s also about supporting your favorite racers. The energy and excitement of cheering on your chosen racer can be contagious, creating a memorable experience for both you and those around you. So, don’t hold back – cheer loudly and proudly.

When cheering on your favorite racers, it’s essential to be respectful towards other attendees. Make sure you’re not blocking anyone’s view or impeding their ability to enjoy the event. Additionally, avoid using foul language or derogatory remarks towards other racers or attendees.

Cheering on your favorite racer can also mean showing support through more than just vocal encouragement. Consider bringing signs or banners with their name or car number displayed prominently. You could even wear clothing that represents their team colors or logos, making it clear where your loyalty lies. Remember that attending a drag race is as much about being part of a community as it is about watching thrilling races, so show support for all those involved in this exciting sport!

Don’t: Miss Your Chance to See a Drag Race

If you’re a fan of drag racing, then you don’t want to miss out on the opportunity to see one of these events live. Not only is it an exciting experience, but it’s also a chance to immerse yourself in the culture and community that surrounds this unique sport.

So where can you find drag races? One option is to check your local racetrack or speedway for upcoming events. Many tracks hold regular drag racing competitions throughout the year, so be sure to keep an eye on their schedules.

Another option is to look for specialized drag racing events and festivals in your area. These can range from small car club gatherings to large-scale festivals featuring some of the biggest names in the sport. By doing some research online or asking around in your local community, you’ll likely be able to find several options for attending a drag race near you.