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Things to do in the Smoky Mountains

Lands Creek is the ideal Smoky Mountain getaway – a secluded 80-acre vacation destination at the very edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Secluded yet convenient to all mountain activities and area attractions. Just 3 miles from historic Bryson City and the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad.

Visitor Guide

A great source of information for anyone visiting our area would be a copy of our ‘Visitor’s Guide’. They’ll be glad to send you one if you call our Chamber of Commerce at: 800-867-9246 or email chamber@greatsmokies.com. Or visit the online travel guide at  GreatSmokies.com for events, activities and attractions in the Bryson City area.

Bryson City

(3 miles) You’ll find everything you need right here. A variety of restaurants, shops, deli, grocery stores, pharmacies and services. The Swain Medical Center offers around the clock hospital care.

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Located just 3 miles from our grounds! Call for info toll-free: 800-872-4681 or visit them on-line at: GSMR.com


Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Even though the GSMNP is the nation’s most-visited national park, many visitors only experience a small portion of it. The most popular areas are along US 441 between Gatlinburg and Cherokee and Cades Cove – a nice half-day trip from the cabins. But there’s a lot more to see and do, particularly in North Carolina’s half of the Park.There are several park entrances located within minutes of our grounds. Ask us where to go!

Hiking

The Smoky Mountains are a hiker’s paradise. The possibilities are endless with hikes of all levels from beginners to advanced, the Appalachian Trail crosses very near our area, only a short hike away.

Waterfalls

There are countless waterfalls in our area but Deep Creek is right at the top of the list. The Three Waterfall Trail is the favorite, it offers three scenic falls all within a short hike. Most everyone should be comfortable with this walk.

Tubing

The Deep Creek recreation area offers miles of tubing and a day of fun for all. There are many spots along the way to rent tubes!


Cherokee Indian Reservation

(15 minutes) There are many things to see both historic and modern day, this is only a small sample:

Oconaluftee Indian Village: Take a trip back to a time and culture that shaped the mountains long before the Europeans arrived.

Mingo Falls: A short hike takes you to the base of what is described as “one of the most spectacular falls in the southern Appalachians.”

Unto These Hills: For nearly 60 years this live drama has told the story of the Cherokee people and the “trail of tears.” The play is performed nightly under the stars from late May thru mid-August, schedules vary. Call 866-554-4557for details and ticket info (you can even buy your advance ticket with “rain insurance.”

Harrah’s Casino: A popular stop for many of our guests. A Las Vegas-style casino with several restaurants to choose from, as well as shows and concerts.

Fly Fishing Museum of the Southern Appalachians: Through exhibits and videos you’ll learn about past fly fishing legends, the evolution of rods and reels, fly-tying, and the history of fly fishing in the Southeast. FlyFishingMuseum.org

Santa Land Fun Park and Petting Zoo: Great stop for the kids, a theme park, but on a much smaller scale.


Fishing and Guided Tours with Fontana Guides

Look no further for the ultimate Great Smoky Mountain Fishing Experience! We offer guided trips year-round for every species of game fish found here in Western North Carolina. Choose from a variety of different trips in Bryson City, Cherokee, Sylva, Franklin, Nantahala and more! We have something for every budget, skill level, and age.

For the non fisherman we offer many different options for enjoying the beautiful scenery and wildlife of the Great Smoky Mountains. There is no better way to do so than from the water. Choose one of our guided tours and/or cruises by pontoon boat


Fontana Lake Cruises with CraigCat boats

Experience the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains from a whole new perspective. We’ll take you on a breathtaking guided tour of Fontana Lake as you cruise in our fleet of CraigCat boats, one of the safest and easiest-to-drive boats on the water.

Throughout the 2-hour tour, you’ll be guided by our local captains who will point out the beautiful features of Western North Carolina’s largest lake and the Great Smoky Mountains from Bird Falls to the historic Fontana Trestle. You’ll have the opportunity to stop and admire the breathtaking views and take pictures along the way.


Other Nearby Towns

Maggie Valley (25 minutes)
Sylva (20 minutes
Cashiers/Highlands (45 minutes)
Waynesville (35 minutes)
Asheville (50 minutes)
Murphy (45 minutes)
Gatlinburg, TN (1 hour)
Pigeon Forge TN (1 hour)

Nearby Airports

Asheville NC: 1 hour
Greenville SC: 2-1/2 hours
Knoxville TN: 2-1/2 hours
Atlanta GA: 3 hours
Charlotte NC: 3-1/2 hours