Townsend Tennessee

The Peaceful Side of the Smokies.
You will find that Townsend Tennessee is a very quiet, yet growing and scenic village that is adjacent to the Little River region of the Great Smoky National Park, and to the Cades Cove area. Townsend is a lovely place to visit!

You will find that Townsend Tennessee is a very quiet, yet growing and scenic village that is adjacent to the Little River region of the Great Smoky National Park, and to the Cades Cove area. Townsend is a lovely place to visit!

Townsend is known as the “Peaceful Side of the Smokies”, a fitting name for an area that is full of outdoor activities, seasonal festivals, and numerous local craft shops, and is simply a great getaway for visitors of all ages.

This quaint community is part of the historic Blount County and is just outside of Knoxville, home of the University of Tennessee, and is a short drive from Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.

There are numerous events and recreation that tourists of all ages can enjoy in Townsend. There are many craft fairs and events that take place throughout the year, but two of the main annual events are the Spring Festival and Old Timers Day. Both are located at the Townsend Visitors Center and they showcase mountain culture in many ways along with bluegrass music and a great variety of Appalachian arts and crafts. There is fun for everyone at these events!

Townsend offers miles of country roads for visitors that enjoy Biking. There is a five-mile paved biking and jogging trail along the Little River, as well as the eleven-mile Loop at nearby Cades Cove.

Hiking is also very popular in this area with the Great Smoky National Park around the corner there are numerous trails varying in levels from moderate to strenuous.

If golfing is of interest, Laurel Valley Golf & Country Club must be a stop on your vacation. This 18-hole course is open 7 days a week and offers a great round of golf along with gorgeous mountain views.  

With the beautiful Little River flowing through the town of Townsend, Fishing is one fun activity in this area. This river is known for its rainbow and brown trout fishing, and is worth settling in and enjoying.

Horseback Riding is also a popular activity with numerous stables surrounding Townsend that offer guided trails along with boarding facilities.

Enjoy a fun-filled day in Townsend TUBING down one of the most scenic rivers in the Smokies. Stop by the Smoky Mountain River Rat to experience a fun-filled day tubing down the Little River.

Over 100 years ago, Indians discovered and hid in what is now known as Tuckaleechee Caverns. As youngsters, Bill Vananda and Harry Myers played in and around the mountains and their caves. Eventually, they built concrete walkways and lit the caverns, and opened them to the public. Experienced guides conduct tours approximately every half hour.