2018 – Page 3 – Out and About in Sevierville

Food Truck Fridays Are a Hit!

October 14, 2018October 14, 2018outandaboutinsevierville2 Comments

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The first ‘Food Truck Friday’ event in downtown Sevierville is a hit! Now, if we could add an evening from 6-8 pm so people who can’t leave their jobs for lunch could visit then it would be even more exciting! Due to fall break, I was able to go downtown to see this event and here is what I found.

Actually, coffee comes first. My first stop was Courthouse Donuts to get a skim Mocha Latte from the coffee cart by Refill Coffee. It is made to order right there and you got a free donut with your coffee. The vendor was very nice and well prepared to make about any coffee that you would like. He will visit several more times so check the Facebook page for Courthouse Donuts because that is how I found out about it. Mine was perfect!

Blogger needs!

Next, I followed the downtown workers and visitors to the gazebo area for lunch hour.

One concern I had was how to eat lunch from a food truck with nowhere to sit—but Sevierville Commons Association had already considered that. There was a nice, long table to use for lunch. I like how it promoted community and conversations among lunch goers. Well done!

Crepes are a specialty food and take a few minutes to make, but the final product can be sweet or savory perfection.

A Nutella and strawberry crepe. Foodie heaven.

I remember this vendor from the Bruce Street Brewfest and it was quite popular.

Lines began to build up after 11:30 with the local lunch crowd. It was a good sight to behold.

Knoxwurst offered some good high protein, Paleo diet choices who those trying to reduce their carbs. Leslie Strader let me take a picture of her order to get this pic.

By noon, the crowds were building and lines were 10-15 people long. This proves that people will enjoy food trucks and gathering for lunch downtown.

This vendor has shops in Morristown and Jefferson City. Follow up lunch with something sweet!

If you like frozen treats then this food truck will ‘hit the spot.’ They also offer samples.

Food trucks have been a foodie phenomenon for the past few years so it is exciting to see them downtown. The schedule for the rest of this month can be seen in the first photo in this blog story. Check the selections for the coming weeks. Many people work in places that won’t allow them enough time to attend Food Truck Fridays so I hope that an evening could be added in the future. There is certainly something for everyone.

Don’t be in a hurry because food trucks cook and prepare the meals fresh as you order them. Enjoy the sunshine, good weather, and friends. Also, try some things that may not be easily found in this area.

Fridays just got more interesting to dine out and about in Sevierville…

Art Happening: October 2018

October 11, 2018October 11, 2018outandaboutinseviervilleLeave a comment

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I was glad to make it to the Sevierville Commons Arts Council October Art Happening this evening. At an Art Happening you meet the featured artist and see examples of their best work. Featured artist, Donna Arensbak, presented some beautiful pottery pieces. Here is a quick rundown.

I liked this entrance sign on the front of the Arts in Common Gallery with Sevier County Bank reflected in the background.

Pictured left to right: Featured artist, Donna Arensbak, with her daughter, Lea Cole.

Pictured left to right: Bill Griffith, Outreach Liaison for Arrowmont, Donna Arensbak, and Bill May, Executive Director of Arrowmont. Donna is connected to Arrowmont since 1999 as a student, a worker, and as a volunteer. Her daughter also took classes at Arrowmont from childhood to adulthood. Certainly, there is a deep family connection to the arts and crafts education center in Gatlinburg.

Also enjoying the Art Happening are Jill Greene, Frank Bulman, Donna Arensbak, Tammy Bulman, and Kathy Bulman.

Sevier Commons Art Council Members were working quickly behind the counter to complete sales. You must see the beautiful things available in the Arts in Common Gallery!

This bowl created by the artist was fabulous and I now could kick myself for not buying it!

Seasonal pumpkins on sale in the gallery window.

I know a lot of Smoky Bear fans who would be interested in this creation.

I found the catering to be spectacular!

A tower of treats!

It is not necessary to eat dinner before an Art Happening. Just come in as soon as you can after work and enjoy the evening.

The sun was starting to go down on Bruce Street as I exited the event and made my way to the car. After talking to Jill Greene, I already look forward to the last two Art Happenings of 2018. Artists, beautiful creations, nice catering, and interesting people—mark your calendar for the second Thursday of each month. It is a favorite way to get out and about in Sevierville.

Bruce Street Brewfest 2018

October 7, 2018October 7, 2018outandaboutinsevierville2 Comments

Despite the remnants of Hurricane Florence heading our way, the weather held out for the Bruce Street Brewfest on Saturday, September 15—and it turned out to be a fine event. We saw many returning brewers, met some new participants, and ran into old friends. I was limited in my time there so here is a quick rundown of our visit.

You get a nice souvenir glass at check-in.

Some notable Knoxville breweries participate in the event. This Knoxville brewery is one of the best.

Some breweries come from farther away— a testament to the popularity of Bruce Street Brewfest.

The addition of food trucks adds an interesting addition to the event for foodies. They were fabulous!

A local expert, Smoky Mountain Foodie, was impressed with the fried okra. Only $3 for a large serving. As good as Cracker Barrel!

Attendees from every species enjoyed the day. It is nice that the event is dog friendly.

We ran into Tobias Deckard, from Gatlinburg Brewing Company. He makes great artisan bread. Must try it again soon!

We ran into Tobias several other times. Everyone was of good cheer!

There are some local home brewers who are doing a great job. Perhaps I should write a story on that topic soon?

This is an award winning home brewer. Every thing is good from this one.

Jeff Large has been brewing for several years. The brand name is unique.

A name that you won’t forget! I must ask the story behind it again.

It was a busy day so I only had a couple of hours to spend at the event, but I wanted to see one of the best micro- brewing festivals in the state—right in our downtown. These are the pictures that I took because I didn’t want to intrude on anyone’s time or space. There is a laid back vibe so I just ‘went with it’ and thought to not write a blog about the day—but it is a great event so I changed my mind. Voila! Here is a quick look at what we experienced.

Craft beer is a booming business and there are many who appreciate it. These are exactly the people who should come back (or make a first visit) to the Bruce Street Brewfest in 2019. It is a very enjoyable way to get out and about in Sevierville.

Celebrate and Be Grateful: A Special Speaker for the Smoky Mountain Cancer Support Group

September 14, 2018outandaboutinseviervilleLeave a comment

Celebrate every day and be grateful. That was part of the message from Michael Holtz at this month’s Smoky Mountain Cancer Support Group meeting.

Michael Holtz is a cancer survivor, an advocate for cancer patients, and the State Lead Ambassador for American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, Tennessee. (ACSCAN TN)

He loves his role with ACSCAN because he knows he is making an impact on legislation that matters to cancer patients and in the battle to end cancer.

Advocacy matters, and it does make a difference. Because of advocacy, the Federal Government has continued to increase Federal research funding, that includes Cancer research, by $2 billion every year. Many ACSCAN volunteers are cancer survivors just like Michael and when Legislators see their faces, they realize how important the funding is to the survival of cancer patients.

This year, Michael and other ACSCAN volunteers are focusing their energy on the Palliative Care Hospice Education and Training Act (PCHETA). Palliative care is comfort at the beginning of treatment, Hospice care is comfort at the end of life. This Legislation would fund education for medical personnel in the area of pain management, for patients with serious illnesses that result in chronic or acute pain. Thus bringing comfort to patients and their families during the entire treatment for their cancer diagnosis.

It has been a 6 year effort to get PCHETA to where it’s at in Congress. It was passed unanimously by the House and is now in the Senate ready for mark up. This is when the Senate debates, amends, and do any rewrites of the proposed legislation.

Our own, Senator Alexander has an important role in getting PCHETA to a vote in the Senate. The path to vote for PCHETA starts in his committee and as the Chairman of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, he is the one to move it to mark up. Sen. Alexander listens to his constituents and is a big supporter of cancer research. As a constituent, you can call his office and ask him to “schedule the Palliative Care Hospice Education and Training Act, Senate Bill 693, for mark up”.

The phone number for his office in Washington D.C. 202-224-4990

Michael told the small crowd, “we would like to see the day when no one has to hear the words, you have cancer, and this legislation is a road to that day”. He and 650+ ACSCAN advocates will converge on Washington D.C. this month to ask Congress to support PCHETA.

A highlight of the Washington D.C. trip is the Lights of Hope ceremony where thousands of luminaria bags from around the country are lined up around the reflecting pool of the Lincoln Memorial. The bags are a somber reminder of the far-reaching impact of cancer. But from the solemness ignites a flame of passion that continues to drive the volunteers. You can make a statement about cancer with the purchase of a Light of Hope Luminaria. Michael will carry it to Washington D.C. and add it to the others around the Reflecting Pool. Go to http://action.acscan.org/goto/michaelholtz2018, and make your donation. Each bags $10 and supports ACSCAN. The deadline is September 16th.

The Smoky Mountain Cancer Support Group meets the second Monday of each month, at the My People Senior Activity Center. All are welcome. Contact Carlene Maples at carlene.maples@gmail.com, for more information.

A Morning Ride at Cades Cove Stables: Our Favorite Horseback Riding Place in the Smokies

September 2, 2018September 2, 2018outandaboutinseviervilleLeave a comment

We are lucky to have a selection of horseback riding stables in this area. When you want to saddle up and ride, there is a stable that is particularly worth the drive to the mountains. We had a wonderful morning ride at Cades Cove Stables. Here is a summary of our trip.

Lisa and I wanted a final, fun activity before work resumed last month so we drove up to Cades Cove in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to try the stables located at the entrance. We had tried to ride a week earlier, but a fast moving storm cancelled rides for several hours so we decided to try again a week later. As it turned out, we had the perfect morning and an idyllic ride on our last day of summer vacation.

We wanted to be in the first group (if possible) so we met at 7:30 and drove through Wears Valley in order to arrive by opening at 9:00 a.m. There are no reservations. First come, first serve. There seemed to be about 30 horses in the stables ready to ride. That was a lot more than I was expecting so they can handle different group sizes.

Enter the office, sign a waiver, pay, and choose a riding helmet, if you like. I think that they were optional for adults, but we tried them to ‘get the whole experience.’ We like wearing cool hats too.

You will get a quick lesson from your guide and then saddle up. You can see how easy it is to get up in the saddle with this platform. Lisa’s horse was named Puddin.’

My horse was very gentle and nice. Her name was Noble. She reminded me of a Palomino.

Everyone gets a safety check of bridles, straps, and stirrups. They were very thorough.

And away we go!

The trail is about 3 miles so the ride lasts about an hour. It is mainly flat and woodsy.

About a mile into the ride, the guide will stop and do another quick safety check.

On the way out and back, you get to cross a shallow creek. So relaxing!

We mainly walked, but there were some sections on the trail that we got to trot. I wasn’t expecting that for a trail ride and really enjoyed it!

One thing we really appreciated was the fact that our guide stopped at the halfway point and took pictures with everyone’s cameras so we could remember the moment. It is not recommended to use a camera during a ride because it could scare the horse and you need both hands ready–just in case. I took pictures and video for this blog. If I did it again, I would use my clear camera sports bag and just wear it around my neck. It is not easy juggling a camera and riding so the guides will help you with photography. We really needed help with the picture above so it was a nice service. We left a nice tip to show our appreciation for everything.

At the end of the ride, dismounting is just as easy. You use a platform to get off the horse so all ages can ride.

Dismounting is as easy as pie!

Our guide, Debbie, was the best. I was impressed that she could ride backwards in the saddle while talking to us. Get a picture at the end of hour so you can remember them and your ride in the mountains.

There are children’s rides and carriage rides available as well.

Here is a link: http://www.cadescovestable.com/index.html

In summary, here are the things that we liked the most about this riding stable.

The horses and healthy and well treated. They get every other day ‘off’ in the pasture.
These are knowledgable ‘horse people.’ They know what they are doing. They are friendly too.
The trail is easy so you can relax and enjoy the ride.
The are times that you may trot, if you like.
The waiting area is good. We saw a bear on our first trip.
There is a bathroom next to the office.
The horses are well tempered and gentle.

Here are some good ideas.

Wear old shoes or boots.
Bring a snack and have a picnic in Cades Cove after your ride. Keep it safe from bears in your car.
Wear a sports camera carrier bag around your neck if you want to take photos.
I hate a horsefly and there was one that bedeviled our horses during the ride. Be watchful and gently swat at them if they land near the top of the tail where the horse cannot reach as well.
Maybe wear a hat or a visor.
Crowds are smaller during local rod run weekends and other big events.
Tip your wonderful guide!

This was a wonderful way to end our summer vacation. We highly recommend Cades Cove Stables. It is our favorite horseback riding place in the Smoky Mountains!

Phil Bredesen Campaign Rally at Applewood Farmhouse

August 22, 2018outandaboutinsevierville2 Comments

Phil Bredesen’s campaign rally was well attended yesterday by local citizens at the Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant. This is an excellent candidate for the U. S. Senate so it was necessary to attend the event. I don’t go to many political rallies, but do so when I really like the candidate. Here is what I saw at the event.

First, Melinda and I ran into some dear friends, Steve and Liz Petty.

The Applewood Farmhouse was ready for the Bredesen visit.

A line formed to sign in and enter the rally inside the restaurant.

I signed in and was ready to meet the former governor. He is my choice for U.S. Senate.

Excitement was evident as Bredesen entered the room. He entered quietly from another part of the restaurant so it took a minute to realize that he was there.

Bredesen was introduced to the crowd as his wife stands to the left.

Phil Bredesen spoke about his retirement and decision to run for U.S. Senate. The crowd was glad he decided to come out of retirement.

Melinda enjoyed a moment with the candidate. I enjoyed my moment as well!

A handshake with retired teacher, Dale Gilmore. We always enjoy seeing Dale!

I didn’t realize that this was a casual dinner event so it was nice to try the AppleWood Farmhouse restaurant chili—and it was fabulous! A little spicy, but enough to make it good. There were tiny cornbread ‘crackers’ to dunk in the bowl as well. You must try this the next time you are at the AppleWood Farmhouse! Smokymountainfoodie approves.

Everyone is encouraged to vote in November. This is the best vote for U.S. Senate.

Art Happening: August 9, 2018

August 9, 2018August 9, 2018outandaboutinseviervilleLeave a comment

A thunderstorm was rolling into town, but that didn’t deter attendees from the August 2018 Art Happening in downtown Sevierville. The Arts in Common Gallery was bright and cheerful inside. Follow along to the first Art Happening in this new gallery.

There are so many beautiful things to see in the gallery. I am always captivated by Mary Rudin’s sundial, pictured in the foreground.

First, I ran into local artist Marilyn Davenport with her husband, Bill.

Attendees talking to the featured artist, Tim Norris (pictured right). Tim Norris lives in Kodak and is actually an accomplished musician. He told me that he just started painting a year and a half ago. He started with watercolors then moved to acrylics. A friend of his also told me that Tim creates kaleidoscopes. So much talent in the fine arts! It was a pleasure to meet and talk to this artist.

Music provided by T.J. Artis.

These artists are twin sisters! Kaye and Faye moved here several months ago from Nashville and North Carolina, respectively. They are excited to be living here now and getting to know other artists in the area.

Artists and supporters gather in the gallery. Pictured left to right: Ken, Jeff, Gail, and Charlotte.

Featured artist, Tim Norris, and Davy Crockett.

Local artists, Jenny Dennis and Rita Eakin, enjoyed the Art Happening. Jenny creates abstract art and works with textiles, which you can see on her website www. jennydennisart.com . Rita works with acrylics. She created the beautiful scarf that she is wearing during a class with Charlotte Wear at Charlotte’s Creative, just a few doors up the street. I must take this class!

Liza Bach and Jill Greene overseeing the August Art Happening. A good crowd enjoyed the evening!

More fans of Tim Norris had a good time. Pictured left to right: Julianna Norris, daughter of the featured artist; Kelsey, Brennon, and Taylor.

Tim, Julianna, and Debbie Norris stand by some of his acrylic paintings. My favorite painting is in the center.

The clouds are reflecting light and look almost real to me. Fabulous!

I really enjoyed meeting this artist, his family, their friends, and fellow art fans. It is such a nice way to spend time downtown in the evening. Now that the gallery is ready, Jill Greene told me that the Sevierville Commons Art Council plans to host Art Happenings on the second Thursday of each month. With Art Happenings, they will spotlight an artist who has work in the gallery. Look on the wall to the left of the front door because that will be the display space.

I am excited that the Art Happenings are starting again downtown. The people are great and it is a feast for the eyes and the soul. You won’t find a better way to spend a little time downtown in the evening while out and about in Sevierville. See you there next month!

A Visit to the Downtown Farmers Market Before the Storms Arrived on Friday night.

July 24, 2018outandaboutinseviervilleLeave a comment

I was running late to meet friends for lunch so there was no time to waste on Friday at the downtown Sevierville farmers market. With only 40 minutes to see as much as possible, I made my way from the parking lot on Main Street to the gazebo area. Follow along and see what was there last Friday, July 20.

I had never seen so many cars and traffic in downtown Sevierville this summer so it was good to see people out and about.

If you park near the courthouse then you can pass through the arcade at the Victoria Mall and then exit near the Henderson’s produce tent. This is one of my favorite stops.

The downtown Sevierville farmers market on Fridays offers a great place for family outings. This sweet family captures that idea in one photo.

Kyle Grainger, reporter and weather anchor for WVLT-TV, shops at another vendor. Knowing that storms were on the way that evening, the vendor and I asked about the weather timeline. Kyle replied that it would be stormy and that the television station had recommended that he pack an overnight bag in order to cover the weather throughout the early morning hours. It did turn out to be quite a stormy night!

I always enjoy visiting the UT Ag Extension tent because they are so friendly, offer samples, give you a free recipe, and sometimes a freebie! I felt good when one of the ladies knew of this blog and said that a relative in Ohio reads it sometimes. So cool!

Apple salsa with a little jalapeño kick. I will make this!

This is the nicest lady! She also makes quilts from t-shirts. I got some specifics from her for a future project because I am ready to finally get rid of T-shirts, but don’t want to throw them away. Some are from Spain, London, Australia, and New Zealand so they are sentimental favorites. This will allow me to keep the memories, but also allow more closet space. Take a look at the craftwork under her arms in the photo above. Those are remnants from T-shirt projects in the past. Looks like we know what kind of shirts they come from!

I bought the medium glazed cashews to take as a hostess gift on Saturday at a cabi Fall ’18 collection launch. The friends at the party found them to be a favorite treat at that gathering. I talked to the vendor and he is headed for California this week.

Other customers agree that the glazed pecans are great.

I need to avoid sugar, but still admired the cinnamon buns from this vendor.

Foodie pastry heaven!

Wildflour Bakehouse offers cakes made to order and cookies as well. Check out her book for ideas and prices. I liked the chocolate cakes pictured above.

I was so happy to see Snowbird Mountain Farm again and made another purchase. Great gourmet coffee!

You can buy lunch from Doug Shanks and keep shopping!

There is always a crowd and beautiful things to see at Sevier Blumen.

I had to leave for lunch before I had a chance to wander over to the gazebo to see a wood turning demonstration. Luckily, I caught a Facebook Live feed by the Sevierville Commons Arts Council while I was in the restaurant. From that, I caught a couple of screenshots of these Unicoi County crafters. Here is one screenshot of Bill Collison at work.

Here is a screenshot of Tina Collison. Check the front page of the Sevierville Mountain Press Sunday edition to see a story on these two crafters.

Taking a last look before heading to lunch with friends. The Sevier County Courthouse clock tower in the background is a nice photo reference.

Healthy Balance is a great lunch stop after visiting the market. I met Janice, Anita, and Elaine for a leisurely lunch. The turkey avocado sandwich grilled is perfection. We highly recommend this lunch spot!

There is another farmers market downtown in just a few days. It is a great way for you, and your family, to get out and about in Sevierville. See you there!

New Things at the Farmers Market: July 6, 2018

July 7, 2018outandaboutinseviervilleLeave a comment

There is a special energy on Fridays in downtown Sevierville. Go to the gazebo on Bruce Street and you will find our local farmers market buzzing with activity and commerce. I went this week and found two new vendors that offer something a little special. Follow along and see for yourself…

I noticed a lot of progress on a new business downtown called Graze Burgers. (I think that I got that name right.) One of the foreman said that they would make some good progress in another month. It is coming along nicely.

Although in a bit of a disarray now, this alley will soon become a seating area with tables and chairs for Graze Burgers. There will be a window to the bar that will assist with food service. I am looking forward to see this new business.

There was a lot of ‘hustle and bustle’ at the farmers market when I arrived around 11:00 a.m. I was glad to see so many customers there for the day.

It was good to see Doug Shanks ready to serve lunch to hungry shoppers. He retired from the Sevierville Police Force and has taken over this business.

If you elect Doug Shanks as Constable, then you know where you can find him on Fridays between 9:00-1:00.

I always enjoy seeing the U.T. Extension Office at the farmers market because they will have a nice sample and recipe to give away to anyone who wants to try it. They also have many tips for recipes, gardening, cooking, and more.

I tried this broccoli salad and it was fabulous! It was kept cold and refreshing. I liked the raisins and red onion in this particular recipe. Must make it soon!

Here is one of the new vendors from Snowbird Mountain Farm. I think that it is worthy of note because I bought something here within 5 minutes. Guess what it was?

This business is based in Hartford, Tennessee. Snowbird Mountain Farm (love the title!) offers several products, not the least of which is coffee. The vendor was very pleasant and friendly, happy to explain the roasting process and differences in blends.

I am a coffee ‘afficionado’ and a big fan of the Three Bears Coffee company that sells at the Knoxville Market Square farmers market. To see a coffee vendor at our Sevierville farmers market was quite a welcome sight. This is a niche that needs to be filled.

After smelling the aromas from each bag, I promptly bought this one and look forward to trying it in the morning.

I love this vendor as I have bought many dog sculptures from her to give as gifts. There are some new things here. Look…

Pomeranians!

I think that I am going to buy this for Larry Sorrell!

This was the other new vendor that was worthy of note. He makes and sells candied, glazed pecans, walnuts, and cashews. Walk up and you can try a sample.

I tried this one. He uses bourbon to make this delightful treat. It was really good! I only tried one.

I think that this could be a good hostess gift if you are going to see someone. I would prefer the one on the right, of course.

It was time for me to go so I went my usual route through this arcade, the hallway through Victoria Mall.

Pass through the light to Court Avenue and the parking lot on Main Street. It was nice to see some new vendors along with the good ones that we already have on Fridays at the farmers market. It makes it nice to get out and about in Sevierville on a summer morning.

See you there!

My First Trek Up Mount LeConte in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

July 5, 2018July 5, 2018outandaboutinsevierville5 Comments

If you live in this area then climbing Mount LeConte is probably on your ‘bucket list.’ In addition, an overnight stay at LeConte Lodge is ‘the dream’ because it is so difficult to get a reservation—not to mention getting there. I am not a hiker, nor outdoorsy; however, the possibility of going up the famous mountain with friends was something that I couldn’t pass up. It was finally time. Here is our story from last month: my first trek up Mount LeConte in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

We ascended the mountain via the Alum Cave Bluff trail. Many will be glad to see bathrooms at the beginning of the trail. I know that I was!

A quick glance showed mountain visitors from several states.

The Alum Cave Bluff trail starts out gently.

The trail becomes steeper as you approach the cave. Melinda said, “the hike is tough, but what a payoff! The views from Alum Cave take my breath away.”

Mountain ridge lines become visible above Alum Cave.

You gain amazing views as you proceed up the mountain.

The path is rough, but you can do it with a good fitness level. I had been working toward this goal at National Fitness Center in Sevierville since the spring. In fact, I highly recommend their high intensity fitness classes and the stair climber to prepare for this vigorous hike.

Take frequent rest breaks if you need them. We did.

My good friends, Millie Derrick McFalls and Melinda Derrick, were some of the best companions for this first trek up Mount LeConte. Millie worked at the lodge for several summers and Melinda has made the ascent before so they knew what to pack and what to do.

The trail presents some exciting moments—and photos!

Nice drop off! Hang on to the ropes. You have plenty of room, but the ropes increase the safety and feeling of security.

My climbing companions were (pictured left to right) Lisa Stone, Melinda Derrick, and Millie Derrick McFalls. Lisa Stone has served in the Teacher in the Parks program and the Teacher Ranger (TRP) program. Her knowledge of the mountains, plants, animals, and hiking made it so much more interesting and fun. She also carried an alarm in case we came into contact with wild animals.

Melinda said that there are about 28 places on the trail with these security ropes.

When you feel like your legs will not go much farther then you may reach what is called the ‘Hallelujah’ trail. This flat section is the last quarter mile to LeConte Lodge, your final destination.

Our first contact with the lodge was this privy that any hiker can use. There are more bathrooms for lodge guests as well.

We had just enough time to check into our cabin before dinner was served in the lodge dining room.

There is no electricity in the dining hall, but the skylights and windows allow natural light. The dining room is cozy in the cool air at the top of the mountain. Temperatures that June night dropped into the 40’s up on LeConte.

This will be the best corn bread that you have ever had in your life. In fact, the whole meal will taste amazing!

Dinner at 6,593 feet will be the best one of the year. Delicious!

You will need to carb load for all the hiking you will do, even while on the top of the mountain. These Toll House cookies were as good as they look! Feel free to take another!

After dinner, Lisa and I trekked to the ‘Clifftops.’ This is the best spot to watch the sunset. It was kind of tricky for me with all the rocks and slick spots, but I was glad that I went there. Does it look like you can reach up and touch the clouds?

Upon arrival back at our cabin, we could look over the tree line and see the lights from Pigeon Forge and Sevierville. Lisa said that she said the big wheel at the Island. The lights extending to the right are from Dolly Parton Parkway. The lights north of that show Highway 66 to the Interstate.

Some cabins have double sized bunk beds. They may be queen sized! Two people can share each bed of this type.

Lisa and I got up at 5:30 a.m. in order to see this sunrise from Myrtle Point. It was the most amazing sight of the entire trip! Make sure that you do this. Take flashlights and a walking stick because the path is a little tricky in the rocky areas.

Even with the clouds, the sunrise will impress you.

Lisa walking back to the cabin from the sunrise at Myrtle Point. You can see how the paths look like creek beds.

The ‘office’ has morning coffee so bring the cup from your room for caffeine. See the sign- in book to the right of the coffee? Make sure that you register your name, hometown, and how many times you have made the climb to the lodge. Look at old pictures on the wall and some of the ‘hall of fame’ climbers who have made a name with frequent treks to the top of the mountain.

This was a good way to wake up and prepare for the descent back down the mountain.

I love this photo of my friends enjoying a chat and coffee on Mount LeConte.

Breakfast at the lodge is perfect. This is just half of it. There were biscuits and gravy and more.

For some new views, Lisa and I chose to descend the mountain via the Boulevard Trail. It is longer than Alum Cave trail, but I wanted to see the wonderful views—and they were stunning.

We began the descent and took our time.

The Boulevard trail contained one of my favorite spots (and pictures) on the whole trail.

We were walking among the clouds during the first part of the hike down LeConte.

We got caught in a thunderstorm about halfway down the mountain. Make sure that you have a poncho. And now, I can say that I have done part of the AT, the Appalachian Trail.

Truly, I am a novice so check with seasoned hikers before you begin any hike in the Smokies. Thanks to my friends, I was prepared and had a great time. After my legs recovered for a couple of days, I can say that I would consider going back up the mountain next year. After all, I didn’t get to see the llama pack train that goes up the mountain with supplies three times a week. Next year!

There are so many good pictures from this trip. So many good times. The Derrick sisters summarize it well. “Experiencing the walk, the lodge, and time with my sister and friends is priceless. We made memories.” Millie agrees, ” I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”

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Out and About in Sevierville

See, Dine, Dwell.

Year: 2018