Gatlinburg‚ Tennessee is known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventures‚ but hidden within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park lies a fascinating piece of history ⸺ Elkmont Ghost Town. This abandoned resort community offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the remnants of a once-thriving vacation destination.
Discovering Elkmont Ghost Town
Elkmont Ghost Town‚ formerly known as the Appalachian Club‚ was once a popular vacation spot for the elite. Today‚ it stands as a reminder of the past‚ with its decaying cottages and overgrown trails. Located southwest of downtown Gatlinburg‚ the ghost town is easily accessible and offers a captivating experience for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Upon arrival‚ visitors can park nearby and begin their exploration. The old cottages‚ some of which have been restored‚ are open for discovery. Walking through the town‚ you can catch a glimpse of what life was like in Elkmont during its heyday. From the Levi Trentham cabin to the Elkmont Troll Bridge‚ there are plenty of landmarks to explore and stories to uncover.
The History of Elkmont Ghost Town
Elkmont Ghost Town has a rich history that dates back to the early 1900s. Originally a logging town owned by the Little River Lumber Company‚ it later became a popular vacation spot for wealthy individuals. The Appalachian Club‚ a private resort community‚ was established in the area and attracted many visitors seeking leisure and relaxation.
However‚ by the mid-20th century‚ the resort community declined‚ leading to the eventual abandonment of Elkmont. In 1992‚ the Great Smoky Mountains National Park acquired the land‚ preserving its historical significance and allowing visitors to experience the ghost town firsthand.
Exploring Elkmont Today
Today‚ Elkmont Ghost Town offers a unique opportunity for visitors to step back in time and uncover its storied past. The town is open for exploration‚ free of charge‚ making it an affordable and intriguing attraction. Whether you are interested in history‚ nature‚ or photography‚ Elkmont Ghost Town provides a memorable experience.
The best way to visit Elkmont is by taking US-411 from Gatlinburg to the Sugarlands Visitor Center. From there‚ turn onto Fighting Creek Gap Road and drive approximately 4.5 miles until you reach Elkmont Road. This scenic drive will lead you to the heart of the ghost town.
Other Haunted Attractions in Gatlinburg
If you’re a fan of ghost stories and supernatural tales‚ Gatlinburg has more to offer than just Elkmont Ghost Town. The city is home to several haunted spots‚ including ghost tours that take you to authentic haunted locations. These tours blend history and paranormal phenomena‚ providing an exciting and educational experience for all ages.
From the Elkmont Ghost Town to the haunted spots of downtown Gatlinburg‚ there is no shortage of fascinating and eerie attractions for visitors to explore. Whether you’re a history buff‚ nature enthusiast‚ or simply curious about the paranormal‚ a trip to Elkmont Ghost Town is a must-see when visiting Gatlinburg‚ Tennessee.