srf99

I'm planning a mother-daughter trip for October 4-8. My mom isn't very active so I don't imagine that we'll be hiking or do much active stuff in the area. My perfect trip involves staying somewhere somewhat secluded where we can laugh and talk loudly, casually walk the property and not really see anyone, and driving around enjoying the scenery. I hear it gets very crowded so I'd like to avoid the crowds and just enjoy the scenery and my mom. All suggestions are welcome!

wave725

Stay away from Gatlinburg! Especially in October - that's one of the busiest times in the park with the leaves changing colors. Gatlinburg is traffic, traffic, traffic. If you want seclusion, stay in Townsend or Wears Valley - the quiet side of the park. We've had lots of luck with Townsend View Cabins and Dogwood Cabins. Just tell them what you're looking for.

Townsend is a small town (really just about 2 miles on the main road), but has a major grocery storey (IGA or Safeway) and a handful of restaurants - Little River BBQ is a favorite among locals and visitors. They have a screened-in porch seating in the back along the Little River and great BBQ.

For a scenic drive, check out the Cades Cove Loop, an 11-mile one way loop, where you'll see lots of historical buildings and hopefully wildlife. I would suggest going early in the morning to avoid traffic. However, the road is closed to cards on Wed & Saturday mornings until 10AM to allow cyclists to have the road to themselves.

Another scenic drive is up to Clingman's Dome, the highest point in the park, where you'll have spectacular views.

spirobulldog

If you get up early enough you can beat the traffic, but wave is right--crazy traffic in Gatlinburg. The traffic is crazy in Cades Cove too. I would seriously get there at 7 in the morning to avoid it.

The hike to the Tower at Clingmon's Dome is fairly short and easy. You don't have to hike to it, but it is paved for the most part and is about a mile(i think). It is a bit uphill, but nothing that bad.

jayne1973

You might check before you go to make sure the road through the park is open. We were suprised last month when it was closed just six miles in due to a landslide. Of course that should be cleared away by the time you go, but it never hurts to know ahead of time. I bet it will be beautiful there!

iceeu2

Do you already have your reservations? If not, a great place to stay where you all can kick back and be loud is Oak Haven Resort. Wonderful cabins and a beautiful setting. Have fun!

spirobulldog

Jayne, They are going in October. The road will be open in October. I guess anything is a possibility but I can't imagine it not being open unless some serious emergency.

jayne1973

Well you never know when there is gonna be a landslide!

violetduck

You should definitely have crowds and lots of traffic at that time. You might want to check out this link for a relaxing escape for you and your mom. It is expensive, but I have heard quite worth it.
www.blackberryfarm.com/
I hope you have a wonderful trip with your mom.