SIDNEY JAMES MOUNTAIN LODGE · THE JOURNAL

Smoky Mountains

3 Great Hikes That You Can Take From the Sugarlands Visitor Center

3 Great Hikes That You Can Take From the Sugarlands Visitor Center

March 7, 2025

The Sugarlands Visitor Center is the perfect place to start your day at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! In addition to a free 20 minute film about the park, extensive natural history exhibits and bookstore, you …

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Trail Ready: 7 Tips for Hiking in Gatlinburg & the Smoky Mountains

Trail Ready: 7 Tips for Hiking in Gatlinburg & the Smoky Mountains

January 8, 2025

You can’t truly visit Gatlinburg without spending some time exploring the great outdoors! Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a first-time hiker, the Smoky Mountains offer trails for all skill levels, featuring stunn…

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What to Do When You Encounter a Black Bear in Gatlinburg

What to Do When You Encounter a Black Bear in Gatlinburg

October 20, 2024

Black bear sightings are becoming increasingly popular in downtown Gatlinburg. With more than 1,500 black bears who call the Smoky Mountains home, it’s not uncommon to see a black bear when you visit the area. If you do …

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3 Popular Animals That Live in The Great Smoky Mountains

3 Popular Animals That Live in The Great Smoky Mountains

September 19, 2023

One of the best things to do when you come to the Smoky Mountain area is spend time outdoors. With that being said, you should definitely visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park during your stay with us. It is know…

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Top 5 Smoky Mountain National Park Waterfalls Off the Beaten Path

Top 5 Smoky Mountain National Park Waterfalls Off the Beaten Path

September 10, 2023

Anyone who visits the Smoky Mountains probably wants to see at least one waterfall while they are in town! But maybe you don’t want to hit all of the popular spots because you want to avoid crowds of people so you can se…

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Everything You Need to Know About the Gatlinburg Trail

Everything You Need to Know About the Gatlinburg Trail

August 8, 2023

Do you need more ideas for vacation activities during your stay with us? If so, one of the best parts of coming to the Smoky Mountain area is temporarily getting out of the city and exploring the outdoors. A popular way …

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4 Interesting Facts About the Great Smoky Mountains

4 Interesting Facts About the Great Smoky Mountains

March 13, 2023

If you’re looking for more things to do during your stay with us, you should visit the Great Smoky Mountains. There are many things to see and do for visitors of all ages. Before you see this crown jewel in person though…

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Top 5 Waterfalls in the Great Smoky Mountains You Need to See

Top 5 Waterfalls in the Great Smoky Mountains You Need to See

March 1, 2023

The Great Smoky Mountains are known for their beauty and all of the incredible natural features you can see, from mountain views to waterfalls. Most of the waterfalls in the Smokies are accessible through hiking trails, …

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Top 4 Smoky Mountain Scenic Drives You Have to Try

Top 4 Smoky Mountain Scenic Drives You Have to Try

April 5, 2022

The Great Smoky Mountains are home to over 380 miles of road where you can go sightseeing. From spectacular, panoramic views of the mountains and forests to historic buildings, there is so much to see! Plus, along most d…

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