Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. From its bustling downtown strip to the serene peaks that surround it, it holds a special magic for those who wander its streets. But beyond the pancakes and moonshine, there’s a fascinating story woven into the very ground of this mountain town.
The Cherokee people were the original inhabitants of this region, leaving behind a rich legacy. In the early 1800s, European settlers like William Ogle started building communities in the shadow of the Smokies. Gatlinburg was named after a colorful character, Radford Gatlin, who arrived in the 1850s and set up shop. The town slowly grew, known for its crafts and mountain hospitality. And then, in the 1930s, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park was established, turning the city into a tourism destination that thrives to this day.
The city welcomes millions of people every year, and for good reason. With a population of around 3,700, it has the attractions of a much larger city. There’s Ober Gatlinburg, an amusement park and ski area accessible by a scenic aerial tramway. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies features stunning underwater exhibits. And no visit is complete without tasting the local flavors at places like the Pancake Pantry, known for their mile-high stacks, or Crockett’s Breakfast Camp, where the biscuits and gravy are legendary.
Of course, supporting all that fun are local businesses like NOC Gatlinburg, an adventure outfitter for whitewater rafting and ziplining, the Gatlinburg Space Needle, offering 360-degree views from its 400-foot observation tower, and countless artisan shops selling everything from pottery to moonshine.
Here, the unusual and the entertaining converge. Did you know that the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, with over 20,000 sets from around the world, calls this town home? Or that the city hosts an annual New Year’s Eve Ball Drop and Fireworks Show, a tradition that lights up the night sky with spectacular color and excitement?
Another local landmark, the Gatlinburg Skylift Park, provides breathtaking views of the Smokies from the SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America. When the parkway isn’t enough, Gatlinburg offers endless entertainment. Catch a comedy magic show at the Impossibilities Magic Shop, explore Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium or go ghost hunting. Gatlinburg is said to be quite haunted, with spooky tales attached to places like the Riverhouse at the Park hotel and the mysterious “White Lady” of the Greenbrier Restaurant.
Outdoor enthusiasts can revel in hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic drives within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the park, offers breathtaking panoramas. Cades Cove is a historic valley with preserved cabins and wildlife sightings.
The Smoky Mountains may look eternal, but the ground beneath the city is dynamic. This area is dominated by weathered bedrock – some of the oldest geology in the world. Over time, the combination of moisture and freeze-thaw cycles can stress even the sturdiest rock. This puts strain on home and business foundations throughout the region.
Issues like shifting walls, uneven floors, and cracks are common signs of foundation trouble. Sadly, many homeowners try to ignore these problems, but they only worsen, potentially jeopardizing your property’s value and safety. If you’ve noticed any worrisome signs in your home or business, it’s time to take action. American Standard Foundation Repair offers expertise in foundation assessment and repair. Our team understands the unique challenges of building on Smoky Mountain soil. Don’t let foundation problems erode the value and joy of your property. Contact American Standard Foundation Repair today for a free estimate.