Vision
Seven Springs Holistic Retreats is a place of natural abundance and cultural diversity where people learn how to create holistic sustenance for themselves and their communities.
Mission
To provide an innovative and transformative space for local and global communities to experience high quality holistic education and experiences.
Seven Springs Holistic Retreats is a place of natural abundance and cultural diversity where people learn how to create holistic sustenance for themselves and their communities.
Mission
To provide an innovative and transformative space for local and global communities to experience high quality holistic education and experiences.
The Space of Seven Springs
Seven Springs is a retreat center featuring seven natural springs on 128 acres of family owned land in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains- near Maryville, Tennessee. Nestled deep in a hollow with a rich forest fed by ancient springs, it's easy to forget that we're just 20 minutes away from the Knoxville airport.
Seven Springs is located within 500 miles of 75% of the U.S. population. The land is also some of the most ecologically diverse in the country. The high elevations of the Smoky Mountains are a temperate rain forest with over 19,000 species of plants and animals. The incredible biodiversity of the region adds to the abundant richness of Seven Springs.
We acknowledge the Cherokee Indians and all indigenous people as the original stewards of this land (https://www.nps.gov/grsm/learn/historyculture/cherokee.htm). We have also found evidence of several homesteads throughout the hollow from centuries past. Now land has been in our family for three generations. As you drive onto Sweet Hollow Way, you’ll pass a rare and historic cantilever barn, likely built in the late 1800’s and still used today. As you make your way to the yurt village, you may notice the Long-Townesmith Family home on the hill. This traditional post and beam house was built by Herman Long and modeled after houses in his Bavarian homeland using large poplar trees selectively cut from the land. Turning the corner towards the yurt village, you’ll see our giant Shala, also created by Herman who used cedar poles from a nearby glade. Closer to the yurt village you will pass a large field where Oma Ruth’s house was once located, and Oma’s tea garden filled with herbs and veggies. Beyond this is our large stone fire circle which was inspired by ancient Norse stone circles in Denmark .This honored fire circle is built on the footprint of our first cabin, and where Jessi grew up learning to love the natural world around her.
Throughout the years, this land has raised cattle, chickens, a few pigs, and many vegetable gardens. Mary and Herman began a greenhouse business and this land raised thousands of plants for our community to enjoy. Now as years have passed, the land sits here, waiting for what next it is to raise. With purposeful intention and action, this land now raises consciousness, awareness, and connection. This land is here as part of our lives, and we are delighted to share it with our community as a space to host and participate in retreats and events.
Seven Springs is located within 500 miles of 75% of the U.S. population. The land is also some of the most ecologically diverse in the country. The high elevations of the Smoky Mountains are a temperate rain forest with over 19,000 species of plants and animals. The incredible biodiversity of the region adds to the abundant richness of Seven Springs.
We acknowledge the Cherokee Indians and all indigenous people as the original stewards of this land (https://www.nps.gov/grsm/learn/historyculture/cherokee.htm). We have also found evidence of several homesteads throughout the hollow from centuries past. Now land has been in our family for three generations. As you drive onto Sweet Hollow Way, you’ll pass a rare and historic cantilever barn, likely built in the late 1800’s and still used today. As you make your way to the yurt village, you may notice the Long-Townesmith Family home on the hill. This traditional post and beam house was built by Herman Long and modeled after houses in his Bavarian homeland using large poplar trees selectively cut from the land. Turning the corner towards the yurt village, you’ll see our giant Shala, also created by Herman who used cedar poles from a nearby glade. Closer to the yurt village you will pass a large field where Oma Ruth’s house was once located, and Oma’s tea garden filled with herbs and veggies. Beyond this is our large stone fire circle which was inspired by ancient Norse stone circles in Denmark .This honored fire circle is built on the footprint of our first cabin, and where Jessi grew up learning to love the natural world around her.
Throughout the years, this land has raised cattle, chickens, a few pigs, and many vegetable gardens. Mary and Herman began a greenhouse business and this land raised thousands of plants for our community to enjoy. Now as years have passed, the land sits here, waiting for what next it is to raise. With purposeful intention and action, this land now raises consciousness, awareness, and connection. This land is here as part of our lives, and we are delighted to share it with our community as a space to host and participate in retreats and events.
Meet the Family
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Jessi was born and raised on Seven Spring’s land. Her German grandmother, Oma, who first found the land, taught her courage to jump across the stream. It wasn’t long before she jumped abroad and founded Global Just Designs, a fair- trade clothing business dedicated to improving the lives of Maya women in Guatemala. Meanwhile, Zach had been living in Guatemala for years working at the University and founding an NGO based on creativity. The two finally crossed paths in 2014. They soon co-founded the international yoga school Kula Collective in 2015 and continue to dream up ways to express their passions for holistic learning in Seven Springs. Herman's mother, Oma Ruth, brought him from Germany to Maryville to live with his stepfather at the tender age of 9. His story of adaptation to East Tennessee culture is an example of building community. His mother bought the land where Seven Springs now resides in 1976. Soon after, Herman met Mary, and together they studied agriculture, plant sciences, animal husbandry, and forestry at University of Tennessee, melding select principles with those from the "back to the land movement" on their new land. Over the years, Herman and Mary have worked together in pipefitting, welding, and owned a landscape and greenhouse business for twenty years. Most recently, Mary worked for the US Forest Service in conservation forestry and ecology. They are both happily retired now sharing their gifts and experience with Seven Springs. |
What's on the Land
Eight Residential Yurts
Each yurt is decorated with traditional textiles and artwork from the countries that our family frequents. The yurts are fully furnished including electricity and outlets. We use 100% organic cotton sheets and towels. Each yurt has fans for the heat and extra blankets for the cool nights.
Yoga shala
Standing 16 feet tall and 28 foot diameter, our yoga shala is held by mighty cedar tree poles from our forest. Enjoy glimpses of the first light of sunrise in this open air pavilion with a breathtaking view of the Chilhowee mountains. We have 20 meditation cushions, 20 yoga mats, 20 blocks and 15 straps for student use.
Fully Equipped Kitchen
Magic is made in this kitchen to nourish your body, mind, and spirit!
Fire circle
For nightly gathering or special ceremonies, this is a space to bring people together around the fire for music, celebration and camaraderie.
Bathrooms
Our bathrooms have water-saving flush toilets, sinks, and hot showers.
Camping
We have several ideal camping spots along our creek. These are near the community kitchen and bathrooms.
Labyrinth
A Classical 7 Circuit Labyrinth lies nestled within a natural bowl, shaded by mature American beech, sycamore, and maple trees. This recreation of ancient sacred sites is a powerful setting for walking (or running!) meditation and prayer.
Natural Springs
Walk along the creek that emerges from the head of Sweet Hollow. Drink pristine waters from a natural tap. At the head of the watershed, these forested slopes make for perfect aquifers. Fill up your water bottles!
Ample Onsite Parking
Whether you’re staying for a night or a week, your car will be a safe 5 minute walk from your Yurt or campsite.
Each yurt is decorated with traditional textiles and artwork from the countries that our family frequents. The yurts are fully furnished including electricity and outlets. We use 100% organic cotton sheets and towels. Each yurt has fans for the heat and extra blankets for the cool nights.
Yoga shala
Standing 16 feet tall and 28 foot diameter, our yoga shala is held by mighty cedar tree poles from our forest. Enjoy glimpses of the first light of sunrise in this open air pavilion with a breathtaking view of the Chilhowee mountains. We have 20 meditation cushions, 20 yoga mats, 20 blocks and 15 straps for student use.
Fully Equipped Kitchen
Magic is made in this kitchen to nourish your body, mind, and spirit!
Fire circle
For nightly gathering or special ceremonies, this is a space to bring people together around the fire for music, celebration and camaraderie.
Bathrooms
Our bathrooms have water-saving flush toilets, sinks, and hot showers.
Camping
We have several ideal camping spots along our creek. These are near the community kitchen and bathrooms.
Labyrinth
A Classical 7 Circuit Labyrinth lies nestled within a natural bowl, shaded by mature American beech, sycamore, and maple trees. This recreation of ancient sacred sites is a powerful setting for walking (or running!) meditation and prayer.
Natural Springs
Walk along the creek that emerges from the head of Sweet Hollow. Drink pristine waters from a natural tap. At the head of the watershed, these forested slopes make for perfect aquifers. Fill up your water bottles!
Ample Onsite Parking
Whether you’re staying for a night or a week, your car will be a safe 5 minute walk from your Yurt or campsite.
What to Bring:
- All natural personal products (natural toothpaste, shampoo, etc.)
- Natural bug spray and sunscreen
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Water bottle
- Light hiking shoes and sandals
- Comfortable clothes, including light long sleeves and long pants
- Sun hat
- Yoga mat (if you prefer your own)
- Tent and bedding (only if camping)
- Musical instruments
- Open, caring attitude
Life at Seven Springs
Leave No Trace: We live close to the land at Seven Springs, so please act accordingly. Be sure to dispose of waste in the appropriate recycling or compost bin. In general, please be aware of what you are consuming to limit the waste it produces!
Disconnect to Reconnect! While wifi access is available at Seven Springs, we encourage everyone to disconnect as possible to take time to connect with your welcoming environment and most of all with yourself. Retreat leaders may decide on whether or not to provide the wifi access code.
Respect for the Land, Wildlife and Plants: We live close to the land. We protect and respect it and all who live here. We Do No Harm. This includes sharing this space with all wildlife, and we ask you to do the same and tread softly on Earth. We honor and respect the insects, spiders, snakes, and all animals, including bears. Any encounters mean do no harm and give them their space!
Poison/Sister Ivy: Leaves of three, let it be! We suggest that when you shower, scrub all exposed areas well. You have up to two hours to remove the oils before they cause the itchy reaction on your skin. If you’re particularly allergic, consider using a Jewel Weed salve. We have some for emergencies in our first aid kit. Jewel Weed oil is a natural counter to sister ivy. In nature they grow next to each other representing a medicinal relationship.
How to Use the Kitchen: For most events the kitchen will be run by our team who will prepare the meals for everyone. You can bring your own snacks or food but be aware: storage space in our critter-proof storage areas is limited and there is no food allowed in tents or yurts. Please mark all food with your name and date. Any food without a label will be used or composted after a few days.
Hot water will be available all day to make tea, cold spring water from our Springs in the dispensers. Napkins are made by a women's cooperative in Guatemala. Choose a napkin and place it in the napkin house for the next meal that is above the sink.
Yurts: Please take off your shoes when entering the yurts. We do have critters (mostly raccoons and field mice) so it’s essential to put any food in the fridge and/or cabinets. There are extra blankets in each yurt if you need. Please turn off your lights and mattress warmers when you leave your yurt.
Dishes: At meal time, please clean your own bowl and utensils. Scrape any food waste from your plate into the compost bucket. Rinse your dish and place it in the container to be put into the dishwasher. Please wash your mug with soap and place in the drying rack.
Laundry: We provide towels and linens for those staying in Yurts and Glamping. For longer stays, personal loads of laundry may be requested for a $10 fee.
Karma: We like to practice small offerings of karma (selfless service) during your experience at Seven Springs. Please treat the space as if it were your own. This is a family-style retreat center, and we hope that each person that comes leaves their positive energy and a clean space!
Pet Policy: While we love pets, we have a strict no pet policy at Seven Springs. This is mostly for the safety of the pet, as well as the wellbeing of all our guests. Please contact us if you have a service animal.
Disconnect to Reconnect! While wifi access is available at Seven Springs, we encourage everyone to disconnect as possible to take time to connect with your welcoming environment and most of all with yourself. Retreat leaders may decide on whether or not to provide the wifi access code.
Respect for the Land, Wildlife and Plants: We live close to the land. We protect and respect it and all who live here. We Do No Harm. This includes sharing this space with all wildlife, and we ask you to do the same and tread softly on Earth. We honor and respect the insects, spiders, snakes, and all animals, including bears. Any encounters mean do no harm and give them their space!
Poison/Sister Ivy: Leaves of three, let it be! We suggest that when you shower, scrub all exposed areas well. You have up to two hours to remove the oils before they cause the itchy reaction on your skin. If you’re particularly allergic, consider using a Jewel Weed salve. We have some for emergencies in our first aid kit. Jewel Weed oil is a natural counter to sister ivy. In nature they grow next to each other representing a medicinal relationship.
How to Use the Kitchen: For most events the kitchen will be run by our team who will prepare the meals for everyone. You can bring your own snacks or food but be aware: storage space in our critter-proof storage areas is limited and there is no food allowed in tents or yurts. Please mark all food with your name and date. Any food without a label will be used or composted after a few days.
Hot water will be available all day to make tea, cold spring water from our Springs in the dispensers. Napkins are made by a women's cooperative in Guatemala. Choose a napkin and place it in the napkin house for the next meal that is above the sink.
Yurts: Please take off your shoes when entering the yurts. We do have critters (mostly raccoons and field mice) so it’s essential to put any food in the fridge and/or cabinets. There are extra blankets in each yurt if you need. Please turn off your lights and mattress warmers when you leave your yurt.
Dishes: At meal time, please clean your own bowl and utensils. Scrape any food waste from your plate into the compost bucket. Rinse your dish and place it in the container to be put into the dishwasher. Please wash your mug with soap and place in the drying rack.
Laundry: We provide towels and linens for those staying in Yurts and Glamping. For longer stays, personal loads of laundry may be requested for a $10 fee.
Karma: We like to practice small offerings of karma (selfless service) during your experience at Seven Springs. Please treat the space as if it were your own. This is a family-style retreat center, and we hope that each person that comes leaves their positive energy and a clean space!
Pet Policy: While we love pets, we have a strict no pet policy at Seven Springs. This is mostly for the safety of the pet, as well as the wellbeing of all our guests. Please contact us if you have a service animal.
Getting Here:
Driving:
Only Use Google Maps or Waze (very important!)
Route to 125 Sweet Hollow Way Maryville, TN 37803
IMPORTANT! Our address isn’t recognized by some systems (such as imaps), and others might send you to another location or to our inaccessible back entrance. We recommend Google Maps!
We recommend coming in via Montvale Road, State Route 336. From Maryville, travel 6.5 miles south on Montvale Road, turn left on Old Piney Road (there is a ProSign shop on your right). Travel just over 1 mile and take your second left onto Galyon Rd. Travel 4/10 of a mile and you will see a large black mailbox labeled with 120 Sweet Hollow Way (this is next to 1344 Galyon Rd address and mailbox) and a blue Sweet Hollow Way street sign. Turn left immediately after the black mailbox onto our gravel driveway and follow the signs to the YURTS. You may drive to your yurt or camping space to unload, and then park your vehicle in our parking area.
If you get lost, please call (865) 221-3841 OR (865) 268-3913. Verizon Wireless has the best, and pretty much only service in this area.
Flying:
The nearest airport is the Knoxville International Airport, TYS. The airport is actually located in Alcoa and only about 25 minutes from Seven Springs. You may also look into flying into the Atlanta International Airport and renting a car to drive to Seven Springs. The Atlanta airport is about a four hour drive. Nashville offers additional airlines and the airport is about a three hour drive (and in central time zone).
Only Use Google Maps or Waze (very important!)
Route to 125 Sweet Hollow Way Maryville, TN 37803
IMPORTANT! Our address isn’t recognized by some systems (such as imaps), and others might send you to another location or to our inaccessible back entrance. We recommend Google Maps!
We recommend coming in via Montvale Road, State Route 336. From Maryville, travel 6.5 miles south on Montvale Road, turn left on Old Piney Road (there is a ProSign shop on your right). Travel just over 1 mile and take your second left onto Galyon Rd. Travel 4/10 of a mile and you will see a large black mailbox labeled with 120 Sweet Hollow Way (this is next to 1344 Galyon Rd address and mailbox) and a blue Sweet Hollow Way street sign. Turn left immediately after the black mailbox onto our gravel driveway and follow the signs to the YURTS. You may drive to your yurt or camping space to unload, and then park your vehicle in our parking area.
If you get lost, please call (865) 221-3841 OR (865) 268-3913. Verizon Wireless has the best, and pretty much only service in this area.
Flying:
The nearest airport is the Knoxville International Airport, TYS. The airport is actually located in Alcoa and only about 25 minutes from Seven Springs. You may also look into flying into the Atlanta International Airport and renting a car to drive to Seven Springs. The Atlanta airport is about a four hour drive. Nashville offers additional airlines and the airport is about a three hour drive (and in central time zone).
NEARBY RESTAURANTS:
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Lemongrass
912 W Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Maryville, TN 37801 (865) 681.8785 Thai Cuisine & Sushi Bar. Vegan & gluten-free friendly. Walnut Kitchen 606 High St, Maryville, TN 37804 (865) 980-8228 High-end American and Southern dine-in cuisine. Tomato Head The Gallery Shopping Center, 7240 Kingston Pike #172, Knoxville, TN 37919 (865) 584-1075 Hip American cafe-bakery serving light, hearty & vegetarian fare including pizza with beer & wine. Dancing Bear Lodge 137 Apple Valley Way, TOwnsend 37882 (865) 336-2138 High class farm-to-table restaurant in a beautiful mountain setting. |
Vienna Coffee Company, LLC.
212 College St B, Maryville, TN 37804 (865) 681-0517 Coffee, soup & salads, vegan options & outdoor back patio. Southland Books & Cafe 1505 E Broadway Ave, Maryville, TN 37804 (865) 984-4847 Coffee, drink specials, soups & salads. Vegan options. The Abbey at the Heartland Chapel 7765 River Rd, Townsend, TN 37882 (865) 448-1924 Local craft beer, small bites & vegetarian options. Tupelo Honey 1 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902 (865) 522-0004 Southern comfort food with a creative twist, plus craft beers & cocktails. Good Golly Tamale 112 S Central St, Knoxville, TN 37902 (865) 337-5771 Warm, casual joint offering a range of tamales stuffed with veggie & meat options. |
Nearby Attractions:
We encourage you to explore this fascinating region before or after the course. Many of these outdoor attractions are only a short drive away. Here are a few we recommend:
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park Foothills Parkway and Abrams Creek Campground are less than 9 miles from Seven Springs Retreat. The main entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited National Park in the US is a scenic 21 miles.! On your way you will drive through Townsend with a wonderful Visitors Center and Heritage Center we recommend visiting.
GSMNP is a free National Park. However, as of 2023, a Great Smoky Mountains National Park Parking Tag is required when parking within the Park for longer than 15 minutes. The cost is $5 daily, $15 weekly, or $40 annually and can be purchased online (recreation.gov) or at kiosks located within the GSMNP.
Cades Cove is a beautiful 11 mile loop to drive any day or bike all day on Wednesday when it is closed to cars from May through September. Bicycle rental is available in the Park. Abrams Falls is a nice 5 mile round trip hike from Cades Cove. The turnoff for the trailhead is located past stop #10 on the Cades Cove Loop Road. The turnoff is signed.
Laurel Falls is a trail that ascends Cove Mountain, leading past Laurel Falls, one of the most popular waterfalls in the national park, en route to the summit of Cove Mountain and the Cove Mountain fire tower. From the “Y” intersection, turn left onto Little River Road and drive 13.6 miles to the trailhead where there are parking areas on both sides of the road.
Tremont
Tremont is a nearby nature education center located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park; this area is fun to visit for information and connect to some good trailheads! Our favorite moderate waterfall hike is Spruce Flats Falls: You'll need to travel 2.2 miles back the Tremont road to the Great Smoky Mountains Institute and then park in the parking area in front of the visitor center. From there, walk up the paved road into the Tremont complex until the pavement ends at 0.2 miles. Continue into the woods and turn left uphill. At 0.1 mile the trail junctions with a path that goes straight, take a right to continue on the Falls trail. This is a narrow trail which winds through the deciduous forest.
We also enjoy the Middle Prong trail, with waterfalls and less difficulty. Head southwest from the Townsend Y junction of Little River Road and TN 73 towards Cades Cove. After a short drive (0.2 mile), turn left onto Tremont Road. After two miles, you’ll pass the Great Smoky Mountain Institute at Tremont on your left before the road changes to gravel. Continue three additional miles down the gravel road before reaching the road’s end. Park here for the trailhead. This trail is wide and an easy walk along a beautiful river with cascading falls.
Maryville Greenbelt
15 miles of paved trails through Maryville and Alcoa that are perfect for biking, running, or walking. The trail passes many kids parks as well as the large Maryville Library overlooking the duck pond at Bicentennial Park. Map is shown here.
IJAMS Nature Center (South Knoxville)
Stop by Ijams Nature Center’s Visitor Center to buy a trail map so you can fully explore trails and special sites, grab a snack, use the restroom, or learn more about events and programs! Jo’s Grove, Alice’s Greenhouse, and all of the trailheads are nearby.
One of the most popular activities at Ijams is paddling on Mead’s Quarry Lake. Visitors can rent canoes, kayaks, and paddle boards to get a better look at the amazing views of this historic marble quarry. Learn more about rentals here: https://www.ijams.org/paddle-swim
Mount Leconte
If you’re looking for a more challenging and longer hike, we recommend this one. Plan for a full day and bring lots of water and your own food. There are a few trails to choose from and a Lodge at the top if you’d like to spend the night (reservations strictly required). All trails can be difficult and steep…and well worth it.
We like the Alum Cave Bluff trail; it is steeper, shorter and more difficult, but the Bluffs are a must see on your way up. To reach the trailhead from the Sugarlands Visitor Center near Gatlinburg, drive 8.7 miles south along Newfound Gap Road. The parking area will be on your left.
Rainbow Falls trail is rocky and strenuous but worth it with panoramic views of the Smokies. Starting from Light 8 in Gatlinburg, turn onto Historic Nature Trail / Airport Road. After driving 0.7 miles veer right onto Cherokee Orchard Road, upon which you'll enter into Great Smoky Mountain National Park. After driving another 2.2 miles you'll enter the one-way Cherokee Orchard Loop Road. After driving roughly 0.6 miles on the loop, the Rainbow Falls Trailhead will be located on your right.
Look Rock Fire Tower
Located on the Foothills Parkway, Look Rock Fire Tower is a short and windy 8 mile drive up the mountain from Seven Springs. This National Park Service fire lookout is at the top of an easy half-mile hike up to a breathtaking 360 view of the surrounding mountains. You can see the Fire Tower from Seven Springs and even see Seven Springs from the Fire Tower!
Abrams Creek Trail
At only 9 miles away, this is the closest National Park trailhead to Seven Springs. It provides many beautiful trails filled with lush vegetation and classic hiking along streams through Hemlock forests. Learn more here: www.smokiesadventure.com/smokymountains/hiking/abramscreek.htm
Chilhowee Lake
About 20 minutes away is a beautiful lake nestled between the Great Smoky Mountains national Park and Cherokee National Forest. Chilhowee Lake offers excellent boating, fishing and kayaking. The backwaters offer beautiful calm water kayaking.
Highway 129: The Dragon
Just down the road is state highway 129. Known as “The Dragon”, it includes 11 miles boasting 318 curves spanning from Foothills Parkway in Tennessee to Deal’s Gap in North Carolina. Needless to say, this is a motorcycle and sports car mecca.
Tubing
One of the best ways to enjoy the river in the mountains on a hot day is to go tubing! There are many tubing companies in Townsend that will rent you tubes and drop you off and pick you up on the river. We recommend just stopping at any of them, they offer deals of $8 up.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park Foothills Parkway and Abrams Creek Campground are less than 9 miles from Seven Springs Retreat. The main entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited National Park in the US is a scenic 21 miles.! On your way you will drive through Townsend with a wonderful Visitors Center and Heritage Center we recommend visiting.
GSMNP is a free National Park. However, as of 2023, a Great Smoky Mountains National Park Parking Tag is required when parking within the Park for longer than 15 minutes. The cost is $5 daily, $15 weekly, or $40 annually and can be purchased online (recreation.gov) or at kiosks located within the GSMNP.
Cades Cove is a beautiful 11 mile loop to drive any day or bike all day on Wednesday when it is closed to cars from May through September. Bicycle rental is available in the Park. Abrams Falls is a nice 5 mile round trip hike from Cades Cove. The turnoff for the trailhead is located past stop #10 on the Cades Cove Loop Road. The turnoff is signed.
Laurel Falls is a trail that ascends Cove Mountain, leading past Laurel Falls, one of the most popular waterfalls in the national park, en route to the summit of Cove Mountain and the Cove Mountain fire tower. From the “Y” intersection, turn left onto Little River Road and drive 13.6 miles to the trailhead where there are parking areas on both sides of the road.
Tremont
Tremont is a nearby nature education center located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park; this area is fun to visit for information and connect to some good trailheads! Our favorite moderate waterfall hike is Spruce Flats Falls: You'll need to travel 2.2 miles back the Tremont road to the Great Smoky Mountains Institute and then park in the parking area in front of the visitor center. From there, walk up the paved road into the Tremont complex until the pavement ends at 0.2 miles. Continue into the woods and turn left uphill. At 0.1 mile the trail junctions with a path that goes straight, take a right to continue on the Falls trail. This is a narrow trail which winds through the deciduous forest.
We also enjoy the Middle Prong trail, with waterfalls and less difficulty. Head southwest from the Townsend Y junction of Little River Road and TN 73 towards Cades Cove. After a short drive (0.2 mile), turn left onto Tremont Road. After two miles, you’ll pass the Great Smoky Mountain Institute at Tremont on your left before the road changes to gravel. Continue three additional miles down the gravel road before reaching the road’s end. Park here for the trailhead. This trail is wide and an easy walk along a beautiful river with cascading falls.
Maryville Greenbelt
15 miles of paved trails through Maryville and Alcoa that are perfect for biking, running, or walking. The trail passes many kids parks as well as the large Maryville Library overlooking the duck pond at Bicentennial Park. Map is shown here.
IJAMS Nature Center (South Knoxville)
Stop by Ijams Nature Center’s Visitor Center to buy a trail map so you can fully explore trails and special sites, grab a snack, use the restroom, or learn more about events and programs! Jo’s Grove, Alice’s Greenhouse, and all of the trailheads are nearby.
One of the most popular activities at Ijams is paddling on Mead’s Quarry Lake. Visitors can rent canoes, kayaks, and paddle boards to get a better look at the amazing views of this historic marble quarry. Learn more about rentals here: https://www.ijams.org/paddle-swim
Mount Leconte
If you’re looking for a more challenging and longer hike, we recommend this one. Plan for a full day and bring lots of water and your own food. There are a few trails to choose from and a Lodge at the top if you’d like to spend the night (reservations strictly required). All trails can be difficult and steep…and well worth it.
We like the Alum Cave Bluff trail; it is steeper, shorter and more difficult, but the Bluffs are a must see on your way up. To reach the trailhead from the Sugarlands Visitor Center near Gatlinburg, drive 8.7 miles south along Newfound Gap Road. The parking area will be on your left.
Rainbow Falls trail is rocky and strenuous but worth it with panoramic views of the Smokies. Starting from Light 8 in Gatlinburg, turn onto Historic Nature Trail / Airport Road. After driving 0.7 miles veer right onto Cherokee Orchard Road, upon which you'll enter into Great Smoky Mountain National Park. After driving another 2.2 miles you'll enter the one-way Cherokee Orchard Loop Road. After driving roughly 0.6 miles on the loop, the Rainbow Falls Trailhead will be located on your right.
Look Rock Fire Tower
Located on the Foothills Parkway, Look Rock Fire Tower is a short and windy 8 mile drive up the mountain from Seven Springs. This National Park Service fire lookout is at the top of an easy half-mile hike up to a breathtaking 360 view of the surrounding mountains. You can see the Fire Tower from Seven Springs and even see Seven Springs from the Fire Tower!
Abrams Creek Trail
At only 9 miles away, this is the closest National Park trailhead to Seven Springs. It provides many beautiful trails filled with lush vegetation and classic hiking along streams through Hemlock forests. Learn more here: www.smokiesadventure.com/smokymountains/hiking/abramscreek.htm
Chilhowee Lake
About 20 minutes away is a beautiful lake nestled between the Great Smoky Mountains national Park and Cherokee National Forest. Chilhowee Lake offers excellent boating, fishing and kayaking. The backwaters offer beautiful calm water kayaking.
Highway 129: The Dragon
Just down the road is state highway 129. Known as “The Dragon”, it includes 11 miles boasting 318 curves spanning from Foothills Parkway in Tennessee to Deal’s Gap in North Carolina. Needless to say, this is a motorcycle and sports car mecca.
Tubing
One of the best ways to enjoy the river in the mountains on a hot day is to go tubing! There are many tubing companies in Townsend that will rent you tubes and drop you off and pick you up on the river. We recommend just stopping at any of them, they offer deals of $8 up.
Questions?
Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions you might still have.
We’re so happy you’ll be able to experience this sacred land, and joining our extended Seven Springs family!
[email protected]
Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions you might still have.
We’re so happy you’ll be able to experience this sacred land, and joining our extended Seven Springs family!
[email protected]
