The Smoky Mountains Abandoned Town, also known as Elkmont, is a captivating piece of history nestled within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee. This once-thriving resort town has been frozen in time, offering visitors a unique opportunity to step back into the past and explore the remnants of a bygone era.
The Rise and Fall of Elkmont
Elkmont’s history dates back to the 1840s, when it was initially settled and known as “Little River” due to its location in the upper Little River Valley. The town’s fortunes shifted in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as it transformed into a logging community. The establishment of the Little River Lumber Company in 1901 and the construction of a logging railway by Colonel Wilson B. Townsend cemented Elkmont’s status as a transportation hub.
However, the town’s identity underwent another transformation in the early 1900s, as it transitioned into a popular resort destination for wealthy vacationers from Knoxville. The Appalachian Clubhouse was built, and members constructed a series of vacation cottages. The Wonderland Hotel also emerged during this period, catering to the influx of visitors.
The establishment of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in 1934 marked a turning point for Elkmont. Residents were given the choice to either sell their homes for full value and relocate immediately or sell their properties to the National Park Service at a discounted price and stay in their homes for the remainder of their lifetime. Most of the leases expired in 1992, leaving around 70 historic buildings without maintenance, leading to their gradual deterioration and earning Elkmont the nickname “Elkmont Ghost Town.”
Exploring the Abandoned Town of Elkmont
Today, visitors to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park can explore the remnants of Elkmont, which offers a unique and captivating experience. Here are some of the key attractions and activities:
Elkmont Campground
One of the largest and busiest campgrounds in the park, Elkmont Campground provides access to Little River and Jakes Creek, as well as trailheads for numerous hiking trails.
Historic Structures
Nineteen historic buildings have been preserved and restored, including the Levi Trentham cabin, which was relocated from the Jakes Creek area to Elkmont. These structures offer a glimpse into the town’s rich history.
Elkmont Troll Bridge
A hidden gem in the Smokies, the Elkmont Troll Bridge is a popular spot for visitors to explore and photograph.
Jakes Creek and Little River Trails
Hikers can explore these trails and discover remnants of former cabins, including chimneys and stone walls.
Laurel Falls
An 80-foot waterfall accessible via a short hike from the Elkmont Campground.
Practical Information
- Location: Off TN 73 SW of Gatlinburg, Tennessee
- Coordinates: 35°39′20″N 83°35′4″W
- Nearest City: Gatlinburg, Tennessee
- NRHP Reference Number: 94000166
- Added to NRHP: March 22, 1994
Conclusion
The Smoky Mountains Abandoned Town of Elkmont is a captivating and unique destination that offers visitors a glimpse into the past. From its humble beginnings as a logging community to its transformation into a popular resort town, Elkmont’s history is woven into the fabric of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Whether you’re exploring the historic structures, hiking the trails, or simply taking in the serene natural surroundings, a visit to Elkmont is a must-do for any Smoky Mountains enthusiast.
References
- Wikipedia. (n.d.). Elkmont, Tennessee. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elkmont,_Tennessee
- PigeonForge.com. (2020). Elkmont Ghost Town: Abandoned Vacation Town Near Gatlinburg, TN. Retrieved from https://www.pigeonforge.com/elkmont-ghost-town/
- TripAdvisor. (2024). Elkmont Ghost Town – All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go. Retrieved from https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g143031-d8426768-Reviews-Elkmont_Ghost_Town-Great_Smoky_Mountains_National_Park_Tennessee.html
- Visit My Smokies. (2024). Everything You Need to Know About Elkmont Ghost Town. Retrieved from https://www.visitmysmokies.com/blog/smoky-mountains/about-elkmont-ghost-town/
- Tennessee State Museum. (n.d.). The Curious Case of Elkmont, Tennessee: The Ghost Town of the Smoky Mountains. Retrieved from https://tnmuseum.org/Stories/posts/the-curious-case-of-elkmont-tennessee-the-ghost-town-of-the-smoky-mountains