Sevier County, TN FAQs
What is the history of Sevier County, TN and what are its notable landmarks?
- located in eastern Tennessee, in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains
- established in 1794 and named after John Sevier, a prominent figure in Tennessee’s early history and a hero of the Revolutionary War
- was originally home to the Cherokee tribe
- European settlers began to arrive in the area in the late 1700s, with the first permanent settlement established in 1783. The county played an important role in the state’s early history, serving as a key transportation route between East Tennessee and North Carolina.
- During the Civil War, Sevier County was a divided community, with some residents supporting the Union and others supporting the Confederacy. The county saw several skirmishes and raids during the war, but no major battles.
- After the war, Sevier County continued to grow and develop, with the arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s helping to spur economic growth. Today, the county is known for its natural beauty, including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which covers a significant portion of the county.
Some notable landmarks in Sevier County, TN include:
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park: This national park is one of the most popular in the country, with over 12 million visitors each year. It covers a significant portion of Sevier County and offers opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
- Dollywood: This popular theme park was founded by country music legend Dolly Parton and is located in Pigeon Forge, a town in Sevier County. It offers rides, shows, and other attractions, as well as a water park and several restaurants and shops.
- Gatlinburg: This small town is located at the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and is known for its charming downtown area, which features shops, restaurants, and attractions such as the Gatlinburg Space Needle and the Gatlinburg SkyLift.
- Titanic Museum Attraction: This museum is located in Pigeon Forge and features artifacts and exhibits related to the Titanic, including recreations of its famous rooms and a replica of the ship’s grand staircase.
- Old Mill: This historic grist mill is located in Pigeon Forge and has been in operation since 1830. It is a popular attraction, with a restaurant, shops, and a pottery studio located on the property.
What are the recreational activities available in Sevier County, TN?
- Hiking and Camping: Sevier County is home to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which offers over 800 miles of hiking trails and several campgrounds. Visitors can enjoy a variety of hiking options, from short and easy walks to strenuous backcountry treks.
- Fishing and Boating: The county is also home to several lakes and rivers that are popular for fishing and boating, including Douglas Lake, Cherokee Lake, and the Little Pigeon River.
- Theme Parks and Attractions: Sevier County is home to several theme parks and attractions, including Dollywood, Dollywood’s Splash Country, and the Titanic Museum Attraction.
- Golfing: The county has several golf courses, including the Bent Creek Golf Course and the Gatlinburg Golf Course.
- Skiing and Snowboarding: During the winter months, visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding at Ober Gatlinburg, a ski resort located in the Great Smoky Mountains.
- Wildlife Viewing: The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including black bears, deer, and elk. Visitors can enjoy wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the park.
- Ziplining: Sevier County has several zipline courses, including the Gatlinburg Zipline and the Legacy Mountain Ziplines.