I spent three days recently in the Smoky Mountains near Bryson City, NC. The cabin was so remote we had no cell phone or wifi access. Being unplugged for a few days was heavenly. A picture really is worth a thousand words:
As the sun set on our first day, we inched our way up the long, steep, windy road, that eventually brought us to our remote cabin, aptly named Journey’s End. The mountain view was stunning and the cabin was first class. We were welcomed by the warm lights shining from inside the cabin and the steam rising off the hot tub on the front porch. To say it exceeded our expectation is an understatement.
If you love photography, the Smoky Mountains are a dreamy place to spend some time. The half day trip on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad took us along the Nantahala River and Fontana Lake. The weather was amazingly cool for July and we were glad we opted for the open air gondola train.
After the train ride, we strolled around the quaint town of Bryson City stopping in a few shops including a great little local bookstore.
Other than the half day trip on the train, we opted to skip all the rafting and zip lines to read, nap in the hammock, soak in the quiet and the view from the front porch.
Bryson City, N.C. to host crowds for total solar eclipse
In a few weeks, on Aug. 21,the sleepy little town will be filled to overflowing when the first total solar eclipse since the 1970s will pass through the area. From what we heard, the town will be packed beyond capacity and most places have been fully booked for months. While I am sure it will be spectacular, I wouldn’t trade it for our unplugged vacation in the Smoky Mountains.
For more information about Bryson City, N.C. check out this Smoky Mountain Travel Guide.