Haunted Places & Ghost Tours in the Smoky Mountains
Best Time to Visit
Fall (September–November): The best season for ghost tours, thanks to the Halloween atmosphere, cooler temperatures, and eerie autumn scenery.
Late Spring & Summer (May–August): Warmer months offer evening ghost tours with a lively crowd, though some locations can be crowded.
Winter (December–February): Fewer visitors mean a more intimate experience, but some outdoor locations may be less accessible due to snow or cold temperatures.
Top Haunted Places in the Smoky Mountains
1. The Greenbrier Restaurant (Gatlinburg, TN)
Haunting: Allegedly haunted by the ghost of Lydia, a bride who took her life after being abandoned at the altar.
Experience: Guests report cold spots, flickering lights, and unexplained noises.
Cost: Free to visit (Dining costs vary, with entrées starting at $20+).
2. Elkmont Ghost Town
Haunting: An abandoned resort town, home to eerie cabins, deserted buildings, and mysterious lights.
Experience: Wander through the decaying remains and capture photos of what some claim to be ghostly apparitions.
Cost: Free
Tip: Bring a flashlight and avoid visiting alone at night.
3. The Old Settlers’ Cemetery (Sevierville, TN)
Haunting: The burial ground of early settlers, with reports of ghostly figures and strange whispers.
Experience: A quiet yet unsettling spot, perfect for history buffs and paranormal seekers.
Cost: Free
4. The Historic Gatlinburg Inn
Haunting: Guests report shadowy figures, eerie sounds, and doors opening by themselves.
Experience: Stay overnight and see if you experience any ghostly activity firsthand.
Cost: Room rates start around $150 per night.
5. The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
Haunting: Reports of ghostly figures from the pioneer days wandering the trail.
Experience: A scenic drive with an eerie twist, especially after dark.
Cost: Free (Parking pass required, starting at $5 per day).
6. Wheatlands Plantation (Sevierville, TN)
Haunting: One of the most haunted locations in Tennessee, built on a site of past conflicts and tragedy.
Experience: Private tours available to explore the grounds and its chilling past.
Cost: Varies; check with local tour providers.
Best Ghost Tours in the Smoky Mountains
1. Ghost & Haunt Tours of Gatlinburg
Duration: 1.5-2 hours
Experience: A guided walking tour through haunted locations in downtown Gatlinburg.
Cost: $25 per person
Booking: Online reservations recommended
2. Appalachian GhostWalks
Duration: 2-3 hours
Experience: A historical ghost tour covering eerie tales and paranormal hotspots.
Cost: $25-$35 per person
Booking: Online or phone reservations required
3. Smoky Mountain Supernatural Tour
Duration: 1.5 hours
Experience: A mix of history and hauntings, led by local experts.
Cost: $20-$30 per person
Booking: Available online
What to Bring for a Haunted Adventure
Flashlight: Essential for exploring dark areas safely.
Camera or Smartphone: Capture paranormal activity (or just eerie photos!).
Comfortable Walking Shoes: Many tours involve a lot of walking.
Jacket or Sweater: Even in warmer months, nighttime temperatures can drop.
Paranormal Equipment (Optional): EMF meters or digital recorders for serious ghost hunters.
Bug Spray (Summer Months): To avoid mosquito bites.
Budget Breakdown
Ghost Tour Ticket: $20-$35 per person
Dining (If Visiting Haunted Restaurants): $20-$50 per meal
Accommodation: $100-$200 per night (if staying in haunted hotels)
Transportation & Parking: $5-$20
Miscellaneous (Souvenirs, Tips, Extra Snacks): $10-$30
Total Estimated Budget: $50-$300 per person, depending on activities chosen.
Safety Tips
Stay in Groups: Avoid exploring isolated areas alone.
Respect Private Property: Some haunted locations are on private land; always follow local regulations.
Use Official Tour Guides: They ensure safety and provide historical insights.
Check Weather Conditions: Certain trails and sites may be difficult to navigate in bad weather.
Be Mindful of Wildlife: The Smoky Mountains are home to bears and other animals—avoid disturbing them.
Final Thoughts
The Smoky Mountains offer more than just scenic views; they hold a rich, eerie history waiting to be explored. Whether you're dining with a ghost, walking through a deserted town, or joining a guided ghost tour, there are plenty of spooky experiences to enjoy. Plan your haunted adventure carefully, bring the right gear, and prepare for an unforgettable trip filled with supernatural thrills!
Would you dare to explore the haunted side of the Smokies?
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