There are dozens of fun and interesting facts about Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and the Great Smoky Mountains. From unique beginnings to famous residents, there are stories behind every piece of trivia below. Have you ever wondered what causes the Smoky Mountain mist or why Tennessee is called the Volunteer State? Read below to find out!
Tennessee Fun Fact #1 – The Smoky Mountains are within one day’s drive of one-third of the United States. That’s probably why the National Park here is the most visited in the country!
Tennessee Fun Fact #2 – Mountain Dew, Krystal Hamburgers and MoonPies were all invented in the state of Tennessee.
Tennessee Fun Fact #3 – Tennessee became a state in 1796 when the total population was 77,000.
Tennessee Fun Fact #4 – The Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort in Gatlinburg, TN is the world’s largest artificial skiing surface The 5-acre artificial ski surface permits skiing year-round.
Tennessee Fun Fact #5 – One of the major roads in Sevierville (a neighbor city of Gatlinburg, Tennessee) is named after the native Dolly Parton: the Dolly Parton Parkway.
Tennessee Fun Fact #6 – The smoke that rises from the Smoky Mountains in Gatlinburg is more similar to a mist than actual smoke. The vegetation in the mountains traps and releases moisture that creates the smoke-like haze.
Tennessee Fun Fact #7 – Clingman’s Dome in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park is the highest point in the state of Tennessee standing at a towering 6,643 feet tall! Be sure to check out our hiking safety article if you’re planning on visiting the summit.
Tennessee Fun Fact #8 – Elvis Presley’s Memphis, TN home, Graceland, is still open for visitors, however, there is also an Elvis museum right here in Pigeon Forge!
Tennessee Fun Fact #9 – One strange Tennessee law states that it is illegal to use a lasso to catch a fish. Check out our Fishing Guide for more information on Smoky Mountain fishing.
Tennessee Fun Fact #10 – Tennessee got the nickname “The Volunteer State” because Tennessee soldiers volunteered to fight in the Battle of New Orleans during the War of 1812.
Tennessee Fun Fact #11 – There are more horses per capita in Shelby County, Tennessee than any other county in the United States.
Tennessee Fun Fact #12 – Davy Crockett was not born on a mountaintop in Tennessee, despite what the song says! He was actually born on the banks of Limestone Creek near Greeneville, where a replica of the Crockett’s log cabin stands today. The cabin is about one hour from Gatlinburg and makes a great day trip!
So, what was your favorite Smoky Mountain fact? Leave us a comment below and let us know, or submit a fun fact of your own!