I woke up bright and early. The sun was shining. It looks like it’s going to be a nice day. Yesterday it was 88 degrees when I drove into town. I bet it gets there again today. Love it!
Over night my subconscious had apparently arranged my day for me. I’d do what I normally do in a new place, I’d take a trolley ride. For $2.00 you can ride around all day on the Gatlinburg trolley.
I drove through Pigeon Forge on my way to Gatlinburg and my first impression was of one long, giant midway or arcade. Even in the car I had the impression of a carnival atmosphere. One of the trolley lines runs to Dollywood so when the time comes that’s how I’ll travel. I’ll leave the car at the Welcome Center but today I’ll explore Gatlinburg.
The Purple line picks up at the Welcome Center where the parking is free and drops you off at the Aquarium. Here you can wait for a different trolley or walk. I decided to walk.
I crossed a little bridge in front of the Aquarium to reach street level and crossed to the main drag.
I found myself standing a the base of a long hill. The street climbed straight up it and looked like a miniature version of Pigeon Forge.
There were candy shops and old time photo shops on every block.
There were arcades and restaurants and even a Dunkin’ Donuts!
The Skylift on the right and a bit farther on the left, the Space Needle marked the top of the hill. I dug out the camera and started up.
The street was lined with benches so I took my time, stopping to rest and chat with who ever happened to be sitting there. I met folks from Chattanooga up for the weekend and a gentleman from California. Another couple were from Idaho and had come out for their honeymoon.
As I neared my destination of the space needle I spotted Ole Smoky Moonshine. I’d tried to get a tasting in Sugarlands but I was ignored at each tasting station so I left. Maybe I could get a taste here.
Better have lunch before I start downing white lightening!