Published by Elk Hollow Resort | Author: Jeanetta Shepherd | Last updated: May 2026
About this Glamping in Safari Tents Bryson City guide: Written by the team behind Elk Hollow Resort in Bryson City, NC, this guide draws on firsthand property knowledge and on-the-ground research across nearby Smoky Mountains glamping stays.
It includes verified planning details for Deep Creek, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Nantahala Outdoor Center, and the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. We feature Elk Hollow Resort prominently because we own it — but every alternative is reviewed honestly so travelers can choose what fits them best. Prices, drive times, and seasonal booking guidance are 2026 estimates; please confirm directly with each property before booking.
Glamping in safari tents brings you closer to nature without sacrificing the comforts that make a trip enjoyable.
Think canvas walls that let in the crisp mountain air, a real bed waiting after a long day, and a quiet fire pit under the stars in Bryson City.
Here’s what sets safari tents apart. They are built on raised platforms, use durable canvas instead of nylon, and often come with real amenities.
You are not crawling into a sleeping bag. You are stepping into a space that feels more like a boutique cabin, with better views and a stronger connection to the outdoors.
Bryson City, North Carolina, has quickly become a hotspot for this style of stay. Its proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains, Deep Creek trails, and river access makes it ideal for travelers who want both comfort and adventure in one trip.
➡️ Ready to skip ahead? Check 2026 availability at Elk Hollow Resort — Bryson City’s top-rated luxury safari tent property.
Hi, I'm Jeanetta — I built Elk Hollow Resort as a private mountain escape just minutes from Deep Creek and the Great Smoky Mountains. We have luxury safari tents, hard-wall yurts, and a 4-bedroom lodge tucked into the forest in Bryson City, NC. Every stay comes with a private hot tub and fire pit, and I'm here personally if you need anything during your visit. I'd love to host you.
Quick Comparison: 7 Best Safari Tent & Glamping Stays Near Bryson City NC
| # | Property | Location | Hot Tub | Kitchen | Best For | Price/Night |
| 1 | Elk Hollow Resort | Bryson City | Private, every unit | Full | Couples, families, groups | $275–$450 |
| 2 | Canopy Cove (Luxury Tent) | Bryson City | Yes | Full | Design-focused couples | $220–$380 |
| 3 | Gorgeous Stays Safari Tent | Bryson City | Private deck | Full | Romantic couples | $200–$350 |
| 4 | Sky Ridge Yurts | Bryson City | Select units | Limited | Nature lovers, view seekers | $150–$280 |
| 5 | DuPont Yurts | Hendersonville (45 min) | Private | Limited | Waterfall hikers | $180–$260 |
| 6 | The Glamping Collective | Clyde (30 min) | Many units | Limited | Luxury dome lovers | $200–$400 |
| 7 | Windsong Guest Yurt | Topton (30 min) | Private | Limited | Secluded couples | $190–$280 |
Looking for something beyond hotels? Don’t miss our guide to Unusual Places to Stay in North Carolina: Epic 2026 Guide for truly one-of-a-kind stays.
Best Glamping in Safari Tents Bryson City: Why Western NC Is the Top Destination
If you’re searching for the best glamping in safari tents in Bryson City, you’ll quickly notice one thing.
This part of Western North Carolina offers a rare mix of comfort, scenery, and access that’s hard to match anywhere else in the Southeast.
Bryson City sits right at the edge of the Great Smoky Mountains, but it doesn’t feel crowded or overbuilt.
You can spend your morning hiking the Deep Creek waterfalls, grab a relaxed lunch at a local café downtown, and still be back at your safari tent in time for sunset.
That balance is exactly why glamping in Bryson City, NC, is trending in 2026, especially for fall foliage weekends and quick nature escapes.
Why Bryson City, NC, Is Perfect for Safari Tent Glamping
Here’s what makes this area stand out once you’re actually on the ground:
- Unmatched location access
Most safari tent properties are within 5 to 20 minutes of major attractions like the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Nantahala National Forest, and the Nantahala River - Real variety in experiences
You can go from waterfall hikes at Deep Creek to whitewater rafting, then slow it down with a scenic ride on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad - Dark sky advantage
Low light pollution and higher elevation mean you get clear, star-filled nights right from your private deck or hot tub - Small-town energy without boredom
Downtown Bryson City has just enough. Bakeries, breweries, outfitters, and local shops without the crowds you’d find in Gatlinburg
What people often don’t expect is how easy everything feels here. You’re not driving hours between activities.
You’re not planning around traffic. It’s simple, and that’s exactly why safari tent glamping works so well in this region.
Elk Hollow Resort: #1 Luxury Safari Tents in Bryson City NC

If you’re looking for luxury safari tents in Bryson City with real comfort, privacy, and thoughtful design, Elk Hollow Resort stands out immediately.
Tucked into the forest just outside town, this private glamping property feels secluded, but everything you came for is close by.
Elk Hollow is not a single-style stay. It is a curated collection of safari tents, yurts, cabins, and a small lodge. What ties them together is consistency.
Every unit is designed for quiet, comfort, and space. You get your own hot tub, your own fire pit, and a setting that actually feels removed from the noise.
Why Elk Hollow Resort Is the Best Safari Tent Glamping in Western NC
Here is what makes Elk Hollow the top choice for glamping in safari tents Bryson City with a hot tub:
- True luxury safari tent design
These are not basic tents. They are built on raised platforms with canvas exteriors and fully finished interiors. Think hardwood touches, soft lighting, and climate control that keeps things comfortable year-round - Private, fully equipped spaces
Each safari tent includes a full kitchen, private bathroom, and spacious living areas. You can cook, relax, and unwind without leaving your space - Hot tubs under the trees
Every unit includes a private hot tub on the deck. After a long hike or a day on the river, this becomes the highlight of the stay - Peaceful forest setting
The property sits near Deep Creek, surrounded by trees and natural sound. Guests often mention how quiet it feels, especially at night
Inside the Safari Tent Experience
The safari tents are designed for couples or small groups who want space without sacrificing comfort.
- King beds with high-quality linens
- Ensuite bathrooms with walk-in showers and detailed finishes
- Private decks with seating for morning coffee or evening drinks
- Gas grills and fire pits for outdoor cooking and slow nights
- Full kitchens with stainless steel appliances
- Split-unit AC and heat for year-round comfort
What people often notice first is how balanced it feels. You are close to nature, but nothing feels rough or inconvenient.
Featured Elk Hollow Units for Couples and Groups
Shakonohey — The Romantic Forest Safari Tent
A 1-bedroom, 1-bath safari tent built for couples. King bed, private bathroom, elevated deck with string lights, hot tub, and fire pit set against forest views near Deep Creek.
Foxfire — The Luxury Two-Bedroom Safari Tent (Part of Elk Hollow)
Note: Foxfire is an Elk Hollow Resort unit, sometimes listed separately on Airbnb, VRBO, or Expedia. It is part of the same property and managed by the same team.
Foxfire works for two couples traveling together or families with older kids. Two king suites, two ensuite bathrooms, full kitchen, private deck, hot tub, and fire pit — all in the same forest-set Elk Hollow environment.
Lookout Lodge — Best Family-Friendly Stay at Elk Hollow
A larger lodge-style unit ideal for families. More bedrooms, a full kitchen, a large living space, and a fire pit for evenings. Same forest setting, with more room for kids to spread out without losing the glamping feel.
If Shakonohey, Foxfire, or Lookout Lodge are booked, options like Serengeti, Swallowtail, or the Spicewood yurt offer similar experiences within the same Elk Hollow setting.
Location and Access
Elk Hollow Resort makes it easy to explore the region without long drives:
- 5 minutes to Deep Creek trails and summer tubing
- 10 minutes to downtown Bryson City and the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
- 15 minutes to the Nantahala Outdoor Center for rafting and ziplining
For travelers coming from major Southeastern cities:
- Asheville: ~70 miles (~1 hour 20 minutes)
- Atlanta: ~165 miles (~3 hours)
- Charlotte: ~190 miles (~3 hours 15 minutes)
- Knoxville: ~75 miles (~1 hour 30 minutes)
Verified guest review: “This is the place you want to be if you’re thinking of spending a weekend or longer in the Bryson City or Great Smoky National Park area.” — TripAdvisor
If your goal is to find the best glamping in safari tents in Bryson City, this is the kind of place that sets the standard.
Glamping in Safari Tents Bryson City with Hot Tub: The Romantic Experience
Glamping in safari tents Bryson City with hot tub is where comfort meets quiet in the most personal way.
You are not sharing a hallway or waiting for a spa slot. You have your own space, your own pace, and a setting that naturally slows everything down.
After a day exploring Deep Creek or rafting the Nantahala River, the routine becomes simple. Back to your tent, lights low, hot tub warm, and the forest settling into silence around you.
That is what makes this style of stay so popular with couples visiting Bryson City in 2026.
Romantic Safari Tents Bryson City NC: Why They Work for Couples
Why Safari Tent Glamping Is the Ultimate Couples Retreat
- Complete privacy
No shared walls or crowded common areas. Just your own deck, your own fire pit, and uninterrupted time together - Private hot tubs under the stars
This is the highlight. Cool mountain air, warm water, and clear skies that make stargazing feel effortless - Comfort without compromise
Most romantic safari tents include AC, heating, full kitchens, and cozy interiors. You get the feel of the outdoors without giving up comfort
Gorgeous Stays: Romantic Safari Tent for 2 with Hot Tub

One of the standout romantic safari tents in Bryson City NC comes from Gorgeous Stays, located near the Deep Creek area.
The design leans warm and intimate. Canvas exteriors blend into the forest, while inside, bamboo-style finishes and earthy tones create a calm, grounded feel.
The king bed sits at the center, layered with soft linens that make it hard to leave in the morning.
Step outside, and the experience shifts.
- Private deck with a hot tub overlooking the forest
- Full kitchen for slow, home-cooked meals
- Comfortable seating for morning coffee or late-night conversations
- Flat-screen TV for relaxed evenings indoors
This setup works especially well for anniversaries, short romantic escapes, or even a quiet honeymoon-style trip.
What to Pack for a Romantic Safari Tent Weekend
- A bottle of wine or champagne for the first night
- Simple ingredients for a charcuterie board or easy dinner
- Comfortable hiking shoes for nearby waterfall trails
- Swimwear for the hot tub and river access
- A camera or phone is ready. Wildlife sightings are more common than you think
Verified guest review: “From the moment we arrived we felt welcomed and at peace. The setting, the people, the comfortable bed, sitting & chatting on the upper deck & being enveloped in nature, all in all made for a perfect stay!” — TripAdvisor
What people often underestimate is how easy it is to disconnect here. No strict plans, no packed schedules. Just time, space, and a setting that does most of the work for you.
If cozy domes and scenic escapes appeal to you, explore our curated list of Yurt Stays Near Bryson City NC: 7 Epic Glamping Picks (2026).
Other Bryson City Safari Tent & Glamping Options
If you’ve been searching for glamping in safari tents near me and landed in Bryson City, you’re in the right place.
Beyond well-known resorts, this area has a surprising mix of elevated stays, ridge-top yurts, and even budget-friendly camping options that still keep you close to the Smokies.
Here’s a closer look at some of the best alternatives.
Canopy Cove: Luxury African Safari Tent in the Smoky Mountain Treetops

Canopy Cove delivers one of the most visually striking glamping in Bryson City NC. The safari tent here sits elevated at treetop level, giving you a completely different perspective of the Smoky Mountains.
You’re not just near nature. You’re in it.
- Elevated deck with panoramic mountain views
- Full bathroom and kitchen inside the tent
- Quiet, tucked-away setting that feels remote but accessible
The design leans into a true African safari aesthetic, but with modern comfort layered in. It’s one of the most photographed sites in the region for a reason.
- Best for: couples, solo travelers, design-focused stays
- Price range: $220–$380 per night
- Booking tip: search “Canopy Cove Bryson City” on Airbnb for current availability
Note: Canopy Cove (luxury safari tent) and Canopy Cove Campground (budget tent + RV sites) are separate properties with similar names — don’t mix them up when booking.
Sky Ridge Yurts: Mountain Ridgeline Glamping Near Bryson City

Sky Ridge Yurts offers a different kind of elevation. These units sit high along a ridgeline, which means wide, uninterrupted views of the Smoky Mountains.
The structures themselves are solid and well-insulated, making them a reliable year-round option.
- Spacious interiors with comfortable beds and seating areas
- Private decks with long-range mountain views
- Strong insulation thanks to the metal roof construction
Named units include Cherokee, Tuckasegee, Junaluska, Fontana, and Stecoah House. Multiple units give you flexibility depending on group size.
Verified guest review: “We stayed in the Santeetlah yurt. It was gorgeous and clean, comfy, and stocked with everything you’d want! Everything was so thoughtfully designed, including the artisan sink and hand made hooks on the walls.” — TripAdvisor
- Best for: families, small groups, couples who want views over privacy alone
- Price range: $120–$220 per night
Bryson City NC Tent Camping: Budget Alternatives Near Safari Glamping Properties
Not everyone needs a luxury setup. If your goal is simply to be close to the same landscapes, Bryson City has solid budget options, too.
- Canopy Cove Campground
Riverfront setting with both tent and RV sites. Simple, scenic, and one of the more affordable options near the glamping corridor - Deep Creek Campground (Great Smoky Mountains National Park)
Located right at the trailhead. You can walk to waterfalls from your campsite. Sites typically start around $25 per night - Nantahala National Forest dispersed camping
Free and completely primitive. No facilities, but unmatched solitude if you know what you’re doing
Whether you choose a luxury safari tent or a simple campsite, Bryson City delivers the same core experience: clean mountain air, easy access to trails and water, and nights that feel genuinely quiet.
Planning a romantic escape? Discover breathtaking retreats in 7 Unforgettable Best Glamping for Couples in Western North Carolina (2026 Guide).
Luxury Glamping Near Bryson City: 3 More Standout Stays
If Bryson City is fully booked or you want a slightly different landscape, the surrounding western North Carolina region offers several standout yurts and safari-style stays within a short drive. These three round out the top 7 safari tent and luxury glamping stays for 2026.
5. DuPont Yurts (Hendersonville, about 45 minutes)
- Units: Bridal Veil, Ridgeline, Cascade
- Price: $180 to $260 per night
- Amenities: Private hot tubs and direct access to DuPont State Recreational Forest waterfalls (Triple Falls and Hooker Falls trails)
6. The Glamping Collective in Clyde (about 30 minutes)
- Accommodations: Ultra Luxe Domes, Glass Cabins, Luxe Domes
- Price: $200 to $400 per night
- Amenities: Many units include private hot tubs and panoramic glass walls — ideal for stargazing couples
7. Windsong Guest Yurt (Topton, about 30 minutes)
- Style: Treehouse-style yurt with elevated deck
- Price: $190 to $280 per night
- Amenities: Private hot tub and deep forest setting, designed specifically for couples seeking seclusion
These properties expand your options if Bryson City is fully booked or if you want a slightly different landscape. Some offer better views, others deeper seclusion, but all stay true to the core idea of luxury canvas glamping in the Smoky Mountains.
Safari Tents Glamping: What to Expect and How to Choose the Right Tent
If you’re exploring safari tents glamping, or searching for glamping in safari tents near me, it helps to know what you’re actually booking.
Not all “glamping tents” are created equal, and in a place like Bryson City, the difference can shape your entire trip.
What Makes an Authentic Safari Tent Different from Other Glamping?
At its core, a true safari tent is designed to feel connected to the outdoors without giving up real comfort.
- Canvas construction that works with the weather
Natural canvas breathes in summer and holds warmth better in cooler months. It feels noticeably more comfortable than synthetic tents - Elevated wooden platform
Keeps the tent dry, reduces bugs, and gives you better views. It also makes the space feel more like a cabin than a campsite - Full indoor plumbing and real bathrooms
Expect hot water, a proper toilet, and often a rainfall shower. It functions just like a small home, not a campground setup - Built-in climate control
Most high-end safari tents now include split-unit AC and heat, so you’re comfortable in every season
What people often don’t expect is how “normal” it feels inside. You still hear the forest, but everything else works like a hotel.
How to Choose the Right Bryson City Safari Tent for Your Trip

Here’s a quick decision guide based on how you’re traveling:
| Trip Type | Best Choice | Why |
| Romantic couples weekend | Elk Hollow Resort safari tent with hot tub | Maximum privacy, private hot tub, elevated design |
| Two-couple trip | Foxfire 2BD safari tent | Two king suites, two bathrooms, shared outdoor space |
| Family with kids | Elk Hollow Lookout Lodge | More space, full kitchen, fire pit for evenings |
| Budget glamping | Sky Ridge Yurts or Canopy Cove Campground | Lower cost, still scenic mountain setting |
| First-time glampers | Elk Hollow Resort | Easiest setup, full amenities, highly reviewed |
| Wildlife and nature focus | Deep Creek area properties | Frequent deer and turkey sightings, quiet forest setting |
The key is matching the tent to your trip style. A romantic weekend feels very different from a family stay, and Bryson City has options that fit both without compromise.
Glamping in Bryson City NC: What to Do During Your Stay
Glamping in Bryson City NC is not just about where you stay. It is about how easily you can step from your safari tent into a real adventure.
The best part is this. You do not need to plan long drives or complicated itineraries. Most experiences are just minutes away.
Adventures Within Minutes of Your Safari Tent
Step outside your safari tent and discover a world of thrilling adventures, scenic landscapes, and unforgettable experiences just minutes away.
Deep Creek: Waterfalls and Tubing (5–10 minutes)
This is usually the first stop, and for good reason. Deep Creek offers one of the most accessible waterfall hikes in the Smokies.
- Tom Branch Falls is just 0.2 miles from the trailhead
- Indian Creek Falls is at 1.6 miles round trip
- Juney Whank Falls at 0.6 miles with a short but steep climb
In summer, the scene changes. Tubing becomes the highlight. Rentals are simple and affordable, usually around $5 to $10, and the ride through the forest feels relaxed and scenic rather than intense.
Nantahala Outdoor Center (15 minutes)
For something more active, head to the Nantahala Outdoor Center.
- Guided whitewater rafting on the Nantahala River for beginners and experienced paddlers
- Zip-lining, kayaking, and mountain biking options
- Well-organized facilities with gear rentals and instruction
It is one of the most trusted outdoor hubs in the Southeast, and everything is set up to make it easy, even if it is your first time.
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad (10 minutes)
Right from downtown Bryson City, you can board one of the region’s most iconic experiences.
- Nantahala Gorge excursion runs about 4.5 hours through remote wilderness
- Seasonal highlights like the Polar Express during winter
- Fall foliage rides in October are especially popular
Booking early matters here. Peak dates often sell out weeks or even months ahead.
Bryson City Downtown (10 minutes)
After a full day, downtown Bryson City gives you just enough to unwind without feeling crowded.
- Mountain Layers Brewing Company for local craft beer with a mountain view
- The Everett Street Diner for a classic, no-fuss breakfast
- Wize Guyz Grille for hearty Italian-American comfort food
- The Appalachian Mercantile to pick up local goods or stock your tent kitchen
What makes Bryson City stand out is how everything fits together. Adventure, food, and downtime all within a short drive, which means more time enjoying the experience and less time planning it.
Luxury Safari Tents Bryson City: Seasonal Guide and Best Time to Visit
Planning your stay in luxury safari tents Bryson City comes down to timing. Each season offers a different version of the Smokies, and your experience can feel completely different depending on when you go.

Late spring through early fall tends to be the sweet spot for glamping in safari tents Bryson City. The weather is comfortable, and everything is open and active.
Fall stands out the most. October brings peak color across the mountains, and it is the busiest time of year. For 2026, many top properties are already booking 3 to 4 months in advance for weekend stays.
| Season | Booking Lead Time | What to Expect |
| Spring (Mar–May) | 4–6 weeks ahead | Wildflowers, waterfalls at full flow, mild days |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | 6–8 weeks ahead | Tubing season, fireflies, warm evenings |
| Fall (Sep–Nov) | 3–4 months ahead | Peak foliage, busiest season, book early |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | 2–4 weeks ahead (8–12 weeks for Valentine’s) | Quiet, crisp, hot tub weather, cozy fires |
Glamping in Safari Tents Near Me: Planning Your Bryson City Trip

Once you have your dates, planning the rest is simple. Most safari tent stays are designed to be easy and self-contained, but a little preparation goes a long way.
How to Plan and Book Your Bryson City Safari Tent Glamping Stay
Planning your Bryson City safari tent glamping stay is all about choosing the right season, location, and booking early to secure the best views and amenities.
Booking Tips:
- Book direct when possible for better rates and clearer communication
- Use Airbnb or Expedia for individual listings like Foxfire or Canopy Cove
- Check pet policies in advance since they vary by property
What to Pack for Bryson City Safari Tent Glamping:
- Light layers since mornings and evenings stay cool year-round
- Hiking boots for nearby trails in Deep Creek and the national park
- Swimwear for hot tubs and summer tubing
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting from your deck
- A camera for sunrise and mountain views
Packing Cost Estimate for a 3-Night Safari Tent Stay
| Item | Estimated Cost |
| Safari tent (3 nights, per couple) | $400–$900 |
| Groceries (full kitchen use) | $80–$120 |
| Nantahala River rafting | $50–$80 per person |
| GSMR train excursion | $45–$100 per person |
| Gas (local driving) | $20–$40 |
| Total (per couple, 3 nights) | ~$700–$1,300 |
The key is to keep it simple. Book early, pack smart, and let the setting do the rest. Bryson City is one of those places where the less you overplan, the better the trip feels.
Craving peace and quiet after your adventures? Check out 5 Serene Quiet Places to Stay Near Bryson City (2026 Guide) for tranquil hideaways.
Glamping in Safari Tents Bryson City NC Is One of the South’s Best Experiences
Glamping in safari tents Bryson City NC brings together everything travelers are looking for right now. Comfort, privacy, and real access to nature without the usual hassle of traditional camping.
You wake up surrounded by forest, spend your day exploring waterfalls or rivers, and end it in a private hot tub under clear mountain skies.
From luxury stays like Elk Hollow Resort to unique options like Canopy Cove, the variety here makes it easy to find the right fit.
If you want a trip that feels both relaxed and memorable, this is it.
Ready to book? Check 2026 availability at Elk Hollow Resort — Bryson City’s top-rated luxury safari tent property.
FAQs | Glamping In Safari Tents
1. What’s the closest safari tent glamping to Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Bryson City?
The closest options are just minutes from the Deep Creek entrance. Properties like Elk Hollow Resort are typically 5–10 minutes from hiking trails, waterfalls, and tubing access inside the park.
2. When is the best time of year for safari tent glamping in Bryson City?
Spring (April–May) brings wildflowers and flowing waterfalls, summer (June–August) is perfect for tubing and rafting, fall (October) is peak foliage season, and winter offers peaceful stays with cozy hot tubs and fewer crowds.
3. Are safari tents in Bryson City pet-friendly?
Some glamping properties allow pets, but policies vary. Resorts like Elk Hollow Resort may offer select pet-friendly units, so it’s best to confirm in advance while booking.
4. How far is Bryson City from major cities like Asheville, Atlanta, and Charlotte?
Bryson City is about 1 hour from Asheville (~65 miles), 2.5–3 hours from Atlanta (~150 miles), and around 3 hours from Charlotte (~170 miles), making it a convenient mountain getaway destination.
5. Do safari tents in Bryson City have hot tubs, even in winter?
Yes, many upscale safari tents include private hot tubs that are open year-round. Winter stays are especially popular for the contrast of cold mountain air and warm soaking experiences.
6. Are Bryson City safari tents close to the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Depot?
Most glamping resorts are within 10–15 minutes of the depot, making it easy to access scenic train rides like the Nantahala Gorge excursion or seasonal experiences like the Polar Express.
7. What activities are near safari tent glamping in Bryson City?
Top nearby activities include Deep Creek tubing and waterfalls, hiking in the Smokies, whitewater rafting at the Nantahala Outdoor Center, and gem mining in Franklin.
8. How much does safari tent glamping cost in Bryson City?
Prices typically range from $180–$350+ per night depending on the season, amenities (like hot tubs), and luxury level. Peak fall foliage season tends to be the most expensive.
9. Is safari tent glamping in Bryson City eco-friendly?
Many properties emphasize sustainability through low-impact construction, minimal land disturbance, and eco-conscious practices while still offering high-end comfort.
10. What makes safari tent glamping in Bryson City different from regular camping?
Unlike traditional camping, glamping here offers fully furnished tents, private decks, hot tubs, and proximity to major attractions—combining outdoor adventure with boutique-level comfort in the Smoky Mountains.