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Elk in the Smokies Currently in “Rut”

admin — Sun, 03 Oct 2010 16:51:37 +0000

Bull Elk in the Smokies are in “Rut” (male courtship), considered to be one of the great spectacles in North American animal kingdom. The competition between mature male elks is to try to impress and control groups of female elk.
Though the competition is mostly show as the elk prance, grunt and bugle, things can become combative as the bull elk spar. Bugling and sparing are two of the most recognized parts of the rut.
The bugling of the bull is when they through back their heads and utter a long, loud call that can be heard up to a mile away. The larger bulls are able to assert their dominance as they usually have deeper and louder calls.
The spar is when two bulls lock their massive antlers in a test of strength, pushing and shoving until one retreats into submission. The spar can cause punctures and bruises to the elks. Some times fatal injuries do occur, part of natures way of controlling the eco system.

Two Bull Elk Sparing

Two of the best places to witness the “rut” is the Cataloochee Valley and near the Oconaluftee Vistor’s Center outside of Cherokee, NC, the closet location to The Resort. If you decide to view the “Rut” please enjoy from afar as these are wild animals.

Outdoor Drama Moves from Townsend to Pigeon Forge

admin — Mon, 13 Sep 2010 13:38:44 +0000

Officials with “The Passion Play in the Smokies” announced they are bringing the play to the Smoky Mountain Christian Village in Pigeon Forge. The outdoor drama had been held for many years in nearby Townsend, TN. The Christian Village is off of Goldrush Road across from the entrances to Dollywood and Splash Country.

The drama tells the Biblical story of the life of Jesus. The show features an array of sets, colorful costumes, with dramatic sound and lighting to tell the story of Christ. “The Passion Play in the Smokies” holds the distinction of being one of only eight religious dramas in the country known to be held outdoors according to the UNC Institute of Outdoor Drama.

The play’s show dates are scheduled Sept. 23-25, and 30, and Oct. 1-2 and 7-9. The show starts at 7:30 each evening with the pre-show at 6:30 featuring Christian artist Eye2Sky.
For tickets call 865-640-8903 or visit their web site at www.passionplayinthesmokies.org.

Outdoor Recreation in the Smokies

admin — Sun, 26 Jul 2009 15:14:58 +0000

The Knoxville News has been running articles through out the year on The Great Smoky Mountains National Park celebrating its 75th Anniversary. The newest articles feature outdoor activities in the park.

·   Take a hike, but there’s more to explore
·   Brook Trout Luring Fisherman
·   Putting Up Camp
·   Everett hooked on hiking Smokies
·   ‘Idyllic’ Elkmont passing into the shadows
·   Survey shows scenic driving is most popular

Dollywood to begin construction on Adventure Mountain

admin — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 16:27:16 +0000

Dollywood announced this week it will begin construction on a new attraction for 2010, Adventure Mountain. Originally scheduled to open this year the project was delayed due to a road construction project and the poor economy.

The new attraction, to be located on a hill above the Tennessee Tornado rollercoaster, will cover 2 acres. The attraction will offer visitors some of the challenges of the outdoors with three different courses rated from easy to expert to test the skill and strength levels of participants.