2025 Road Trip - Pigeon Forge Landing RV Resort, sevierville, TN

Randi Jones
Jun 3
4 min read

While we typically seek out state parks and RV sites that prioritize nature over amenities, Pigeon Forge Landing RV Resort in Sevierville offered the best of both worlds. Tucked at the back of the resort, our site was just steps from the river, where we enjoyed frequent sightings of wildlife. The park itself featured spacious concrete pads with full hookups, individual fire pits, a pool and hot tub, and exceptionally clean bath and laundry facilities. Best of all, it was just a short drive to the attractions of Pigeon Forge, the charm of Gatlinburg, and the breathtaking trails of the Great Smoky Mountains.

We arrived on Friday, and it rained off an on for most of the day. We did manage to fit in a short walk down the Pigeon Forge Riverwalk along the Little Pigeon River and a visit to Old Forge Distillery

and Zi Olive Gourmet Olive Oils and Balsamic Vinegars followed by a soak in the hot tub during the rain. Then we settled in to play SkipBo and Sequence.

When the rain let up, we walked to the Iron Forge Brewing Company for some scrumptuous burgers, onion rings, craft beer and margarita.

Saturday morning, we took Rita for a walk along the river before heading out to hike Buckeye Trail to Spruce Flats Falls in the Great Smokey Mountain National Park.

The drive up to the Buckeye Trail was a whole experience in itself—honestly, one of the most beautiful stretches of road we’ve been on. As we left the bustle of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg behind, the scenery started to shift. The road narrowed, winding deeper into the Smokies, and the trees seemed to close in around us like a green tunnel.

We followed the Little River as it danced alongside the road, its clear water rushing over smooth rocks and fallen branches. Every few bends in the road offered a new postcard-worthy view: mossy stone bridges, sunlight streaming through the canopy, wildflowers dotting the roadside.

The air even smelled different—cleaner, crisper, full of pine and mountain earth.

The trail starts just behind the Tremont Institute in the Smoky Mountain National Park—no big crowds, no flashy signs—just a quiet path leading into the woods.

The hike itself is just under two miles round-trip, but it packs in a little bit of everything: winding forest paths, rocky climbs, and peek-a-boo mountain views through the trees.

The trail is moderately challenging—not too long or steep, but with enough roots and rocks and climing to keep things interesting. We took our time, soaking in the fresh air and the chorus of birdsong all around us.

Spruce Flats Falls was absolutely worth the effort.

The falls cascade down multiple tiers of mossy rock, tumbling into a crystal-clear pool below. It’s not the tallest waterfall in the park, but it has a quiet beauty that makes you want to linger. We sat for a while, just watching the water and letting the sound of the falls and the stillness of the forest sink in. It felt like a hidden gem—a little slice of peace tucked away in the mountains.

If you're looking for a less-traveled trail with a big reward at the end, this one definitely makes the list.

After our hike, we made our way to Townsend—known as “the peaceful side of the Smokies”—and stopped for a relaxing lunch at Peaceful Side Social Brewery + Craft Kitchen.

It was the perfect spot to unwind: a laid-back, modern outpost with picnic tables scattered around the lawn, mountain views in the background, and a welcoming vibe that made us want to linger.

We split a wood-fired margarita pizza, which was fresh and flavorful with just the right amount of char on the crust. Paired with a cold craft beer and a glass of wine, it hit the spot. Families were spread out around us, kids playing in the open space while their parents enjoyed food and drinks. It was easy to see why this place has become a favorite for locals and visitors alike—great food, great atmosphere, and just the right dose of small-town charm.

We muched cones with Big Foot Ice Cream while we strolled around a locally-sponsored electric car show nearby.

Then we were off to pick up Jacob and Holden at the airport. They're joining us for the rest of the trip!

The moment we got back to the campsite, Holden made a beeline for the creek and walking trail just steps from our site. That quickly became his favorite hangout. He gathered sticks, crafted boats from oversized leaves, and let out excited squeals every time geese glided by on the water. Rita did her best to keep up, but by the end of each day, she was completely worn out.

Sunday morning brought a dose of adventure when Papa treated us all to a ziplining experience at Five Oaks Adventure Park. As we checked in, we were greeted by a friendly, free-roaming donkey named Angel

and a few laid-back cats who seemed perfectly at home among the guests. After a quick safety briefing and getting strapped into our gear, we loaded into a rugged vehicle for a bumpy ride up a steep hillside—setting the tone for what was to come. For the next two hours, we soared through the treetops on zip lines that offered stunning views of the Smoky Mountains.

I’ll admit, I was more nervous than Holden at first, but we all found our rhythm—and by the time we reached the final, longest line, we were laughing, cheering, and already talking about doing it again.

After ziplining, we had a quick lunch of tomato soup and grilled cheese at the camper, then took a short hike along Twin Creeks Trail where we explored a historic house that reminded us of Little House on the Prairie books, a hole in a tree, and did lots of reflecting by the falls before ending our evening in the swimming pool and hot tub.