Highlights of the Smokies

If you’re considering a tour in Pigeon Forge that combines scenic views, local flavors, and a dash of adventure, the Highlights of the Smokies offered by Smoky Bear Shuttle might just fit the bill. While we haven’t personally taken this experience, we’ve analyzed the details, reviews, and itinerary to give you a balanced picture of what you can expect. This tour is designed for those who love beautiful landscapes, small-group intimacy, and a bit of local tasting.

Two things stand out about this experience: the thoughtfully curated stops that showcase the region’s natural beauty and local flavors and the engaging guides that seem to make the day both enjoyable and informative. A possible consideration is the limited time at each stop — four hours isn’t long, so pacing is quick, and you might want to plan your expectations accordingly.

Best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, tasting regional spirits and wines, and appreciate a small-group setting that offers more personal attention. If you’re looking for a relaxed, insider-feel tour that mixes sightseeing with tasting experiences, this tour could fit your style.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary combining scenic views and tasting stops
• Small group size (up to 13 travelers) for a more personal experience
• Value priced at $119 per person for a four-hour tour
• Expert guides noted for their knowledge and friendliness
• Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Ideal for those wanting an overview of Smoky Mountain highlights with a local flavor

Introduction to the Highlights of the Smokies Tour

This guided tour from Pigeon Forge offers a convenient way to explore the natural beauty and local flavors of the Smoky Mountains without the stress of planning each stop yourself. It’s designed for travelers who want to get the most out of a short time, with an emphasis on scenic vistas, tasting experiences, and small-group intimacy.

One thing we particularly like is how the tour blends visual highlights with opportunities to taste regional spirits and wines. It’s a surefire way to add a sensory dimension to your mountain adventure. Plus, the small group size ensures a more relaxed atmosphere, allowing for questions and personal interactions — definitely a plus if you enjoy engaging guides.

That said, a possible drawback is the limited time at each stop. With just about 25 minutes at some locations, you’ll need to be ready to move quickly and focus on the highlights rather than deep exploration. This isn’t a tour for those wanting to linger or explore every detail, but rather for those seeking a compact, memorable snapshot of the area.

Ultimately, this experience appeals most to travelers who enjoy a balance of scenic beauty and tasting fun while appreciating the value of guided insights and comfortable group sizes.

A Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Moonshine Depot at 161 E Old Wears Valley Rd

Your adventure kicks off at the Moonshine Depot, a small local business rooted in the region’s history. Here, you’ll indulge in a fun tasting session, setting a lively tone for the day. The atmosphere is relaxed, and the tasting is included in the tour price, which adds to the overall value.

Guests have praised the guide’s advice on what to see and do in the area, making this a practical starting point. You’ll get about 25 minutes here — just enough to enjoy the atmosphere and sample some locally produced moonshine or spirits. It’s a good introduction to the area’s flavor and history.

Stop 2: The Mountain Mile at Junction 35 and Currahee Wine

Next, you’ll head to The Mountain Mile, where two tasting stops await. The first at Junction 35 features moonshine and spirits, giving you a peek into the region’s distilling traditions. The second spot at Currahee Wine offers a chance to sample local wines. These stops are a highlight for many, blending the scenic drive with tasting experiences.

While the tour doesn’t include admission to these spots, the tasting experience is a core part of the outing. You’ll spend roughly an hour here, with plenty of time to savor and ask questions.

Stop 3: Foothills Parkway

One of the most scenic parts of the drive, the Foothills Parkway provides stunning views of the mountains and valleys. This stop is perfect for photos and soaking in the landscape. You should budget about 25 minutes here, which is enough for some quick snapshots and enjoying the fresh mountain air.

While no admission is required, the views are often cited as a major highlight, offering a picture-perfect backdrop to your day. Expect to feel the expansive scale of the Smokies at this point.

Stop 4: Tennessee Mountainview Winery

Wine lovers will appreciate this peaceful stop at Tennessee Mountainview Winery. Here, you’ll enjoy a tasting of local wines, complemented by the tranquil scenery of the mountains. It’s a relaxing moment in the middle of your busy tour — about 30 minutes of sipping and unwinding.

The reviews suggest this is a favorite stop for those interested in regional wines and scenic scenery. It offers a quieter, more laid-back experience compared to the other tasting spots.

Stop 5: Waterfall at 2135 Wears Valley Rd

The final stop features a breathtaking waterfall set among lush greenery. It’s an ideal spot for photos and reflection, allowing you to wind down your tour surrounded by natural beauty. You’ll have about 25 minutes here — enough to take in the sight and enjoy the peaceful environment.

This stop is appreciated for the tranquil atmosphere and the opportunity to capture some memorable photographs. It’s a fitting ending to a day filled with views and flavors.

Practical Details: What to Expect

Meeting Point and Timing: The tour begins at 2:00 pm at 2005 Wears Valley Rd, Pigeon Forge. With a total duration of approximately four hours, you’ll be back at your starting point in the late afternoon.

Group Size and Comfort: With a maximum of 13 travelers, the tour offers a more intimate experience, allowing guides to personalize interactions and answer questions.

Transportation: While the specifics are not detailed, the tour is conducted via a shuttle, implying comfortable transportation between stops.

Price and Value: At $119 per person, the tour is quite reasonable considering the variety of stops, tastings, and scenic views. The inclusion of a guide and small group size enhances the overall value for those who prefer a well-organized, hassle-free experience.

Cancellation Policy: Offering free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the booking flexibility is helpful if your plans change unexpectedly.

What Reviewers Say

The overall rating is 4.0 out of 5 based on three reviews, with highlights including knowledgeable guides and stunning views. One reviewer praised the guide’s helpful advice on local sights, calling the experience “just great” and recommending it warmly. Another mentioned that if you enjoy “hitting the highlights of tourist sites” and tasting local wines and spirits, this tour is a strong choice.

While the reviews are limited, the feedback suggests that the tour delivers on its promise of providing a balanced, memorable taste of the Smokies’ scenery and flavors.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This tour is a solid choice for first-time visitors or those who want a quick but rundown of the Smoky Mountains’ highlights. You’ll get scenic viewpoints, local tasting experiences, and the benefit of small-group interaction, making it both enjoyable and informative.

If you’re someone who appreciates guided insights, beautiful vistas, and a chance to sample local spirits and wines without the hassle of planning, you’ll find this tour offers excellent value. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace with a focus on quality over quantity.

However, if you’re looking for an in-depth exploration or a more leisurely experience at each stop, this four-hour tour might feel a bit rushed. Also, those wanting to linger at each location or explore more deeply might need to supplement this experience with additional time on their own.

All in all, the Highlights of the Smokies provides a well-balanced, entertaining, and scenic snapshot of the region, backed by positive reviews and thoughtful stops.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. It’s a family-friendly option.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately four hours, starting at 2:00 pm and returning to the meeting point in Pigeon Forge.

What is included in the tour price?
The cost covers guided transportation, tastings at the Moonshine Depot, and the scenic stops. Admission to some tasting spots is not included.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours before the start time.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing and footwear, a camera for photos, and any preferred beverages if you wish to extend tastings.

Is there a recommended age for participants?
While most travelers can join, the focus on tasting might be more enjoyable for adults or older children.

Are the stops wheelchair accessible?
The available details do not specify accessibility, so it’s best to check with Smoky Bear Shuttle directly if you have specific needs.

Do the guides provide information about the area’s history?
While not explicitly stated, the guides are described as knowledgeable, so expect some context about the region.

How many people will be on the tour?
A maximum of 13 travelers, ensuring a small-group atmosphere.

Can I customize the tour?
This particular tour follows a set itinerary; customization options are not mentioned.

To sum it up, the Highlights of the Smokies tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to experience the natural beauty and local flavors of the region in just a few hours. Its combination of scenic vistas, tasting stops, and friendly guides makes it a good pick for those short on time but eager to get a taste of the Smoky Mountains’ charm.