Discover the History and Hidden Trivia of Gatlinburg, TN

Planning a trip to the Smoky Mountains? Don’t just visit Gatlinburg—get to know it. Behind its scenic beauty and family-friendly attractions lies a fascinating backstory full of Appalachian heritage, quirky facts, and surprising firsts. Here's a guide to the history and little-known trivia that makes Gatlinburg one of Tennessee’s most beloved vacation destinations.

A Brief History of Gatlinburg

Originally called White Oak Flats, Gatlinburg began as a small pioneer settlement in the early 1800s. The name changed after Radford Gatlin, a fiery preacher and shop owner, opened the town's first post office in 1856. Ironically, Gatlin was eventually banished from the community after feuding with locals—but his name stuck.

When the Great Smoky Mountains National Park was established in 1934, tourism transformed the sleepy town into a mountain getaway. Today, Gatlinburg welcomes millions of visitors each year, drawn by its mix of natural beauty, history, and small-town charm.

Fun & Weird Gatlinburg Trivia You Probably Didn’t Know

Want to impress your travel buddies or add a unique stop to your itinerary? Check out these quirky facts and hidden gems around Gatlinburg:

• It’s Home to Tennessee’s Only Ski Resort
  Visit Ober Mountain, the state’s only ski destination, for snow sports, tubing, and scenic tram rides.
• The Salt and Pepper Shaker Capital of the World
  The Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum features over 20,000 sets—perfect for a fun and affordable detour ($3 admission!).
• Clingmans Dome Offers Views of 3 States
  On a clear day, you can see Tennessee, North Carolina, and Georgia from the top of Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the Smokies.
• Moonshine Has Deep Roots Here
  Once hidden in the hills, moonshine is now front and center at distilleries like Ole Smoky Moonshine and Sugarlands Distilling Co., offering tastings, live music, and tours.
• The Town Had No Roads Until the 1900s
  Before modern highways, Gatlinburg was only accessible by foot or horseback, which helped preserve its rustic mountain charm.
• Ghost Stories and Haunted Trails
  From spooky stories along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail to haunted cabins in the woods, Gatlinburg has a mysterious side worth exploring.