The Great Smoky Mountains are widely known for their beautiful nature scenery. However, it may surprise you to find out that this crowned jewel wears many hats! It does not have to be Halloween to explore all things spooky. With that, here are 4 places to visit in the Smoky Mountains that might be haunted:
1. Elkmont Ghost Town
Elkmont was a thriving community that was first settled in the 1840s. In 1934, when the Great Smoky Mountains National Park was established, the residents had to decide whether to relocate or stay in their homes. The community was deserted after the leases expired. Originally, there were about 70 historical buildings here. The National Park Service made the decision to preserve 19 of them. The preservation of these buildings is important because the hard work of the people who once lived in Elkmont should live on even if it’s in a small way. When visitors explore these buildings, particularly the Wonderland Hotel, they report hearing strange noises and having a feeling of being watched.
2. Little Greenbrier School
Another place to visit in the Smoky Mountains that might be haunted is the Little Greenbrier School. It was built in 1882 and was used as both a school and a space for church services. There is also a cemetery next to the school building that you can visit as well. So, why is it haunted? Visitors have reported hearing footsteps when no one was there and seeing orbs floating in the air. Maybe it’s the children who once attended the school coming back for more class time!
3. LeConte Lodge
Last but not least, if you’re feeling especially brave, you should check into LeConte Lodge. It is a popular place for hikers to stop for a good night’s rest after a tiring hike up Mount LeConte Many guests have reported seeing a little girl standing at the foot of their bed at exactly 3:33 in the morning. Before they could get a second look, she was gone! It could be said that this little girl is haunting the Little Greenbrier School as well!
4. Roaring Fork Motor Trail
Taking a scenic drive is a popular activity in the Great Smoky Mountains! As you’re cruising along the Roaring Fork Motor Trail looking at all the pretty scenery and animals, keep your eyes peeled for a beautiful woman walking along the road. Her name was Lucy and it was thought that she died tragically in a cabin fire in 1909. About a year after the accident, a man saw her walking barefoot in the woods one cold night. He found it odd that he saw her there. Still, he was captivated by her beauty. When the young man went to ask Lucy’s parents for their blessing on a potential marriage, he was made aware of her untimely death. Today, visitors say that Lucy can still be seen wandering along the highway and in the woods where her cabin burnt down.
Did you enjoy reading about these haunted places to visit in the Smoky Mountains? If so, read about some more of our favorite historical places in the park!
