Looking at my waterfalls brochure, I found two waterfalls close to Townsend that we could drive to. We took Little River Road toward the Sugarlands visitor center, watching for Meigs and the Sinks. For some reason, we didn’t see post #6 (according to the brochure) and drove past Meigs waterfall and came to the Sinks.

There is a nice parking area at the Sinks and a gushing river stumbling down over the rocks. Little River flows under Little River road at this point and turns to flow parallel with the road.

The Sinks is probably the most beautiful waterfall in the entire Smoky Mountain National Park that you can drive to. And for those a little daring, you can climb out on the rocks for a more intense view of these engaging falls.

After soaking in some of this beauty, we headed back and found Meigs set back maybe 100 yards away from the road. Even at this distance, Meigs waterfall is a beauty to behold and worth stopping on the shoulder for a few minutes to take it in.

If you are ever make it down Little River road between Townsend and Sugarlands Visitor Center, take a few minutes to stop and enjoy these two Smoky Mountain waterfalls.

Lavern Gingerich

We arrived in Townsend toward noon today and stopped at a favorite little restaurant of mine, Riverstone Family Restaurant.

Today was the second time I ate at this restaurant. Both times we were served large helpings of fresh home-style cooking. The waitresses took good care of us and did a great job of making us feel welcome. The plates are a bit on the expensive side for us (like $10.99 for an average plate with bread and two sides), but I think the large servings and kind service make up for it.

Driving through Townsend on highway 321 toward the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, we passed a number of decent-looking restaurants before we got to Riverstone Family Restaurant. We decided to go see Riverstone again since we enjoyed our first meal there the last time we were in the Smokies about three months ago.

So if you’re in the mood to try out a new restaurant, go check out Riverstone Family Restaurant. It’s on your left on highway 321 in Townsend as you’re heading toward the park entrance. It’s right by Riverstone Lodge and one of the last businesses before the park entrance.

And if you decide to take my advice, please come back and leave a comment to let us know what you think about the food and service you experienced at this fine little restaurant in the peaceful town of Townsend, Tennessee.

Lavern

The Smokies are a great source of inspiration to me and my favorite vacation spot. In my opinion, the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee and North Carolina are a deeply special part of God’s creation. The romance and charm of these mountains and all the beauties of nature hidden in them keeps calling me back.

There is a lot of information already available on the Smoky Mountains. But in my experience, much of it is scattered and some basic information such as the true differences between the atmosphere in Gatlinburg and Townsend, the scenery and roads leading to major attractions in the park, and a good explanation of how wonderful Cades Cove really is, are not easy to find online.

My intention is to post photos, videos, and articles of my times in the Smoky Mountains and to teach you enough about the Smokies before you go so that you can plan the best trip for you and your group.

I need your feedback. Please leave a comment or e-mail me with your suggestions. Let me know what you would like to learn about the Great Smoky Mountains.

Lavern Gingerich