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Pigeon Forge, named for the pigeons that blanketed the banks
of the Pigeon River and the iron forge built by pioneer Isaac
Love in 1820, is unique in its combination of wild areas and visitor-oriented
trade and commerce.
Pigeon Forge is the prime destination for shoppers,
music
lovers, whitewater
and outdoor
enthusiasts, even those wanting to have the wedding
of their dreams.
It is worth the trip to also visit The
Old Mill, built by Isaac Love's son, William, in 1830.
It remains operational and is a National Historic Site.
The Great Smoky Mountains, a nature lover's dream, flanks the
Pigeon Forge - Pigeon River Area to the south. Though beautiful
year-round, the fall
foliage alone, is worth a trip.
The wilderness is filled with a variety of plant and animal life.
Several hundred species of birds
reside year-round or migrate through, and in the spring the area
is abundant with wildflowers.
Wildlife includes bear,
reintroduced
elk and red
wolves.
As with all spaces, this area has environmental
concerns. Many have their eye on the environment, including
the Foothills
Land Conservancy and the Tennessee
Environmental Council. |