Public Access to Smoky Mountain Views: A Perspective on Blackberry Mountain Resort
Living in the shadow of the Great Smoky Mountains for years has given me a profound appreciation for these majestic peaks. The misty blue ridges that stretch across the horizon aren’t just a tourist attraction – they’re a national treasure that stirs something deep in the soul of everyone who gazes upon them.
Recently, I couldn’t help but notice the Sentinel’s repeated mentions of the “spectacular views” available from Blackberry Mountain Resort – views that come with a hefty price tag of over $6,000 per stay. This exclusive access to natural beauty raises important questions about public access to our shared natural resources.
The Exclusive Nature of Mountain Views
As someone who has traversed countless trails throughout the Smokies, I understand the allure of finding that perfect vista. The recent attention given to Blackberry Mountain Resort’s views highlights a growing trend of privatizing experiences that many believe should be accessible to all.
The resort, while undoubtedly luxurious, represents a barrier between the average person and some of the most breathtaking panoramas our region has to offer. When natural beauty becomes a commodity available only to those with significant disposable income, we must ask ourselves: Are we comfortable with this arrangement?
Public Alternatives: The Foothills Parkway
Fortunately, the letter to the editor by Allan Grossman reminds us of alternatives like the Foothills Parkway. This scenic route offers comparable – and some might argue superior – views without the exclusive price tag.
The Foothills Parkway, particularly the recently completed “Missing Link” section between Walland and Wears Valley, provides stunning vistas accessible to anyone with transportation. These views rival anything offered by private resorts and come with the added benefit of being part of our shared public lands.
Benefits of Public Scenic Drives in the Smokies
- Accessible to all visitors regardless of economic status
- No entrance fees beyond the free park admission
- Multiple pull-offs for photography and contemplation
- Seasonal variations that offer different experiences throughout the year
I’ve spent countless mornings watching the sun rise over these mountains and evenings witnessing it set behind them. There’s something profoundly democratic about standing shoulder-to-shoulder with fellow visitors from all walks of life, sharing in the collective awe that these ancient mountains inspire.
Balancing Tourism and Accessibility
The tension between exclusive resorts and public access reflects broader conversations about tourism development in the Smoky Mountain region. While luxury accommodations like Blackberry Mountain create jobs and generate tax revenue, they also represent a particular vision of how we interact with natural spaces.
As a community, we need thoughtful dialogue about preserving meaningful access to scenic beauty while supporting economic development. The mountains themselves care nothing for property lines or price points – they’ve stood watch over these valleys long before us and will remain long after we’re gone.
Finding Your Own Mountain View
If you’re inspired to seek out these views for yourself, consider these public alternatives to exclusive resorts:
- Foothills Parkway – Particularly the western section near Walland
- Newfound Gap Road – Offering cross-mountain views and hiking access
- Clingmans Dome – The highest point in the park with 360-degree views
- Look Rock Tower – A short hike to panoramic vistas
- Blue Ridge Parkway – Connected to the Great Smokies with countless viewpoints
I’ve found that sometimes the most memorable views aren’t the ones with the biggest parking lots or the most Instagram tags. They’re the ones you discover yourself, perhaps on a quiet morning when the valleys are filled with fog and the distant peaks emerge like islands in a cloudy sea.
A Call for Balance
Allan Grossman’s letter serves as a gentle reminder that while luxury has its place, so too does public access. The Smoky Mountains belong to all of us in a fundamental sense – their beauty, their mystery, their ability to restore perspective are birthright treasures.
Next time you’re looking for those spectacular mountain views, remember that some of the best vantage points don’t require a platinum credit card – just a tank of gas and a sense of adventure. The mountains are calling, and they’re calling to everyone.
Source: Allan Grossman’s Letter to the Editor at The Sentinel