About Gatlinburg Haunts: Why We're The Best

Our Founder

The founder of US Ghost Adventures developed a deep appreciation for history through his military service and world travels. These experiences have given him a unique perspective on the importance of preserving the stories of those who came before us. At US Ghost Adventures, we are dedicated to more than just ghost stories—we focus on keeping history alive and honoring the legacies of the past.

We proudly support the SYTA Youth Foundation and a host of other charitable organizations. Our mission is to ensure the stories of history continue to inspire and educate future generations.

Real History | Real Hauntings

The shadows of Gatlinburg hide a history steeped in violence, tragedy, and unrest. Long before tourists flocked here, the land was a battleground between early Native American tribes and settlers, leaving behind a legacy of unresolved spirits. The rise of the lumber industry and its ruthless expansion took a toll, both on the land and on those who labored under dangerous conditions. And let’s not forget the devastation of the 1992 fire, which razed homes and claimed lives, leaving scorched memories in its wake. War, greed, and disaster have shaped this town—and the ghostly tension lingers.

Exclusive Stories and Locations

For those who crave even more of the unknown, our extended tour takes you to exclusive locations where the unearthly energy is undeniable:

• Holiday Inn Express – The scene of a brutal double murder and strangulation, this hotel is known for strange occurrences. Shadows move where light should be, and some visitors claim to feel an invisible grip around their throats.

• St. Mary Catholic Church – A city so haunted that an exorcist is kept on call. The church’s walls seem to harbor more than prayers, as strange occurrences have plagued the area for decades.

• Convention Center – Its underground tunnels have a life of their own. 

Best Local Guides

We take pride in having the best local guides. Each one is deeply knowledgeable about the rich, often dark, history of Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains. Their passion for storytelling brings these haunted tales to life in ways that both educate and unsettle. But it’s not just history they respect—our guides have a genuine understanding of the paranormal. With a keen awareness of the strange forces at work in the area, they balance curiosity with caution, ensuring that your experience is not only immersive but authentically eerie.

Why is Gatlinburg so Haunted?

Gatlinburg’s deep, storied history has left an undeniable impression on the town. From the conflicts of early settlers to the scars left by the Battle of Burg Hill during the Civil War, the land is steeped in tragedy. It’s no wonder so many believe the past lingers here. Figures like the mysterious Gatlinburg Witch and tales of the Demon of the Gatlinburg Inn are part of the fabric of the town’s haunted reputation. With centuries of history layered beneath its surface, Gatlinburg stands as a place where the unexplained thrives, and its haunted legacy continues to draw those curious about the paranormal.

Some of Our Favorite Locations

On our Gatlinburg Haunts tour, we visit some of the most haunted and intriguing locations in town:

• White Oaks Flats Cemetery – A final resting place for many, but some say the Gatlinburg Witch still roams here after dark, adding an unsettling air to this historic cemetery.

• Gatlinburg Inn – A charming spot with a dark side, as it’s said to be home to a demonic presence that has captured the curiosity of locals and visitors alike.

• First United Methodist Church – Known for its eerie silence, some claim to hear their names whispered from beyond, as though unseen forces are watching.

Interactive Experiences

We offer more than just ghost stories—we provide a fully immersive, interactive experience. As you explore Tenessee’s most haunted sites, you’ll have the chance to engage with the spectral world like never before. For those looking to dive deeper into the unknown, we offer EMF detectors for rent at an additional fee. These devices allow you to detect unusual electromagnetic activity, giving you a firsthand encounter with the unseen forces that may be lurking nearby. Our tours aren’t just about hearing history—they’re about feeling it.

Featured In

Gatlinburg Haunts has gained recognition for delivering unforgettable ghost tours that capture the dark history of the Smoky Mountains. We’ve been featured in Kayak Tours for our unique blend of history and paranormal intrigue, and The Travel Channel highlighted our tour as one of the most immersive haunted experiences in the region. We’ve also earned a spot in USA Today for offering one of the best ghost tours for thrill-seekers and history buffs alike. Our reputation speaks for itself, making Gatlinburg Haunts a must-experience for anyone visiting the area.

What Our Guests Are Saying

“Our tour was great and we learned so much about the paranormal history of Gatlinburg!! Our tour guide, Jacob, was also awesome, super knowledgeable and answered any question we had! Would definitely recommend!” (5 Stars) -Jenna Riley

“10/10 would do this all over again. I had so much fun I literally made an account just to post this review and brag about our tour guide Jacob. He  was super nice and very informative! He honestly made the tour a thousand times better. We rented the emf and got a couple of pretty good pings! This is a very fun way to learn a little about the history of Gatlinburg, while also being able to maybe catch a glimpse of the paranormal.” (5 Stars) -Tia Howard

“Really enjoyed our experience learning about the ghost sightings and history of Gatlinburg. Highly recommend this ghost tour.” (5 Stars) -Kirsten Snell

Photos and Experiences

Unlike many other ghost tours, Gatlinburg Haunts encourages you to take photos as you explore. Whether it’s an old cemetery or a haunted hotel, you’re welcome to snap pictures along the way. But be warned—what you capture might be more than just scenery. Many guests have reported strange anomalies in their photos: shadowy figures, glowing orbs, and unexplainable shapes lurking in the background. So, while we invite you to document your experience, be prepared for the possibility that something from beyond the grave might make an appearance in your camera roll.