The History of Moonshine Distilleries in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville
Moonshine has deep roots in the Smoky Mountains. Long before Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville became major tourist destinations, local families were quietly producing corn whiskey in hidden stills throughout the hills of East Tennessee.
Today, that once-secret tradition has become one of the most popular experiences for visitors exploring the Smokies. Distilleries now offer tastings, tours, and live entertainment while celebrating Appalachian heritage.
The Appalachian Origins of Moonshine
Moonshine production in the Smoky Mountains dates back to the 1700s when Scotch-Irish settlers brought distilling traditions to the Appalachian region. Corn grew abundantly in the mountain valleys, and farmers discovered that distilling it into whiskey made it easier to store, transport, and trade.
For many rural families, distilling corn whiskey was not just tradition—it was survival.
Why It Was Called Moonshine
When the federal government began taxing whiskey production in the late 1700s, many mountain distillers continued producing whiskey secretly. To avoid tax collectors and law enforcement, stills were often operated late at night by the light of the moon. The name “moonshine” was born from this practice.
During Prohibition (1920–1933), illegal distilling increased throughout the Smoky Mountains. Remote mountain terrain made it easier to hide stills deep in the woods.
Modern Moonshine Distilleries in the Smokies
In 2009, Tennessee passed legislation allowing licensed distilleries to legally produce and sell moonshine. Since then, Gatlinburg and nearby towns have become a center of legal craft distilling in Appalachia.
Top 7 Moonshine Tasting Experiences in the Smoky Mountains
1. Ole Smoky Moonshine – Gatlinburg
The Ole Smoky Holler in downtown Gatlinburg was the first federally licensed distillery in East Tennessee when it opened in 2010. Visitors can enjoy live music, learn about the distilling process, and sample a wide variety of flavored moonshines.
Distance from Ridge View Lodge: ~9 miles
Distance from Appalachian Escape Cabin: ~7 miles
2. Sugarlands Distilling Company – Gatlinburg
Sugarlands Distilling Company offers guided tastings, craft spirits, and a fun atmosphere right off the Gatlinburg Parkway.
Distance from Ridge View Lodge: ~9 miles
Distance from Appalachian Escape Cabin: ~7 miles
3. Tennessee Shine Company – Gatlinburg
Known for its variety of flavors and friendly tasting experience, Tennessee Shine Company has become a favorite stop for visitors exploring downtown Gatlinburg.
Distance from Ridge View Lodge: ~9 miles
Distance from Appalachian Escape Cabin: ~7 miles
4. Ole Smoky Moonshine – The Barn (Pigeon Forge)
Located at The Island in Pigeon Forge, this lively tasting room offers moonshine samples alongside shopping and entertainment.
Distance from Ridge View Lodge: ~14 miles
Distance from Appalachian Escape Cabin: ~10 miles
5. Old Forge Distillery – Pigeon Forge
Located at the historic Old Mill, Old Forge Distillery produces handcrafted spirits using stone-ground grains.
Distance from Ridge View Lodge: ~12 miles
Distance from Appalachian Escape Cabin: ~9 miles
6. Tennessee Legend Distillery – Sevierville
Tennessee Legend Distillery offers tastings of both moonshine and whiskey with several convenient Smoky Mountain locations.
Distance from Ridge View Lodge: ~18 miles
Distance from Appalachian Escape Cabin: ~15 miles
7. King’s Family Distillery – Sevierville
King’s Family Distillery specializes in small-batch Tennessee whiskey and craft spirits with a welcoming tasting room.
Distance from Ridge View Lodge: ~10 miles
Distance from Appalachian Escape Cabin: ~8 miles
More Things to Do Near Smoky Mountain Distilleries
If you're planning a moonshine tasting adventure, you may also enjoy exploring other Smoky Mountain attractions:
- Best Scenic Views in the Smoky Mountains
- Greenbrier: A Hidden Gem in the Smokies
- Best Smoky Mountain Swimming Holes Near Gatlinburg
- Fly Fishing in the Smoky Mountains
Stay Close to the Smoky Mountain Distilleries
When visiting the Smoky Mountains, staying in a private cabin gives you easy access to Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville distilleries while enjoying mountain views and peaceful surroundings.
Appalachian Escape Cabin and Ridge View Lodge both offer convenient access to Smoky Mountain attractions while providing a relaxing retreat after a day of exploring.