Samantha Brown's Great Weekends Season 2 Episode 19 Sam in the Smokies

Samantha Brown's Great Weekends is an American travel documentary television series that follows the host Samantha Brown as she explores different destinations around the world. In season 2 episode 19, titled "Sam in the Smokies," Samantha travels to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee.

The episode begins with Samantha driving through the winding roads of the Smokies, admiring the stunning scenery of the mountains and the colorful autumn foliage. She then visits the Sugarlands Visitor Center in the park, where she learns about the history, wildlife, and geology of the area.

Next, Samantha goes on a hike to Laurel Falls, one of the most popular waterfalls in the park. She navigates the rocky trail and takes in the beauty of the waterfall, which cascades down over 80 feet. She also encounters a black bear and her cubs along the way, reminding viewers to always practice proper wildlife safety measures.

After the hike, Samantha heads to Gatlinburg, a quaint mountain town nestled in the Smokies. She visits the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, which houses over 20,000 sets of shakers from around the world. Samantha marvels at the variety and creativity of the shakers, and learns how they evolved over time.

Samantha also explores the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community, an eight-mile loop road with over 100 shops and studios showcasing the work of local artisans. She meets a wood-carver, a jeweler, and a potter, and witnesses firsthand their unique skills and techniques.

In the evening, Samantha attends Dolly Parton's Stampede, a dinner and entertainment show featuring live animals, music, and a friendly competition between the North and the South. Samantha enjoys a hearty meal and cheers for her team, all while marveling at the spectacular horsemanship and stunts.

The next day, Samantha embarks on a scenic drive through the Cades Cove Loop Road, a 11-mile one-way road that offers stunning views of the Smokies and glimpses of local wildlife. Samantha stops at the Cable Mill historic area, where she learns about the pioneer settlers who lived in the area and their daily lives.

Finally, Samantha visits the Smoky Mountain Winery, a local winery that produces a variety of award-winning wines using locally-grown grapes. She samples some of the wines and learns about the winemaking process, concluding her visit to the Smokies with a toast to the beauty and charm of the region.

Overall, "Sam in the Smokies" offers viewers a glimpse into the natural beauty, cultural heritage, and lively entertainment of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and its surrounding towns. Samantha's enthusiasm and curiosity make the episode engaging and informative, inspiring viewers to pack their bags and embark on their own great weekend adventure.