Highlands of the Smokies reopened after 2016 Gatlinburg fire

The Highlands of the Smokies condominiums reopened in March 2024, eight years after the 2016 Gatlinburg fire destroyed the original Highlands Condominiums. The rebuilt property offers 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom units spanning 1,500 square feet with floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing views of Mount LeConte.

The new condos feature full kitchens, in-unit washers and dryers, king beds, and brand new furnishings throughout. Each unit maintains the mountain views that made the original property popular with visitors who had been staying there since the 1980s.

Views of Mount LeConte draw returning guests

The property's location provides direct sightlines to Mount LeConte, one of the most prominent peaks in the Great Smoky Mountains. The floor-to-ceiling windows in each unit frame the mountain vista, creating what visitors describe as an impressive backdrop for their stay.

Long-time Gatlinburg visitors who remember the original Highlands Condominiums have begun returning to the rebuilt property. Some guests who previously stayed on the main strip in Gatlinburg are choosing the Highlands for the combination of updated amenities and mountain views.

The 2016 Gatlinburg fire, which occurred in late November of that year, destroyed numerous structures throughout the area including the original Highlands Condominiums. The rebuilding process took several years, with the new Highlands of the Smokies finally welcoming guests again in March 2024.

If you're planning a return trip to experience the rebuilt Highlands, consider using one of the best travel rewards credit cards to earn points on your accommodations and dining..

Photo originally posted on r/gatlinburg.