Some places are just so beautiful they inspire artists to prop up an easel and paint the scene. We have gotten many wonderful interpretations of what our glorious world looks like through photos, paintings, and videos. There is one famous painting that reminds me of a local favorite swimming hole in the Smokies. Let me tell you a little something about the Townsend Wye.
The famous painting by Georges Seurat entitled "A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte" is a widely known painting, but looking at it recently, it reminded me of something -- or rather, somewhere. In the painting, a leisure-seeking crowd gathers around at the shoreline to enjoy a warm summer day -- and the scene instantly brought to mind the Townsend Wye.
You can find this iconic swimming hole in the Great Smoky Mountains town of Townsend. If you are familiar with the entrance, you have actually passed this spot maybe dozens of times. You may be wondering what a "wye" is. Well, a "wye" is a triangular railroad track, which the entrance in Townsend resembles... hence the name "Townsend Wye."
You may also be familiar with the road if you have traveled to the ever-popular scenic drive in Cades Cove. This is my favorite scenic drive in the Smokies and a great spot to look for wild black bears.
The Little River is very reminiscent of many of the other rivers in the Smokies, complete with moss-covered rocks and low overhanging trees. However, there is something special -- and perhaps a bit magical -- about this spot where families have gathered for many years for a little fun in the sun.
What reminds me of "A Sunday Afternoon" the most is this spot pictured below. On a warm day, you will see many people sprawled out on blankets having a picnic and soaking up the sun on the river's edge.
The water is also populated by many people floating around on tubes. Some of them float by and continue down the river; others tether themselves to a tree and just bob up and down with the rhythm of the water.
If you are looking for the best river experiences, head on down the road to the Smoky Mountain River Rats, where you can rent a tube or even book a white water rapid expedition!
It’s fun to draw comparisons between famous paintings and local gems like the Townsend Wye. Next time you go, make sure you keep "A Sunday Afternoon" painting in the back of your mind and see how similar they really are.
Looking for more local adventures? Why not embark on a guided waterfall hike in the Smokies?
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