18-Acre Townsend Mountain Retreat: Seclusion, Creekfront, and Breathtaking Views
Escape to the serene beauty of the Smoky Mountains with this remarkable 18-acre tract of wooded land, offering an unparalleled combination of privacy, natural features, and recreational potential. Nestled along the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this property borders the Foothills Parkway and provides a rare opportunity to own a slice of Appalachian tranquility just minutes from the heart of Townsend, Tennessee. With rolling valleys, spring-fed water features, and elevated terrain boasting spectacular mountain views, this property is a haven for those seeking solitude, outdoor adventure, and a deep connection with nature.
The property encompasses a diverse landscape, with the north side featuring a peaceful valley adorned with water features and several level areas. Here, the spring-fed creek meanders gently, creating a serene atmosphere and opportunities for small-scale fishing, wildlife observation, or simply enjoying the calming sounds of flowing water. The valley offers a natural gathering space for camping, picnicking, or exploring the rich flora and fauna of the region. Its tranquil environment allows for moments of reflection and relaxation, ideal for weekend getaways, family excursions, or solo retreats into nature.
On the south side, the land rises to an elevation of approximately 2,200 feet, offering sweeping mountain vistas that capture the essence of the Smoky Mountains. From this vantage point, the views extend across forested ridges and valleys, creating a visual experience that changes with every season. In spring and summer, the dense hardwoods and pines provide a lush, green backdrop, while autumn brings a tapestry of vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. Winter offers a peaceful quiet, with misty mountain mornings and the gentle rustle of wildlife through the woods. The elevated terrain is perfect for creating viewpoints, observation areas, or hiking trails for adventurous visitors and nature enthusiasts.
One of the most appealing features of this property is its exceptional privacy. Accessed via a gravel one-lane road, the land is tucked away from main thoroughfares, ensuring a quiet and secluded environment. Despite its remote feel, the property is only a short 12-minute drive from the town of Townsend, providing convenient access to shops, restaurants, and amenities while maintaining a sense of rural isolation. This combination of accessibility and seclusion makes it a rare find in the region, ideal for buyers who value both convenience and a private retreat.
The property is enrolled in the Greenbelt/Agricultural/Forest tax exemption program, resulting in very low property taxes. This tax-friendly status enhances the value of the property, making it an attractive option for long-term ownership, investment, or recreational use. Buyers can enjoy the benefits of owning mountain land with minimal financial burden, while also preserving its natural beauty and ecological integrity.
Due to the property’s rugged terrain and steep slopes, it is important to note that it is currently priced as recreational land. There is no septic soil map available, and utilities are not present on site. The closest electricity is approximately 1,200 feet past the property, serviced by Sevier Electric. Prospective buyers should consider these factors when planning potential development or building projects. For those seeking a ready-to-build home site, additional surveys, soil tests, and infrastructure development may be required. However, for outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, hikers, or conservation-minded buyers, the land offers endless opportunities to enjoy the natural setting as it currently exists.
The property’s access requires careful navigation. GPS devices may not provide accurate directions, so the seller has provided precise guidance for reaching the land: from Maryville, take Highway 321 North and the Lamar Alexander Parkway to Townsend. Turn left on Webb Road at the Gulf Gas Station, which transitions into Carrs Creek Road. Travel 6.2 miles from Highway 321 until the paved road ends at 1976 Carrs Creek Road. From there, proceed 1.1 miles down the gravel one-lane road to the property, which is located on the right and marked with a sign. This level of detail ensures visitors can reach the property safely and without unnecessary confusion, emphasizing both the seclusion and the adventure of owning this mountain retreat.
While there are no cleared walking trails currently, the property invites exploration for those prepared to navigate its natural terrain. Most of the land is steep and densely wooded, so caution is advised when traversing the area. The best walking access up the mountain is located behind the sign and boulder at the property entrance, providing a starting point for discovery. Here, buyers can begin to envision trails, observation points, or future recreational developments that take advantage of the land’s unique topography and breathtaking views.
The property’s natural features extend far beyond the creek and elevated ridges. The diverse ecosystem supports native wildlife, including deer, turkey, and smaller woodland creatures, offering exceptional hunting, birdwatching, and wildlife observation opportunities. The rich mix of hardwoods and conifers provides both habitat and aesthetic beauty, while the spring-fed creek ensures a sustainable water source that enhances the land’s ecological value. These features make the property a true natural sanctuary, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts and conservation-minded buyers alike.
One of the most compelling aspects of this property is its proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Bordering the Foothills Parkway, the land provides immediate access to one of the most treasured natural areas in the United States. Hiking, camping, and sightseeing in the national park are practically at your doorstep, offering world-class recreational opportunities. The property’s location allows for immersion in the Smoky Mountains’ rich biodiversity, scenic landscapes, and cultural heritage, all while maintaining the privacy and freedom of private land ownership.
The combination of creek frontage, steep mountain slopes, and elevated ridges creates opportunities for a variety of uses, whether recreational, investment-focused, or as a future homestead. Prospective buyers could envision establishing hiking trails, wildlife observation points, or camping areas in the valley, while the higher elevations offer panoramic viewpoints for cabins or retreat structures. The land’s natural contours and features make it ideal for designing spaces that harmonize with the environment while offering a unique mountain living experience.
In summary, this 18-acre Townsend property is a rare and exceptional opportunity for anyone seeking seclusion, natural beauty, and recreational potential in the Smoky Mountains. With its spring-fed creek, valleys, elevated ridges, spectacular mountain views, and close proximity to the Foothills Parkway and downtown Townsend, the property offers a blend of adventure, privacy, and convenience. Low property taxes through the Greenbelt/Agricultural/Forest program add financial appeal, while the rugged, wooded terrain provides both challenge and opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts.
Priced as recreational property, this tract invites buyers to explore, hike, and immerse themselves in one of East Tennessee’s most beautiful regions. Whether you are seeking a private retreat, a hunting and outdoor playground, or a long-term investment, this land offers endless possibilities. Careful navigation and respect for the natural terrain are required, but the rewards include unmatched privacy, pristine natural beauty, and the chance to own a true mountain sanctuary.
Don’t miss this opportunity to claim your own piece of the Smoky Mountains. With its creek, wooded valleys, and breathtaking elevated views, this 18-acre property offers a rare combination of beauty, seclusion, and recreational potential, just minutes from Townsend yet far from the bustle of everyday life. Schedule a visit, explore its trails and water features, and imagine the life you could create on this extraordinary Tennessee mountain retreat.
Listed on Zillow
