Golfin' Hillbilly Style

So y'all probably remember that on Thursday I was suppose to go see the synchronized fireflies (or lightning bugs if you like).  Well as I said the park ranger told us that the entire park was full by 7:15 PM, several hours before dark.  We got to the park entrance at around 8:45 and were told to turn back. Well, that was a bummer no doubt, because we kind of had our hearts set on synchronized fireflies and that did not work out.  However, when you are with a group of six fun people you are bound to have fun no matter what you do.

We headed back down to Gatlinburg's historic Hillbilly Golf.  This place has been around all my life. I remember it from my very first trip to Gatlinburg.  The residents had the idea to take a steep hill - basically unusable real estate, build 2 18 course putt-putt courses, build a cable tractor to pull visitors up to the top and then charge $9/person. You may call them hillbillies, but I can them geniuses.

Because the course was built around an already established set of trees - almost a forest, the entire coarse is well shaded and well lit.  These hillbillies take great pride in their courses and really the entire 18 holes were well tended and groomed. I had a great time even though I came in dead last. I don't really have the patience or skill for putt putt but at least this time I had fun.

I know you want pictures, so here we go:

 
"The Crew" in the cart
Back row (L to R): Gomer, Lady Em & The Hottie
Front row (L to R): Dr.K, Yours Truly & Sassy

The cart is actually an old cable car run by a tractor engine
which pulls you up to the top of the courses
like an old mine shaft it is a bit creepy but adds character.

Once up top you get to play 18 holes riddled with obstacles such as:

A covered wagon,

Barrels filled with homemade brew from the nearby distilleries,

And cautions signs! 

Oh come on! You saw it coming didn't you? 

As the pictures show, I had a great time making the best out of a less than perfect situation. I even enjoyed playing a game I truly loathe. So there you go. Fun times in Gatlinburg that I felt like sharing with all of you. I hope you enjoyed, kiddies!

Signing Off For Now,

THE MATTCHEWS