I've been to Townsend many times. Not much going on there. Gas, groceries, a few eateries. Camp grounds, 4x4 shop, etc. If you want laid back with easy access to the GSMNP, that's the place. Stay away from Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge/Sevierville, unless you want to do the tourist thing. Townsend entrance to the park gets you about 20 minutes to Cades Cove. If you want to see The Dragon Tail, you can get there by Parson Branch road from Cades Cove, but I warn you, it's a real time commitment for the drive. The Tail will get you to The Foothills Parkway, which will get you back to Townsend. If you want to treat yourself to a good steak, The Peddler in Gatlinburg is the place. It's usually packed with a long wait. The secret is to walk in and ask to be seated in the bar. Usually no wait and the seating is the same as the main dining room.
"There's nothing better for the inside of a man than the outside of a Bronco" - John Bronco
