11. Where Roots Run Deep, with Kay Cox King

For the Love of Gatlinburg

Episode 11 features Kay Cox King, a 17th-generation Gatlinburg native and property manager at Mountain Laurel Chalets. Her deep-rooted connection to the area is evident through her family's significant contributions to Gatlinburg's development, including her great-grandfather Andy Huff opening the first hotel and her great-grandmother Martha Jane Husky Ogle advocating for education.

Throughout the podcast, Kay reflects on the changes Gatlinburg has undergone, from a close-knit community to a bustling tourist destination welcoming 12 to 14 million visitors annually. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining the town's charm and small-town feel amidst rapid growth and development.

Kay shares personal anecdotes, including frequent bear encounters and childhood memories of pool hopping across family-owned motels, which highlight the unique aspects of life in Gatlinburg. She also expresses her love for the area's natural beauty, particularly mentioning the Chimney Picnic Area and Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail as favorite spots. Her deep appreciation for Gatlinburg's community spirit and walkable downtown area underscores her desire to preserve the town's unique character for future generations.

Looking to the future, Kay voices her hopes for Gatlinburg to maintain its magical essence and welcoming atmosphere while balancing growth with preservation. Her insights provide a valuable perspective on the evolution of Gatlinburg's hospitality industry and the challenges of preserving a small-town feel in a popular tourist destination. Through her stories and experiences, Kay Cox King embodies the generational hospitality that has made Gatlinburg a beloved destination for millions of visitors over the years.