Crafty Marketing

Ever wonder at what spot most of the pictures taken of the Smokey Mountains has been from? According to the owners of Soco Crafts, it is their store's parking lot. So convinced in fact, that they have invested in a seemingly costly watchtower to improve the view.

(c) Get Hep Studios
As drivers descend the hills of Highway 19 into Maggie Valley, it is hard to miss Soco Craft's proclamation of having "The Most Photographed View of the Smokeys." A large arrow leads the way into the store's parking lot.

For a minimal fee, visitors can ascend to the top of a three-story perch for an eagle's view of the surrounding area. Pay telescopes stand on either side of the top platform. If you get bored looking into the people's windows below, you can always turn your attention to the lofty Ghost Town in the Sky amusement park on a nearby peek.

Soco Crafts offers souvenir shopping with a view.
(c) Get Hep Studios

Part way up the stairs, hikers are met by a ceramic bear statue, to give the trek a more rugged outdoor feel. Of course, getting to the tower entrance requires a walk through Soco Crafts' aisles of shot glasses, postcards, jellies and other Smokey Mountain memories.

Soco Craft Tower
6638 Soco Road (Highway 19)
Maggie Valley, NC

Roadside Distractions Guide