First United Methodist Church

Gatlinburg's oldest church, built entirely from mountain rock. It's been a Smoky Mountain landmark for generations and still draws visitors to its striking stone walls.

The First United Methodist Church, the oldest church in Gatlinburg, has a reputation for unsettling visitors with its combination of mountain isolation and strange activity. Entirely constructed from local mountain rock, the church looks like something from a Gothic horror tale, particularly in the mist that often blankets the Smokies.

Visitors have reported seeing strange silhouettes against the stone walls, figures that don't correspond to anyone physically present. Ghosts resembling priests or ministers have been spotted inside and around the church, seemingly continuing their spiritual duties. The church's age means it's witnessed countless funerals for mountain families, and some of those mourners appear to have never left. The temperature shifts suddenly in the sanctuary, and the sound of hymns has been heard drifting from the church when it stands empty. Some visitors have reported feeling an overwhelming sense of peace inside, while others have experienced sudden dread. The church's stone construction, which some believe stores spiritual energy, may explain why activity is so consistently reported here.