OUR STORY
Smoky Mountain Trader had its humble beginnings as the historic "Princess Theatre" in downtown Cleveland, Georgia. Carl Dann first visited the Trader in 1998, and although it was far from what it could be, he saw a gem in the rough, a great opportunity in need of just a little polishing up.
The Smoky Mountain Trader has undergone many changes to become the outdoor store it is today. The Dann family have worked together for 27 years in their small business, watching it grow into what is consistently rated one of the best outfitters in North Georgia.
The Trader is a labor of love. We continue to grow and evolve in response to God's leadership and the needs of the local community. We are so proud and grateful to be a part of the beautiful North Georgia mountains, and we delight in sharing our love for this place with visitors and locals alike. We hope you fall in love with these mountains, rivers, forests, and people just as we have. Most of all, we hope you fall in love with the God who made them!
In June 2026, after decades of serving North Georgia, the Dann family sold Smoky Mountain Trader and its iconic building to a local group from the Cleveland and Clermont area. With a deep appreciation for the store's history and the community it has faithfully served, the new owners are committed to carrying Smoky Mountain Trader into its 40th year of business with the same heart, values, and hometown spirit that have made it a North Georgia tradition for generations.
OUR TEAM
The Kinsey Family (Center left)
The Coker Family (3rd from right and far right)
Owners
Carson
Manager, Operations and Inventory
Maple
Fellow Adventurer
Daubrey
Living Legend
Phoenix
Fellow Adventurer
Lovely, knowledgeable and attentive staff. Found the right pair of hiking shoes and a lovely art project book using natural materials for my daughter, as well as a sweet owl book for my preschool class. Let’s not leave out the adorable sloth hiking socks either.
My husband and I happened upon this jewel vacationing in Dahlonega and hiking the AT. What a great store. Spacious and well-stocked. I needed a small day pack and was pleased by the variety. We also picked up some great hiking clothes. Daubrey was amazing and very knowledgeable about everything we needed, and checked on us several times while we browsed.
This store had all kinds of camping and hiking gear. Owner was so friendly and helpful!! Highly recommend!!!
I went here today in hopes of finding new hiking shoes, and was able to get exactly what I was looking for. Not only that but the guy working could not have been any nicer or more helpful. He was amazing. Oh and if you are like me, and you are a lady with bigger feet I would definitely suggest trying here. They had plenty to choose from