Axe throwing can be fun for all ages in a safely supervised environment at Sevierville Axe House. (Jessica Hudson Photo)
Never did I think axe throwing might be something I would want to do even as I noticed how it continued to grow in popularity.
Never ever did I think my 11-year-old granddaughter would think axe throwing would be so much fun.
Guess what? I not only found out I enjoyed axe throwing but that my granddaughter — along with her 9-year-old brother — loved it.
We visited the recently opened Sevierville Axe House and spent an hour watching my son-in-law throw bullseye after bullseye while I had no success. My granddaughter slowly but surely mastered the skill/technique to where she was having her axe stick in the target about one-third of her throws.
My grandson had limited success as did my daughter. But there was one common theme — it was fun.
Our “coach” went over all the necessary safety precautions and kept a close eye on us in our three lanes. He showed us the one-handed and two-handed techniques and also explained there really was no right or wrong way to do this. He noted some participants keep score and play various games but most just like to have fun throwing the axe at the targets which are replaced about twice per week.
Marketing director Monica Shafer said Sevierville Axe House normally attracts local residents while the Pigeon Forge Axe House on the main parkway draws more tourists She said the age range includes everyone from kids to senior citizens and that this is considered a family-friendly attraction.
What surprised me, even more, was how good the food at Pizza at the Cove, the restaurant in the same building as the Axe House. As soon as we walked in I noticed the attendant taking a call-out order. Immediately I knew if a local was calling for food to take home then odds were the food was really good.
Shafer said Pizza at the Cove has some of the best bar food in the area featuring pizza, wings and more. The pizzas were unbelievable, especially the crust, and the small size was perfect for my grandkids to share.
Bullseye Taters (brisket) and KillShot Taters (chicken) were the special of the night. They have queso cheese, onions, peppers, and a choice of sauces that make the potatoes and meat so, so good.
Beer is on tap with a lot of choices and I noticed pitchers of local craft beers seemed very popular.
Axe throwing is available for 30 minutes ($15 per person) or one hour ($25 per person) — and the hour went by quickly. Reservations are not required but during peak times would be a good idea.
Shafer said The Axe House is a World Axe Throwing League affiliate and tournaments hopefully will be scheduled later in Sevierville and/or Pigeon Forge.
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For information on Sevierville Axe House call 865-366-2888 and for Pigeon Forge call 865-366-1476.
The Axe House is an affiliate of the World Axe Throwing League (WATL), and all competitions here comply with league standards. Join a local league if you live in the area, and compete against some of the best throwers around. Who knows, maybe you have what it takes to reach the world championship.
