I'm not suer yet but I think we (guys from work and myself) might try staying here this time. Pigeon Forge takes about 30mins to get to the Gap and if the Foothills Parkway isn't fixed yet add another 10-20mins. Bad detour.
Where is here?
Yeah I remember the detour, it sucks but is manageable unless you are squimish (tight decending turns, gravely road surface in spots, etc.).
I personally would prefer to stay somewhere in Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg as there is so much more to do there and many more places to eat etc. Deal's Gap is no mans land as far as accomodations and restaurants etc. But it depends on where everyone else will be.