5 Tips for Planning a Winter Family Reunion in a Large Gatlinburg Cabin

The Smoky Mountains don’t just feel like a magical place, they really are a mystical destination. The phrase “old as the hills” rings true when you really dive into the old lore of the mountains. When you come to visit, take this otherworldly tour and investigate for yourself. Here are six of the Smokies’ best kept secrets.

1. Elkmont Trollbridge

Escape to a place that really feels like a glimpse into a mythical land. The Elkmont Trollbridge is a true hidden gem that only locals know about. Hike along the Little River Trail until you reach this spot. Covered in moss and mushrooms, the Trollbridge is perfect for capturing pictures or looking for hidden fantastical creatures.

2. House Of The Fairies

This whimsical spot is only a mile from downtown Gatlinburg yet it feels like you’ve been transported into another realm. Map to this magical place, then go out and explore. Here, you’ll find towering trees and moss covered logs and boulders. Then at the end of the trail you’ll see it...an arched doorway, that looks like it’s almost cut into the side of the hill, sits with a wooden ladder leaning against the frame. Step inside and find a cool spring, filled with water that tinkles like bells. 

3. Synchronous Fireflies

The synchronized fireflies that come out every year like clockwork might be more science than magic but when you’re sitting among the trees and they begin to spark in unison, flickering in and out of sight, it feels like something otherworldly. This rare phenomenon is only seen in a few places in the world and The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of them.

4. Elkmont Ghost Town

Once a thriving vacation spot for the Knoxville elite, the Elkmont Ghost Town looks like a legend brought back to life. Recently restored, explore inside the homes and hike trails where you will find the remains of homes once occupied by Appalachian locals who would serve, supply and work in the town. This piece of history is frozen in time and feels like stepping back into the past.

There are many magical places in the Smokies and these are only four of them. Don’t stop here, continue to search for more mystical creatures and sprites living in the trees and hollows. To discover more, stay overnight in the mountains in a log cabin. This cabin is even called Magical Moments, which is exactly what you’ll find when you visit the Smoky Mountains.

Just a day’s drive from over 60% of the nation’s population, the city of Gatlinburg is the perfect place to hold a family reunion. During the earliest months of the year, the Great Smoky Mountains are transformed into a winter wonderland with breathtaking natural beauty and numerous festivals. With room for up to 18 people under one roof, one of our large Gatlinburg cabins is ideal for a family get together in the Smokies. Bear Camp Cabins has put together five great tips for planning your reunion this winter:

1. Choose the Right Dates

Planning a family reunion can be tricky, as you have to find a time that works for everyone. Some people will have to schedule time off from work, while others might have kids who are in school. You may have to make quite a few phone calls and send lots of emails to pinpoint the best possible dates for the event. If you are able to rent a cabin for a week or two, even busy family members may be able to attend for at least part of the time. The winter months are a great time to take a vacation in the Smokies because it is not as crowded as the spring or summer.

2. Select the Right Sized Cabin

Here at Bear Camp, we can accommodate families of virtually any size. For a reunion with lots of people, you may want to choose one of our spacious four bedroom cabins or five bedroom cabins in Gatlinburg. These large cabins provide all of the amenities you need and incredible views of the mountains. If you have a very large family, you could also rent two or more cabins that are near each other.

3. Cook Some Large Family Meals

One of the advantages of staying in a cabin is having access to a fully equipped kitchens. You will probably want to go out to eat sometimes, but you should plan at least one big meal for your family reunion. You can gather the ingredients in nearby stores and cook the same way you could at home. If your group has several cooks or bakers, they can collaborate to create a feast that everyone will enjoy. This is a great opportunity to make your favorite family recipes!

4. Plan Fun Activities

There is always something fun to do in Gatlinburg during the winter months! If you have some skiers and snowboarders in your family, you can’t beat a trip to Ober Gatlinburg. As one of the Southeast’s premiere ski resorts, Ober offers nine ski slopes for visitors of all abilities. If you are looking for more outdoor fun, be sure to visit the world famous Great Smoky Mountains National Park for some winter hiking and sightseeing. The park is open all year round and admission is always free. Families looking for indoor activities can enjoy a plethora of dinner theaters, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies in downtown Gatlinburg, and a variety of excellent restaurants. Don't forget, there are Bear Camp's Free Attraction Tickets that you can use! 

5. Enjoy Some Time in Your Cabin

While there is plenty to do in the area, you should plan to spend plenty of time in your large Gatlinburg cabin. When you choose a cabin with amenities such as a fireplace, satellite TV, and a game room, it might be hard to convince your family members to leave! To start planning your winter vacation, send us a message via the Bear Camp Cabins Contact page or give us a call today:​​​​ 1-800-705-6346.