What to Do When Staying at Pet-Friendly Cabins in the Smoky Mountains

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.

Often, an important member of your family is missing from your vacation: your pup. Make sure that’s not the case on your next getaway by staying at one of the pet-friendly cabins in the Smoky Mountains from Bear Camp Cabin Rentals. Two and four-legged visitors love these luxurious yet cozy spaces. However, just like not all our cabin rentals are pet-friendly, not all Smoky Mountain adventures welcome Fido. Keep reading to learn more about some of our favorite dog-approved activities and attractions.

Dog-Friendly Things to Do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge

Going on vacation with your dog can take a little more planning. You have to make sure that the things on your itinerary are dog-friendly. While you can leave your dog crated in your Smoky Mountain cabin, you want to be able to bring them with you on as many adventures as possible.

1. Let your pup run off some steam at a dog-friendly park. Patriot Park near the Old Mill in Gatlinburg features a grassy area perfect for playing fetch. Mills Park and Mynatt Park are two great options in Gatlinburg.
2. In addition to local parks, Great Smoky Mountains National Park has two trails that allow leashed pets. The Gatlinburg Trail is a roughly four-mile path that takes you through a cove of hardwood forest. The other is the approximately three-mile Oconaluftee River Trail.
3. Several popular attractions welcome well-behaved pups. Gatlinburg Skypark allows dogs on the yellow Skylift, and Holly & Willow’s Pet Barn in the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community is a popular pet-friendly shop. While The Island in Pigeon Forge is a pet-friendly property, individual businesses can decide whether to allow dogs inside.
4. Make plans to check out some of the dog-friendly breweries and distilleries in town. Ole Smoky Moonshine has three locations between Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge that welcome pets! Other great options include Old Forge Distillery and Gatlinburg Brewing Company.
5. You and your pup will love dining at the dog-friendly restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Popular options in Gatlinburg include the Fox & Parrot Tavern, Fannie Farkle’s, and Howard Steakhouse. If you’re closer to Gatlinburg, dine at Blue Moose Burgers and Wings, Mellow Mushroom, or Calhoun’s Restaurant. We recommend calling ahead to see if dog-friendly dining is limited to the patio.

Find Your Perfect Pup-Approved Vacation Rental

Reserving one of the pet-friendly cabins in the Smoky Mountains is the perfect way to ensure your whole family is together for your next vacation. There’s no better place to turn for dog-approved cabins than Bear Camp Cabin Rentals. Whether looking to stay in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, or another charming town, we have something for you. All of our cabins feature everything you need to feel right at home. To learn more about our pet policies, call 1-800-705-6346.