Choosing the right cabin can be frustrating. There are almost 10,000 cabins in Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Sevierville, and Townsend from which to choose. Where do you begin? I have 28 years of experience not only working in the Smoky Mountains, but in frequently finding cabins for many reasons: family reunions, small family gatherings, church retreats, honeymoons for family members, ladies retreats, youth retreats, and small corporate meetings. I know all the roads in the Smokies and have stayed in many cabins. I have also toured many cabins that I haven't yet stayed in. I love the small rustic cabins which seem to have a special ambience created over the years, and I love the luxury cabins with indoor media room.

Cabins are located close to all the action -- great restaurants, attractions, unique shops, world-class outlet malls, music theatres, and outdoor adventure, including whitewater rafting, river tubing, hiking trails, horseback riding, hayrides, carriage rides, and fishing.

If you enjoy an action-filled vacation, you are not far from it all. If you prefer a vacation where you can just get away from it all, a Smoky Mountain cabin will provide you an escape with views of mountain vistas and complete solitude.

A Few Things You Will Find in A Cabin:

• Great mountain views or a wooded setting. Sometimes you might find a cabin by a stream or mountain river.
• You will have plenty of room.
• You can enjoy a cozy fireplace on those cold nights
• A Hot Tub on the deck will provide you with relaxation in the mountain air. Although hot tubs are used year 'round during any weather, they are really great on a cool morning or evening. A morning in a hot tub will envigorate you, and an evening time in the hot tub will relax you for a good night's sleep.
• Pet friendly cabins. Yes, many cabins are now pet friendly - so now you can bring the entire family on vacation.
• Many cabins now have Internet access.
• Most cabins have washer and dryer.
• In a cabin, you can cook your own food or order delivery service where you can choose from pizza, steak sandwiches, fully catered dinners, or full meals delivered to your door or available for pickup. Cooking in your cabin will help you stretch your vacation dollars.
• Most cabins have security systems. Please be sure to arm the security system when checking out of your cabin.
• Most master bedrooms have a Jacuzzi (romantic and relaxing).
• Some cabins have an indoor media room, complete with either leather or rumble seats, and a big theatre screen. Make a day of watching your favorite movies. Be sure to bring along popcorn and candy.
• Smoky Mountain cabins range from a one bedroom cabin for a romantic getaway to cabins that sleep between 42 to 64 people (Moose Hollow Lodge, Muzsik Mansion, Mountain Majesty, Stephen's Sanctuary).
• Some handicapped accessible cabins are available. Some of these cabins have only a grab bar in the bathroom and a wheelchair ramp into the cabin. You will want to inquire when making your reservation as to whether or not the cabin has an accessible shower stall. There are a few cabins that have either an elevator or a lift (Bear Lake Lodge and Grandview Lodge are 2 that I am aware of).
• You will likely see a bear around your cabin. Please do not feed the bears, and keep all garbage out of reach.

To Help You Choose A Cabin That Is Right For You:
• Resort Communities
• Cabin in Private Setting

Specialty Cabins:
• Honeymoon Cabins
• Cabins for Groups of 10 or more
• Pet Friendly Cabins

Things to Know Before You Book:

• Seasonal Rates apply. You will pay less during the off-season which is generally November through March except for Thanksgiving, the first weekend in December (Gatlinburg Christmas Parade), Christmas, New Year's, and Valentine's Day or the weekend close to Valentine's Day. You will pay more during the season which is April through October. Rates in October (Fall colors) are peak season rates and are the highest.

• Most cabins are fully furnished. All linens are included. Firewood is furnished. All you need to bring is food. If your cabin has a charcoal grill, you will need to bring charcoal.

• Most cabins are managed by a rental company. When you call to make your reservation, let them know what you would like in a cabin and the type of location you prefer (secluded, private, mountain views, close to the action, etc.). Remember if you want mountain views, you will have to pay the price of driving up winding mountain roads to get to your cabin. You are not going to get a mountain view from a cabin that is located in the valley. The rental company will help you find a cabin that is right for you. If you prefer a resort environment with swimming pool, day spa or in-cabin therapeutic massage, and wedding chapel, there are great resorts to choose from.

• Cabin rates range from $95 to $300 per night for a one bedroom, $125 to $400 for a two or three bedroom, and up to $2,875 for the largest cabins that sleep over 50 people.

• Length of stay: Most cabins require a two night stay; however, most require a three to four night stay during Holidays or peak season.

• Extra fees: Ask about extra fees before booking. You may be required to pay a cleaning fee between $45 to $100, a pet fee, reservation charge, or a hot tub cleaning fee ($25 to $50).

* Cancellation policies: Ask about the cancellation policy when booking your reservation. Most rental companies post their policies online.

Last Minute Trips can be easily planned at: Last Minute Cabin Specials.

• Why stay in a Gatlinburg cabin?
• Why stay in a Pigeon Forge cabin?
• Why stay in a Sevierville cabin?
• Why stay in a Wears Valley cabin?
• Why stay in a Waldens Creek cabin?
• Why stay in a Townsend cabin?
• Why stay in a Douglas Lake cabin?