Vacation Rentals by Owner

Really enjoyed the cabin

Guest: Bill J (Littleton, MA)
Date of Stay: 05/05/12 Review Submitted: 05/17/12

My family and I stayed at Bear Trax for a family vacation and we had a wonderful time. The beds were comfortable and the cabin is as described. We enjoyed the views of LeConte from the picture window. We also enjoyed the wide parking area that was nice and level. We have stayed at cabins before that had steep, hard to negotiate driveways, but that wasn't a problem here. We loved working with Roger, and we felt we got excellent value for our money. The only "ding" I would give is that the lighting was dim at night. This is not a big deal, but I think it is worth mentioning. I would definitely stay here again, and I appreciated working with someone as friendly and honest as Roger. He helped us to have a great stay in the Smokys, and we want to come back!

Owner response:Thanx for your response on your recent stay Bill, glad to hear you all had a Great Time! And seeing Mt LeConte out of the frontroom window and off the front deck was perhaps one of the leading reasons I purchased Besr Trax to begin with - it's an awesome view, and especially great when you watch clouds roll over it. And thanx on your feedback too...actually heading down to my place this week for my annual B-Day vaca, and will be accenting the lighting throughout various areas of Bear Trax as well.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Great Cabin in the woods WITH BEARS the name says it all .. lifetime memories ......

Guest: Donald and Nicole (Cincinnati, Ohio )
Date of Stay: 04/09/12 Review Submitted: 04/21/12

This cabin was amazing with beautiful views and Roger was great to work with .The cabin in itself was a vacation.... Loved being able to sit on the deck get a lil sun on the warm days while the kids sat in the hottub, the hottub also felt great on those chilly mornings for us adults we had a family of 7 with lots of room to spare in this large 3 level cabin, the view is awesome the cabin it so nice and has everything we needed ..We did encounter on the warmest night a 1 yr old bear cub who just noseied around the cabin siffting through the leaves and such on the ground we didnt get near him, but was fun to watch him from a distance on the 3rd floor deck, do Beware this was late night near 12:00 am midnight and he even stood up looked and smelled in our Jeep ( the kids dont want us to wash the Jeep now as it still has a bear paw on it ) lol we were smart and didnt leave ANYTHING in our car or outside so he just went on down the driveway until we couldnt see him anymore this was an Amazing Expierence for us adults as well as the kids ....Thank you so much Roger for sharing your cabin and giving us "Our First Wildlife Expierence with a Bear " ..... Pierce's, Smith's and Swift's

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, sightseeing.

Wcrew

Guest: Wcrew (Fort Campbell, ,Ky)
Date of Stay: 03/23/12 Review Submitted: 04/08/12

This was our second time staying At beartrax. We really enjoyed it and hated to leave. As before, Roger was great and very easy to work with when reserving and making final coordinations. You can not find a better place in the area that sleeps a large family for such an affordable price. The pool table, foosball table, and hot tub were all a hit for us and the kids. It is a cozy chalet, has most everything needed, and is peaceful. I would definitely recommend staying here and as I said this is our 2nd time staying here in 2 years and we will definitely stay again. We did not see any bears but did have a turkey that kept responding to my sons turkey call. Roger also told us he plans to enlarge the deck, improve the game room, and update the main floor bathroom this year. Will be even better next time we visit. Thanks Roger!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Great place!

Guest: Shudgens (Lavergne, TN)
Date of Stay: 10/16/11 Review Submitted: 02/13/12

Stayed in October 2011 and had a great stay! Nice place with no problems. We even had 3 bears climb on the deck! Made for great photos. We will stay again when we come back. Great response by owner & not one complaint

Recommended for:Families with young children, romantic getaway.

The 9 of us had a wonderful time its a great place,

Guest: The 6 pack (indianapolis,in)
Date of Stay: 06/18/11 Review Submitted: 07/06/11

It is named right we had bear cubs {3} on the deck appox 2 or 3 months old, but mamma bear did not like it she keep hissing at my husband. we did not know that bears hissed.The children {ages 6 to 13} loved the chalet. It is a great place for sharing with another family due to the bedroom on the lower level and master at upper level.We hope to go back in the near future.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Great Summer Vacation

Guest: Happy in Bama (Alabama)
Date of Stay: 06/11/11 Review Submitted: 06/22/11

What a great value for your vacation dollar. Very homey and comfortable. Well stocked kitchen, plenty of towels, blankets and bedding. We enjoyed the chalet so much that at times, we were torn on wether or not to head into town or just stay in our retreat. The owner makes the process very easy.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

this will change your mind about visiting the ocean and visit the moutains instead!!!

Guest: kim (southern illinois)
Date of Stay: 05/16/11 Review Submitted: 05/23/11

We planned this trip for my father in law and mother in law who come to visit us from england but had not been here in awhile so this was a way to connect with them in a fun entertaining enviorment with the grand kids. We throughly enjoyed the property. I hope to come back again year after year. I used to love the idea of the beach but i am now pleased with the change. Rodger was wonderful to deal with and through with all detail and prompt with contacting me prior to our trip and went over above and beyond what he had to do such as information on great places to visit. I hope that Rodger and his family have this listed to rent for a long time as i can see us making alot of great family memories at the bear trax in gatlinburg... i know this might sound so "lame " but when we got near the moutains i felt like when i was a kid watching wizard of oz when it all went to color and and you could see the beautiful country side. I got to have fun and be a kid too and visit in a nice calm atmospher with my in laws. highly recommended, The Hanson family

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Naomi toronto canada and friends...

Guest: namie (toronto ontario canada)
Date of Stay: 04/09/11 Review Submitted: 04/17/11

the chalet was certainly amazing quiet peaceful ..a little piece of heaven...had everything you might need.the owner was extremely helpful considerate and wonderful to deal with...would go back...lots of space .there were 3 of us but certainly can handle xeveral more...

Owner response:Thanx for your great comments Naomi. You and your group are some of my more 'long-distance' guests, coming all the way from Canada. Anytime you, family or friends may find yourselves considering a return visit to Gatlinburg, Bear Trax will be right here waiting for you !

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Spring break 2010

Guest: Wcrew (Fort Campbell, ,Ky)
Date of Stay: 03/18/11 Review Submitted: 12/21/11

We really enjoyed our week in the smokies and our stay at Beartrax. Roger was great, very easy to make coordinations with as well as friendly and helpful. Our family of 7 stayed for a full week during our kids spring break, we also had grandparents come up for a couple days. The chalet was very cozy and quiet as well as close to Gatlinburg, less than 5 minutes to downtown gatlinburg, 5-8 minutes to ober gatlinburg, and less than 10 minutes to entrance to the smokies mtn park. Our kids had a blast playing pool and using the jacuzzi. We used the charcoal grill twice and Roger provides wood for the fireplace that we used once while there. Also a nice view on the deck. Thanks for letting us stay at your chalet, the kids already want to come back next year.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

P*E*R*F*E*C*T P*L*A*C*E..... this is a better place than words and pictures can describe....

Guest: Igor (Clearwater, FL)
Date of Stay: 01/14/11 Review Submitted: 01/26/11

We stayed at Bear Trax challet for the first time, in January of 2011, and we all enjoyed it very much. I would recommend Bear Trax to my best friends and everyone who is thinking of visiting the great Smokey's!!!! You will not be disappointed but pleasantly surprised.... BearTrax is way better than any 5 star rated hotel. It's just between Gatlinburg and Ober Gatlinburg(ski resort).... Great view at the mountains!!!! The cabin is very friendly! A fun place for the whole family!!!! Loved the fireplace and the gameroom...... AND the owner of Bear Trax makes it very simple when it comes to customer service!!!!!!!!! Just a GREAT overall EXPERIENCE.... We will DEFINETELY go back to Bear Trax!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Wonderful 2010 Christmas

Guest: Sabrina & John Cone (Live Oak, FL)
Date of Stay: 12/19/10 Review Submitted: 08/04/11

I first want to apologize for this taking me so long to write. Our family stayed at Bear Trax in Dec 2010. We were there for Christmas. It was absolutely amazing. Locals say it was the first time it had snowed on Christams Day in over 20 years. The cabin was beautiful and absolutey breath taking veiws. We would consider this property hands down if we ever decided to take another trip that time of the year. We couldn't have asked for an easy person to deal with than Roger. My hat goes off to you and again I am very sorry it took me so long to post.

Recommended for:Families with teenagers

Very cozy!

Guest: Jennifer Johnsey (Knoxville, TN )
Date of Stay: 12/10/10 Review Submitted: 12/12/10

My girlfriends and I stayed at BearTrax for a Girls Weekend. We really enjoyed the hot tub, the fire and the cozy living room. We lounged around, ate a lot, slept a lot, and laughed a lot! We are looking forward to a future stay at BearTrax!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Family Getaway

Guest: Nikki (Centerville, TN)
Date of Stay: 12/03/10 Review Submitted: 12/07/10

We had a great time at Bear Trax! We had a group of 5 adults and a 3 y/o. There was something to do for all of us! It snowed all 4 days that we were there and the view was BEAUTIFUL! There is tons to do near the cabin. You can go out several different ways and come out in different spots in Gatlinburg and near Pigeon Forge. The cabin was clean, cozy, and fit us all well. Everyone enjoyed the hot tub, as well as the game room downstairs. The kitchen was well stocked with everything that you needed to cook. We will be returning to this cabin again next year!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with young children, sightseeing.

Bear Trax says it all

Guest: Annie (Antioch, IL)
Date of Stay: 09/06/10 Review Submitted: 09/16/10

Had one of the best vacations here ever. Lots of bears seen, around 20. Had fun playing pool, foosball, darts, and the hot tub was amazing. Beautiful wooded area with lots of wildlife. Went horse back riding, the caverns, golfing,etc. Bubba Gumps was a great place to eat in Gatlinburg. The house was clean and well kept up. Would definitely vacation at the Bear Trax again. Thanks Roger for letting us rent your beautiful home. You were most helpful answering all of our questions and suggesting places to go. I will highly recommend the place to all my friends and family.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Bear Trax is a fitting name!

Guest: Josh (Indiana)
Date of Stay: 07/24/10 Review Submitted: 08/03/10

Our group of 10 had an excellent time while staying at your chalet. We had a total of 2 lizards and 11 bear sightings including 7 in one day ( 2 groups of mama's w/ cubs, & 1 single bear). A cub even climbed into my sister n laws boat. We will definitely recommend your place to our friends and family. We stayed up almost every night playing darts and pool. The hot tub was nice to come back to and relax. Roger you were extremely helpful with answering all of our concerns and letting us know where to visit while we were there. For anyone thinking about going to Gatlinburg we highly recommend it. There is so much to do and see! Bubba Gumps was a favorite place to eat for our group, Laurel Falls was exciting to climb, and playing in the creek beds were fun too. We will be visiting your chalet again!!! Josh and Jodi

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Guest: Alicia
Date of Stay: 03/07/10 Review Submitted: 04/22/10

Hey Roger, I have been meaning to email you for almost a week now ever since we got back, but it seems that life always gets in the way. We had a wonderful time at the chalet. We love the chalet! My husband was ready to just move in there. :0) It was very warm and cozy. We had a bit of a problem getting the baby gates to really block the stairway so we had to re-position the side table next to the top of the stairs at the kitchen and then we just gave up and barricaded them in front of the TV with those big beanbags. :0) I don't think I have ever played pool so much in my life! We had so much fun competing in pool and foosball and then at darts after we got the boys in bed at night. The hot tub was great too! We tried to do the sky lifts the last night we were there but with two babies and no babysitters we ended up doing the tramway but it was dark and everything was closing by the time we made it there our last night. Again, thank you so much for letting us visit Bear Trax and we hope to come back again if you'll have us. :0) Alicia

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Guest: Sara Gardner (Walterboro, SC)
Date of Stay: 09/03/08 Review Submitted: 09/03/08

Bear Trax provided a wonderfully relaxing getaway that was close to all the attractions. The hot tub was wonderful. We look forward to returning with all our family next summer. Roger is most accomodating;you could not ask for a better owner for a rental property.

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 08/06/08 Review Submitted: 08/06/08

We stayed in the cabin in April of this year. We had a great time.The cabin is beautiful and the hot tub is wonderful after a hard day shopping. :) If you need exercise, just take a walk up the street and back. It's a beautiful area and you can see some of the fancy houses up close. Gatlinburg was great. The aquarium was a treat, as was Ripley's and the sky lift. Obergatlinburg was closed when we were there for repairs, so we did not get to see that. The outlets in Pigeon Forge are great, especially the ones that sit off the main road near the Nascar gocarts. Speaking of the Nascar carts, they are really expensive. Our kids (18 and 19) did 3 or 4 other cart places all for less than the cost of the Nascar one. Roger, we appreciate all the help you gave us and again we really enjoyed the cabin. It may be a few years before we can do it again, but we will look for this cabin when we do. Thanks again.

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Guest: Brett and Elaine Thompson (Hardyville Kentucky)
Date of Stay: 10/19/07 Review Submitted: 10/19/07

Roger, WOW! Your Bear Trax Chalet is just as you described. Very spacious. Plenty of room and very tastefully decorated and well stocked with supplies and utensils.We were not lucky enough to see any creatures except squirrels but the stay there was awsome. We go to the Smokies every fall break and this chalet has been the best one we have had yet. Loved the hot tub, used it daily.Also the view on our last morning there was gorgeous. We had a true view of"The 'Smokey' Mountains" with the clouds down in the mountains. Thanks so much for answering all of our questions, you are a great person to do business with and I hope to stay with you again in the future. Thanks for sharing your wonderful Chalet with us.

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Guest: Tammy Busard (Aylett, Virginia)
Date of Stay: 10/01/07 Review Submitted: 10/01/07

Dear Roger, We had a wonderful stay at the Chalet.It was nice and quite. My two grandsons enjoyed the big beanbag that you have there. The weather was perfect. on our second morning we had visits from three racoons and then the same morning there were five bears. Four little ones and one larger one. So the Chalet has the right name. It was wonderful just looking at them. Hope to be able to rent again next year. Thanks for everything.

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Guest: C. McKenzie1 (Macedonia, Ohio)
Date of Stay: 09/02/07 Review Submitted: 09/02/07

We enjoyed our stay at Bear Trax. This was our first visit to Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge. The chalet was spacious and private. The hot tub was an added bonus. Very scenic. We have never rented before but now will do again. Pigeon Forge had so many things to do. We had never seen three level go-cart tracks. So many places to shop and eat. We compared Pigeon Forge to Myrtle Beach without the ocean. Spent some time in Gatlinburg. The highlight was the Ripley's Aquarium. What a great place to visit. The chalet is conveniently located between both cities. Well worth the drive wherever you live.

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Guest: Pam78 (Keystone Hgts. Florida)
Date of Stay: 07/17/07 Review Submitted: 07/17/07

Wow, what a wonderful week we had at Bear Trax. The chalet was great, we had plenty of room, it was especially nice having 4 bedrooms and 3 baths. We had 5 adults and 2 children and everyone had a terrific time, the game room was a big hit with everyone (mainly the pool table) My husband enjoyed the hot tub. We met "Rocky" but I think HE may be a SHE because she introduced us to 4 of her kids on Friday evening, she came up for a snack then ran up the tree to her family. The kids got to see a mother bear and 3 cubs while they were at the pool, they were crossing the parking lot. (how exciting) Thanks Roger for having such an incredible place and sharing it with others, we will return to Bear Trax. I think I could live there! We have been vacationing in G'Burg for over 15 years and we always find something new to do. This year was our lazy year, we enjoyed relaxing at Bear Trax. Roger, the kids left ya a birdouse that they decorated themselves. Enjoy!! Thanks again! Pam

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Guest: Anonymous (Lugoff, South Carolina )
Date of Stay: 02/13/07 Review Submitted: 02/13/07

I have stayed in many homes off VRBO, but no one ever provided us so much info. The home was very nice, clean and comfy. My boys are 7 and 5 and they loved the chalet as well. I would say to anyone looking....Look no futher this is the place you want to stay!

Owner response:Kathy - Thanx for your great comments on your recent stay at Bear Trax! And it's great to hear that some of what we're doing there is going very well with you, our guests. There's so much more I want to put into place to make it even better, if I could get enough time! UGH! But those projects, both big and small, are coming together with each year. So I would encourage you to keep in mind that Bear Trax will be even better, but without losing what it has so far. I sincerely hope everyone visiting not only Bear Trax, but the Smokies and all this awesome scenic area will have some very good times to talk and share with families and friends. I know I have. My Beat to All of You this 2007 ! Roger

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Guest: Vishal Shukla (West Palm Beach, FL)
Date of Stay: 02/05/07 Review Submitted: 02/05/07

Hi, Sorry for being so late, we were at the cabins during fall 2006. It's a great place. A perfect place to have a nice vacation with friends and family. We were a group of 7 adults and 2 kids and did not have any problems. Roger is very helping and did pass valuable information before we reached there. In fact because of one of the kid we had to break one of the doors and were worried how much he will charge us for the damage, but he was real reasonable. We would definately love to go back.

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Guest: Margaret27 (Pataskala, Ohio)
Date of Stay: 01/09/07 Review Submitted: 01/09/07

Roger, Sorry for the delay in writing. My family stayed at your wonderful chalet in August last year. What a fantastic time! There was plenty of room for the six adults and four kids. My kids were always wanting to "go back to the cabin" when we were out running around. Several times since our stay they have asked when we can go back to the cabin. Thanks for a great stay at a great price!! We would definetely stay again!

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Guest: sue devaney (porter indiana)
Date of Stay: 08/21/06 Review Submitted: 08/21/06

Roger, I just want to let you know that my family and I had a wonderful time at your place. We especially enjoyed the beautiful mountain view from the living room windows. We had plenty of room to relax and enjoy our week. My husband and son in-law had a great time playing pool and lounging in the hot tub. We hope to plan our second trip to your beautiful chalet soon. Thanks for everything. Sue - Porter Indiana

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Guest: The Bruckner Family (Lake Worth, Florida)
Date of Stay: 07/31/06 Review Submitted: 07/31/06

We LOVED Bear Trax!! The house is spacious but very cozy. The location can't be beat. Roger was very helpful and friendly. If we go back to that area we'd love to rent Bear Trax again.

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Guest: Dennis Maddox (Hanover, In.)
Date of Stay: 06/08/06 Review Submitted: 06/08/06

Roger,Just wanted to say thanks for the use of your chalet for the week of May 22nd, 2006. Had a great time. rained a couple of mornings, but cleared up by the time everybody was dressed to go out for the day. Kids a little sad didn't see a bear, but they loved the hot tub and pool table. Couldn't hardly get them to bed at night. Plenty of room for everyone. Looking foward to next year. Thanks again Roger! Dennis Maddox and family

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Guest: Lisa252 (Highland, IN)
Date of Stay: 04/17/06 Review Submitted: 04/17/06

We stayed 5 days are Bear Trax and had a blast. The house was great! Very Clean and very spacious to accomadate 10. I would recommend this chalet to anyone. Thanks Roger for a great week!!

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Guest: Karen Seiter (-)
Date of Stay: 03/26/06 Review Submitted: 03/26/06

We enjoyed Bear Trax so much! What a big, cozy place. The hot tub was much used by our sons, and I simply loved the loft bedroom! The night we got back home after our trip, I dreamt that I was sleeping up there. Thanks for a delightful chalet, Roger.

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Guest: STEVE&PATSY (JONESBORO,GA)
Date of Stay: 01/26/06 Review Submitted: 01/25/06

ROGER,OUR FAMILY OF 10 HAD A FUN COMFORTABLE STAY.NO SNOW THIS TIME,BUT WE DID SKI FRI NITE(THE BEST RATE).LOVED THAT REAL WOOD ROCK FIRE PLACE.LOOKING FORWARD TO NEXT TRIP AND ANOTHER STAY AT YOUR PLACE

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Guest: Gia Downs (Huntsville, AL)
Date of Stay: 01/11/06 Review Submitted: 01/11/06

Greetings Roger, Sorry about the delay in entering my comments in your guest book! We had a great time at your chalet during the Thanksgiving week. We had room to spread out and really enjoyed the pool table. As promised, the driveway has plenty of room for parking and turning around. The hot tub was soooo clean and relaxing. You have a wonderful place! Thanks again, Gia

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Guest: Roger, owner of Bear Trax
Date of Stay: 01/02/06 Review Submitted: 01/01/06

Welcome all 2006 viewers! I sincerely hope your Holidays were fantastic, and wish you and your families the Best this brand new year!! Please take a moment to view the excellent comments we've received on Bear Trax, both recent and past. This is just a sample of comments and reviews we receive each year, and we hope to add your comments in here as well! We're hoping to continually add to everyone's enjoyment and relaxation at our comfy mountain chalet, and there's some new projects on our drawing board that we hope to see soon for Bear Trax! All in all, I personally extend an invitation to you to come and visit! If for any one reason, here's perhaps one of the greatest areas to ever visit in this country! A big thanx to all of you who've been here, and hope to hear from you soon! Roger desRosiers, private owner of Bear Trax 219-628-0122

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Guest: Tammy White (Trussville, AL)
Date of Stay: 12/13/05 Review Submitted: 12/13/05

wow! what a fabulous time! i am so sorry that i am just now writing to let you know what a wonderful time we had. absolutely LOVE your place! couldnt ask for anything nicer. got a little snow/sleet on thursday going thru pigeon forge then cold cold rain/sleet on sat. loved it! everything was in order when we got there and left it just as it was. no mishaps (thank the Lord) and the 6 kids were angels! they stayed in the game room the whole time except to eat and when we left. MADE them come up to go to bed. thank you again. it was a vacation we will always remember. we will also rent from you again! i think the others are already talking about feb or mar. i'll have to check the calendar! talk to you soon! thanks, tammy

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Guest: Sharon Hayden (-)
Date of Stay: 11/22/05 Review Submitted: 11/22/05

Hi Roger, We just wanted to let you know how much we enjoyed your chalet. We had plenty of room to spread out. We especially enjoyed the hot tub and game room. We saw bears at Cade's Cove but not around the chalet, but that suited me just fine. Cade's Cove is a good trip if anyone is interested. It turned cold that week, but other than that we had a great time. Great parking lot.

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Guest: Deborah Davis1 (Douglasville, GA)
Date of Stay: 11/07/05 Review Submitted: 11/07/05

Hi Roger!! I wanted to let you know how wonderful our stay was at your great chalet! The scenery/color was fantastic! We were so close to all the activities etc. that you could want, and yet so removed from it all and comfortable when we were in the chalet! You have a great place there, and one of the FEW chalets I've ever seen with spacious enough, easily accessible PARKING. Believe me that is very important! I am telling the rest of my family and friends to check it out. One more thing I would like to add is a BIG Thank you for your 'above & beyond' assistance and thoughtfulness in your dealings with us! I look forward to next year! Thanks Again! Deborah Davis

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Guest: Nancy Riddle (Powder Springs, GA)
Date of Stay: 10/04/05 Review Submitted: 10/04/05

Roger...Our sisters get away was great..We LOVED!! the chalet. We had plenty of room and were close to everything. The hot tub was more of a giggling experience than a relaxing one.Every time we would splash a little water over the side I thought it was a bear. I'm a scaredy cat. My sisters found that very amusing. We really liked the huge driveway and the way the chalet sat on level ground. We took advantage of the grill because it was so nice out on the deck. You were so nice to work with. That was an added bonus. I hope next trip we will see a bear(far away of course.) I will be recommending this rustic chalet to any and all. I hope people pick your chalet because it is a great place to come home to after doing all the fun things in and around Gatlingburg. Thanks very much for sharing your special place.. One more thing, my sisters may have laughed at me in the hot tub but I took my revenge at the pool table...I WON..Nancy

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Guest: Tom,Cindy Bailey&Family (Hobart,Portage IN)
Date of Stay: 10/02/05 Review Submitted: 10/02/05

Bear Trax was great! Many good time's to be had at the smokies and the chalet!! The view was fabulous and the morning's off the deck was great. Hot tub was just the right touch in the evening. Hope to be back soon some time.

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Guest: pat partida (calumet city il 60409)
Date of Stay: 08/14/05 Review Submitted: 08/14/05

july 31-aug 12 hi roger!thanks for the use of the chalet..it was plenty big for us!pool table was the highlight i think!cleaning crew was very nice..we came in a little early because we were lost and they let us unload our stuff..i wrote in the guest book for everyday we were there so it looked like i wrote my own book!we loved the stay..oh the fire in the woods didnt get us either!a chalet burned to the ground farther away on the mountain..it was quite a site over the tree tops at night!never saw a bear altho we looked and looked..we did see a mother bear and her cub in caves cove tho..it was a wonderful vacation..thanks so much for the use of the chalet!we really cleaned b4 we left too so i doubt the cleaning crew had much to do..even did all the laundry towels etc..we will definitly be back!thanks again for your hospitality!i have to move there!!!im a misplaced hillbilly at heart~lol...pat partida

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Guest: Barbara Harwood (Kirtland, NM)
Date of Stay: 07/12/05 Review Submitted: 07/12/05

June 5-12, 2005 Roger, The Bear Trax was everything you said it would be. Our family gathering was a total of 10. We enjoyed it immensely. Saw a mother bear and cubs at the tree off the balcony. They stared at us and we stared and took pictures of them. The chalet had everything we needed and was a lovely place. Some enjoyed the hot tub and others played pool. It was relaxing and peaceful. Would love to have my husband enjoy it like the rest of us did. Guess we'll have to make another trip sometime.

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Guest: Nikki Sharp (alabama/oklahoma)
Date of Stay: 06/10/05 Review Submitted: 06/10/05

Hello Roger, you named your cabin to fit perfect. I have to say I have never seen a bear that up close and personal before. For those of you reading this and wondering what I am talking about, lets just say if you plan a trip in May and cookout you will be sure to get a visitor or two. My family and I were introduced to a family of black bears on our trip. The second night we were the we had baby bear come up on our deck and sniffed its way around the grill as well as the hottub. THEN the last night were were there I don't know if it was momma or papa bear but this at least 12 to 15 hundred pound bear made its way all the way around the deck and I am sure he or she could have had us for dinner lol. But over all the place was just the right size for the nine of us. The kids loved the game room and the hot tub was enjoyed as well. Hope to come up again soon. Take care Nikki

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Guest: Paula Nemeth (-)
Date of Stay: 06/02/05 Review Submitted: 06/02/05

Roger, My family and I truly enjoyed our stay at Bear Traxx and look forward to returning again sometime. My son especially loved the gameroom! The chalet is more than roomy and very nice. I've told my friends and family all about it and may visit again with family. We had a wonderful time in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Didn't travel much out of that area because there is so much to do there. The short drive to Gatlinburg from the chalet was very convenient. We also had a bear sighting, not at the chalet but close by in the neighborhood. Not just on bear but FOUR! We were very excited to see that! We hope to return again soon. Thank you for letting us enjoy your little piece of Heaven. Sincerely, Paula Nemeth

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Guest: Don27 (-)
Date of Stay: 06/01/05 Review Submitted: 06/01/05

This was a great place. The views, pool table and hot tub were all hits. Even in the rain this was a great trip. Thanks. We will be back!

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Guest: Angela Lane1 (Lebanon,TN)
Date of Stay: 02/10/05 Review Submitted: 02/10/05

Roger, Your chalet was absolutely beautiful. We were in the mountains for a wedding and stayed in your home. My family and I loved it!! I am looking forward into coming back this year with the kids. I know they will love the gameroom. I especially loved the bed upstairs. I could have spent the entire weekend lost in that cozy comforter. Again, thank you for allowing us to stay there. Angela

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Guest: Sandy Main (Hartford, MI)
Date of Stay: 02/04/05 Review Submitted: 02/04/05

Roger, Its been a little over a year since I last visited Bear Trax. I am anxiously waiting my return visit the last week of March. This will make my 3rd visit to year chalet. I have told all my friends about your beautiful and charming chalet with all the comforts of home. Its a great place for the entire family, or just a romantic get away for a couple. All you need is your personal effects and food. The chalet has everything else you need, right down to wine glasses, which by the way we did use with the wine we purchased at a local winery. The chalet is so roomy, and you get a nice down home feeling. My favorite time at the chalet is in the early morning hours as the sun is coming up. I take my coffee and go sit on the deck facing the mountains. The view is breathing and the sound of nature is great. Along with the gameroom and hot tub you can have the perfect family vacation without costing a fortune. There is so much to do in the Smokey Mountain region that cost little or nothing, and is entertaining for the entire family. We had such a great time when we visited in July of 2002 with the 4 kids, that Bill and I decided to visit in October of 2003 for a romantic get away. It was great! This time it is going to be an all girls week. I am visiting with my sisters and nieces. We are all so excited. I want them to see the beauty of the area, along with the charm of your chalet. I hear the area is beautiful in the springtime. Our plan is to visit Bear Trax at least once a year. I love the Gatlinburg Area. I would never think of staying in a motel, as long as there is the Bear Trax Chalet! I can't wait to visit Bear Trax 2!

Owner response:Thanx Sandy! I sincerely appreciate your comments, and hope to look forward to ALL your yearly visits, whenever those may be. You've seen Gatlinburg during various gorgeous times of the year - Fall, Summer, and now Spring when everything is super green and alive! And you and your group have personally noted continuing improvements at Bear Trax with each visit. Most of the Bear Trax indoor projects are now completed, and we will be starting soon on some interesting outside projects, such as enlarging the deck area by the hot tub with an outdoor grilling area complete with comfortable outdoor recreational chairs and table, and re-engineering the driveway to accomodate up to 5 vehicles. And there's a very good chance Bear Trax #2 will be VERY VERY interesting, and will give its visitors something completely unique in the way of vacation places to visit, especially with the Smoky Mountains as a background! It is still in the planning stages, but will definitely be a place that people will want to see and especially visit firsthand! And one more important item here - this year might also hold promise for another vaca property on one of the most beautiful and cleanest fishing lakes in the South! Beautiful scenery, nearby mountains, a real vacationer's delight! So tell your friends, family, and work associates that if they're looking for affordable and neat places to visit and get way from it all, just give me a shout! Thanx......Roger from Bear Trax

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Guest: Dede3 (Highland,Ind)
Date of Stay: 01/19/05 Review Submitted: 01/19/05

Roger, It has been a few years ago that we stayed at your chalet. But I have told many people about it and hope to revisit soon. It is a wonderful place. Only bad thing I didn't get to see a bear,which I watched for everyday and night. HaHa...Other then that I have only great things to say about our stay!

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Guest: Darren Cantrell
Date of Stay: 12/14/04 Review Submitted: 12/13/04

Submitted by the Cantrells after their first-time stay at Bear Trax in early November 2004!Hello Roger, I apologize for not getting back to you before now, but with the holidays and everything else going on, it's been really quite crazy since our return from Gatlinburg. Immediately upon entering the chalet, we were extremely impressed with the appearance of the main floor. The living room was extremely roomy, and the natural wood look combined with the high ceiling added immeasurably to a pleasant 'mountain experience'. You were right on target on how comfortable the living room furniture was...at times it was difficult to force one's self off that couch. And the furniture comfort was incredibly enhanced by that absolutely gorgeous fireplace! We enjoyed it as much as any fireplace in any chalet we've stayed, and there have been quite a lot of 'em! On to the kitchen...that was perhaps the best equipped kitchen of ANY place we've ever stayed away from home...(and seriously rivaled our kitchen at home!) You had everything but someone to actually prepare the meals for us! Most of the places we've stayed at are scantily stocked with kitchen needs. But Bear Trax seemed to have everything we could possibly need. And the awesome hot tub! It was really nice...plenty of room for the four of us...and did we take full advantage of it! On to the bedrooms...the bedrooms continued the beautiful natural wood feel, and Lisa babbled on about how well she slept in the comfortable bed...it WAS very comfortable...and the bath upstairs was wonderfully roomy, and well done. (LOVED the oversized shower, by the way!) We also managed to log quite a number of hours in the gameroom downstairs, and played pool and the dartboard. We had a blast! All this while we had CD after CD playing in the stereo...nice touch, by the way! Can you tell we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves?! THESE are the type of things that should be written about a chalet that adds so much to a positive vacation experience. We would not hesitate to stay at Bear Trax again and again. Well done, Roger! Darren Cantrell Nashville, Tn PS…Please feel free to use any, or all of my comments for the guestbook on your website...good honest 'word of mouth' comments make for the best advertising...and I'm happy to help!

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Guest: The Orams (Vandalia, Ohio)
Date of Stay: 08/30/04 Review Submitted: 08/30/04

We had a great time! Very relaxing. Large chalet with plenty of room for everyone to spread out! Thanks Roger, we would be glad to recommend Bear Trax!

Owner response:It's been an excellent 2004 season for Bear Trax, and I do appreciate all your favorable comments! And I genuinely look forward to hearing from any and all of you in the seasons to come! Look for more great things happening at Bear Trax in days to come! And if everything goes as planned, we'll be opening Bear Trax #2 hopefully in mid-2005! Watch my website for more details! Thanx again! And my Best to All of You! .....Roger

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Guest: Troy & Lesilie Randolph (-)
Date of Stay: 04/27/04 Review Submitted: 04/27/04

Roger,Our stay was absolutely wonderful……..very relaxing. The location was ideal……just a quick two or three minute drive down Ski Mountain Road into Gatlinburg for shopping, diner…..etc, and since you’re already at the edge of town we were just a right turn away from entering The Great Smokey Mountain National Park. I even had a chance to get in a little fly-fishing one morning while the wife took a nap………caught three “browns” in just under, two hours. Not bad considering I had never fished the Smokie’s and the Little River before. I can’t wait to try my luck again one day soon.However, my wife and I must admit to spending a large amount of our four days there just hanging around the chalet and taking things at our own pace for a change. It was a perfect way to spend & celebrate our eleventh wedding anniversary this year. Your chalet was very comfortable and peaceful. The hot tub, fire place, dart board, pool and foosball tables were great amenities to have and we made good use of them all. What looked to be a fairly new Weber grill also came in handy……grilled a couple lobster tails one night and then lamb with grilled asparagus another…..just perfect!We’ll be sure to recommend “the Bear Trax” chalet to others and promise you’ll hear from us again. Thank you. We’re so glad we found you.Sincerely,The Randolph’sNashville, TN

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Guest: rich &krista and family (swanton ohio)
Date of Stay: 04/18/04 Review Submitted: 04/18/04

hello all..we had a great time at the beartrax chalet beautiful view of the mountains right out the living room window.we had 11 people and still was a cozy place to be plenty of stuff to do even if stuck in the chalet(rain) had all the ammenities of home felt like it was ours for the stay hot tub is awsome thanks for the promt repair roger ...also roger is a great person to deal with thanks roger cant wait to come back again rich krista and family

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