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Cabin

Bear Essentials: 2 Mi to Smoky Mtns Nat’l Park

Photo gallery for Bear Essentials: 2 Mi to Smoky Mtns Nat’l Park

Townsend Vacation Rental | 2BR | 1BA | 1,300 Sq Ft | Step-Free Entry Via Ramp
Screened Deck | Private Hot Tub
Open Deck
Loft | Upper Level | Free WiFi | Smart TV
Living Room | 1st Floor | Central A/C & Heat

Reviews

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 51300 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Hot tub on site
  • Onsite parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Air-conditioning
  • Outdoor barbecue

Explore the area

View in a map
Townsend, TN
  • Place, Great Smoky Mountains National Park
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center
    ‪17 min walk‬
  • Place, River Rage Go-Kart Track
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Airport, Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson)
    ‪35 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 5)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

2 Single Beds and 1 Double Bed

1 bathroom

Full Bathroom

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen

About this property

Bear Essentials: 2 Mi to Smoky Mtns Nat’l Park

Peaceful Forest Setting | Hot Tub Relaxation | Wood-Burning Fire Pit | 15 Mi to Pigeon Forge

Unplug and let adventure lead the way at 'Bear Essentials!' This 2-bedroom, 1-bath vacation rental in Townsend puts you close to the best of the Smokies. Explore the nearby trails, tour Tuckaleechee Caverns, chase thrills at Dollywood, or catch a UT football game. Back home, slip off your hiking boots and step onto the deck for a soothing hot tub soak. Book your mountain escape today!

-- THE PROPERTY --

SLEEPING ARRANGEMENTS
- Bedroom 1: 1 queen bed
- Bedroom 2: 1 full bed, 1 twin bunk bed

OUTDOOR LIVING
- Furnished screened deck
- Open deck w/ seating
- Private hot tub
- Wood-burning fire pit
- Scenic forest views

INDOOR LIVING
- Smart TV
- Board games & books
- Wood-burning stove
- Dining table
- Standing shower

KITCHEN
- Refrigerator, microwave, stove/oven
- Dishware & flatware, cooking basics
- Keurig coffee maker

GENERAL
- Free WiFi
- Central A/C & heating
- Washer & dryer
- Linens, towels

FAQ
- Quiet hours (after 10:00 PM)
- Limited cell service
- 4WD required in snow

ACCESSIBILITY
- 1 1/2-story cabin
- Step-free entry via ramp
- All bedrooms & bathroom on 1st floor

PARKING
- Driveway (2 vehicles)

-- THE LOCATION --

- Close to Great Smoky Mountains Nat’l Park (Townsend entrance)
- 6 miles to Tuckaleechee Caverns
- 7 miles to The Sinks (waterfall)
- 19 miles to Dollywood
- 23 miles to Gatlinburg & Ober Mountain
- 23 miles to McGhee Tyson Airport & 24 miles to Gatlinburg Pigeon Forge Airport

-- REST EASY WITH US --

Evolve makes it easy to find and book properties you’ll never want to leave. You can relax knowing that our properties will always be ready for you and that we’ll answer the phone 24/7. Even better, if anything is off about your stay, we’ll make it right. You can count on our homes and our people to make you feel welcome — because we know what vacation means to you.

-- POLICIES --

- No smoking or vaping
- No pets allowed
- No events, parties, or large gatherings
- Additional fees and taxes may apply
- Photo ID may be required upon check-in
- Please observe quiet hours after 10:00 PM

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- This 1 1/2-story cabin offers step-free entry through use of the deck ramp. All bedrooms and the bathroom are located on the 1st floor
- Four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive is necessary in snowy weather to access the property
- The property does have cell phone service, but it may be spotty since the property is located in a rural area. Please check with your provider to confirm your service quality

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Hot tub
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Air conditioning
Parking available

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 18
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Townsend

Townsend is home to this cabin. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Cades Cove, while Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies and Gatlinburg SkyPark are popular area attractions. Anakeesta and Wild Bear Falls Indoor Water Park are not to be missed.
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Map
Townsend, TN

What's nearby

  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park - 1 min walk - 0.0 km
  • Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center - 17 min walk - 1.5 km
  • River Rage Go-Kart Track - 2 min drive - 2.4 km
  • Tube Junction - 3 min drive - 2.7 km
  • Cades Cove - 18 min drive - 16.8 km

Getting around

  • Alcoa - Knoxville Airport (TYS) - 35 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Peaceful Side Social - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪The Heavenly Roast - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪The Townsend Abbey - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪The Artistic Bean - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Apple Valley Cafe Express - ‬8 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Bear Essentials: 2 Mi to Smoky Mtns Nat’l Park pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Bear Essentials: 2 Mi to Smoky Mtns Nat’l Park?

As of 23 Apr, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Bear Essentials: 2 Mi to Smoky Mtns Nat’l Park on 7 Jul, 2026 start from S$209, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Bear Essentials: 2 Mi to Smoky Mtns Nat’l Park?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Bear Essentials: 2 Mi to Smoky Mtns Nat’l Park?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Bear Essentials: 2 Mi to Smoky Mtns Nat’l Park?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Bear Essentials: 2 Mi to Smoky Mtns Nat’l Park located?

Situated in Townsend, this cabin is within 1 mi (2 km) of Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center and Great Smoky Mountains National Park. River Rage Go-Kart Track and Tube Junction are also within 2 miles (3 km).

Reviews

8.8

Excellent

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 10 out of 15 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 15 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 15 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 15 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 15 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

8.8/10

Check-in

9.2/10

Communication

9.0/10

Location

9.4/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alexis K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house was beautiful and we of course loved the hot tub. When we did have an issue with the key pad lock for the front door, the host answered right away and helped us with the issue. Would absolutely recommend staying here!
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2026
From a partner site

10/10 Excellent

Mitchel

MUST STAY.

Check in was a breeze, cabin had everything we needed. Bed was comfy, everything was clean. Instructions were clear for everything we wanted to use in the cabin.The views are stunning out of the giant windows in the kitchen and the loft.Neighbors are all amazing, quiet neighborhood. Minutes from Smokey Mountain National Park!Definitely will be back!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Warren M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It was s great location to Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg and the restaurants in the area was good. The cabin had the hot tub and firewood for the fireplace. All of the furnishings where nice and the loft upstairs.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Dec, 2025
Thank you Warren for your rating. We appreciate you. Merry Christmas and the best new year to you and your family!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michelle G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The host was very informative and welcoming. The house was extremely clean and well stocked.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Dec, 2025
Thank you so much for your thoughtful review. It was our pleasure to have you stay at Bear Essentials. Have a safe and happy holiday!
Verified

6/10 Okay

Suneetha P.

Liked: Cleanliness, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Check-in
Rooms are clean but the beds in primary bed room and the other bed room are not good. It gave terrible back pain. Host is good over all but was not available to take our call at the time of Check in when the automated key pad was not working. We had to wait for mote than an hour outside, had to connect to Vrbo to get manual key details. Another detail that needs attention are the steps that lead to second floor. The steps are small and you tend to slip easily if you don't watch out every step. Other than this, stay was good and the location is very close to Cades Cove loop and Foothills parkway.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Apr, 2026
Thank you for your feedback! We are glad you enjoyed our clean accommodations and the convenient location near Cades Cove and the Foothills Parkway. We sincerely apologize for the delay you experienced during check-in. The electronic keypad was only six months old, but following your stay, we replaced it entirely to ensure reliable access for future guests.Regarding the beds, our mattresses are newer and equipped with high-quality, 3-inch hypoallergenic foam toppers designed for comfort, though we understand that mattress firmness is a matter of personal preference. We also acknowledge your comments regarding the stairs; while there is a handrail provided for assistance, we encourage all guests to take extra care when moving between levels. We value your input as it helps us continue improving the quality of our hospitality.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nina H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We really liked this cabin. It was very quaint and cute. We loved the screened in porch. Location was great.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 20 Oct, 2025
Thank you Nina. We appreciated the kind response!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Terry E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It was absolutely perfect
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Oct, 2025
Thank you Terry. Your feedback is so appreciated.
Verified

8/10 Good

Mary P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything was as stated in the description.Cute and cozy, loved the evening fires and all the beautiful throws! Very clean!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Byong C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very nice.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Nov, 2025
Thank you for taking the time to post your review. Glad you enjoyed the home!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Angelia P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We were not able to arrive until late in the evening. We were welcomed with warm lighting and it already felt like coming home. So grateful for the cozy quilts and warm spaces including the perfect hot tub to relax during our rainy fall visit. There is enough space to share time together or find your own special spot to relax. Our only regret was not being able to stay longer.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Nov, 2025
Thank you Angelia. You and your good husband were such wonderful guests. Happy and safe holidays and enjoy the upcoming year. You are appreciated!
Verified

8/10 Good

Megan M.

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, listing accuracy
We never received the email with our code to enter. I combed through all emails multiple times. The host was quick to respond to my text, but we were stuck outside waiting to get a new email for about 20 min. The hot tub was nice and hot but the porch area was a little dirty. There were cheerios on the ground and the table had crumbs all over it. The beds were ok but we were a little worried about the top bunk not having a rail and our 6 year old insisted on sleeping up there. It was well stocked but upon using the bath towels the first night we found that they were a bit damp. Overall we had a nice time.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Jan, 2026
"From the owner: Thank you for your thoughtful review and for sharing your experience. I’m glad you enjoyed the hot tub and had a nice stay overall. I appreciate you bringing the notes about the porch area, towels, and arrival experience to my attention, as cleanliness and clear communication are important to us. Your feedback helps us continue improving the guest experience, and we’re grateful you chose to stay with us."
Verified

6/10 Okay

Joycelin S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our stay was overall decent, but there were a few issues worth mentioning. The host provided clear instructions for check-in, check-out, and house rules, which we appreciated. However, there were no directions on how to actually get to the place, and Google Maps took us through a nearby resort, which was a bit confusing.We enjoyed using the hot tub, but the main issue was that there was absolutely no hot water inside the house—the water from both the kitchen and bathroom taps was completely cold. The host did a good job stocking the house with basic utensils, though it would have been nice to have a steel spatula as well.The house was clean overall when we arrived; however, spotting a cockroach was definitely a concern. The space has a rustic charm, and we really appreciated that the host provided plenty of firewood. The location is fantastic and in a quiet neighborhood, but I wouldn't stay for over two days, especially because there was no running hot water.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Nov, 2025
From the owner: "We are very sorry to hear that the hot water was not working during your stay. We wish you had let us know so that our on-site maintenance tech could have fixed the issue immediately, and your stay would have been excellent. We apologize that your GPS didn't bring you straight to the house -Evolve has done its best to navigate individuals to our home."
Verified

4/10 Poor

Kasey S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Disliked: Check-in, communication, location
The best I could give is 3/5 for this cabin. We arrived pretty late at night but immediately had issues finding the cabin due to the campground you have to ride by. Not really at fault of cabin owners but the gps rather.Finally finding the cabin, we had our access code to get in and it did not work at first. We followed the email instructions and tried again. Still nothing. So we called the owners number listed in the email but no answer and no call back. Granted it was 10/1015pm but if you know you have people traveling to check in, it'd be nice to make yourself available. We waited in the car for a good 15 minutes and went to try the code again and it finally worked. Upon walking inside the cabin the first thing I noticed was the back door was left unlocked so my initial thought was anyone could have gotten in. My husband had to go through every room and check closets and under beds. Not a great feeling or start to the stay. I was really uncomfortable. And the owner never did return our call, even after the next morning. Anyways on to the rest.... this cabin is very rustic and old time feeling, you could smell a moldy smell when you walked in. They had a dehumidifier set up at the bottom of the steps which tells me theres moisture/water damage somewhere. There were definitely some upgrades as far as furniture & appliances go. The hot tub was wonderful! Theres no vents in the bedrooms for air control. The bathroom is outdated, bad water pressure & warm water at best not hot!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Oct, 2025
Thank you for your feedback—we truly appreciate you taking the time to share your experience. We are very sorry that we never received your phone call or voice message, as we would have been happy to assist you immediately. We also apologize that the back door was left unlocked by the cleaner and have addressed this with them, understanding how unsettling it must have been for your family.Please rest assured that there has never been a mold issue in the cabin. Due to the mountainous climate, which can sometimes create higher humidity, a dehumidifier is permanently plumbed inside the house, and the crawl space is fully encapsulated with an additional dehumidifier installed underneath. We will also review the water temperature in the shower and sincerely appreciate you bringing it to our attention, as your feedback helps us ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all our guests.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ellen Z.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It was a great trip to Townsend. Place was spacious for our family and a 2 minute drive to the park and 3 minutes into Townsend. Enjoyed the hot tub and eating on the porch.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

AJ E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cozy, charming cabin. Beds were comfortable. Hot tub was a nice way to unwind. Enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Apr, 2026
Thank you for your rating. We appreciate you!

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