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3 Little Bears Cabin

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Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
4 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 142800 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

Map
Bryson City, NC

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 14)

Bedroom 1

+7
8 Single Beds and 3 King Beds

3 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathtub

Bathroom 2

Bathroom 3

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Separate dining area
Garden

About this property

3 Little Bears Cabin

3LittleBearsCabin at 3LittleBears Retreat

Disconnect & Reconnect in this elegant, spacious, and luxurious lodge on 3 Little Bears Retreat with views of the Smoky Mountains and the amenities of our Retreat adjacent to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park.

• Soaking Tub
• Rock Shower
• Hot tub
• Game Room
• Trails, Pond, Creek
• SOLO firepit & Pizza Oven!
• 3% For Nature but No Cleaning Fees!
• Private and Secluded yet Convenient to Downtown (3Mi) and 1 Min from National Park

Add to your wishlist by clicking the "Heart" in the upper-right corner.

The Retreat:

Welcome to Three Little Bears Retreat, THE only place to retreat, reconnect, relax and experience great adventures with your family and friends! You’ll feel like a new person the moment you arrive at this view! Come retreat, renew, and refresh at our regenerative nature resort.

Social

Follow us on social @3littlebearsretreat

5 Cabins to Choose From
Copy these links to view our other Retreat cabins.

AirBear Airstream Treehouse: https://t.vrbo.io/Y438LhmyeTb

Poppa Bear Cozy Cabin: https://t.vrbo.io/Fnl26uLyeTb

Sky Bear Lodge: https://t.vrbo.io/cF5P6qRyeTb

Smoky Bear Lodge: https://t.vrbo.io/rjKycLXyeTbr

Nuwati Hall & Spa - weddings, retreats, reunions, groups and spa services inquire for more information.

Location

This cabin is located 5 minutes away from a variety of breweries, restaurants, the train, in downtown Bryson City. 1 Minute from the “Road to Nowhere” entrance of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. 10 Minutes from the “Deep Creek” Entrance to the National Park. 15 Minutes from Fontana Lake. 20 Minutes from either Nantahala or Cherokee. Limitless adventures abound where you can hike, bike, fly fish, raft, paddleboard and kayak to your heart's content.

And ONLY 1 hour from Asheville, 3 hours from Atlanta, 3 hours 20 min from Charlotte, and 2 hours from Greenville, SC

Cabin

Designed for comfort and adventure, this secluded cabin features breathtaking scenic views, access to the Retreat's trails/streams/creek/and oasis pond, and a luxurious interior, including a king master suite with clawfoot soaking tub and rock rain shower, two king bedrooms, a large bunk room, and a large game area—perfect for families and groups. Step onto the balconies to soak in the fresh mountain air and listen to Lands Creek roar along below, unwind in the hot tub, set off on an adventure on the trail, take plunge in the mountain stream fed pond, or gather around the Solo-smokeless firepit for unforgettable evenings under the stars.

Nature

Experience nature in a setting that immerses you in the culture and history of the area, the sustainable and regenerative efforts to nourish the environment by the Retreat, along with all the luxuries of the modern world. This luxury alpine lodge is the pinnacle of a mountain vacation where it is secluded and adjacent to the National Park; has trails, creeks, and ponds; provides the concierge level services of a resort; and is only minutes from wineries, whitewater rafting, hiking trails, waterfalls, the railroad and downtown Bryson City (the adventure capital of the Smokies!).

Sustainability & Regeneration

The Retreat is also on a constant quest towards not just sustainability, but regeneration of nature. We work with wildlife rehabilitators to heal and release injured wildlife, are actively working on healing our Hemlock trees from the adelgids that are killing them, have implemented our own recycling pickup and transfer program, and also look towards adaptive reuse and consistent modifications in the properties towards better energy efficiency and use of materials. The Retreat wants to be the great national park lodge model for the next generation and is constantly marching towards the Cherokee tradition of ᎣᏍᏓ (Osda) ᎤᏃᏴᏫ (Unolvtanv) "Sacred harmony with all living things" through our own motto of “Beyond Just Right, Be Livin’ Right.” Your 3% for the Mountains resort fee goes directly to these ongoing efforts, and we appreciate you wanting to be a part of our path forward!

Privacy

Every cabin on the Retreat is designed to have incredible privacy. This cabin is located at the end of its driveway perched on a hill surrounded by old growth forests and beautiful mountain views.

Other things to note:

Updates

Winter of 2025, we took on accomplishing the recommendations of our guests and ways to improve our guest experience, which included hiring an onsite guest experience manager, adding in-cabin spa services, new SOLO fire pits and pizza ovens, a greatly expanded common area with the Nuwati trail extending from our activities pavilion closer to the top down to Lands Creek at the bottom giving access to waterfalls, hammocks, a hideaway playground, a stream fed oasis pond and more to come. We also the Nuwati Hall & Spa, which will open up in Summer 25 for weddings, group retreats, family reunions, experiences and spa services that are offered to all of our guests at the Retreat.

Local Recommendations

Walk around Bryson City. A Hallmark style town that has been featured in several movies and is a quintessential mountain basecamp town. 5-minute drive. Lots of shops and restaurants.

• Our favorite winery is Deep Creek. 15-minute drive with great views.

• Our favorite hangout is Bryson City Outdoors where tourists and experienced hikers gather to buy new gear and share their experiences of the day.

• Our favorite restaurant is Bryson City Brewery. It has a great farm to table menu, excellent beer selection, live entertainment, and a huge yard for kids to play and be free.

• Our favorite Summer hike is Deep Creek Waterfall Loop Trail. 5-minute drive. 2 mile hike with 3 epic waterfalls! If you have little ones or dont want to struggle, skip Juney Whank and all ages can do the hike to see Tom Branch Falls and Indian Creek in an out and back walk along the famous Deep Creek (stay for tubing too)!

• Our favorite Winter hike is Nolands Creek Trail through the “Road to Nowhere” National Park entrance by the Retreat. The hike is beautiful down to Fontana Lake crossing several bridges and the water drop in the lake in the winter extends the hike into a lakebed valley that is beautiful with big cascades.

We have many more local recommendations for eateries and activities. Message us to get a link to our guidebook for the area.

House Rules

1) Have all guests follow our trash and recycling rules.

2) No smoking anything inside the cabin. No butts, cigars or other in firepits. Dispose in bagged trash.

3) Check-in after 4:00 PM (unless you have arranged for an early check-in of 2pm)

4) Checkout before 11:00 AM (unless you have arranged for a late checkout of 1pm)

5) No parties or events unless in connection with Nuwati Hall coordinated wedding or event.

Pricing

Nightly rates vary based on specific dates. Weekends are priced higher.

One and Two Night Stays
One and Two Night stays are made available when adjacent to a previously booked night or gap, please inquire to book. Otherwise, a three-night minimum is required.

Early Check-in + Late Checkout

We offer both early check-in (2 pm) and late checkout (1 pm) add-ons for $50. The amount is limited, though, depending on the date. Please message us to add it to your reservation.

Security Camera

There are two security cameras for the drive and one at the entrance to the property

Liability Waiver

After booking, you will be asked to complete a Release of Liability Waiver. The waiver is a standard step we ask all guests to take, and it helps us continue offering unique stays in a natural setting.

Property manager

Matthew McGee
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Hot tub
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
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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
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 25
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
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

About the area

Bryson City

Located in Bryson City, this cabin is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Great Smoky Mountains Railroad and Oconaluftee Indian Village are local landmarks, and some of the area's attractions include Smokey Mountain Trains Museum and Cherokee Botanical Garden and Nature Trail. Travelling with kids? Consider Bryson City Gem Mine and Santa's Land Family Theme Park and Zoo.
Map
Bryson City, NC

Getting around

  • Alcoa - Knoxville Airport (TYS) - 140 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Guayabitos Mexican Restaurant - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Bojangles' Famous Chicken 'n Biscuits - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪La Poblana - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Arby's - ‬6 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is 3 Little Bears Cabin pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at 3 Little Bears Cabin?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at 3 Little Bears Cabin?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is 3 Little Bears Cabin located?

This family-friendly Bryson City cabin is located on the waterfront, within 3 mi (5 km) of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Great Smoky Mountains Railroad and Smokey Mountain Trains Museum. The Storytelling Center of the Southern Appalachians and Nantahala Brewing Company are also within 3 miles (5 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

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. 48 out of 50 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 50 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 50 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 50 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 50 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

James C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place

Great place! It was clean and fit our group well. Our host was very accomodating and had great communication. Thanks!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Trevor W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Birthday trip with close friends

The house/property was beautiful. So much to do on property and really no reason to leave! The garage pool room was a great time! The trails on the property were beautiful and even had a hidden oasis pond! The property manager communicated great and was able to quickly answer all questions. Even non house related ones about the best trials to hike. Everything was clean and easy to find/use.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Paul M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great fishing location

The location close to Bryson City and all it has to offer was great. It was perfect for several Christian men for a trout fishing retreat. Would definitely go back.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Linda U.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

We loved 3 little bears

We could not have asked for a better location. We loved how close this was to town and hikes, also we felt secluded and private. Comfortable cabin with room for all, well equipped. We loved the creek and the hot tub. Kids enjoyed the playroom.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Claudia S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family Get Together

Cabin great, everyone enjoyed the stay, children especially with the freedom of the property.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tehra W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect location for Smokey's/Natanhala

This location is perfect if you want to explore Smokey Mtn National Park and the Natanhala National Forest. Tubing is only minutes away, hiking not too long of a drive. You feel away from it all, but very close to Bryson City, which was a great place to grab a bite to eat, get groceries or take the train. After one of our hikes we decided to check out Gatlinburg, and we couldn't get out of there fast enough. This is a much more quiet area and has the charm of a small mountain town (although the cabin is in the woods and away from it all). Would highly recommend. The cabin amenities were great for evening entertainment (pool table, basketball, darts, hot tub, etc).
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Holly N., Sand Creek Mi

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family get-away

The Cabin was great for our family vacation, plenty of room for everyone to be comfortable. The kids loved the game room & hot tub. We enjoyed the large deck for dinner’s & family games.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Chantella W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

FUN EXPERIENCE

The cabin looked amazing. Very clean and neat! My mother and family had a great time. They were able to go to the casino not too far from the place and tried a few nice restaurants sent by the owner! Great experience for my family. Would recommend to friends! Thank you Matthew for your lovely communication.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jodi S., Tolar, TX

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful Getaway

We were looking for a peaceful mountain getaway with space for everyone and we found it in The Three Bear's Cabin. The sights and sounds, as well as the fresh mountain air from the deck were priceless. It feels remote but not far from great eating places, shopping and all the tubing and hiking at Deep Creek you could want. We even made a day trip into the national park to Cades Cove and Clingman's Dome. The house had everything we needed and was very comfortable. We are glad we picked this place and we recommend it for sure. We would certainly stay here again if we make our way back to this part of the country. Beautiful, peaceful slice of heaven.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

ELSA P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cabin was just right!

Although we had not so great weather the first day there, the house is so amazing that our 7 grandchildren ranging ages 3 to 15 were never bored. And our 4 year old granddaughter really believes she stayed in the house of the three bears :) We would go back in a heartbeat :)
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Adam S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

3 Bears

We had a wonderful stay. Very close to downtown Bryson City. House was awesome. Great if you have a few families wanting to vacation together!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Matt S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Labor Day Stay

Our group was 3 families of 4. Kids ranged in age 12-8. The house easily accommodated our group. It was clean and offered several nice features that we enjoyed. Namely the hot tub, fire pit and the basement area for the kids. It was an easy drive to Bryson City, Fontana and the Nantahala Outdoor Center. We would stay here again.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Sean M., Alpharetta, United States

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The Best Spot in Town

We’ve been coming to the Bryson City/Cherokee area for 10 years now. That’s 10 different cabins we’ve stayed in. This was our favorite for sure. Not too hard to get to but still secluded from everything. Mountain View’s but close to downtown. Great decor, clean, & comfortable. We will definitely be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lauren H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful mountain getaway!

We had a wonderful time and throughly enjoyed our stay at 3 Little Bears cabin! There were so many fun things to do in the area. The house was plenty big for 3 families. The view was spectacular! Matt was very easy to work with. Highly recommend this property!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Craig L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cabin in the woods

The 3 Little Bears cabin is beautifully placed within the smoky mountains just outside of town. Plenty of space to relax indoors and outdoors. We had a wonderful time and highly recommend it to anyone looking to visit the mountains but not want to be right in the tourist areas. The house is convenient to Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg and is literally a stones throw from Bryson City and a section of the Smoky Mountain National Park that is great for small hikes.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Amanda C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Stau

Matthew was quick to respond and very easy to work with before and during our stay
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Gloria R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Smokey Mountain Family Retreat

Super location for all the activities we wanted to visit/enjoy. Attractive cabin atmosphere with plenty of room to spread out. Would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Abbey S., New Orleans, La

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great cabin. Kitchen was well equipped. We loved the espresso machine. The driveway was tricky

Would highly recommend.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Haley B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice house, plenty of beds, great communication

My family and I stayed in this house for a week, with kids from 7 to 17 and 5 adults. We all had plenty of space and had a good time. The house was very clean when we arrived. The creek is not really accessible from the cabin, but you can hear it running from the decks. There was also a little rabbit that resided in the yard most of our stay that the kids loved to watch while they chilled in the hot tub in the evenings. The kids and adults alike enjoyed the gameroom, it had plenty to keep everyone busy. The beds were actually the most comfortable of any rental house we have ever stayed in. We had one issue, totally out of the owners control, but he responded immediately and got the problem resolved quickly. If you have a large crowd and want a little mountain get away, this is the place.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Amanda A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice place to stay

Very nice stay. Lots of space in the home and the kids really loved the game room. Driveway was a little difficult to navigate, but otherwise a really nice stay.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Recommend

Enjoyed the peacefulness of the area. There’s lots to do as a family. Cute little town with shopping, coffee shops and restaurants. Cabin was great.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Nicole G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Site seeing with friends!

Excellent communication and hospitality by owner! The cabin was beautiful and equipped with everything needed for our stay. Would stay here again!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Dianne W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Spring Family Trip

Our stay was wonderful. The cabin was in a great location. Close to Bryson City and just a short ride to Cherokee, Deep Creek, Nantahala and the Tuckasagee Rivers. The cabin is very spacious and had everything we needed and more. We definitely would stay here again and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a place to stay.
Stayed 11 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Marcia G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Very Nice Home/Great Location

Matt, the property owner, provided absolutely everything that we needed! Well appointed house for 7 adults in the best location to many hiking trails & downtown Bryson Ciity. The basement with the many bunk beds & game room is super for all ages!!! We highly recommend this property!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jessica R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

If you’re looking for serenity and relaxation you found it here

This house was more than any words can describe! Communication with the owner was seamless. Check-in was seamless. The beds were all soooo comfortable. House was very clean. Kids (12 through 18) had so much fun in the game room, as well as the swings, hot tub, and numerous activities the house came with. Location was in the mountain only a few minute drive from the quaint downtown area of Bryson City. Do not hesitate to stay here. We are already all trying to figure out when we can come back here! I will miss having my coffee while sitting on those great rocking chairs on the deck, all while listening to the amazing mountain stream.
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2022

About the host

Hosted by Matthew McGee

Host profile image
Half surfer, half summit-seeker, and somehow also a former Ivy Leaguer and bank exec. Whether I'm barefoot on a board, boot-deep in backcountry, or buttoned up in a boardroom, I bring a laid-back Bob Marley sway to the spreadsheet in my back pocket. Life’s too short for boxes—adventure comes in many forms, and I’m chasing all of them with a grin and a goal.

Why they chose this property

Our retreat rests alongside a pivotal piece of history—the site of the first deed given to Horace Kephart for the formation of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park on Lands Creek. Kephart came to Bryson City and the Smoky Mountains seeking solace in a place he deemed "the back of beyond," and then fought for its preservation as a national park through his work as a writer and as the foremost outdoorsman of his time. Inspired by his vision, we too see this land as something to be cherished and protected. Through our sustainability initiatives, we strive to honor his legacy by preserving and regenerating the natural environment that makes this place so extraordinary.

While the Park now preserves the beauty of the mountains, this land carries the memory of sacrifices made by families whose homes once stood within its boundaries. Generations later, their stories of resilience remain woven into the fabric of these hills, shaping our community’s spirit. To ensure that future generations can enjoy this landscape, we commit to practices that restore the land, conserve resources, and support the biodiversity of these mountains.

Even here, where the forest whispers its age-old songs, we remember that this land was first home to the Cherokee Nation. Their deep understanding of and respect for the environment inspire our own efforts to live in harmony with nature. The Cherokee principles of balance and stewardship guide many of our sustainability practices.

"Here, in the Back of Beyond, life moves to the rhythm of the mountains, not the ticking of a clock." -Horace Kephart

What makes this property unique

At Three Little Bears Retreat, we honor the histories of the mountains and the Cherokee People while creating a space where stories can be shared, bonds strengthened, and memories made—all with a commitment to leaving the land better than we found it. Our retreat spaces are designed not only to bring people together but also to minimize their environmental footprint. From our use of energy efficient technology and eco-friendly materials to our initiatives in reforesting and wildlife rehabilitation and preservation, every aspect of our retreat is crafted with care for the environment.

We also love that the location of our retreat offers endless, easy access opportunities for adventure. From hiking and fishing to tubing and exploring hidden waterfalls, the Smokies are a playground for the curious and the bold. For those who prefer a slower pace, the trails and streams surrounding the retreat, the Road to Nowhere, and Deep Creek invite quiet reflection and a chance to recharge. As you explore, know that each visit contributes to our ongoing efforts to preserve this landscape through trail maintenance, habitat restoration, and pollution reduction projects.

"In the school of the woods, there is no graduation day." --Horace Kephart

At Three Little Bears Retreat, every stay is an invitation to be part of something bigger: a fellowship that bridges past and present, a respite from the demands of daily life, an adventure in reconnecting with what truly matters, and a commitment to nurturing the environment we all share.

"Preserve, study, absorb, revere, and enjoy the primeval woods before its too late." --Horace Kephart

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests