Welcome to The Grateful Bear — your luxury mountain escape inside the prestigious Lodges at Eagles Nest.
Whether you’re looking for an adventure-filled getaway or a relaxing retreat with stunning views, this upscale cabin offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and mountain charm.
A Mountain Home That Makes Every Stay Memorable
- Step into the open-concept living space, where a wall of windows fills the room with natural light and showcases beautiful seasonal views. The stacked-stone gas fireplace, plush leather sofas, and custom wood details create an inviting atmosphere ideal for cozy mornings and peaceful evenings.
A Kitchen and Dining Space Made for Gathering
- The gourmet kitchen is fully equipped with everything you need to prepare meals at home. Enjoy lingering breakfasts, shared dinners, or late-night snacks in a space designed for connection and conversation.
Outdoor Living You’ll Want to Enjoy Every Day
- The expansive covered deck is one of the highlights of the home. With a gas log fireplace and comfortable seating, it’s the perfect spot to unwind, read, enjoy coffee, or simply take in the mountain surroundings. The private hot tub adds a touch of luxury and is ideal for relaxing after a day of hiking or skiing.
Fun for All Ages in the Loft
- The loft level is designed for entertainment and includes a pool table with a ping-pong conversion top, a classic arcade game, and a cozy sensory nook filled with books and toys for children. It’s a space everyone in the group will enjoy.
Comfortable Bedrooms for Rest and Relaxation
The Grateful Bear sleeps up to 8 guests with three thoughtfully designed bedrooms:
- A main-level king suite with a private bathroom
- An upper-level king suite with a private bathroom
- A bunk room perfect for kids or additional guests
Every bedroom offers a peaceful retreat and plenty of space to unwind.
Close to All the Best of Banner Elk
The property is conveniently located near some of the region’s top attractions, including Sugar Mountain, Beech Mountain, Grandfather Mountain, Valle Crucis, Boone, and Blowing Rock. Elk River Falls is also a great nearby day trip. Whether you enjoy skiing, hiking, shopping, or scenic drives, you’ll find plenty to explore within a short drive.
Why Guests Love The Grateful Bear
- Luxury interiors with beautiful natural light
- Private hot tub and outdoor fireplace
- Game loft with multiple entertainment options
- Family-friendly layout
- Prime location inside one of the area’s top mountain communities
Whether you're planning a family vacation, couples retreat, or mountain adventure, The Grateful Bear offers a welcoming and memorable place to call home during your stay.
Nearby Dining: Epic Chophouse
Epic Chophouse restaurant in Banner Elk offers the top dining experience and best mountain views in the High Country of North Carolina. We literally elevated food and drink in the Blue Ridge when we opened our Eagles Nest location at 4,300 feet elevation in 2025. Perched atop a knoll with panoramic vistas, our gorgeous mountain lodge setting has soaring ceilings, glass walls and striking art. Watch summer sunsets from covered decks complete with firepits. Open year-round, the bar and dining room with a massive stone fireplace are perfect places to gather with friends on winter days.
Hours
December 2025
Monday, Wednesday & Thursday: 5:00–10:00 PM (Bar opens at 4:00 PM)
Friday & Saturday: 4:00–10:00 PM
Sunday: 4:00–9:00 PM
Tuesday: Closed (Open Tuesdays Dec 23 & 30)
Closed: Christmas Eve, Christmas Day & New Year’s Day
Winter Hours (Beginning January 5, 2026)
Wednesday & Thursday: 5:00–10:00 PM (Bar opens at 4:00 PM)
Friday & Saturday: 4:00–10:00 PM
Sunday: 4:00–9:00 PM
Closed Mondays & Tuesdays
Reservations Tip
If you are staying in a home within Eagles Nest, call 828-860-3742 for the best times to visit and to help avoid long wait times.
AWD or 4WD is highly recommended during the winter months if weather conditions are adverse.