Sky Bear Lodge

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

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