Cabins & Escapes

Mountain Mama's Blog

Your guide to the best cabin stays, local attractions, and insider tips for an unforgettable Smoky Mountain experience.

Everything You Need to Know About Christmas in Gatlinburg 2025

Everything You Need to Know About Christmas in Gatlinburg 2025

Christmas in Gatlinburg isn’t just a holiday trip — it’s a full-season experience that runs from early November through mid-February. I’m writing this from Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort, looking out over downtown as the lights flip on for the season, and trust me… if you haven’t seen Gatlinburg at Christmas, you’re missing one of the most magical winter escapes in the country. From the Fantasy of Lights Parade to millions of Winter Magic lights, insider parking tips, and the cabins that actually make Christmas unforgettable, here’s everything you need to plan your trip the right way.

by Mountain Mama

Snow in the Smoky Mountains: Your 2025 Winter Guide

Snow in the Smoky Mountains: Your 2025 Winter Guide

I just got out of a snow storm in Gatlinburg with frozen fingers and zero regrets. Here's everything you need to know about snow in the Smokies — when it falls, where to find it, which roads close, and how to stay safe while chasing that winter magic.

by Mountain Mama

Your 2025 Guide to Pets in the Smoky Mountains

Your 2025 Guide to Pets in the Smoky Mountains

Looking for pet-friendly cabins in the Smoky Mountains? We've got three incredible stays that welcome your furry friend — from 5-acre estates to cozy riverside retreats. Plus, the insider guide to where dogs are actually allowed in Great Smoky Mountains National Park (spoiler: it's way more limited than you think, but the trails that DO allow them are stunning). Here's everything you need to know about bringing your pup to the mountains, including packing tips, local dog parks, and why booking direct saves you hundreds.

by Mountain Mama

The Best Budget-Friendly Cabins in the Smoky Mountains (That Don't Look Cheap)

The Best Budget-Friendly Cabins in the Smoky Mountains (That Don't Look Cheap)

Discover our most-loved affordable cabins under $200/night with hot tubs, mountain views, and all the cozy vibes. From romantic retreats to family-friendly getaways near Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, these budget cabins punch way above their price point.

by Mountain Mama

Why Your Smoky Mountain Cabin Needs THAT View?!

Why Your Smoky Mountain Cabin Needs THAT View?!

Shopping for Smoky Mountain cabins and wondering if paying extra for mountain views is worth it? Here's what I've learned after helping hundreds of guests: the view is what turns a cabin rental into an experience.

by Mountain Mama

Anakeesta's $100M Expansion: Everything You Need to Know About "Making More Magic"

Anakeesta's $100M Expansion: Everything You Need to Know About "Making More Magic"

Anakeesta just announced a $100 million, five-year expansion that's about to transform Gatlinburg's #1 attraction. Glass-bottom gondolas, reimagined villages, year-round firefly experiences, and so much more magic coming to the Smokies. Here's everything you need to know about "Making More Magic" – including what's opening in 2026, how it affects your visit, and the best cabins to stay in while experiencing it all.

by Mountain Mama

The Smokies' Ultimate Play Palace: Hoop & Paddle Hideaway Just Dropped

The Smokies' Ultimate Play Palace: Hoop & Paddle Hideaway Just Dropped

Hoop & Paddle Hideaway just changed the game for Smoky Mountain cabins. Indoor basketball court, private pickleball court, year-round pool, and outdoor swim spa on 4 private acres. Sleeps 16, pet-friendly, and minutes from Pigeon Forge. This isn't just a cabin—it's your private sports resort in the Smokies.

by Mountain Mama

Your 2025 Smoky Mountains Thanksgiving Guide

Your 2025 Smoky Mountains Thanksgiving Guide

Thanksgiving in the Smokies is MORE magical than fall foliage season. Millions of Christmas lights, smaller crowds, and that perfect cozy mountain vibe. Here's your complete guide.

by Mountain Mama

Dollywood Christmas 2025: A Mom's Honest Guide

Dollywood Christmas 2025: A Mom's Honest Guide

Planning a trip to Dollywood's Smoky Mountain Christmas? I took my toddlers last year and we barely rode any rides but had the BEST time. Here's everything you need to know about the lights, shows, best dates to visit, and where to stay close to the park.

by Mountain Mama

Halloween in the Smokies: Your Last-Minute Guide to This Week's Spooky Fun

Halloween in the Smokies: Your Last-Minute Guide to This Week's Spooky Fun

Halloween in the Smokies hits different. From trick-or-treating at The Island to cozy fire pit nights at your cabin, here's your guide to this week's spooky fun in Pigeon Forge.

by Mountain Mama

Best Pool Cabins in Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge (2025)

Best Pool Cabins in Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge (2025)

I recently toured the most incredible pool cabins in the Smokies and WOW. Heated indoor pools with mountain views, hot tubs, and game rooms - these aren't your average rentals. Here's everything you need to know about booking a private pool cabin in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge.

by Mountain Mama

Where to Eat in Gatlinburg: A Foodie's Guide to Mountain Town Dining (From Someone Who's Tried Them All!)

Where to Eat in Gatlinburg: A Foodie's Guide to Mountain Town Dining (From Someone Who's Tried Them All!)

Discover the best restaurants in Gatlinburg from someone who's actually tried them! From legendary steakhouses like Cherokee Grill and The Park Grill to hidden Mexican gems, plus the insider secret that'll save you hours of waiting. Your complete Gatlinburg dining guide.

by Mountain Mama

Your Late October Smoky Mountains Fall Update (It's Still STUNNING!)

Your Late October Smoky Mountains Fall Update (It's Still STUNNING!)

Late October fall colors in the Smokies are stunning right now. Valley leaves turning, peaks at their best. National Park open through Nov 2+ with festivals still happening!

by Mountain Mama

2025 Government Shutdown Update: The Smokies Are OPEN (Here's What Happened)

2025 Government Shutdown Update: The Smokies Are OPEN (Here's What Happened)

Panicking about the 2025 government shutdown and your Smoky Mountains trip? Here's the real story: The park is FULLY OPEN thanks to local heroes who stepped up. Get the facts on what happened, why the Smokies stayed operational during peak fall foliage, and what it means for your vacation plans right now.

by Mountain Mama

Where to See Bears in the Smoky Mountains: Your Complete Cabin Guide

Where to See Bears in the Smoky Mountains: Your Complete Cabin Guide

Wondering which Smoky Mountain cabins have the best chance for bear sightings? We analyzed thousands of guest reviews to find where bears are spotted most - with real sighting reports, seasonal timing, and safety tips.

by Mountain Mama

Your 2025-2026 Pigeon Forge Winterfest Guide

Your 2025-2026 Pigeon Forge Winterfest Guide

Pigeon Forge Winterfest runs November 6, 2025 - February 15, 2026. Here's your insider guide to five million lights, the best cabins, and when to actually visit.

by Mountain Mama

Mountain Mamas Guide to the Most Romantic Cabins in the Smoky Mountains

Mountain Mamas Guide to the Most Romantic Cabins in the Smoky Mountains

Not all "romantic cabins" are created equal. Here's my insider guide to the most romantic cabins in the Smokies - from someone who's actually been there and knows what makes a stay unforgettable.

by Mountain Mama

Hidden Cabin Gems: 10 Secret Stays in the Smokies You Haven't Seen on Airbnb

Hidden Cabin Gems: 10 Secret Stays in the Smokies You Haven't Seen on Airbnb

While everyone’s fighting over the same overcrowded Gatlinburg Airbnbs, there’s a collection of incredible Smoky Mountain cabins quietly sitting in plain sight - waiting for travelers who know where to look.

by Mountain Mama

Mountain Mamas 2025 Smoky Mountain Fall Foliage Guide

Mountain Mamas 2025 Smoky Mountain Fall Foliage Guide

Your complete guide to 2025 Smoky Mountain fall colors: peak dates, best viewing spots & cabins with unbeatable mountain views.

by Mountain Mama