Shoes On…Still Traveling More Travel Destinations

What do you do when you can’t travel to Mexico? Pivot.

Great Smoky Mountains

Travel has changed for us this year due to the pandemic, so we looked into other options to feed our desire to explore. This summer we spent 5 days in a cabin nestled high in the Smoky Mountains on the quiet side in Wears Valley. Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg are top of mind when visiting this area, but we were determined to social distance, staying out of crowds, so those destinations were not on our list this time. 

The 4 bedroom luxury Cabin, Red Wolf Lodge, had everything we needed to stay entertained, a pool table, ping pong, and video games for the kids.  There were board games, puzzles, and TVs in every bedroom in addition to the family room. The three large decks looking out toward the mountains were perfect for drinking in the breathtaking view. This was a great pastime for early risers with a cup of coffee or hanging out with the gang in the afternoon.  The large dining area, surrounded by a two-story window wall of mountain viewing inspiration, was perfect for family meals we made in the large equipped kitchen or for enjoying take out food.  Evenings were spent around the campfire with plenty of seating for everyone, and the owner supplied long metal forks for s’more making. 

There was a small community pool nearby that was included in the rental that provided afternoon recreation for the kids and plenty of seating for the adults to congregate while eating from an exceptionally good menu at the pool concession stand.  Burgers, chicken fingers, and salads are just a few of the offerings that we enjoyed. Pizza delivery was available to the cabin which surprised us given the location of the cabin on top of the mountain and quite a distance from the pizza shop. The road to the cabin was steep, narrow, and included a few switchbacks.  It was an adjustment for me to drive up and down the mountain at first, but by the second or third day, I was used to it.  

According to the owner, this is a great area to visit all 4 seasons.  In January and February there is some snow accumulation, but usually not enough to make the roads impassable. July and August are busy months because it is high season and can be very hot, but having the pool nearby is a plus. With plenty of restaurants nearby, you don’t have to worry about cooking, but if you like to make your own meals, there are a couple of convenient grocery stores to stock up unless you decide to shop before you leave home. 

On our way home, we drove through Pigeon Forge amazed at all of the attractions, but the one that caught my eye was Goats on a Roof.  It’s a large sprawling mountain coaster with a building near the road with, yes, you guessed it, real goats on the roof!  If you have been there or plan to go, I’d love to hear about your experience.  

If you are interested in more information about cabin rentals in the Smoky Mountains go to www.cabinsforyou.com  or you can contact the owner directly to learn all about the cabin and surrounding areas at amy.heeter@zoominternet.net.  If you are looking for a year-round vacation escape, this is a perfect place to get away from it all. 

Follow me at No Shoes Just Travel

Email: noshoesjusttravel@gmail.com