Daydreaming of Smoky Mountain Summers

In the dreary days of winter, let’s transport ourselves to summer in the Smoky Mountains, where the days bring simple pleasures and scenic tranquility.

Imagine standing on Clingmans Dome, surrounded by mist-kissed peaks. Cades Cove unfolds with wildflowers and the murmur of streams, while the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail offers easy trails and vibrant butterflies.

A visit to Abrams Falls provides a refreshing mist and a moment of calm beside its rhythmic cascade. In this mental escape, the Smokies offer straightforward beauty—a place where hidden trails, sunlit glades, and mountaintop views promise the uncomplicated joys of summer. As we anticipate warmer days, let the Smoky Mountains be a reminder that nature’s wonders and relaxed moments are just around the corner.

At Bear Waves Cabin and Resort in the Smoky Mountains, summertime means good times by the pool. With the sun shining, the swimming pool becomes the go-to spot for a refreshing break. Whether you’re into swimming or just want to chill by the water, the pool’s clear blue waters and mountain views make it the perfect spot. Families laugh, water splashes, and the whole place is a peaceful escape. It’s a simple joy—taking a dip in the pool at Bear Waves, surrounded by the beauty of the mountains.

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Springtime Bliss in the Smoky Mountains

Escape into the heart of nature’s renewal with a spring visit to the Great Smoky Mountains. As winter loosens its grip, the Smokies burst into a vibrant display of colors and life. Join us on a journey through the wonders of this season, where every step is a celebration of nature’s rebirth.

  1. Wildflower Wonderland:

Experience the magic of over 1,500 blooming plant species, transforming the mountains into a kaleidoscope of colors. Trails like Roaring Fork and Laurel Falls showcase the stunning variety of wildflowers, from delicate trilliums to fiery flame azaleas.

  1. Wildlife Revival:

Spring brings the Smoky Mountains to life with the return of migratory birds, playful fawns, and awakening black bears. Keep an eye out for the enchanting synchronous fireflies in late spring, lighting up the evenings with their mesmerizing display in Elkmont.

  1. Dynamic Waterfalls:

Witness the power and beauty of waterfalls at their peak flow as melting snow and spring rains replenish streams. Explore trails like Alum Cave and Grotto Falls for breathtaking views and the chance to walk behind a waterfall.

  1. Perfect Weather:

Enjoy mild temperatures and crisp mountain air that make outdoor activities a delight. Pack layers for varying conditions and bring your camera to capture the breathtaking moments.

A spring escape to the Great Smoky Mountains offers a symphony of sights and sounds, capturing the essence of nature’s rebirth. Whether you’re a hiker, wildlife enthusiast, or simply seeking tranquility, the Smokies provide an unforgettable experience. Embrace the magic of spring and create lasting memories in this breathtaking natural haven.

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Winter Wonderland Escape: A Fun-Filled Weekend Itinerary in the Smoky Mountains

As winter casts its enchanting spell over the landscape, there’s no better time to escape to the breathtaking Smoky Mountains for a weekend filled with adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable moments. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an adrenaline junkie, or someone seeking a cozy retreat, the Smokies offer a perfect blend of activities for everyone. Let’s dive into a fun-filled itinerary for your winter weekend escape.

Day 1: Friday – Arrival and Cozy Cabin Check-In at Bear Waves Smoky Mountain Pool Cabin

  1. Morning: Hit the Road Start your journey early to make the most of your weekend. The scenic drive to the Smoky Mountains is a treat in itself, with winding roads and picturesque views. Stop at a local diner for a hearty breakfast on the way.
  2. Afternoon: Check into Your Cozy Cabin Upon arrival, settle into Bear Waves cabin nestled amidst Bear Creek Crossing mountain resort. Enjoy private heated indoor pool right off the living room, the private secluded hot tub and game loft complete with arcade and pool table.
  3. Evening: Local Dining Experience Venture into the nearby town and indulge in a delicious meal at one of the local restaurants. Many establishments offer hearty comfort food, perfect for warming up on a winter’s night.

Day 2: Saturday – Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Morning: Winter Hike Lace up your hiking boots and explore the winter wonderland on one of the many trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Winter is actually a wonderful time to hike and explore.
  2. Afternoon: Zip-lining Adventure For an adrenaline rush, head to a nearby zip-lining facility. Soar through the treetops and enjoy breathtaking views of the snow-dusted mountains. It’s a thrilling way to experience the Smokies from a different perspective.
  3. Evening: Sunset at Clingmans Dome Drive to Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the Smokies, for a mesmerizing sunset. The panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks bathed in golden hues are a photographer’s dream. Dress warmly, as temperatures drop at higher elevations. Be sure to check for road closings do to inclemate weather.

Day 3: Sunday – Relaxation and Farewell

  1. Morning: Brunch and Local Artisan Shops Enjoy a leisurely brunch at a local café, savoring the flavors of the region. Spend the morning exploring the quaint shops, where you can find unique handmade crafts and souvenirs to remember your winter escape.
  2. Afternoon: Spa Day Treat yourself to a relaxing spa day to unwind before heading back home. Many establishments in the area offer massages, hot tubs, and other rejuvenating treatments.
  3. Evening: Farewell Dinner Wrap up your weekend with a cozy dinner at a local restaurant. Share your favorite moments from the trip and toast to the memories made in the Smoky Mountains.

A winter escape to the Smoky Mountains promises a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of outdoor activities or a quiet retreat, the Smokies provide a magical backdrop for a memorable winter weekend. Embrace the charm of the season and create lasting memories in this picturesque winter wonderland.

A Romantic Valentine’s Day in the Smokies

Top 5 suggestions for a romantic Valentine’s Day in the Smoky Mountains:

  1. Scenic Drives: Take a romantic drive through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Cades Cove and Newfound Gap Road offer stunning vistas and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
  2. Cabin Getaway: Rent a cozy cabin in the mountains. Many cabins come with amenities like hot tubs, fireplaces, and private decks, perfect for a romantic getaway. Bear Waves Smoky Mountain Pool Cabin has all of these amenities and more!
  3. Wine Tasting: Explore the local wineries and vineyards in the area. You can enjoy wine tastings and perhaps even bring home a bottle of your favorite wine as a souvenir.
  4. Outdoor Adventure: If you’re an adventurous couple, you can go zip-lining, hiking, or horseback riding in the area. This can add an exciting element to your Valentine’s Day celebration.
  5. Spa Day: Treat yourselves to a couples’ massage or spa day at one of the local spas. Relax and rejuvenate together, indulging in massages, facials, and other spa treatments for a truly romantic and pampering experience.

Book your romantic getaway today!

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Smoky Mountain Winter Getaway

Winter in the Great Smoky Mountains is a unique and beautiful season. The area offers a distinct winter experience for visitors. Here are some key aspects of winter in the Smokies:

  1. Snowfall: While the Smokies don’t typically receive as much snow as some other mountain ranges, they can still see a fair amount of snowfall during the winter months. Especially in the higher elevation areas.
  2. Reduced Crowds: Winter is considered the offseason in the Smokies, which means fewer tourists compared to the popular spring and fall seasons.
  3. Local Snow Skiing and Tubing Attractions: Enjoy snow skiing and tubing at nearby attractions such as Ober Gatlinburg, where you can hit the slopes and experience winter fun.
  4. Frozen Waterfalls: The park’s waterfalls, such as Laurel Falls and Abrams Falls, can freeze partially or completely, creating spectacular ice formations.
  5. Cozy Lodging: The nearby towns of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge offer a range of accommodations, including cozy cabins and lodges, where you can warm up after a day of outdoor activities.
  6. Winter Hiking: While some higher-elevation trails may be closed due to snow and ice, there are still many lower-elevation trails that are accessible for winter hiking.
  7. Festive Winter Events: Some communities in the area host winter festivals and events, including Winterfest Light Tours.
  8. Starry Nights: Winter nights in the Smokies can be exceptionally clear, making it an excellent time for stargazing and astrophotography.

Remember to check the conditions and hours of operation for local skiing and tubing attractions as well as the park’s conditions and road closures before your visit, as winter conditions can vary. Book your winter getaway today!

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Ten Reasons to Enjoy the Christmas Season in the Smokies

  1. Winterfest: Experience the enchanting Winterfest celebration with millions of twinkling lights illuminating Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge from November through February.
  2. Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas: Visit Dollywood theme park for holiday shows, parades, and festive decorations, all created by the iconic Dolly Parton.
  3. Ober Gatlinburg: Enjoy winter activities like skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating at this mountain-top amusement park.
  4. Holiday Shows and Performances: Attend special holiday-themed shows and concerts at local theaters and venues for a dose of festive entertainment.
  5. Christmas Shopping: Find unique holiday gifts and decorations at the charming shops and boutiques in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.
  6. Christmas Tree Farms: Choose and cut your own Christmas tree at one of the local tree farms for a traditional holiday experience.
  7. National Park Adventures: Explore the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with its picturesque landscapes, even if there’s not much snow.
  8. Hot Cocoa and Fireside Relaxation: Cozy up by the fireplace in your cabin or lodge with a cup of hot cocoa or cider after a day of holiday adventures.
  9. Local Cuisine: Savor the flavors of the season with southern-style dishes like biscuits and gravy, country ham, and warm apple pie at local restaurants.
  10. Attend Local Church Services: If you’d like to attend Christmas Eve or Christmas Day church services, many churches in the area hold special holiday services with beautiful music and decorations.

Enjoy your Christmas season in the Smoky Mountains with these delightful activities and experiences!

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Visiting the Smoky Mountains in the Fall

Top 5 tips for visiting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in the fall:

  1. Timing: Plan your trip for late October to early November to catch the peak of the fall foliage season. Check for current foliage reports before your visit.
  2. Hiking: Explore the park’s diverse trails, such as Alum Cave Trail and Laurel Falls Trail, to witness the vibrant autumn colors and cooler temperatures.
  3. Scenic Drives: Enjoy breathtaking views of the fall foliage on scenic drives like Newfound Gap Road and Cades Cove Loop Road.
  4. Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for wildlife, including black bears, deer, and elk. Maintain a safe distance and never feed the animals.
  5. Lodging and Reservations: Book your accommodations well in advance, as fall is a popular time to visit. Bear Waves Smoky Mountain cabin is currently priced %50 OFF on weekdays during the October – November peak leaf season! Book your stay today!
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Ziplining in the Smokies: A Thrilling Adventure Amidst Nature’s Beauty

Nestled within the captivating embrace of the Great Smoky Mountains, a unique adventure awaits: ziplining through the heart of this natural wonderland. The Smokies’ allure is well-known, but ziplining offers an entirely new lens through which to experience its grandeur.

Picture yourself suspended above the forest floor, gliding effortlessly between ancient trees. The rush of wind, the symphony of birdsong, and the panoramic views paint an unforgettable sensory masterpiece. Ziplining in the Smokies is not just an adventure – it’s a communion with nature.

Where Adrenaline Meets Awe

For the thrill-seekers, the Smokies’ ziplining options range from family-friendly courses to high-speed lines that quicken the pulse. These lines weave adventurers through the landscape, offering an adrenaline rush while ensuring every moment is savored.

Where to Zipline in the Smokies

There are many zipline options in the area to choose from. Our family recently had a blast ziplining with Legacy Mountain Ziplining. Their guides made us feel safe, but at the same time facilitated such a fun adventure for all of us. From grandparents to grandkids and everyone in between, we all loved our experience with them and highly recommend booking your zipline tour with them.


During a recent visit our family had @bear_waves_cabin we had a blast zipping through the mountains with @legacymountainziplines . We had a great experience and tons of fun! Check them out during your next stay at Bear Waves Smoky Mountain Pool Cabin! 

Smoky Mountain Wineries

In a recent visit to Bear Waves Smoky Mountain Pool Cabin we explored the area and local businesses. We stopped in a couple of the local wineries. At Cades Cove Cellars we snagged a couple super cute wine glasses for the cabin. At Mountain View Winery we got the makings and recipe for their warm mulled wine because it is delicious and made a nice treat winter warmer for a fun ladies gathering. Here is a list of local wineries you can visit for tastings and a fun outing when you’re in the area:

1- Cades Cove Cellars

2- Sugarland Cellars Winery

3- The Original Bootleggers Homemade Wine

4- Little Bear Winery

5- Mountain View Winery

All within a short drive from Bear Waves Smoky Mountain Pool Cabin. Book the cabin for your wine trail trip today! Book direct to save on extra fees. Also available to book on Airbnb or VRBO.

Happy Wine Trails!

Memorial Day Weekend In the Smoky Mountains

Wild flowers are blooming, the days are longer and warm, wildlife are stirring, waterfalls are flowing & outdoor seasonal pools are opening. Memorial Day Weekend is a great time to visit the Smoky Mountains. As of now, Bear Waves Pool Cabin is available for the long weekend and ready for your family to retreat, rest, reconnect & recreate together! Come and experience the Smokies in the Spring! Its lovely.

Come and see the blossoming rhododendrons in the Spring when you stay at Bear Waves Cabin!
Smoky Mountains
Enjoy the streams and rivers of the Smokies when you stay with us at Bear Waves Cabin!
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