- Nature's Hideaway, Cookie's Cabin, Above the Clouds, Bear Crossing, and River Memories are five excellent pet-friendly cabins (each with hot tubs, outdoor spaces, and family-friendly fun).
- Gatlinburg is very pet-welcoming: dogs can ride the SkyLift and walk the SkyBridge at Gatlinburg SkyPark (on leash), visit distilleries, explore the Gatlinburg Trail, and play at Mills Park's dog park.
- Use the planning checklist and FAQ below to make your Smokies trip with pets easy and stress-free.
Bringing your dog to the Smokies should feel like part of the adventure, not a compromise. Below you'll find our five favorite pet-friendly cabins in Gatlinburg TN, pet-friendly things to do nearby, and a step-by-step planning checklist so you can relax and enjoy your mountain time together.
1. Nature's Hideaway
Craving a quiet escape wrapped in trees? Nature's Hideaway is a tucked-away 2-bedroom with a Great Smoky Mountains view, half a mile from fishing on the Little Pigeon River. Enjoy a breezy deck with a relaxing hot tub, an indoor jetted tub, a game room with billiards and foosball, and more. The spacious yard gives your pup room to romp while you unwind by the mountain views.
2. Cookie's Cabin
Cookie's Cabin blends luxury and seclusion with easy access to downtown Gatlinburg and the national park. Set amid the forest and mountain vistas, it features a wraparound deck with a cozy gas fireplace, plush living room seating and a large TV, plus a downstairs game level with billiards and arcade games. A bubbling hot tub on the lower deck is perfect after a day of exploring.
3. Above the Clouds
If you want to be near the action without sacrificing serenity, Above the Clouds delivers. This spacious 4-bedroom sits minutes from downtown, with soaring vaulted ceilings and panoramic Smoky Mountain views. Inside, you'll find a cozy gas fireplace, a second living area, and a game room with a pool table and multi-game arcade. Outside, soak in the private hot tub and enjoy the view from rocking chairs.
4. Bear Crossing
Rustic charm meets modern comforts at Bear Crossing, a cozy 2-bedroom retreat with an open living area, fireplace, and more. Step onto the private deck to grill dinner, soak in the hot tub, or sip your morning coffee among forest views. A flat yard provides space for kids and pups to play.
5. River Memories
Sitting alone above the Little Pigeon River, River Memories is 3 bedrooms (sleeps up to 8) with serene river views and spacious decks, rocking chairs, and a soothing hot tub. Inside, gather by the fireplace, cook on the charcoal grill, and have fun with a pool table and basketball hoop. It's a short drive to downtown Gatlinburg for dining and attractions.
Key Takeaway: All five cabins welcome dogs and include the comforts you love (hot tubs, decks, and game rooms), so no one stays home.
Pet-Friendly Things to Do Near Your Cabin
- Gatlinburg SkyPark (SkyLift + SkyBridge): Dogs of all sizes are welcome free of charge. They must be leashed at all times, and you'll hold your dog while riding the SkyLift. Only dogs (no other pet types) are permitted.
- Ole Smoky Moonshine: Leashed dogs are allowed inside the distillery, so you can enjoy tastings with your pup by your side.
- Sugarlands Distillery: Dogs are welcome in most public areas (leashed), with the exception of the stillhouse.
- The Village Shoppes: Wander this charming shopping area with your leashed dog. Many shops are pet-friendly, and Bonediggity Barkery is a fan favorite.
- Gatlinburg Trail: One of the few Great Smoky Mountains National Park trails that allows dogs on leash. It is flat and scenic along the river.
- Mills Park Dog Park: Let your pup enjoy some off-leash time in the fenced dog area. Leashed walking trails are also available.
- Pet-friendly patios: Several local spots offer outdoor seating for guests with dogs, including Fannie Farkle's, Fox & Parrot Tavern, Tom & Earl's Back Alley Grill, and Split Rail Eats.
Tip: Always check official sites for the latest pet rules before you go.
How to Plan a Stress-Free Pet-Friendly Cabin Stay (Step-by-Step)
1. Choose the right size and layout
Match your group size to the cabin type. Couples and small families can go cozy, while multi-family groups should prioritize bunk spaces, multiple living areas, and larger outdoor zones.
2. Review the pet policy
Hearthside Cabin Rentals charges a $55 pet fee for dogs up to 35 pounds and a $75 fee for dogs over 35 pounds. This fee is per dog, and a maximum of two dogs are allowed.
3. Map pet-friendly activities
Add SkyPark, distilleries, Village Shoppes, Gatlinburg Trail, and Mills Park to your itinerary so everyone (pets included) has something to enjoy.
4. Pack with purpose
Bring a familiar bed, bowls, long and short leashes, waste bags, grooming wipes, a towel for wet paws, and vet records. A portable crate helps during downtime and car rides.
5. Plan downtime at the cabin
Use decks, hot tubs, fire pits, and game rooms as home-based fun. Build in short outings with cool-down breaks to keep pups calm and happy.
6. Check trails, weather, and safety
Verify trail pet rules and forecast. Avoid mid-day summer hikes. Always carry water, and keep your dog leashed around wildlife.
FAQs
Are dogs allowed in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
Dogs are allowed on the Gatlinburg Trail on leash, making it a great option close to town.
Which Gatlinburg attractions can I visit with my dog?
Top picks include Gatlinburg SkyPark (SkyLift + SkyBridge) with leashed dogs welcome, Ole Smoky Moonshine (leashed dogs inside), Sugarlands Distillery (dogs welcome except in the stillhouse), and The Village Shoppes (many pet-friendly stores).
Where can my dog be off-leash?
Mills Park has a fenced dog area for off-leash play and additional leashed walking trails nearby.
Any local restaurants with dog-friendly seating?
Yes. Several spots with outdoor seating welcome pups, including Fox & Parrot Tavern, Tom & Earl's Back Alley Grill, and Split Rail Eats.
More Pet-Friendly Cabins in Gatlinburg TN
These are some of the best pet-friendly cabins in Gatlinburg TN that you should consider booking for your next vacation! These are just the start of many incredible options. Browse all of our pet-friendly cabins in Gatlinburg TN to find your perfect home away from home!
