The Lodge at Smoky Cove

06/06/2026

The Lodge is minutes from Cherokee and so convenient for your family getaway. Come stay with us and experience Cherokee, Bryson City and all the fun things to do here.

In Cherokee, North Carolina you can hop on a tube and float the crystal clear Oconaluftee River as the Great Smoky Mountains tower around you for one of the summer’s most memorable experiences in Western NC! Cherokee Rapids River Tubing takes visitors two miles up Big Cove Road for the popular Big Cove Route, then you float right back down the river to the Little Princess location and your car. The trip usually takes about two hours, depending on water levels, but you can take your time, stop to swim, and enjoy the scenery along the way. This stretch of the Oconaluftee is known for clean, clear water, mountain views, swimming holes, fun Type I and II rapids, and a popular rope swing. It is a great way to cool off after exploring Cherokee or the nearby Great Smoky Mountains. Cherokee Rapids River Tubing is open daily from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day Monday, weather and river conditions permitting, from 10 AM to 5 PM. Tubing is $16 per person and includes transportation, tube rental, and a life jacket upon request. Kids must be at least 5 years old to enjoy this tubing experience!

05/26/2026

The View That Stops Everyone in Their Tracks

We could talk about the 15 rooms, the hot tub, the fireplaces, the commercial kitchen, and the pool table…

But honestly?

Just come see the patio at The Lodge at Smoky Cove.

That view.

It’s the kind of view that makes people stop mid-sentence and say “Wow.”

Pet-friendly. Group-friendly. Memory-making friendly.

05/22/2026

100 years ago today, important steps were taken toward creating Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

While the Smokies weren't officially established until 1934, it was on May 22, 1926, that President Calvin Coolidge signed the bill authorizing its creation.

Whether you come to the Smokies to hike the 848 miles of trails, drive the eight scenic auto tours, discover the 22,000+ documented species, or learn about the region’s rich cultural history, thank you for being part of the Smokies story. Your love for this place helps us protect Great Smoky Mountains National Park for the next 100 years and beyond.

05/22/2026

Adventure is Literally at Your Doorstep

From the moment you wake up at The Lodge at Smoky Cove, the adventure begins.

🎣 World-class trout fishing
🛶 Tubing & whitewater rafting
🥾 Hiking trails to stunning waterfalls
🚂 Short drive to the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in Bryson City
🎰 Cherokee Casino for a fun night out

And when you’re ready to relax? Our hot tub, fireplaces, pool table, and that million-dollar patio are waiting for you.

Conveniently located off the main highway… but it feels like a completely different world.

05/20/2026

Come see us in the mountains 🏔️

05/19/2026

Your Group’s Private Mountain Headquarters

Looking for the perfect place for a family reunion, friend getaway, or large group trip?

The Lodge at Smoky Cove was made for it.

• 15 rooms (sleeps up to 46)
• Full commercial kitchen
• Multiple fireplaces & gathering spaces
• Pool table, hot tub & huge patio with insane views
• Ample parking for everyone

You’re perfectly located for day trips to Cherokee Casino, Bryson City train, or the best trout streams and waterfalls in the Smokies — then come back to your own private mountain lodge.

We don’t serve food (so you can enjoy all the amazing local restaurants in Sylva, Dillsboro, Cherokee & Bryson City — all within 15 minutes).

05/17/2026

Bring Your Best Friend 🐾

At The Lodge at Smoky Cove, dogs aren’t just welcome — they’re family.

Over 80% of our guests bring their dogs, and we wouldn’t have it any other way!
Imagine your pup:

• Exploring the mountain trails with you
• Lounging on our amazing patio with that million-dollar view
• Relaxing by the fire while you soak in the hot tub

We have plenty of space for the whole pack (up to 46 humans + their furry companions).

Trout fishing, tubing, rafting, and waterfall hikes are all right outside your door — adventures for both of you!

Tag a friend who needs to bring their dog on the next trip!

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05/15/2026

Did you know the story behind The Lodge at Smoky Cove?

In 1940, Samuel Kress built this beautiful lodge on the mountain. To do it, he first built Parker Mill — a working sawmill — specifically to harvest the lumber right here on the property.

Today we proudly partner with Parker Mill (now a stunning wedding venue on the same mountain). That means your entire wedding party can stay together without ever leaving the mountain!

Large groups love it here: 15 rooms, commercial kitchen, tons of gathering spaces, and that million-dollar patio for photos and sunset cocktails.

History, charm, and convenience — all in one place.

05/14/2026

Nestled in Whittier, NC, The Lodge at Smoky Cove feels like a million miles away… but you’re only minutes from everything!

Just off the main highway (paved roads the whole way), yet completely surrounded by the Smokies.

✅ 1 hour from Asheville Airport
✅ 15 minutes to Sylva, Dillsboro, Cherokee (casino!) & Bryson City (train)
✅ 15 beautiful rooms that sleep up to 46 guests
✅ Commercial kitchen, multiple gathering spaces, pool table, hot tub, 4 fireplaces & ample parking

And the patio? Let’s just say… you really should come see it for yourself. That view is worth the drive alone.

Pet-friendly? We’re one of the most dog-friendly lodges in the area — over 80% of our guests bring their pups! 🐶

Who’s ready to unplug?

05/12/2026