Thrilling Outdoor Activities
Do you want to have a great time, but you don’t want to venture too far away from the cabin? Well, you’re in luck because it’s possible to have a great time with so many options within a 5-minute drive! Hikes? Thrill-seeing activities? Great food? There are plenty of great options right around the cabin. This article is only going to highlight a few of my favorites.
Climbworks Zipline
One of the premier attractions for adrenaline enthusiasts is Climbworks Zipline. This destination boasts an array of zipline courses that not only cater to various skill levels but also provide breathtaking views of the majestic Smoky Mountains, enhancing the thrill of the experience. Not only is this closer than 5 minutes away, it’s more like a 30-second drive to Climbworks.
At Climbworks, visitors can choose from different zipline courses designed to challenge both novices and experienced thrill-seekers alike. The longest zipline spans over 3,400 feet, allowing participants to soar above the treetops while taking in the panoramic scenery. Safety is prioritized, with trained guides ensuring that each participant feels confident and secure throughout their adventure. Additionally, the combination of speed, height, and picturesque landscapes creates an unforgettable experience, making Climbworks a must-visit for those looking to inject excitement into their itinerary.
Scenic Hiking Trails
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, and near Baby Bear Den, numerous scenic hiking trails await adventurers.
There are a few hiking trailheads within about 20 minutes of the cabin, but the closest one is the beautiful Maddron Bald Trail, which stands out for both its accessibility and captivating vistas. Turn left onto the main road and it’s about 7 miles from the cabin. Spanning approximately 5.5 miles, this trail showcases a moderate difficulty level, making it suitable for families and beginner hikers alike. Visitors can expect a well-maintained path that meanders through diverse landscapes, presenting an excellent introduction to the park’s rich ecology.
During the hike, trekkers will encounter a variety of scenic views, including striking mountain overlooks and lush forested areas. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the chance to spot local fauna, such as deer, rabbits, and numerous bird species. It would be a great hike to take even if you did have to take time to drive to it, but it just so happens to be very close to the Baby Bear Den!
Delicious Dining Options
A very close dining option which also stays open until 11 PM is Cobbly Nob Next Level Pizza & Marketplace (3720 East Pwky – ph. # (865) 439-4688). Turn right onto the main road, and it’s about 5 minutes away on your left. It’s a local favorite, and for good reason. This pizzeria offers a range of menu items, from classic cheese and pepperoni pizzas to unique specialty pizzas topped with an array of delicious ingredients. My personal favorite (at least so far, because I’ve yet to try them all) is the chicken bacon ranch pizza. It hits the spot! Their emphasis on quality ingredients and dough made fresh daily contributes to a delightful dining experience that leaves a lasting impression.
The friendly staff at Cobbly Nob Pizza fosters a warm and inviting environment that makes it an ideal spot for both casual dining and family gatherings. After a long day out, you can stop by on your way back to the cabin; or if you spent all day in, it’s a quick drive to zip over and get some delicious pizza.
Or just stay in
Don’t forget, you booked a great cabin that has many fun amenities for you to enjoy without even getting in your car! You can get a good relaxing soak in the hot tub. Are you itching to scratch your nostalgic video game itch? Because you can have a Super Mario Kart tournament on the Super Nintendo, or play a classic game of Dr. Mario or Tetris or Mike Tyson’s Punch Out on the original Nintendo Entertainment System. Also don’t forget about playing Ms. Pac Man on the arcade.
Hungry? Because you might just want to fire up the grill and cook some burgers, or cook some other home-cooked cuisine in the kitchen. Then for dessert, you could have some S’mores on the fire pit in the woods in the back.
Of course you can alway stream a movie on one of the televisions, or perhaps pick up a classic DVD or Blu-ray from a local Redbox machine (by the way, the closest of those is also with 5-minutes at the Dollar General – left on the main road). Or maybe you want to have a fun tech-free night with a board game of Settler’s of Catan or Codenames. Or an even more low-key evening by reading a classic novel like The Chronicles of Narnia or The Lord of the Rings or Harry Potter. Or maybe Anne of Green Gables or Ramona or Calvin and Hobbes is more of your style!
There is so much to do near (or at) Baby Bear Den cabin. It’s the perfect place to go, to stay, and in which to relax!