Historic 1850’s Log Cabin: Hiking, Waterfalls, & More! Summertime in the Smokies

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Cabin

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

2 bedrooms1+ bathroomSleeps 5

Popular amenities

Fireplace

Kitchen

Barbecue grill

Air conditioning

Free WiFi

Washer

Explore the area

Balsam, NC

Blue Ridge Parkway Balsam Entrance5 min drive
Smoky Mountain Jumphouse8 min drive
Wheels Through Time Museum24 min drive
Asheville, NC (AVL-Asheville Regional)46 min drive

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 5)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

3 Single Bunk Beds

1 bathroom, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 2

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio

Kitchen

About this property

This Historic 1850’s hand-hewn Chestnut log cabin will transport you back to a simpler time on historic Balsam Mountain. The furnishings and décor are a mix of antique and new to give the feeling of a time long ago while being cozy and comfy. The cabin has a full kitchen, and several modern conveniences like heat/air and a whole house generator. Sitting around a non-buggy 4,500 feet on the mountain, enjoy panoramic views all year from the coverd front porch and flat entertaining area with fire pit. This 2-bed, 1.5 bath vacation rental is close to outdoor activities like hiking, whitewater rafting, skiing, and more. It's also close to many restaurants and breweries.

The cabin is 1.5 hours from Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Dollywood accessed via a scenic drive through Smoky Mountain National Park.

Ashville is 45 Min: The Biltmore and More.

Hendersonville is 1 Hour: Apple Picking, Winerys, and More.

Great Skiing & Snowboarding: Cataloochee Ski Resort is less than 25 Min.

Property manager

Sean Henzler

Premier Host

Amenities

Kitchen

Washer

Dryer

Free WiFi

Air conditioning

Outdoor space

Kitchen

Free WiFi

Outdoor space

Barbecue grill

House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 25

Check out before 10:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

We do not allow any markers, crayons, etc. The patina on 150 year old logs can not be fixed if any accidents were to happen. Thank you

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy

Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges

Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed

On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited

Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip

Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property

About the area

Balsam

This cabin is located in Balsam. LoneBackpacker Gallery of World Photography and Oaks Gallery are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Barber Orchard Fruitstand and Waynesville Recreation Center. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Smoky Mountain Jumphouse or Liston B. Ramsey Regional Activity Center.

Balsam, NC

What's nearby

Blue Ridge Parkway Balsam Entrance - 5 min drive
Smoky Mountain Jumphouse - 8 min drive
Waterrock Knob - 18 min drive
Wheels Through Time Museum - 24 min drive
Maggie Valley Festival Grounds - 25 min drive

Getting around

Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) - 46 min drive

Restaurants

‪Taco Bell - ‬11 min drive
‪Maggie's Galley - ‬12 min drive
‪Papas & Beer - ‬11 min drive
‪Clyde's Restaurant - ‬10 min drive
‪Hardee's - ‬11 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Historic 1850’s Log Cabin: Hiking, Waterfalls, & More! Summertime in the Smokies pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Historic 1850’s Log Cabin: Hiking, Waterfalls, & More! Summertime in the Smokies?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Historic 1850’s Log Cabin: Hiking, Waterfalls, & More! Summertime in the Smokies?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Historic 1850’s Log Cabin: Hiking, Waterfalls, & More! Summertime in the Smokies located?

Situated in Balsam, this cabin is steps from Nantahala National Forest and 2.2 mi (3.5 km) from Blue Ridge Parkway Balsam Entrance. Barber Orchard Fruitstand and Smoky Mountain Jumphouse are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

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10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Kyle B.

28 May 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cozy cabin with unforgettable views

We couldn’t have found a more perfect cabin to stay in while visiting North Carolina! The cabin has a nostalgic feel and is immersed in nature. I knew I wanted to move to North Carolina but this trip has solidified it. Host Sean was very friendly and readily available for any questions/local recommendations. Family that didn’t stay with us were jealous of this find. Definitely will be staying here again!

Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

RICK L.

22 Oct 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

This cabin is amazing, cozy, warm and inviting plus the perfect location close to great small towns

Been here before and will keep coming back. We hit so many craft breweries, great restaurants , fished, hiked, but most of all sat on the porch and relaxed.

Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Michelle C.

25 Sept 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful

Peaceful woodsy cabin with so many “outdoor” spaces to enjoy, beautiful views, close to Waynesville and our daughter in Sylva. Very authentic with a superb kitchen as we enjoy cooking on our vacations. Just as amazing as we remembered it

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gary H.

24 Aug 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

3 day getaway from Atlanta chaos

Great historic facility under professional management. Everything needed for a pleasant and effortless stay was provided. Would gladly revisit.

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tom F.

16 July 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent Experience

Our stay was outstanding in every way. Sean was incredibly courteous and responsive throughout the entire process. The cabin was outstanding and had all of the amenities. I would highly recommend The Lazy Bear Cabin.

Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Vanessa E., Palm City USA

1 July 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cozy Mountain Retreat

It was like being transported back in time, but with all the modern amenities. The Lazy Bear Cabin was decorated with so much attention to detail and period design. Sean was very helpful in suggesting awesome restaurants and activities as well and responsive with any questions I had. Would love to return some day!

Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Allston L.

13 June 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lazy Bear Cabin

There is no better way to start your summer than a stay at Lazy Bear Cabin...well, visiting the cabin anytime is GREAT! The location of the cabin is PERFECT. You can be hiking on the Blue Ridge Parkway, enjoying a local beer at a brewery or exploring the Smoky Mountain National Park all in just a few minutes drive. The cabin itself is perfect for a mountain getaway. The front porch views, the fire pit get togethers, along with the wonderful amenities that are part of your cabin stay are just a few reasons why Allston and I return year after year to Lazy Bear!

Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Casey D., Waynesville, NC

30 May 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect getaway!

We had family visit us from Florida and didn't have enough room in our small home. This was absolutely perfect! They all talked about how well they slept while there and how peaceful and comfortable it was.I would recommend this place to anyone! Thanks so much!

Stayed 5 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gary K.

7 May 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice Cabin

Very nice, historic cabin - just the kind of place we like when we visit the mountains! Very clean, and all the necessities you need, and a beautiful, quiet view of the surrounding mountains. Be aware that if you have any mobility issues, there are stairs to climb both inside and out. Beautiful cabin - hope to stay there again someday!

Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Wilson Y.

2 Feb 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Mountain Splendor

Peaceful, panoramic & very restful

Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Nick W., Jax

19 Dec 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The perfect cabin

This property has everything a family needs. The whole cabin feels smaller than it is. We loved waking up and having coffee on the screened porch off the master bedroom. The front porch with the cast iron stove was perfect for cold nights. There was plenty of room for our whole family. Checking in was a breeze and Sean was great with being available when we needed something. Can't wait to go back.

Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2022

This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Ben W.

26 Nov 2022

Just what we needed!

We picked Lazy Bear Cabin for a long weekend getaway to relax and unwind after a long and busy Summer. This was exactly what we needed. Quiet mountain walks, relaxing on the front porch, just watching the clouds roll by. We took a few naps in the hammock and enjoyed the beautiful scenery. Got lucky and caught the end of a gorgeous leaf change which was an added bonus. Every detail was thought through when the cabin was decorated, it really brings you back to a simpler time. We will definitely be back!!

10/10 Excellent

Patty M.

26 Nov 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Thanksgiving getaway

Cute, authentic cabin, well equipped with everything you could need. Would stay there again.

Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

David W.

22 Nov 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome Cabin

Beautiful, clean and well placed cabin. We enjoyed our stay perfect for us to enjoy our 29 yr wedding anniversary.

Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

James B.

23 July 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great historic cabin!

This is a great cabin in NC montains. Plenty of space, beautifully decorated, comfortable, quiet, clean, up to date.

Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Robert B.

18 July 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Location for Lazy Bears

Fantastic proactive communication from the owner. The location is ideal if you like seclusion, quiet (except for the birds), and amazing views. A little tricky to find at first, but the remoteness pays off. Lazy Bear cabin has everything you need. Super comfy leather couches in the living room and inviting outdoor space with a fire pit. The deck with rocking chairs off the laundry room is a great little spot to sit surrounded by rhododendron and forest songbirds. Really enjoyed how close it was to the charming small towns of Sylva, Dillsboro, and Waynesville. So many breweries, good restaurants, and shops.

Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2022

This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer

28 June 2022

Mountain Memories!

Perfectly situated in Balsam NC, right in the middle of Sylva and Waynesville this historic cabin will remind you of stories you may have heard from your own Grandpappy. A time when folks sat on their porch, sipping sweet tea while widdling sticks telling their stories to their neighbors and friends. A time when life was less hurried and less stressed. You’ll immediately sense an “Ahhh” deep in your soul when you arrive. With long range Mountain View’s and song birds singing their mountain songs, It will feel like you, too, just slipped back in time. Lazy Bear Cabin is a quaint mix of antiques and modern decor! From the amazing vintage stove (that really works and is not just for show!) to unique items, leather couches and comfy beds, the hosts left no detail un-noticed. The hosts provided thoughtful guest touches for us to use and enjoy throughout the cabin. What a wonderful family these hosts were! Sean, the host of Lazy Bear was very responsive to any and all questions we had. You don’t even have to venture out far for beauty in “these parts”! Just walking around this quiet neighborhood, we discovered 3 rushing creeks, various kinds of wild flowers, bees buzzing, groundhog’s, a whole pasture full of Tom turkeys and surrounding views of Western North Carolina that will leave you breathless. If you do go down the mountain, Sylva, less than 20 minutes away with great shopping and delish coffee spots like White Moon Coffee Shop. In the other direction, about the same distance, is Waynesville. It too has great shopping on brick lined sidewalks and yummy restaurants like Sweet Onion, Boo Jum and our favorite: Haywood Smokehouse. This is a place you won’t forget. We definitely won’t!! The atmosphere, location, the views, the adventures, the food... it’s all right here to make yours a story to pass on!

10/10 Excellent

James A.

14 June 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

AAAA++++

This was a perfect cabin in the woods up in the mountains of North Carolina that had all the features and atmosphere we were looking for. Anyone looking for a getaway over a few days or a week, needs to try this cabin.

Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

RICK L.

18 May 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fishing trip with my sons

This place is amazing! Well care for you can tell the owner is very committed to keeping this place in tip top shape. Location is the perfect spot Waynesville Sylva Asheville Maggie Valley Franklin all close by. Will definitely return, I’ve finally found my go to Cabin!

Stayed 4 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Michelle W.

26 Mar 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The Be/mountain experience

The best cabin/mountain experience. The cabin was amazing!!! The history of the cabin was an added benefit. Very cool to stay in an 1850’s cabin. We really liked the touch of some modern conveniences like wifi, etc., however enjoyed the cabin experience. The cabin had such great details like the deer and the fish on the wall and the bear on the front porch. I can go on and on. It was perfect!!! I highly recommend this cabin.

Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Cassie B.

22 Mar 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lazy Bear Cabin

This is a great older cabin that has been updated. It has everything you need for a short or extended stay. Host is great with communication. Neighbors and area are quiet and safe and town isn't too far if need be. My son spent lots of time outside exploring around the cabin. Easy day drive to many hiking trails and towns to explore. Will definitely stay again.

Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

David R.

23 Feb 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

February '22 @ Lazy Bear Cabin

Beautiful 19c cabin relocated to it's current location with stunning views from a lazy, chair rockin' front porch that's complete with a wood burning stove. Very nicely decorated throughout with all necessary amenities provided. Centrally located between Sylva and Waynesville in Balsam, 15min to either one, 25min to Cataloochee Ski Ranch, 40min to Asheville. Owners are very responsive to inquiries and gave excellent last mile directions as well as instructions for use and care of the property. Highly Recommend!

Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2022

10/10 Excellent

Henry B.

25 Nov 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great time!

Great time getting away somewhere quiet. Towns were close enough to get what we needed. Plenty of outdoor activities right around the corner

Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Amber A.

21 Nov 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful and serene

The cabin is beautiful and not difficult to access. As with any mountain driving going slowly is a must. The owner is great and contacted me beforehand to ensure we knew about a few little cabin quirks and how to locate the cabin via GPS. This was a great touch and during this conversation he recommended great restaurants and places to see. My husband and I were looking for quiet and serene and this cabin is perfectly that. There’s a great little fire pit area and a wood burning stove on the porch for enjoyment. The gas fireplace inside is cozy and warms the cabin amazingly. The owner (and the welcome guide) explained the mini-split Heating/AC unit well but since we didn’t need to use the second bedroom we completely forgot about the third unit when trying to sync them at first! So if for some reason you can’t get heat or air to come on, remember all three units must be set to the same setting :) I love that there’s some great history with the cabin and the area. Lots of thought was put into making every area in the cabin convenient and usable! The view is the BEST from the upstairs window seat. It’s also great from the front porch but that seat is a great indoor view and area for reading. There are stone stairs leading up to the cabin that are a bit steep so be careful if it’s wet! I never felt unsafe but as with any part of a mountain stay just made sure of each step especially when coming down. The area is cute as well, we enjoyed walking around downtown Waynesville and even drove over to Bryson City to take advantage of the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad (highly recommend!). I wouldn’t hesitate to choose Lazy Bear Cabin again!

Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jerry H.

6 Nov 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Absolutely awesome cabin

Authentic log cabin was more than we could have hoped for! Absolutely beautifully decorated and had all the amenities needed. Within minutes of main highway that took you in any direction desired for all surrounding mountain areas of the Smokey a mountains! Would definitely recommend this property!! Simply the best!!

Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2021