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Historic 1850s Log Cabin: Hiking, Waterfalls, and Fall Foliage in the Smokies 🍁

Photo gallery for Historic 1850s Log Cabin: Hiking, Waterfalls, and Fall Foliage in the Smokies 🍁

Exterior
Property grounds
Outdoor dining
Private kitchen
Private kitchen

Reviews

10 out of 10

Exceptional

2 bedrooms1+ bathroomSleeps 5

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
    Parking available
  • Washer
    Washer
  • Outdoor space
    Outdoor space
  • Barbecue grill
    Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen
    Kitchen
  • Air conditioning
    Air conditioning

Explore the area

Map
Balsam, NC
  • Blue Ridge Parkway Balsam Entrance
    5 min drive
  • Barber Orchard Fruitstand
    7 min drive
  • Smoky Mountain Jumphouse
    8 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

Historic 1850s Log Cabin: Hiking, Waterfalls, and Fall Foliage in the Smokies 🍁

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

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

Similar properties

Miscellaneous
Balsam Mountain Cabin with waterfalls and a great year round view
Kitchen
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
Parking available
9.6 out of 10, (80 reviews)
Balsam Mountain Cabin with waterfalls and a great year round view

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 indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property

About the area

Balsam

Balsam is home to this cabin. 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.
Map
Balsam, NC

What's nearby

  • Blue Ridge Parkway Balsam Entrance - 5 min drive
  • Smoky Mountain Jumphouse - 8 min drive
  • Wheels Through Time Museum - 24 min drive
  • Maggie Valley Festival Grounds - 25 min drive
  • Western Carolina University - 27 min drive

Getting around

  • Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) - 46 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Taco Bell - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Papas & Beer - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Maggie's Galley - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Beach Mountain Diner - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Haywood Smokehouse - ‬12 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Historic 1850s Log Cabin: Hiking, Waterfalls, and Fall Foliage in the Smokies 🍁 pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Historic 1850s Log Cabin: Hiking, Waterfalls, and Fall Foliage in the Smokies 🍁?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Historic 1850s Log Cabin: Hiking, Waterfalls, and Fall Foliage in the Smokies 🍁?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Historic 1850s Log Cabin: Hiking, Waterfalls, and Fall Foliage 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).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 37 out of 38 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 38 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 38 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 38 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 38 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Benjamin O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
4 day getaway
This was by far the best stay i have ever had. I have always used hotels and never rented a whole house before. The owner let us check in early and was awesome. The property was so quiet and welcoming.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kyle B.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

About the host

Hosted by Sean Henzler

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