- The Bearskin Lodge has welcomed guests for over 20 years, offering a variety of rooms and top-notch amenities.
- Our rich history dates back to the 1940s, rooted in the legacy of Hattie Ogle McGiffin and her pioneering spirit.
- Guests enjoy the best of both worlds: peaceful riverfront relaxation and walkable access to Gatlinburg’s top attractions.
Did you know that the story of The Bearskin Lodge began with a remarkable woman named Hattie Ogle McGiffin in the early 1940s? Hattie saw the beauty of the Smoky Mountains and realized that visitors needed a welcoming place to stay. Her vision and hard work laid the foundation for what would become one of the most beloved hotels in Gatlinburg. Today, The Bearskin Lodge continues her legacy, blending history, comfort, and the perfect location for every traveler. Keep reading to learn more things you might not know about our hotel in Gatlinburg.
1. We Have Welcomed Guests for Over 20 Years
The Bearskin Lodge on the River opened its doors in 2000. For more than two decades, we’ve been a favorite hotel in Gatlinburg for families, couples, solo adventurers, and groups alike. Our guests return year after year for our wide variety of room types, from cozy standard queen rooms to spacious suites with private balconies overlooking the Little Pigeon River or the city.
What keeps guests coming back? It’s our thoughtful amenities: an outdoor heated pool, a relaxing lazy river, free breakfast, gas fireplaces in many rooms, free WiFi, outdoor fire pits, and free covered garage parking. Whether you’re looking for a hotel in Gatlinburg TN with pool access or a peaceful spot to unwind after a day of exploring, you’ll find your perfect fit here.
Mini-Summary: For over 20 years, The Bearskin Lodge has offered a welcoming place in Gatlinburg, with a range of rooms and amenities designed for every type of traveler.
2. We Have a Rich History
Our story is woven into the very fabric of Gatlinburg. Hattie Ogle McGiffin, born in 1898, grew up working in her father’s general store and later opened the Bearskin Craft Shop in 1932. In the early 1940s, she recognized the growing need for overnight accommodations and opened the Bearskin Tourist Home, a house and seven cottages built on family land.
As Gatlinburg’s popularity soared, Hattie expanded her vision with the Bearskin Motel, a 15-room property famous for its bearskin-shaped swimming pool. When the town’s needs changed, she made the practical decision to replace the motel with the Bearskin Parking Garage in the late 1980s. In 1997, the Ogle family purchased the land where The Bearskin Lodge now stands, and in 2000, the Lodge opened its doors, with Hattie, then 102 years old, witnessing her legacy come full circle.
Mini-Summary: The Bearskin Lodge’s story is one of vision, resilience, and family tradition, making it much more than just a hotel in Gatlinburg.
3. We Provide the Best of Both Worlds
One of the best things about The Bearskin Lodge is that you don’t have to choose between a peaceful retreat and being close to the action. Our hotel sits right on the Little Pigeon River, offering tranquil views and the soothing sounds of nature. Yet, you’re just steps away from the heart of downtown Gatlinburg, making us the ideal hotel in Gatlinburg downtown for all types of travelers.
Here are five top attractions and restaurants you can easily walk to from our front door:
- The Peddler Steakhouse: Right next door at 820 River Road, a Gatlinburg dining tradition.
- Gatlinburg Space Needle: 115 Historic Nature Trail, offering panoramic mountain views, perfect for those searching for hotels near Gatlinburg Space Needle.
- Gatlinburg SkyPark: 765 Parkway, home to the iconic SkyBridge and breathtaking vistas.
- Smith & Son Corner Kitchen: 812 Parkway, serving up classic American fare in the heart of downtown.
- Anakeesta: 576 Parkway, a mountaintop adventure park with something for everyone.
Plus, the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park is just a short stroll away, making it easy to explore the natural beauty that draws millions to Gatlinburg each year.
Mini-Summary: At The Bearskin Lodge, you truly get the best of both worlds: riverfront relaxation and unbeatable access to everything Gatlinburg has to offer.
FAQs About Our Gatlinburg Hotel
How long has The Bearskin Lodge been open?
The Bearskin Lodge has been welcoming guests since 2000 and has been proudly welcoming guests for over 20 years.
What is the history behind The Bearskin Lodge in Gatlinburg?
The Bearskin Lodge traces its roots to Hattie Ogle McGiffin, who opened the Bearskin Tourist Home in the 1940s, expanded to the Bearskin Motel, and inspired the current Lodge, which opened in 2000.
How close is The Bearskin Lodge to downtown Gatlinburg and nearby attractions?
The Bearskin Lodge is located on River Road, just steps from downtown Gatlinburg’s top attractions, restaurants, and the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, all within easy walking distance.
Does The Bearskin Lodge have a pool or other outdoor amenities?
Yes! The Bearskin Lodge features an outdoor heated pool, a relaxing lazy river, outdoor fire pits, and private balconies overlooking the river, perfect for enjoying the fresh mountain air.
Stay at Our Hotel in Gatlinburg
Now that you know everything there is to know about our hotel in Gatlinburg, we bet you can’t wait to start planning your stay! Take a look at all our Gatlinburg hotel rooms, then choose the perfect one for your vacation.
