Dog Friendly Hotels In Gatlinburg, Tennessee
- Published on:
- By: ASP Team
Gatlinburg, TN is a charming mountain town nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains. It’s a popular vacation destination for its stunning natural beauty, outdoor activities, and quaint downtown area.
And what makes it even better? It’s extremely dog-friendly! In fact, there are many hotels in Gatlinburg that welcome our furry friends with open arms.
In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best dog-friendly hotels in Gatlinburg. We’ll cover everything from pet policies and amenities to nearby attractions and activities.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay, these hotels offer comfortable accommodations for both you and your four-legged companion. So pack your bags and get ready to explore Gatlinburg with your furry best friend!
Pet Policies to Know
When booking a hotel, it is essential to review their pet policies and available amenities. Some properties may impose weight or breed restrictions, while others may charge additional fees for accommodating pets. It’s also advisable to confirm any required vaccinations or documentation.
Fortunately, many dog-friendly hotels in Gatlinburg are known for their accommodating approach to pets. For instance, the Glenstone Lodge allows up to two dogs per room with no weight restrictions or additional charges. The property also features a designated pet relief area and provides complimentary waste bags for convenience.
Other notable hotels with similar pet-friendly policies include the Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg, the Courtyard by Marriott Gatlinburg, and the Greystone Lodge on the River.
Why Stay at Dog-Friendly Hotels in Gatlinburg?
Planning a trip to Gatlinburg? Bring your pup along for the adventure! Staying at a dog-friendly hotel makes your vacation stress-free for both you and your furry friend. No need to worry about expensive pet sitters—you get to make memories together while soaking in the gorgeous scenery.
Gatlinburg is perfect for pet owners, with plenty of outdoor fun like pet-friendly hiking trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and green spaces for playtime. Plus, you’ll find dog-friendly patios at restaurants and shops, so your dog doesn’t miss out on the action.
Dog-friendly hotels make it easy with perks like pet relief areas, access to pet supplies, and pet-focused amenities to keep everyone comfy. It’s all about making sure you and your pup have a fun, hassle-free getaway!
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Top Dog-Friendly Hotels in Gatlinburg
There are plenty of options for dog-friendly hotels in Gatlinburg, catering to all budgets and preferences. Here are some top choices for you and your furry friend:
Mountain Shadow Resort & Rentals
Just three miles from downtown Gatlinburg and near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Mountain Shadow Resort offers a peaceful getaway with rustic cabin charm. With 14 pet-friendly cabins, you can bring your dog at no extra cost.
Each cabin features a cozy wooden interior, a fireplace, grill, and hot tub—perfect for enjoying the mountain air. Options range from studio cabins to five-bedroom retreats, with extras like game rooms, in-unit laundry, and Jacuzzis. Guests can also book in-cabin massages or romantic packages, and the concierge offers discounted attraction tickets.
Quality Inn & Suites Gatlinburg
Steps from the Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster and a short drive to the Smokies, Quality Inn & Suites Gatlinburg combines comfort and convenience. Pet-friendly rooms allow up to two small dogs (30 lbs max) for a $20 nightly fee per pet.
Amenities include an outdoor pool, fitness center, and free hot breakfast. Rooms come with a fridge, microwave, coffee maker, and ironing set. Select suites feature private balconies, fireplaces, and kitchenettes. As a Gatlinburg Goes Green certified hotel, it also supports sustainable hospitality practices.
River Terrace Resort & Convention Center
Set along the Pigeon Forge River in central Gatlinburg, River Terrace Resort is walking distance from Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. Rooms offer options like river views, balconies, fireplaces, or Jacuzzis, and all include coffee makers, microwaves, and mini-fridges.
Guests enjoy breakfast in a lodge-style dining area, a seasonal heated pool, and meals at the Drafts Burger Bar. One pet (dog or cat) under 60 lbs is allowed per room with a $170 cleaning fee and $100 refundable deposit. Pets must not be left alone, and breed restrictions may apply.
Cabins of the Smoky Mountains
Cabins of the Smoky Mountains offers over 400 cabin rentals in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and nearby areas. Choose from cozy one-bedroom retreats to spacious 20-bedroom lodges, all featuring rustic charm and upscale amenities.
Every cabin includes a porch, hot tub, WiFi, TVs, and a full kitchen. Some units also offer game rooms, theater rooms, or stunning mountain views. For pet owners, the company stands out with no breed, size, or type restrictions and a flat $50 pet fee per stay, no matter how many pets you bring.
Enjoy the privacy of your cabin along with customizable packages like romantic getaways, Dollywood discounts, and in-cabin spa treatments. With so many options, it’s easy to find the perfect pet-friendly retreat for your trip.
Dog-Friendly Activities in Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg offers numerous dog-friendly activities for a memorable vacation with your furry companion.
While most trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are off-limits to dogs, the Gatlinburg Trail is a notable exception, allowing leashed pets to enjoy its scenic pathways.
Stroll through downtown Gatlinburg where many shops and outdoor cafes welcome well-behaved dogs. For a bite to eat, pet-friendly restaurants like Hungry Bear BBQ and Tom & Earl’s Back Alley Grill offer patio seating for you and your pup.
Keep an eye out for seasonal dog-centric events, such as pet parades or meetups, to mingle with other dog lovers. With these options, Gatlinburg ensures your furry friend doesn’t miss out on the fun!
When “Dog-Friendly” Still Isn’t Enough in Gatlinburg
While many hotels and cabins in Gatlinburg welcome dogs, it’s important to know that pet policies vary widely, and most do not accept emotional support animals (ESAs) under federal law. Some places restrict pet size or breed, while others charge high cleaning fees—or simply don’t allow animals to be left unattended in rooms.
If your dog helps you manage a mental health condition like anxiety or PTSD, you might qualify for a Psychiatric Service Animal (PSA)—a designation that offers legal access to hotels under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), regardless of their pet policy.
To prepare your dog as a PSA, here’s what many travelers do:
- Get a PSA letter from a licensed mental health professional
- Complete a task-training program to meet ADA standards
- Use optional PSA gear like a leash, vest, or ID tag to avoid confusion at check-in
So, whether you’re staying near the Smokies or downtown, having your dog recognized as a PSA can help ensure a smooth, protected stay in Gatlinburg.
Tips with Traveling with Your Dog to Gatlinburg
Before traveling to Gatlinburg with your dog, ensure they are up-to-date on vaccinations and carry all necessary health records. Pack essentials like a leash, collar with ID tags, portable water bowls, food, and any medications your dog requires.
For your dog’s comfort and safety during travel, create a cozy space in your car or carrier with familiar items like blankets or toys, and plan for frequent breaks to allow them to stretch and hydrate. When staying at dog-friendly hotels, follow house rules, keep your dog leashed in common areas, and clean up after them promptly.
Be courteous in public spaces by ensuring your dog is well-behaved around other people and pets, helping to ensure a positive experience for everyone.
FAQs
Do Gatlinburg hotels charge extra for dogs?
Yes, most dog-friendly hotels and cabins in Gatlinburg charge a pet fee. These fees can range from $20 per night to a one-time charge of $50 or more, depending on the property and amenities offered for pets. Some also require a refundable deposit.
Can I leave my dog alone in the hotel room?
Not always. Some Gatlinburg accommodations allow dogs to be left unattended if crated, while others prohibit it entirely. Be sure to check the hotel’s specific rules to avoid fees or issues during your stay.
Are emotional support animals (ESAs) accepted at all dog-friendly hotels?
No. While many hotels allow pets, emotional support animals are not guaranteed access under the law. Only Psychiatric Service Animals (PSAs) are legally protected under the ADA and must be accommodated.
Conclusion
Gatlinburg, TN offers an ideal getaway for dog owners, with stunning mountain views, outdoor activities, and a variety of pet-friendly accommodations, including cabins and resorts.
However, not all hotels or rentals accommodate dogs equally, particularly emotional support animals (ESAs). If your dog provides assistance with conditions such as anxiety or PTSD, registering them as a Psychiatric Service Animal (PSA) ensures they receive full legal access to hotels under the ADA.
American Service Pets can assist you with obtaining PSA letters, completing at-home training, and accessing essential gear like vests and ID tags. With the right preparation, you and your dog can enjoy a stress-free and enjoyable trip to Gatlinburg.
The benefits of an Emotional Support Animal certification and a Psychiatric Service Dog certification are drastically different. Fortunately for you, American Service Pets’ network of active board certified doctor or other licensed mental health providers can help you find the right path to certification. To find out whether you need an ESA or PSD letter, take our easy, three-step Pet Owner Survey!
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