About Us

A Vision Born from Wanderlust, a Love for the Mountains, and a Commitment to Sustainability

Three Little Bears Retreat was inspired by a lifelong love for nature, adventure, and connection. As an avid backpacker and hiker, I’ve had the privilege of exploring the far corners of the world—from the remote mountain trails of Patagonia and Kilimanjaro to vibrant cultural hubs in Brazil and Thailand, and from rustic cabins to luxurious lodges and resorts. These journeys taught me not only the beauty of the outdoors but also the universal power of a place to bring people together, nurture the soul, and create lasting memories.

When I became a parent, I dreamed of a place where my three children could grow up immersed in the same outdoor skills and love for the mountains that had shaped my own life. I wanted them to understand the value of fellowship around a fire, the thrill of discovering hidden trails, and the joy of quiet mornings surrounded by nature. Three Little Bears Retreat grew from that dream—a place where I could share those lessons with my family while opening our doors to guests from all walks of life, fostering a shared appreciation for nature and sustainable living.

A Sanctuary with a Story and a Mission to Sustain It

Located on land steeped in history, Three Little Bears Retreat offers more than just a getaway—it’s an invitation to step into the heart of Western North Carolina’s rich cultural and natural heritage. This land, once part of the Cherokee Nation and a pivotal piece in the creation of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, carries with it the resilience of the people who have called these mountains home for generations. From the families who were displaced to make way for the Park to the unfinished “Road to Nowhere” that speaks to the complexity of progress, this land tells stories that are as inspiring as the views themselves.

With that inspiration comes responsibility. At Three Little Bears Retreat, we are committed to preserving and regenerating the environment for future generations. Our efforts include removing non-native plant species to allow local flora to thrive, rehabilitating and releasing injured wildlife in partnership with local wildlife refuges, and restoring the balance of this ecosystem. We also take pride in improving older buildings on the property with sustainable materials and designing our newer spaces with eco-conscious principles, blending modern comfort with respect for the land. Every stay supports these initiatives, allowing guests to be part of this ongoing legacy of care and renewal.

Fellowship, Relaxation, and Adventure

At Three Little Bears Retreat, our goal is to offer a space where guests can experience the best of the mountains: fellowship with loved ones and fellow travelers, the peace of an exclusive and secluded retreat, and the thrill of outdoor adventures. Whether you’re hiking a nearby trail, sharing stories around a fire, or simply enjoying the quiet beauty of the Smokies, every moment is designed to help you connect—with nature, with others, and with yourself.

From the World to the Smokies, with Nature at Heart

Having visited lodges, cabins, guesthouses, and retreats across cultures, I’ve brought the best of those experiences here to create a retreat that feels both intimate and welcoming. Inspired by the warmth of a remote village guesthouse in the Himalayas, the thoughtful design of eco-lodges in Central America, and the communal spirit of a safari camp in Africa, Three Little Bears Retreat blends global influences with the unique character of these Appalachian mountains while leading with a commitment to sustainability.

By carefully stewarding this land and sharing its stories, we aim to inspire guests not only to enjoy its beauty but also to care for it. Whether it’s witnessing the release of rehabilitated wildlife, exploring trails surrounded by native flora, or staying in thoughtfully designed spaces built with the environment in mind, every moment at Three Little Bears Retreat connects you to nature’s richness and resilience.

Whether you come for adventure, relaxation, or to reconnect with history, Three Little Bears Retreat offers an experience as diverse and enriching as the land it calls home. We welcome you to be part of our story—and to make your own here in the heart of Western North Carolina in Bryson City, the basecamp of the Smokies.

Come find your back of beyond, 

Matt McGee

Founder, Three Little Bears Retreat

Contact Info: matt@3littlebearsretreat.com

828-538-0306

147 Mitchell Rd, Bryson City, NC 28713