EXPLORE THE BACK OF BEYOND

"If you are seeking a place apart, where the trails are faint and the world is forgotten, you are heading for the Back of Beyond." --Horace Kephart, Founding Father of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park

Nestled in the heart of Western North Carolina, Three Little Bears Retreat is more than just an eco-friendly getaway—it’s a place where fellowship, relaxation, adventure, and environmental stewardship come together in the embrace of nature’s beauty and history’s whispers. Here, the majestic Great Smoky Mountains stand as a testament to time, offering serenity to all who seek it, stories for those ready to listen, and an opportunity to give back to the land we share.

A Land of Deep Roots, Resilient Spirits, and Lasting Care

Our retreat rests alongside a pivotal piece of history—the site of the first deed given to Horace Kephart for the formation of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park on Lands Creek. Kephart came to Bryson City and the Smoky Mountains seeking solace in a place he deemed "the back of beyond," and then fought for its preservation as a national park through his work as a writer and as the foremost outdoorsman of his time. Inspired by his vision, we too see this land as something to be cherished and protected. Through our sustainability initiatives, we strive to honor his legacy by preserving and regenerating the natural environment that makes this place so extraordinary.

While the Park now preserves the beauty of the mountains, this land carries the memory of sacrifices made by families whose homes once stood within its boundaries. Generations later, their stories of resilience remain woven into the fabric of these hills, shaping our community’s spirit. To ensure that future generations can enjoy this landscape, we commit to practices that restore the land, conserve resources, and support the biodiversity of these mountains.

Even here, where the forest whispers its age-old songs, we remember that this land was first home to the Cherokee Nation. Their deep understanding of and respect for the environment inspire our own efforts to live in harmony with nature. The Cherokee principles of balance and stewardship guide many of our sustainability practices.

"Here, in the Back of Beyond, life moves to the rhythm of the mountains, not the ticking of a clock." -Horace Kephart

A Retreat Rooted in Fellowship, Reflection, and Sustainability

At Three Little Bears Retreat, we honor these histories while creating a space where stories can be shared, bonds strengthened, and memories made—all with a commitment to leaving the land better than we found it. Our retreat spaces are designed not only to bring people together but also to minimize their environmental footprint. From our use of renewable energy and eco-friendly materials to our initiatives in reforesting and stream preservation, every aspect of our retreat is crafted with care for the environment.

Whether gathering around a fire pit under the stars fueled by sustainably sourced firewood, or exploring the same trails walked by those who came before, your time here connects you to a legacy of fellowship, connection, and environmental regeneration.

"To be able to find joy in simple things, to know how to get pleasure out of small wayside episodes--these are the secrets of a happy life." --Horace Kephart

Adventure Awaits Amidst Timeless Beauty

The same mountains that bear witness to this rich history now offer endless opportunities for adventure. From hiking and fishing to tubing and exploring hidden waterfalls, the Smokies are a playground for the curious and the bold. For those who prefer a slower pace, the trails and streams surrounding the retreat, the Road to Nowhere, and Deep Creek invite quiet reflection and a chance to recharge. As you explore, know that each visit contributes to our ongoing efforts to preserve this landscape through trail maintenance, habitat restoration, and pollution reduction projects.

"In the school of the woods, there is no graduation day." --Horace Kephart

A Place to Connect with Nature, the Past, and the Future

We invite you to explore not just the beauty of the land, but also its stories and the work we are doing to ensure its future. Walk the trails once envisioned as pathways to the future, now maintained through eco-friendly stewardship practices. Reflect on the spirit of the families who found new beginnings after being displaced, and join us in forging a new legacy of care for the environment. Discover the traditions of the Cherokee people that continue to inspire awe, respect, and sustainable living.

At Three Little Bears Retreat, every stay is an invitation to be part of something bigger: a fellowship that bridges past and present, a respite from the demands of daily life, an adventure in reconnecting with what truly matters, and a commitment to nurturing the environment we all share.

"Preserve, study, absorb, revere, and enjoy the primeval woods before its too late." --Horace Kephart