When winter’s chill wraps the Smoky Mountains in its frosty embrace, there’s no better time to retreat to the luxurious warmth of a cozy cabin in Sevierville. Whether you’re seeking serene relaxation or intimate moments with loved ones, Smoky Mountain Soulstice and Cascades at the Summit offer the perfect backdrop for a winter escape. Nestled amidst picturesque landscapes, these cabins invite you to experience comfort, beauty, and unforgettable memories during your January getaway.

Smoky Mountain Soulstice: A Warm Haven in the Heart of Winter

As you step into Smoky Mountain Soulstice, you’re immediately greeted by its inviting warmth. The cabin’s expansive windows frame breathtaking mountain views, allowing you to savor the winter scenery from the comfort of the plush living area. With its high ceilings, rustic wooden accents, and a crackling fireplace, this cabin exudes charm and serenity.

Highlights of Smoky Mountain Soulstice:

Outdoor Hot Tub: As the sun sets over the Smokies, slip into the bubbling hot tub on the deck. Let the warm water and stunning views melt away the winter chill.
Entertainment Galore: Enjoy family game nights in the cabin’s entertainment room, complete with a shuffleboard table, arcade games, and cozy theater seating. It’s the perfect way to bond with loved ones while staying snug indoors.
Gourmet Kitchen: The well-appointed kitchen invites you to whip up hearty winter meals. Picture the joy of cooking together, surrounded by laughter and the aroma of comfort food.
Relaxation and Views: With ample seating on the deck, sip your morning coffee as the mountains wake up under a blanket of frost. It’s a moment of peace you’ll treasure.

Smoky Mountain Soulstice is a sanctuary that blends luxury with rustic charm, making it an idyllic escape for couples, families, or friends.

Cascades at the Summit: Elegance and Tranquility Await

Cascades at the Summit redefines cabin living with its elegant design and thoughtful amenities. Surrounded by lush woods and cascading water features, this cabin is a dreamlike winter retreat.

Highlights of Cascades at the Summit:

Hot Tub and Waterfalls: From 7 to 10 PM daily, soak in the warmth of the hot tub, and between 5 and 7 PM, marvel at the cabin’s illuminated waterfalls. These magical moments create an atmosphere of enchantment that winter nights are made for.
Firepit Gatherings: While roasting marshmallows is off-limits to preserve the pristine glass rocks, the firepit offers a cozy setting for storytelling, sipping hot cocoa, or simply basking in its warmth.
Chef’s Gourmet Kitchen: The spacious kitchen is a haven for culinary enthusiasts. Cook up hearty stews, bake fresh bread, or create a family-style feast with the state-of-the-art appliances and ample counter space.
Elegant Entertainment Spaces: From the sunlit indoor lounge to the game room with air hockey and plush seating, Cascades at the Summit ensures endless indoor fun.

Though the pool remains unheated during winter, the firepit and gourmet kitchen more than make up for it, offering warm and engaging alternatives.

Winter Activities to Enhance Your Stay

Beyond the comforts of these cabins, Sevierville offers a host of winter activities to make your trip even more special:

Scenic Drives: Take a leisurely drive through the Smoky Mountains, where snow-dusted trees and frosty peaks create a magical winter wonderland.
Hiking Trails: Bundle up and explore popular trails like Laurel Falls or Alum Cave. The crisp air and serene surroundings make for an unforgettable adventure.
Local Attractions: Visit nearby attractions like the SkyBridge in Gatlinburg or the Titanic Museum in Pigeon Forge for family-friendly fun.
Shopping and Dining: Discover unique boutiques and cozy restaurants in Sevierville’s downtown area, perfect for a relaxed afternoon outing.

Why Choose a Winter Getaway in Sevierville?

Winter in Sevierville is a time for slowing down, reconnecting, and savoring life’s simple pleasures. Smoky Mountain Soulstice and Cascades at the Summit offer not just a place to stay but an experience to cherish. Whether you’re lounging by the fire, soaking in the hot tub, or enjoying a homemade meal, these cabins ensure your January escape is nothing short of magical.

So, pack your warmest sweaters, gather your loved ones, and head to Sevierville this winter. A cozy retreat filled with comfort, joy, and breathtaking moments awaits you at Smoky Mountain Soulstice and Cascades at the Summit. Let the mountains welcome you home.

The Great Smoky Mountains in winter transform into a breathtaking spectacle. Snow blankets the peaks, creating a serene and magical atmosphere. And what better way to experience this winter wonderland than snuggled up in a cozy cabin in Sevierville, Tennessee?

These charming retreats offer the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. Imagine waking up to stunning mountain views, the only sound the gentle rustle of snow against the windows. Inside, a crackling fire warms your soul while you sip your coffee. Many cabins even boast private hot tubs, the perfect spot to soak in the tranquility of the snowy landscape.

Why Choose a Sevierville Cabin?

• Cozy Interiors: Think warm wood, cozy furnishings, and a fireplace that invites you to curl up with a good book.
• Modern Comforts: Fully equipped kitchens, Wi-Fi, and entertainment options like game rooms ensure you’re comfortable and connected.
• Winter Adventures Await: Easy access to nearby hiking trails, ski resorts, and charming towns.

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Unforgettable Winter Experiences:

• Hiking in the Smokies: Explore snow-covered trails, marvel at frozen waterfalls, and capture the magic with your camera.
• Snow Tubing Fun: Who can resist a thrilling ride down a snowy slope? Ober Gatlinburg offers snow tubing, skiing, and ice skating for all ages.
• Scenic Drives: Cruise along the Cades Cove loop road and spot wildlife in their winter wonderland.
• Winterfest Lights: Downtown Sevierville transforms into a dazzling display of holiday lights, perfect for a festive stroll.
• Fireside Relaxation: After a day of adventure, unwind by the fire with a good book, a board game, or simply enjoying the peaceful ambiance.

Family Fun in the Snow:

Sevierville cabins are perfect for family getaways. Build snowmen, have snowball fights, and explore kid-friendly trails like Sugarlands Valley. Back at the cabin, enjoy movie nights, storytelling sessions, and friendly board game tournaments.

Romantic Winter Retreats:

For couples, Sevierville cabins offer the ultimate romantic escape. Enjoy a private hot tub under the stars, cozy up by the fire with a glass of wine, and explore the scenic beauty of the Smokies together.

Packing Essentials:

• Warm Layers: Pack layers – thermal underwear, sweaters, and a warm, waterproof jacket are a must.
• Winter Gear: Don’t forget sturdy boots, hats, gloves, and a scarf.
• Cozy Comforts: Pack your favorite pajamas, slippers, and a good book.

Ready for Your Winter Escape?

Sevierville cabins offer the perfect blend of winter adventure and cozy comfort. Whether you’re exploring snowy trails, sipping hot cocoa by the fire, or simply enjoying quality time with loved ones, you’re sure to create lasting memories. Book your winter escape today!

About Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Did you know that the Great Smoky Mountains is considered one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world? They abound with exquisite forests, active wildlife and beautiful plants. The Smokies were designated as one of the first UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1983.

Imagine more than 800 miles of trails winding throughout the park which includes 71 miles of the Appalachian Trail. The Smokies are recognized as one of the most spectacular hiking destinations in the east.

Image Credit: Ales Krivec – Unsplash

Some things to know before you lace up your hiking boots and hit the trail:

The trails are accessible to hikers of all ability levels! There are 143 moderate trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park above sea level (from 0.8 to 32.7 miles and from 1,105 to 6,646 feet).

It’s FREE to enter the park, but camping will cost you $14-23 per night.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is open to the public 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Seasonal use restrictions can be found at: https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/hours.htm

If you are planning for an overnight stay, be sure to visit our Star Gazer Stays page to find a wide variety of lodging options in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Another option is the Stargazer Glamping Village. Located in beautiful Wears Valley our Glamping community provides the luxury of a resort with a camping feel.

Chimney Top

Image Credit: Mark Steele – Wikimedia

If you are looking for a great experience with some dazzling scenic views, then Chimney Tops is your ideal trail for hiking. This 3.8-mile trail is somewhat challenging, but the view you are rewarded with is worth it. The quick 1500 foot rise in elevation makes it one of the most challenging trails of the Smoky Mountains, though stairs make the trip a little smoother and easier. Enjoy a splendid view of Mount LeConte and other nearby places from the observation point located at the end of the Chimney Tops trail.

Laurel Falls Trail

Image Credit: Zhans33 – Wikimedia

Another interesting option for adventure junkies is the Laurel Falls Trail. This 80-foot trail happens to be one of the main attractions of the Smoky Mountains. This 2.6-mile path looks beautiful in all seasons. It takes around 2-3 hours to reach the falls. It ends at a wonderful pathway between the falls. Don’t forget to bring your camera as Laurel Falls offers many opportunities for scenic photos or that quintessential Laurel Falls selfie.

Clingmans Dome Hike

Image Credit: Billy Hathorn – Wikimedia

Rising 6,643-feet, Clingmans Dome is the third-highest mountain in the United States. Enjoy the amazing views from the parking area. What’s even more exciting is the observation tower that offers a stunning view of the surrounding mountains. You have to walk only a half a mile to reach the observation tower that’s located at the pinnacle of the mountain. In clear conditions, you can see up to 100 miles!

The path is not long, but the slope can make it a bit challenging. Don’t forget to bring a jacket even if you are hiking on a warm summer day. The temperature gets a bit cooler when you reach the summit.

Rainbow Falls Trail

Image Credit: HAL333 – Wikimedia

Offering one of the tallest waterfalls in the Smoky Mountains, Rainbow Falls, is a not-to-miss hike for nature-lovers. The elevation of the mountain is approximately 1500-feet, and takes the average hiker 3-4 hours to reach it. The 80-ft falls’ view makes the trek worth every second! Rainbow falls got its name from the rainbow that appears when the sun hits the glittering mist from the falls. You are going to need quality hiking boots for this trail. It might not be the most strenuous one, but it is fairly demanding.

Andrews Bald

Image Credit: Scott Basford – Wikimedia

Andrew Bald is only 1.8-miles away from Clingmans Dome during Spring, Summer and Fall. Andrew Bald is an ideal picnic spot for families. If you are planning to link a visit to Andrew Bald with a visit the Clingmans Dome in the winter, then be advised the hike to Andrew Bald is roughly 10 miles because the shorter 1.8 mile trail is closed in the winter.

By Carrie Cochran Mandala Travel Blog  Guest Post

Thousands of people come to Virginia Beach, Virginia, to enjoy its expansive beaches and lively boardwalk every year. But there’s more to this gorgeous area than just the beachfront scene.

Virginia Beach is a gorgeous area filled with stunning nature, watersports, history, and art. If you’re looking for a multi-dimensional beach vacation with a lot to offer, check out these top activities to try on your next trip to Virginia Beach!

1. Explore First Landing State Park

Few state parks offer the incredible diversity that you’ll find in First Landing State Park. Located in the northern corner of Virginia Beach, this area is where the English settlers initially landed in 1607 before heading north to Jamestown. It’s also where the famous pirate Blackbeard supposedly hid some of his treasure!

First Landing State Park offers a mesmerizing range of habitats to explore in such a small area, including cypress swamps, forests, beaches, and marshlands. You’d have no problem spending an entire day here if you chose!

2. Take a Dolphin Kayaking Tour

Combine a great watersport workout with up-close action with some of the cutest sea creatures in the area with a kayaking tour! Several local companies offer these unique experiences to explore the local waterways and bays. Most tours last for a couple of hours, and the expert guides know just where to find pods of friendly dolphins!

For an especially enchanting trip, choose to go at sunset for some of the most stunning sunsets you’ll find on the East Coast!

3. Visit the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center

Speaking of sea creatures, the Virginia Aquarium is a prime spot to really get to know about the oceans and waterways of Virginia Beach and the rest of the state! The aquarium features fish, reptiles, and sea creatures that you’ll find throughout Virginia, organized by rivers, oceans, the bay, and more.

The Virginia Aquarium also offers some lovely walking trails along Owls Creek and an adventure course. It’s a fun and educational adventure that the whole family will enjoy!

4. Tour the Vibe District

Did you know that Virginia Beach is a thriving art scene? In addition to the Museum of Contemporary Art located a few streets back from the beachfront, you can experience a wide array of local art in the Vibe District!

This fun area spans from Pacific Avenue to 16^th street and is covered in all kinds of street art: wall murals, painted sidewalks, art-covered electric boxes, and sculptures! The murals represent a wonderfully diverse range of art forms and artists and really encompass the fun vibes that make Virginia Beach so great!

5. Check Out Town Center

Virginia Beach’s Town Center is a thriving, high-class area where you can enjoy a little bit of everything. This area abounds in fine dining and entertainment, from Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse to Sandler Center for the Performing Arts. There’s also a local comedy club, a professional non-profit theater, and some incredible bakeries.

If you’re in the mood for shopping, Town Center has that covered, too. You’ll find a wide array of local gems and popular chains, from Lululemon and Free People to Monkee’s of Virginia Beach and Muse Paintbar. When you’re in the mood for a beach vacation that offers more than just sunbathing, Virginia Beach is the place to be! Come visit us this summer and experience the unique vibes of this beachfront city!

Note from StarGazerStays: What other ideas can you add to this list that the author may have not mentioned?
If you enjoyed this blog post, share it with a friend! Check out Carrie’s website at  The Mandala Travel Blog.
Carrie is passionate about giving information about guides to amusement parks, info on animal adventures, new discoveries on hiking destinations, latest travel update, and your expert in exploring the different tropical paradise.

You can also find her on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is mostly visited in the summer, fall, or spring. During these periods, visitors are at their peak, hence it becomes crowded. So, you want to avoid the crowd and visit in winter, but still have fun. What can you do? What are some of the things that can make the visit memorable and awesome? Read on to find some winter activities you can try.

Winter Hike

Winter hikes in the Smokies are synonymous with calm, quiet and clear views. However, you need to prepare yourself and take precautions. Furthermore, there are specific things that you can only see during this period. Since the trees are bare, you can see deep into the woods and enjoy a clear line of sight to the majestic wildlife. Additionally, you will see some of the human artifacts that are normally hidden by foliage. Isn’t that so amazing?

Winter Conditions Gear Checklist recommended by https://www.outdoors.org/trip-ideas-tips-resources/gear-advice/winter-gear-guide

Skiing and Snowboarding

You can also enjoy cross-country skiing and snowboarding during this period. Find pleasure in visiting the Ober Gatlinburg, a ski resort with good slopes and intermediate terrain to ski. The slopes are also perfect for snowboarding and snow tubing. So much fun in one place!
Beginner’s Guide to Skiing recommended by https://www.thesnowpros.org/

Create a snowman

In winter, if there is enough snow, you can build a snowman. Create some memories and have fun with family and friends as you create your very own snowman. This activity will interest the kids. Why not share in their fun?

Image Credit: Artem Labunsky – Unsplash

A Hot Tub Cabin

Since you will experience cold during your visit, rent one of the Gatlinburg cabins, especially one with a hot tub. Warm-up your evening as you enjoy the beautiful mountain views.

Night Drive

Take the fun to a whole new level by having that night drive to see the light display in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. Take that tour to see this amazing scenery. You can check the guide map for location.

Image Credit: chaletvillage.com

Visit the Artisans

Make your visit memorable by visiting the arts and crafts community of the Smokies. There, you will see various handiworks from paintings, sculptures, ceramics to furniture. Moreover, you can keep the memories by purchasing photos from local photographers.

Image Credit: smokiesadventure.com

Get the Best Views of Waterfalls

Some views such as those of frozen, sparkling snow and ice on higher elevation points of waterfalls can only be enjoyed in winter. You can hike or drive to the waterfalls to have fun at these beautiful sights.

Image Credit: Joshua Bedford – Unsplash

Winterfest

In winter, there is a Winterfest organized at Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. Save a date to have fun from these memorable events. Furthermore, you will enjoy the light displaces dotting the landscape all around Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg.

Image Credit: mypigeonforge.com

Meal Time

You can’t miss the opportunity of having a good meal in the Smokies. There is Mountain View Restaurant which offers a four-course meal. Remember to make a reservation 24 hours in advance. Furthermore, you can enjoy delicious family-style meals at Mama’s Farmhouse. Relax, enjoy your meal and view as well.

Image Credit: oldcreeklodgegatlinburg.com

Conclusion

There is so much to enjoy in the Smokies during winter. Therefore, don’t wait for summer, spring, or fall to come to visit. Plan to take a winter trip to enjoy these amazing activities. It will be less crowded and you’ll be able to enjoy the park at your own pace. Loads of winter fun awaits you in the Smokies!

“Imagine more than 800 miles of trails winding throughout the park which includes 71 miles of the Appalachian Trail. The Smokies are recognized as one of the most spectacular hiking destinations in the east.”

This article is for you if you want more information on Top 5 Smoky Mountain Hiking Trails.

Biloxi City is rich in diverse sites for tourist activities. It is located on the  gulf coast between the Gulf of Mexico to the south and Biloxi’s Back Bay to the north. Biloxi is a quaint gulf coast city that hosts local and international guests on it’sits sugar-sand beaches for recreation and sun bathing.

Keep reading to see our recommendation for the top things to do in Biloxi.

Tour the Biloxi Lighthouse

Image Credit: Woodlot – Wikimedia

What makes the Biloxi Lighthouse Unique? It stands at the center of Biloxi’s rich history. If this lighthouse could talk, it would tell you stories dating back 152 years to the 18^th century. This lighthouse is a survivor and stands as a testament to the resolve of the City of Biloxi! Climb to the top to enjoy sweeping views of the entire gulf coast.

Visit Ship Island

Image Credit: United States Geological Survey – Wikimedia

Ship Island is 11 miles from the mainland of Biloxi. Its beautiful beaches attract tourists from all ends of the globe. Activities on the island include fishing, lounging in the white sands under large umbrellas, hiking, and shelling.

The Hard Rock Casino

Image Credit: Santcomm – Wikimedia

Live like rock star royalty at the Hard Rock Casino pool.  The pool features a swim up bar and large swim shelf.  You’ll be waited on hand and foot as you relax in the sun, taking in the lively scene around you.  When you are done, you can try your luck at the Hard Rock Casino slots or cool down with a drink from their Robo Bar where you can watch robots mix up a refreshing cocktail!

Experience a Biloxi Shrimp Boat

Image Credit: Biloxi Shrimping Trip

Shrimp boat trips have been offered since 1954. During the hour-long trip, you’ll learn the tricks of the shrimping trade. This is the cheapest place in Biloxi to buy shrimp.

Attend a Biloxi Shuckers Baseball Game

Image Credit: Coastal Mississippi

MGM Park is the place to be for outdoor sporting activities. The venue is home to the Biloxi Shuckers Baseball team.  When the  6,000 seat stadium is at full capacity cheering can be heard for miles.  This is a fun family experience you don’t want to miss.  There is plenty of entertainment between innings to include impressive fireworks displays.

Visit the Hurricane Katrina Memorial

Image Credit: Tim Burkitt – Wikimedia

Hurricane Katrina left an indelible mark upon Biloxi and its citizens. No other storm in Biloxi’s history compares to the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina.

The memorial is found along the city’s main street, just behind the Biloxi lighthouse. The memorial has two plaques; one describes the hurricane’s devastation; a second shows the map of the damaged area.

Additionally, you will see a 12-feet memorial monument that protrudes to the height the water level reached. The memorial also shows the names of the victims of the tragedy.Though a small city on the Gulf Coast of Mississippi, Biloxi is home to beautiful white sand beaches and boasts a rich heritage. There are lots of places you can visit in Biloxi for both indoor and outdoor relaxation.  Star Gazer Stays would love the opportunity to host you at one of our conveniently located Biloxi locations. Please check them out on our website at stargazerstays.com/biloxi.

The State of Vermont is located in the northeastern region of the US. Its picturesque landscape and over 100 19th century wooden bridges make Vermont a beautiful place to visit.

Vermont is probably best known for two things: maple syrup production and cows! Vermont is the perfect place to vacation. It’s less than 4 hours away from many major metropolitan centers including New York and Boston.

Here is our curated list of ‘must see’ places in Vermont:

Lake Champlain

Image Credit: Annacecchini – Wikimedia

The 120 mile lake derives its name from Samuel de Champlain. Although it stretches through New York and Canada, most of the lake lies in Vermont.

With a surface area of more than 8,000 miles, the lake’s rich wildlife diversity attracts tourists for water sports and fishing. The shoreline is rimmed with untouched forests and fields making a perfect spot for kayakers, canoeists, and boaters.
Visit the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum opposite Vergennes’ Basin Harbor to learn about the lake’s role in the war of 1812.

Stowe

Image Credit: Artaxerxes – Wikimedia

Stowe is a beauty to behold, nestled in the Green Mountains. No visit to Vermont is complete without a visit to Stowe. It has a British colonial bridge, lots of weathered barns, skiing and some of the best zip lines in the state.

Stowe is home to the Vermont Ski Museum. The museum pays homage to Vermont’s long history as a premier northeast ski destination.

Stowe’s beauty is underscored by natural autumn colors, snow, and numerous shops and boutiques. Resort facilities and art galleries abound in this quaint Vermont town.

Shelburne Museum

Image Credit: NRavenel – Wikimedia

Shelburne is an open-air museum housing America’s fine art traditions and unique relics from Vermont’s fabled history. The Stowe museum is best known for it’s round barn where you’ll find wagons and antique carriage. The museum also features a pint shop, and intricate American quilts.

Several Vermont dairy farms are just a short distance away. Visit the local dairies to experience their locally produced milk, cheese and ice cream.

Mount Mansfield and Smugglers Notch

Image Credit: Redjar – Wikimedia

Mansfield is the tallest mountain in Vermont. The mountain features some of the best hiking trails.

Mount Mansfield skiers are treated to some of Vermont’s best scenic views aboard the gondola that whisks them to the top of the mountain. The gongola is open year round and is available to skiers and non-skiers alike.

During the summer months, no trip to Mount Mansfield is complete without adrive through Smugglers Notch. In the notch, you’ll slowly pick your way along a road that winds among trees and boulders. There are several opportunities to park and hike.

Here is a fun fact: The ‘notches’ at Smugglers’ notch are the result of glacial formation activities that carved caves in the mountain rocks. 19th-century smugglers used these caves as hiding places.

Ben and Jerry’s

Image Credit: Redjar – Wikimedia

No trip to Vermont is complete without a stop at the Ben and Jerry’s factory in Waterbury. You’ll be treated to a free 30-minute educational tour. At the end of the tour, you will have an opportunity to sample the flavor of the day and purchase some of your favorites.

The Hildene

Image Credit: J. Miers – Wikimedia

The picturesque property is an excellent example of a vacation home built by wealthy ruling families before the 20th century. It was built by Robert T. Lincoln, son to President Abraham Lincoln after he fell in love on a visit to Manchester.

The building and its lovely flower gardens house artifacts from Abraham Lincoln’s family. One famous belonging is Lincoln’s stovepipe hat.

Vermont is a truly unique year-round tourist destination. It’s landscape is dotted with quaint towns, towering ski mountains, and iconic covered bridges. It offers a little something for everyone in the family to enjoy. No trip to Vermont is complete without a stay at one of our luxurious properties in southern Vermont. Check us out at www.stargazerstays.com.

Southern Vermont’s natural beauty make it a bucket list item for hikers of all abilities. Star Gazer Farm is conveniently located to several hiking hot spots. Over the years, we have had hundreds of hikers use Star Gazer Farm as their home-base while tackling the area’s iconic day hikes. Here is our guest-curated list of hiking the Best Southern Vermont hikes:

#1. Lye Brook Falls

Lye Brook falls trailhead in Manchester, VT is about 15 minutes from Star Gazer Farm. This is a 5-mile loop hike…at the end, you are rewarded with a view of the tallest waterfall in Vermont. This hike can be done in about ½ a day. It is easy to moderate in difficulty level. More information about Lye Brook Falls trail is available on the Forest Service Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/gmfl/recreation/hiking/recarea/?recid=75341&actid=50

#2 Dorset Quarries

VT is famous for its marble quarries. In the nearby town of Dorset (20 min drive) there are numerous hikes that lead to abandoned quarries. These a popular choice for our guests because of how intriguing it is to explore the abandoned quarries. Visiting the quarries is like stepping back in time. Along the way to the quarries, you are likely to encounter other interesting abandoned structures. Several of the hikes offer scenic vistas at the destination or along the way. Pick your perfect quarry hike from the Town of Dorset’s dedicated hiking website: http://dorsetvt.org/hike.html. These hikes cover a broad range of ability levels. Please see the Dorset hiking website for specific information on difficulty and length.

#3. Equinox Mountain and Lookout Rock

The is a strenuous 6.3-mile hike, but it’s worth it! At the end, and along the way, you are rewarded with fantastic vistas of the valley that runs north/south along Route 7. The trail is best when there is no snow on the ground. Mount Equinox is the highest mountain in the Taconic range. At the summit, there is a visitor’s center and monastery. Lookout rock is just 2/10 of a mile away and has views of Manchester Village and features a marble bench for weary hikers to rest upon. The All Trails website has more information on this hike: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/vermont/equinox-mountain-and-lookout-rock

#4. Grout Pond

Grout Pond is located roughly 15 miles from Star Gazer Farm. You’ll access the trail from Kelly-Stand Rd. in Sunderland, VT. You can canoe, kayak or hike. There are no rentals available. There is a total of 12 miles of trail at Grout Pond. It’s not uncommon to see moose and bear roaming the woods around the pond. Information on the Grout Pond trails can be found on the Forest Service Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/gmfl/recreation/hiking/recarea/?recid=64913&actid=50

#5. Lake Shaftsbury State Park

Image Credit: Jen Rypkema – Pinterest

Shaftsbury State Park boasts a lovely recreational pond encircled by easy hiking trails. It’s just 8 minutes from Star Gazer Farm. This is a perfect hike for families with small children. There is a playground and quaint swimming area with sandy beach. The park also has grills and picnic tables. Canoes, kayaks, pedal boats and stand-up paddle boards are available to rent. This is an enjoyable family outing. More information on Lake Shaftsbury State Park is available on their website at: https://www.vtstateparks.com/shaftsbury.html

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Cabin Rentals Near Me – Traveling Safe in 2020 During COVID-19

Top 5 Smoky Mountain Hiking Trails: Recommended by Star Gazer Stays

These days, travel has evolved to become more intimate and local. The COVID-19 pandemic has left the travel industry in turmoil since March as people hurriedly canceled their summer travel plans.  This has left every industry in limbo. It’s as if everything has been paused, waiting for COVID-19 to ‘pass’. Arguably, the hotel industry has been the most severely impacted.   

However, with the gradual lifting of restrictions to ease areas into the “new normal”, increasingly, people are looking for safe, smart, and easy ways to spend their summer vacations. Checking out cabin rentals near me airbnb is a great option during this unprecedented time in the travel industry. Finding the best cabin rentals near me can be frustrating but a cabin vacation is the perfect way for people to bust the stress caused by COVID-19 and get liven up their lives with the adventure and fun only a vacation in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee can bring.

Time to Look for Cabin Rentals Near Me

Since mid-April, there has been a steady increase in travel demand has families and couples try to take trips that were initially canceled due to COVID-19 before the end of summer. Fortunately, all 50 states have clear guidelines in place regarding travel.

Check Out CDC Rules and Guidelines on Local and International Travels

Do note that the Centers for Disease Control or CDC highly encourages high-risk individuals which include the elderly, pregnant women, children, and those who have underlying medical conditions to stay home.

You can check out the CDC website for rules and guidelines on international destinations. 

Choosing cabin rentals near me is a popular option especially because international bans, limited flights and canceled cruises are a problem for those wishing to take a trip.

Sunrise over Appalachian Mountains in Autumn

The Trend in Vacation Homes and Cabin Rentals

Short-term house or cabin rentals are a popular trend in the travel. It’s a low-key and low-budget option that is considered very safe especially at this time. This also includes condo or vacation rental houses.

The trend in cabin rentals is expected to be on the rise in the next few months. It seems that the mental, physical, and emotional exhaustion and stress built over the past few months has actually triggered that fight or flight response-right to mountains of Tennessee!.

In fact, an interesting trend was noted on VRBO and Airbnb, the length or duration of stay have increased while the distance seems to be limited to places that can be reached in under a day.

Getting away to cabin rentals near me is actually a practical and fun way to get away from all the stress and still maintain that social distancing protocol even on vacation.

Cabin Rentals Near Me – More Affordable and Safer Option

In fact, renting a cabin or a house near you is safer and more budget-friendly than staying in a hotel.

 A cabin in the woods in a remote area is a conducive and safe escape today because you won’t be exposed to many people as you would staying in a hotel.

Also, staying in a cabin or a rental house is much more affordable than going for other vacation modes. However, it is very important to be mindful and practice CDC established safety and health protocols during your travels.