Smoky Mountain inns are similar, but have their own flavor [photos]

Following the fire that destroyed the lodge at Dancing Bear, a new one arose, this time with no rooms, but housing Appalachian Bistro, one of the top dining destinations in Blount County, Tenn., and run by the former chef at Terra Mae in Chattanooga. Hammocks and a firepit are in front of the restaurant. Following the fire that destroyed the lodge at Dancing Bear, a new one arose, this time with no rooms, but housing Appalachian Bistro, one of the top dining destinations in Blount County, Tenn., and run by the former chef at Terra Mae in Chattanooga. Hammocks and a firepit are in front of the restaurant.

By Anne P. Braly October 23, 2016 7 min read

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Alike Yet Different: Smoky Mountain inns aer similar, but have their own flavor

Cabins at Dancing Bear Lodge are rustic but complete for a luxury getaway.

One-bedroom cabins at Dancing Bear feature a king-size bed, a sitting area with satellite TV and Wi-Fi and a kitchenette stocked with freshly roasted coffee, housemade granola, orange juice and Greek yogurt.

A 2013 fire destroyed everything at Dancing Bear except the small metal bear that hangs on a plaque at Appalachian Bistro.

Pistachio-Dusted Halibut over Creamy Ginger Risotto is one of many entrees created by the culinary artistry of Appalachian Bistro's Chef Shelley Copper, formerly chef at Terra Mae in Chattanooga.

Bicycles are complementary at Dancing Bear.

Drive through the entrance to Dancing Bear to reach hillside cabins nestled in the woods.

No two cottages at Butterfly Gap Retreat are alike; each features a different modern design, such as the "glass house" that allows views of the surrounding mountainside from every angle.

The lake at Butterfly Gap is open for swimming, fishing and boating — but bring your own canoe or kayak.

Dancing Bear Lodge

› Where: 7140 East Lamar Alexander Parkway, Townsend, Tenn.› Phone: 800-369-0111› Online: dancingbearlodge.comButterfly Gap Retreat› Where: 4366 Butterfly Gap Road, Maryville, Tenn.› Phone: 865-984-6021.› Online: www.butterflygap.com

The Smokies come alive this time of year as tourists flock by the thousands to see Mother Nature in her glory – the changing of the leaves from green to brilliant shades of reds, yellows and golds to mountain wildlife as it clings to the last warmth of the year before creeping into the shadows for the winter.

It’s a moment of celebration and, for those looking for a place to rest their heads after a day of seeing all the sights to behold, there are inns off the beaten track that offer more than a good night’s sleep.

Two in particular have an interesting story to tell. By car, they are no more than 30 minutes away from each other; by what they offer, however, they are miles apart. One offers dining options, the other breakfast only. One is at the front door of the Great Smoky Mountains and is ideal for families and pets. The other is an adults-only destination in the foothills of the Smokies with a no-pet policy.

But they are alike in one way. They both offer opportunities to experience the geologic diversity of Blount County, one Tennessee’s most scenic areas.