Location
Bear Ridge Retreat sits in Sugar Mountain, Banner Elk, just minutes from the ski slopes, Beech Mountain, Grandfather Mountain, downtown Banner Elk, and Boone. Located at 4,200 feet above sea level at the peak of a quiet, no-through mountain road, the property is surrounded by woodland while remaining convenient to area shopping and attractions. Sugar Mountain Ski Resort is just 1.7 miles away, offering spectacular views of the slopes both during your drive and from the back deck. Sugar Creek Gem Mine and The Wilderness Alpine Coaster are less than a mile away, right before you turn onto the mountain road leading to the cabin. The property offers nearly an acre to explore, including access to private woods and a stream, a fenced yard, and natural sledding areas in winter.
Parking/Access
The spacious, level gravel driveway accommodates four vehicles at the front of the property. During winter months, we frequently experience heavy snowfall and icy conditions, with extended periods where snow and ice cover the access roads.
IMPORTANT: Four-wheel-drive vehicles and snow chains are required during winter months and in inclement weather. We cannot provide refunds if winter weather, ice, or snow prevent access to the property.
Space & Amenities
Our charming three-level stone mountain cabin blends authentic cabin living with modern comforts for an unforgettable stay. Throughout the home, you’ll find high-end cabin furniture and decor, including a custom vintage barn wood dining table and chairs, handcrafted wooden bed frames, a Tennessee-milled cherry wood breakfast bar, and locally sourced lamps, art, and pottery.
The main level opens to a welcoming living area featuring a Roku TV, comfortable seating options, vaulted ceilings, and a stunning double-height stacked stone gas fireplace. An eight-person dining area connects to both the enclosed back porch and the fully equipped, updated kitchen. Just off the living area, you’ll find the master bedroom, Big Bear Den, featuring a beautiful handcrafted king bed with luxury Egyptian cotton linens, cozy knit blankets, and designer Donna Sharp quilts. The room offers plenty of storage with a walk-in closet and dresser, plus an updated ensuite bathroom complete with dual vanities, modern fixtures, a rain shower, and a soaking tub.
The lower level includes a second living space, The Nook, serving as our basement game room. Here you’ll find a Roku TV, PlayStation, arcade game machine, books, and board games, with something for everyone to enjoy. This level also provides easy access to the fenced yard, fire pit, and hot tub, along with two additional bedrooms and a bathroom.
At the end of the hallway, you’ll discover Woodland Nest, a peaceful suite featuring a Roku TV, large closet and dresser, handcrafted queen bed with luxury Egyptian cotton linens, plush blankets, and rustic quilts. A classic Victorian bench provides additional seating. The updated ensuite bathroom (which includes an extra hallway door for shared access) features a beautiful vanity, modern fixtures, a rain shower, and a tub.
The third bedroom, Honey Haven, includes a Roku TV and a handcrafted queen bed dressed with luxury Egyptian cotton linens, plush blankets, and beautiful rustic quilts. A practical writing desk/vanity with mirror, dresser, walk-in closet, and vintage seating complete the space. This bedroom shares the Woodland Nest bathroom across the hall.
Upstairs, Little Paws Loft creates a magical retreat for children. As you reach the top of the stairs, you’re greeted by a beautifully lit fairy tree and children’s teepee. This semi-enclosed space overlooks the floor below and features two handcrafted twin beds with cozy plush blankets, black bear stuffed animals, and rustic quilts. A children’s reading nook with cushions, toys, a large dresser, and a Roku TV makes this the perfect space for younger family members.
We’ve equipped the cabin with everything needed for a worry-free stay. The kitchen is fully stocked with cooking utensils, pots, pans, baking sheets, cutlery, dishes, kids’ dining items, and glassware. You’ll always find cooking basics like oil, seasonings, spices, sugar, coffee supplies, foil, and food wrap. We provide dish soap, kitchen towels, napkins, and several days’ worth of dishwasher tablets.
All bathrooms are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized. We provide fresh towels and washcloths for each guest, plus plenty of toilet paper. Each bathroom is stocked with locally made bar soaps and premium vegan, cruelty-free, paraben-free, and dye-free body wash, shampoo, and conditioner.
Quality bedding ensures a great night’s sleep. All beds feature new frames and mattresses. King and queen beds are made with luxurious California Design Den 100% Egyptian cotton linens and authentic Virah Bella or Donna Sharp cabin quilts. We clean all duvets, blankets, and shams between guests for a fresh, hygienic stay.
On the lower level, you’ll find a laundry area and utility closet with a full-size washer and dryer, plus enough laundry detergent for several loads. We also provide cleaning supplies, stain remover, vacuum cleaner, clothes drying rack, and iron with ironing board.
Additional amenities include first aid kits, two child safety gates for stairs, and pet supplies including a large dog water bowl with silicone feeding mat, waste scoop, and dog toys.
Outside
The cabin features three enclosed decks with comfortable seating. The front porch deck overlooks the driveway and includes a lockable gate for pet and child safety. You’ll find a boot brush/cleaner, covered storage for snow or hiking boots, multiple seating areas, good lighting, and steps down to the fenced yard.
From the dining/kitchen area, step out to the enclosed back deck with rocking chairs offering seasonal views of Sugar Mountain ski slopes and beautiful sunsets. This deck also includes an outdoor dining area and new gas grill.
The third deck, accessed from the fenced yard, overlooks the forest and a seasonal stream. Enjoy the crystal-clear waters of our fully refurbished hot tub, which we maintain to the highest safety standards. Towels are provided, and a bistro table and patio heater make this a versatile space for enjoying nature.
In the fenced yard, gather around the new stone fire pit with its gravel surround and six classic wooden Adirondack chairs. We provide a complimentary s’mores station and firewood for making memories under the stars. The yard features lockable gates for child and pet safety; one leading to the front driveway and another providing access to private woods, ancient rock formations, and a seasonal stream.
From the peaceful property, you can often spot visiting wildlife, including deer, bears, groundhogs, and wild turkeys that frequently roam the cabin grounds.