The Appy Lodge Hotel Review

My husband and I planned a trip to Gatlinburg for the third weekend in October as a late anniversary celebration (our anniversary is in August). We had previously looked at The Appy Lodge when looking for a hotel for one of our family trips to Gatlinburg over the summer, but it was already booked up. I was excited to find availability when searching for a hotel for this trip.

We drove over to Cherokee, NC to spend the first half of the day. We headed to Gatlinburg around 2pm and decided to check in to the hotel before our visit to Anakeesta.

When we arrived at the hotel, the fire pits were turned on. Rain began to settle in, so the staff had to turn them off shortly after this photo was taken.

The Appalachian Lodge is actually the full name of the hotel. The Appy Lodge was created as a way to bring the history of the Appalachian Trail to the city of Gatlinburg. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy partnered with the hotel in order to bring the history of the Appalachian Trail to live throughout the hotel.

Upon entering the main entrance of the hotel, you are greeted by a variety of blankets. What are these blankets for? They are for guests to use by the fire pits on cold winter days and nights.

The check-in process was a breeze. The staff was super friendly. Little Grandma greeted us at the front desk whenever we had a question. She was such a pleasure to talk to. She went out of her way to make us feel at home.

The main lobby is filled with rustic decor, wooden furniture, hiking references, and buffalo plaid. I love that the hotel had the feel of a cabin but the amenities of a hotel. The best of both worlds!

The gift shop is filled with Appalachian Trail memorabilia as well as snacks and drinks.

The coffee bar is located next to the breakfast area where complimentary breakfast is served each morning.  You will find a yogurt bar with a variety of toppings, muffins,  fresh fruit, and breakfast sandwiches…there’s something for everyone!

The indoor pool area was very well maintained. It includes a hot tub and a 5-foot pool as well as seating for about 8 people.

The outdoor pool area includes a slide and water features.

There’s also patio seating at the back of the hotel.

This cute sign sits at the side entrance of the hotel.

And of course, we can’t forget the guest rooms. We had a King Suite with Fireplace. Check out these photos from our room.

I highly recommend staying at The Appy Lodge. The property is well maintained, the staff is very friendly and it’s in a great location at the entrance to Gatlinburg (if you’re coming from Pigeon Forge). There just happens to be a trolley stop in the parking lot and a miniature golf course next door. Also, it doesn’t hurt that Flapjacks Pancakes is also next door if you’d prefer to have a larger breakfast than what is offered in the hotel’s complimentary breakfast.