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Little Bear Escape

1 bedrooms·1 bathrooms·3 guests

Mountains

Tucked away in a private, wooded setting between Boone and Banner Elk, this custom-built cabin offers a serene escape designed for relaxation and connection with nature. The open-concept living space is filled with natural light from floor-to-ceiling windows and skylights, creating an airy atmosphere that blends seamlessly with the surrounding forest. A cozy wood-burning fireplace anchors the room, while the thoughtfully designed kitchen and dining area provide everything needed for intimate meals and quiet evenings in. The spacious suite offers a peaceful retreat with refined comfort, while the outdoor spaces elevate the experience even further. A large deck invites you to unwind with tranquil views, whether swaying on the unique bench swing, dining under the open sky, or enjoying the warmth of the chiminea. Just steps away, a private hot tub nestled among the trees provides the perfect setting to relax and take in the beauty of the mountains, making this an unforgettable getaway for any season.

Our promise

We've reviewed thousands of homes and approve only the best. Each one is professionally managed and vetted for comfort and style, raising the bar for every stay.

KEY Curation Notes

A custom single-bedroom cabin built for two — floor-to-ceiling windows, multiple skylights, and vaulted ceilings create a generous, light-filled space that doesn't feel small despite the footprint; a queen pull-out in the great room adds flexibility for a small third guest.

Hot tub on the floating deck with forest surroundings and seasonal views of Grandfather Mountain — the kind of setup that earns its keep regardless of season.

Wood-burning fireplace in the great room with custom island kitchen and stainless appliances; the whole interior has the feel of a custom build rather than a remodeled rental.

Privately located between Boone and Banner Elk with no community fees, no gate, and no amenity surcharges — straightforward access with short drives to ski slopes, trails, Mast General Store, and downtown Banner Elk.

Pet-friendly. 4WD or AWD recommended for winter months.

Amenities

Indoor

Air conditioning

Dryer

Fireplace

Internet

Washer

Outdoor

Outdoor grill

Hot tub/Jacuzzi

Deck

Outdoor dining area

Outdoor seating

Misc

WiFi

EV charger

Elevate your stay with add-on services

Book a home, then customize your experience. From ski delivery to pre-arrival groceries, we coordinate everything you need so you can make memories on the mountain and stories by the fire.

Ski fitting + delivery

Pre-arrival groceries

Private chef

Alcohol delivery

Private driver

Charcuterie board delivery

Bedroom details

Bedroom 1: King

Additional Sleeping Space: Sleeper Sofa

Location

Inside the destination

Neighborhood: Caseys Gap - This luxury cabin offers seasonal mountain views and is conveniently located between Boone and Banner Elk, with just a short drive to either.

Parking information

Little Bear Escape has parking space for up to 2 vehicles.

Getting to the property

AWD or 4WD vehicles are required during the winter months. The road leading to this home starts as paved, then turns to gravel and is moderately steep.

Reviews

Rutherford

Easy check in and beautiful views. The cottage had everything we needed. Close to the parkway and grocery store.

Policies

Check-in: 4:00 PM

Check-out: 10:00 AM

Renter's age: 25+ years old

No smoking allowed

No events allowed

Pets allowed by request

Cancellation policy

Plans change, we get it.

Enjoy peace of mind when booking with KEY.co.

90% Refund: Receive a 90% refund when you cancel your reservation at least 60 days before check-in.

No Refund: Reservations canceled 59 days or less before check-in are not eligible for a refund.

Refunds subject to a 5% processing fee of the total.

Things you need to know

For those traveling with a larger group and needing more space, Big Bear Escape is located on the same road and is approximately 100 yards away.

The home offers a level 1 Tesla charger for guests to use.

Firewood may be purchased at the time of booking or with a week's notice. You receive two wrapped, kiln-dried bundles and a fire starter for $25 plus tax.

Please observe a quiet hour of 10 PM as there are full-time residents nearby.

There is a Ring doorbell camera on the property by the front door.

The property is set up for light housekeeping, including linens and towels. We provide a STARTER SET of toilet tissue, paper towels, bath toiletries, dish soap, and trash bags. This is enough for one or two nights, but if you are staying for an extended length of time, you should plan to bring some supplies from home or plan to purchase these items at a grocery store when you arrive.

We provide one towel and washcloth per person that each respective house accommodates, plus a few extra towels if there is a hot tub. The beds are made up with clean linens (except bunks, sleepers, and futons, but linens are provided on site). If you routinely use two towels after bathing, you may need to bring some of your own.

This home comes equipped with a basic set of cookware, sufficient plates & silverware for the occupancy of the home, and basic serving and baking dishes. Most homes do not have unusual items such as crockpots or blenders, so if you’re planning a dish that requires an unusual item, it is best to bring that from your home.

This home is not stocked with cooking oils or spices, hairdryers, condiments, coffee, coffee filters, or food storage items, including plastic wrap or foil.

Restrictions

Guests & Occupancy

Age requirements: Primary guest must be at least 25 years old and must remain on-site for the full stay.
Maximum occupancy: Occupancy limits (including children) must not be exceeded at any time.
Guest accountability: The booking guest is responsible for all occupants, compliance with rules, and any damages beyond normal wear and tear.
Unauthorized guests: $25 per person per day for exceeding occupancy; may result in immediate removal.
Approved use of property: Use is limited to vacation purposes unless prior written approval is obtained. Subletting or assignment is not permitted without written approval.

Events & Noise

Events & gatherings: Not permitted without prior written approval; unauthorized events may result in fines, immediate removal without refund, and charges for damages/cleaning.
Noise restrictions: Must comply with local noise regulations at all times.

Prohibited Activities

Pets: Allowed only in designated homes with prior approval and a non-refundable pet fee. Unauthorized pets: $200 fee + $500 cleaning fee; may require removal or termination without refund. Pets must meet all listing restrictions and be pre-treated for pests.
Smoking/vaping: Strictly prohibited indoors; $300 smoke remediation fee.
Illegal activities: Any violation of laws or regulations is prohibited and may result in termination of stay.
Fireworks & firearms: Strictly prohibited at all times.
Fire/fireplace misuse: No burning wood in gas fireplaces. No roasting food in fireplaces. Unauthorized outdoor fires prohibited (fees apply).
EV charging: Prohibited unless specifically approved; $500 fine.

Equipment & Amenities

Seasonal requirements: (if applicable) 4WD/AWD and/or tire chains strongly recommended November–April; no refunds for lack of preparation.
Hot tubs _(if equipped)_: Use at your own risk; not suitable for individuals with infections or open wounds. Must follow all sanitation and usage rules (no additives, glass, or tampering). $500 fee for cover damage; additional fees for misuse or extra cleaning.
HVAC & utilities: Some homes may not have air conditioning; no refunds due to weather or lack of AC.
Internet/TV/phone: No refunds for outages or service issues. Pay-per-view is prohibited; charges will be billed if used. Long-distance calls must not be billed to the home.
Appliances & equipment: No refunds for malfunctions (TV, hot tub, appliances, etc.).
Equipment reporting: Issues must be reported promptly; repairs will be attempted but are not guaranteed.
Parking rules: Vehicle limits apply; some areas restrict motorcycles, RVs, or trailers. No roadside parking if prohibited.
Restricted areas: Locked closets/areas are off-limits.
Firewood: Available for purchase ($25/day) with 7-day advance notice.

Checkout & Care

Check-in: Begins at 4:00 PM (may vary up to 5:00 PM depending on home/season). No early check-in guarantees or compensation.
Checkout: By 10:00 AM.
Key return: $25 fee for lost keys.
Cleaning expectations: Leave the property in reasonable condition. Bag and dispose of trash, start dishwasher, and place used towels as instructed.
Furniture & home care: Maintain cleanliness and avoid unsafe or unsanitary conditions.
Supplies: Starter supplies only; additional items must be purchased by guests.

Liability & Disclaimers

Accidental damage may be covered under a waiver (not insurance); exclusions apply (intentional acts, negligence, misuse, etc.). Additional charges may apply.
Not responsible for lost items; return attempts may incur cost.
No liability for injuries related to hot tub or amenities; use at your own risk.
No refunds for outages, mechanical failures, pests, cleaning issues, or similar inconveniences.
No refunds for weather conditions, hazardous roads, or inability to access property due to lack of preparation.
No refunds for nearby construction or environmental conditions.
Furnishings, decor, and amenities may vary; no refunds for preference differences or listing discrepancies.
Mandatory evacuations may qualify for prorated refunds (subject to conditions).
Alternative accommodations or a full refund will be provided if the property becomes unavailable.
Authorized personnel may enter for inspection, repair, or maintenance during reasonable hours.
Guests assume responsibility for personal injury or property damage unless caused by the negligence of the owner.