Travel has returned in full force, and as more people are exploring our wonderful world, they are also wanting to travel in a thoughtful and sustainable way. Some of the most striking images from the pandemic were photos that showed how, after only a couple of months, our natural world began to restore itself. When humans stepped back, nature took center stage in all its glory.

Now, many travelers are hoping to minimize their carbon footprint as they get out and discover new places. One way to do that is to stay in accommodations that make the environment a priority. From energy-saving measures and water-saving equipment to local sourcing of materials, hotels in the Smokies are making changes to help their guests rest easier about their impact on nature. Here are our top three picks for the best eco-friendly hotels in the Smoky Mountains.

Top 3 Eco-Friendly Hotels in the Smoky Mountains

Wilderness at the Smokies  – Sevierville, TN

With a name like Wilderness at the Smokies, being environmentally responsible is a top priority for this family-friendly resort and waterpark. As a member of the Green Hotels Association, they are committed to being as sustainable as possible.

By using a see-through Texlon™ roof to cover the indoor waterpark, this eco-friendly hotel is able to let in the sunshine year-round. Not only does this allow the plants inside to thrive, but it also reduces the resort’s energy usage by 300 to 400 therms of natural gas per day. Energy-saving measures like compact florescent lighting and Energy Star rated appliances and kitchen equipment help to reduce the amount of power needed. And guest rooms at the River Lodge come fully equipped with key-controlled occupancy sensors that turn on the lights automatically.

Under Canvas (No follow link) – Gatlinburg, TN

Under Canvas Great Smoky Mountains is recognized by Condé Nast Traveler as a ‘Top 20 Resort in the US – South’, and for good reason. Surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the Smokies, its safari-inspired accommodations are luxury glamping at its finest, making this one of our top picks for the best hotels in the Smoky Mountains (even though technically it’s not a hotel). The close connection with nature has informed their entire ethos. From design choices to curated experiences, their mission towards sustainability is clear.

Pull chain showers, faucets that automatically shut off, low-flow toilets, and a towel reuse program allow the camps to use significantly less water and energy than other hotels of equivalent size. And low-level lighting cuts down on light pollution, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in nature and soak up the starry night sky. Partnering with local conservation organizations, they strive to minimize their land disturbance and maximum open spaces, leaving nature as undisturbed as possible and preserving the environment around them. As an added effort to help guests unplug from technology and reconnect with nature, wifi is intentionally not offered.

Meadowlark Motel – Maggie Valley, NC

Over on the North Carolina side of the Smoky Mountains, in charming Maggie Valley, NC, you’ll find the Meadowlark Motel, a classic mountain roadside motel with elevated Appalachian chic décor and an attached Smoky Mountain Heritage Center. As one of the best eco-friendly hotels in the Smoky Mountains, they have been awarded the highest tier of recognition offered by the NC GreenTravel Initiative – the ‘Three Dogwood Award’. North Carolina’s GreenTravel Initiative is the most extensive of all state sustainable hospitality programs. It recognizes travel-oriented businesses within North Carolina for complying with a number of green, sustainable, and eco-friendly initiatives outlined by the state. And Meadowlark Motel earned this prestigious award because of their ongoing environmentally friendly programs that include:

  • Extensive recycling program with one recycling bin for every two rooms
  • Utilization of Energy Star-rated bulbs, electronics, and appliances
  • Refurbished electronics, when applicable, to reduce landfill
  • Local sourcing of materials to reduce carbon footprint, i.e. most products are post-consumer recycled materials (such as breakfast plates, cups and bowls)
  • All old/unusable items are donated or recycled (old appliances and electronics are donated to Habitat for Humanity and linens are donated to the local pet shelters)

Discover more places to stay and learn about all the exciting ways to experience the abundance of nature in the Smoky Mountains on our blog!