Just returned from Gatlinberg and the fall was brilliant such beauty the view from the summit was fantastic. we have been staying there for our trips for about 15yrs and it is getting older but still very nice each unit is indivually owned some take better care than others, check your unit before unpacking and if not happy request another.

My little family have come to the Summit off and on for the last 15yrs. It is a trade off. By no means is it quick and easy to get to. However once you are there all that you hear is yourself making a "Sigh or relief". You do not hear crowds or feel that need to escape that is often felt in touristy areas. The condos are smaller and older than what you see these days but they have a very "at home" feel. When you make your dinner and are sitting with your balcony door open watching the sunset over the beautiful smokey mountains you fall in love. You forget the little creaks in the door, small wear in your carpet etc. The indoor pool area has a smallish pool and two hot tubs that are indeed hot. There is an outdoor pool as well as a sauna. The club house has a laundry and small game room (small being the main word). Using your GPS to get to the summit will get you lost as it has us many times. Ask the main desk to mail you their directions as they truly are the simplest. This last visit in June, I videotaped a resident black bear on grounds. He seemed pretty at home and visitors are strongly urged to not feed them.
Pros: Beautiful grounds and scenery (building needs painted and some amenities updated.)
Super nice staff that are quick to respond, family atmosphere as most partiers will not
travel that far.
Cons: The drive up and down the mountain. In the dark it can be quite confusing. Get your groceries on the way up.

Recommendations: Pigeon Forge for breakfast at the Old Mill or The Applebarn.

Its a great room once you go there for the price we paid.It was far better than the photos shown. The tough part is getting there for the first time especially if you are driving after dark. After couple of times we figured that out. Its pretty much 4 roads you need to remember and be on them. From gatlinburg bypass way--> Cambell-> willey oakley-> skiview From Gatlinburg: ski mountain-> wiley oakley-> ski view. Dont try to be oversmart and shortcuts you might get stuck in unpaved roads.

We actually rented my friends condo for a reasonable rate. But I just want to mention a few points. The bad- the drive is horrible and couldn't imagine doing it in the dark. You literally feel like you are on a rollcoaster that never goes down. The good- beautiful location, great facilities, nice pool, quiet, not a busy place, and seems almost like a retirement community. We saw a teenaged black bear who was friendly to people taking pics of him as he went to dumpsters. If you are someone who can plan your day in such a way that you do not use your condo other than at night then you will be fine. However if you like to go back for naps or use the place at various times then you will want to stay closer to town. I drove a new mini van and was worried my transmission was gonna go any second from the drive. Definitely not a drive for a weak car.