Hiker’s Haven: Cherokee National Forest Retreat! - Reliance

Reliance, Tennessee | Hand-Built Cabin

Tucked into the forest at the foot of Starr Mountain, Hiker’s Haven is not simply a cabin — it is a place shaped by hand, patience, and the land itself.

Built entirely using timber hand-milled on the property, the cabin reflects a rare kind of craftsmanship. Massive tree trunks frame the windows and doorways. Rough-hewn stairs lead to the loft. Railings are formed from whole saplings and twigs. Every beam, every curve, every detail carries the story of the forest it came from.

Step outside and Bullet Creek flows just ten feet from the porch — a steady, soothing soundtrack to your stay. Hand-built wooden bridges cross the creek to a small private island where benches, a picnic table, and a fire pit invite long evenings under the stars. It’s the kind of place where coffee tastes better in the morning and s’mores linger a little longer at night.

From the front door, you can step directly onto trails that wind up Starr Mountain. Spend your day hiking, mountain biking, or exploring nearby waterfalls and the Hiwassee River. Then return to the quiet rhythm of the creek and the warmth of a fire.

Hiker’s Haven is hand-built — thoughtfully, intentionally, and with deep respect for the land around it.

Here, the forest isn’t just your backdrop. It’s part of the architecture.

And we are pet friendly.
Contact us to book your stay!

The space
SLEEPING ARRANGEMENTS
- Bedroom 1: 1 queen bed
- Bedroom 2 (Loft): 1 king bed, 1 queen bed

CABIN HIGHLIGHTS
- Located on Bullet Creek at the base of Starr Mountain
- Hand-built w/ wood milled from fallen trees on the property
- Covered porch w/ bench swing & rocking chairs
- Fire pit (wood provided), bench seating
- Picnic table
- Flat-screen TV
- Board games, books
- EV charger

KITCHEN
- Refrigerator, stove/oven
- Drip coffee pot (starter coffee provided)
- Toaster, microwave
- Cooking basics, dishware & flatware
- Dining table

GENERAL
- Free WiFi
- A/C split system, propane fireplace
- Washer & dryer, detergent
- Linens & towels
- Complimentary toiletries, hair dryer, hangers
- Keyless entry

FAQ
- 1 exterior security camera (facing driveway)
- Pet fee (paid pre-trip, 1 dog max + 1 addt'l dog w/ prior approval)
- Unfenced creek on property

ACCESSIBILITY
- 5 steps for entry, 2-level cabin
- 1st-floor bedroom & bathroom

PARKING
- Driveway (ample parking)
- EV charger

Guest access
Guests will have access to the entire property via keyless entry

Other things to note
- Smoking (including cigarettes, vapes, cigars, marijuana, incense, or any burning substances) is strictly prohibited inside the home
- Dog friendly w/ $50 fee (+ fees & taxes, 1 dog max); an additional dog may be allowed with prior approval.
- Pets must not be on furniture unless covered with provided sheets; always clean up after them outdoors. No pets left unattended in the home
- No events, parties, or large gatherings


ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- This property is in a remote location; there is no cell phone service, but WiFi is provided
- This 2-level cabin requires 5 steps for entry; the 1st floor features the bathroom and a bedroom
- Due to the unfenced creek area and stairs inside the cabin, this property may not be suitable for young children
- Your safety matters. This property features 1 exterior security camera on the porch facing outward toward the driveway. It does not look into any interior spaces. The camera actively records audio and video