1.  Try to arrive before dark. Many remote properties are, by nature, secluded and difficult to spot after sunset.

2.  If you are staying in Cosby, you do NOT have to drive to Gatlinburg to enter the National Park. The Cosby entrance is within just a few minutes.  It is beautiful - take advantage of it!.

3.  If you are going to visit the National Park, a parking permit is now required.  You will save yourself time and headache by purchasing it NOW, taking it with you, and putting it on your dash.  You can buy it online at this link:  Great Smoky Mountains National Park Parking Tag Pass in Tennessee - Recreation.gov

4.  If you are planning to FISH in the National Park, a fishing license is required.  A North Carolina license works throughout the Park, and is considerably less expensive than a Tennessee license.  You will want to buy the "10 day inland fishing license" at this link: Fishing Licenses - North Carolina Fishing | eRegulations

5.  No need to bring toilet paper, paper towels, or bed linens; all are provided.

6.  Bring sunscreen, bug spray, and hats.

7.  If you are staying on a river or creek, bring life vests for kiddos and use them.  The water can be deeper than it appears and can run swiftly. Do not enter any waters after a rainstorm or if it appears high.

8.  You may encounter a bear at your property.  Do not feed bears whatsoever, and keep your distance. If one approaches the house/porch, go inside. They are large, strong wild animals and can be very unpredictable. 

9.  The top eateries in Gatlinburg are as follows: 
Steaks/Seafood:  The Alamo
Italian:  Best Italian
Breakfast:  Pancake Pantry (But arrive before 8:30 am to avoid long lines)
Mexican:  No Way Jose's (Park in the parking garage directly behind the Aquarium for $10)

10.  The best attractions are as follows:

Families with small children:  Dollywood, Ober Mountain, Anakeesta, Ripley's Aquarium.
Adults and teens:  Dollywood, Ober Mountain, Anakeests There are several mountain coasters in the area, all of them good from what we have heard.
Snow skiing:  From December through February, skiing can be quite respectable on Ober Mountain.  Skiing at Maggie Valley, NC is a better overall experience though, and is about one hour away, depending on which cabin you are staying at. It is a beautiful drive, too.

We have also enjoyed helicopter rides, horseback riding, and many shows that are primarily in the Pigeon Forge and Sevierville area.  The Titanic museum is good.