Review: Sky Ridge Yurts—Bryson City, NC

Sky Ridge Yurts is a glamping haven perched high on a mountainous ridge line. The promise of a view that could "take your breath away" wasn't an exaggeration—it was a reality that unfolded before our eyes.

Descending on Sky Ridge felt like stumbling upon a hidden gem. Seven yurts, each promising a unique experience, awaited our arrival.

The idea of glamping intrigued us—a blend of glamor and camping that promised a connection with nature without sacrificing the comforts of home. As motorcycle enthusiasts, we craved an experience that resonated with the spirit of the open road, and Sky Ridge seemed to offer just that.

From the get-go, the Sky Ridge team welcomed us warmly. They’re a family that has been part of the glamping journey since its inception in 2011.

A sense of authenticity sets Sky Ridge apart from the growing wave of glamping options. It's more than a business; it's a passion shared by those who've been with it from the start.

Our chosen abode, a yurt, was unlike anything we'd experienced. The allure lay in its beautiful design that offered an immersive experience with nature's sounds.

If you're bothered by the occasional chirping crickets, a distant coyote howl, or even the laughter of your neighbors, there's a sound-proof cabin available. But for us, these sounds became a reminder that we were enveloped in the embrace of the Great Smoky Mountains.

Private Snuggery: The Cherokee Yurt

The serene charm of the Cherokee Yurt beckoned with its coziness. Hosting up to three guests or a family of four with two small children, the yurt featured a thoughtfully designed space with a tall queen bed and a convenient twin pull-out in the shared common area.

The kitchenette provided conveniences such as a small fridge for our fresh veggies and milk, a microwave, an electric skillet, a toaster, a coffee pot with a bag of Guatemalan coffee, and complete dishware. Stepping outside onto our private deck with a Weber Q gas grill, a picnic table, and a personal fire pit stocked with firewood stood us in good stead for an enchanting evening under the stars.

The full bath in the Cherokee Yurt offered comfort and convenience with a spacious walk-in shower, Marula Soul natural toiletries, a mottled copper sink, and antique bronze fittings for linens and towels. It struck a balance between rustic charm and tasteful stylishness.

The yurt's promise of central heating and air conditioning was welcome in December. We’re used to the elements, but the thought of a toasty warm yurt in winter (or a reasonably cool one in summer) made our hearts race with anticipation.

With its unique structure, the yurt became a place to retreat after exploring the winding roads amid North Carolina’s Smokies.

Highlights

What made our stay enjoyable was the seamless blend of rustic charm and comfort. Sky Ridge wasn't just about the yurts with a stellar view, but about the experience.

The connection to nature resonated, whether we were lounging in the yurt, gazing at the breathtaking sunset bathing the view in golden hour light, or gathering around a crackling campfire below a star-studded sky.

The uniqueness of Sky Ridge lies in its glamping concept. As we revved up our motorcycles to bid farewell, we left with gratitude for stumbling upon a place that exceeded our expectations.

Sky Ridge became a welcome and quaint addition to our motorcycle adventure, a story to be shared with fellow riders and a memory etched in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains.

Facts & Info

Amenities

• Safe and secured parking area is an inconsequential walk up some stone steps from the yurt’s entrance.
• Restaurants within riding distance to Bryson City.
• Plenty of space in the three-bedroom yurt for two riders to spread out their gear.
• Hooks in the room to hang riding gear.
• A coffee machine and good Guatemalan coffee is provided.
• Easily accessible outlets for charging multiple electronics.
• A firepit with an abundance of wooden logs (located outside the yurt) overlooking the Smoky Mountains to relax at the end of the day.

Available Add-ons

• Pet Fee: $75 per pet, mandatory for furry friends. Up to two dogs are allowed.
• EV Charging: $20 for using the Chargepoint Station. Bring any special adapters you may need.
• Super Cedars Firestarter: $4 for a single firestarter, perfect to ignite the free firewood provided. One starter can be cut up for up to four uses.
• Artisan S'more Kit: $16 for a Ticket Chocolate s'more kit, handcrafted and award-winning. Comes with roasting sticks for four treats.
• Bryson City Local Fare Basket: $60 for a basket filled with local wine, mead, bacon jam, and crackers. Delivered by Bryson City Wine Market to your yurt.
• Bryson City Wine Basket: $90 for a curated selection of local wines, designer cheese, crackers, and olives. This special welcome waits in your yurt upon arrival.
• Mini Photography Session: $130 for a 30-minute on-site photo session with 10-12 edited digital images. Refundable if timing or weather doesn't work out.
• Sky Ridge Bumper Sticker: $3 to flaunt your love for Sky Ridge. Perfect for bumpers, backpacks, laptops, and more.
• 60-Minute Massage: $120 for an hour of professional massage (or $160 for 90 minutes) on your deck by a licensed therapist. Refundable if the timing doesn't align.
• Add Hot Stones to Massage: $20 to enhance your massage with hot stones.
• Homeowner Consultation: $200 for a two-hour session covering all things yurt for potential homeowners.
• Glamping Consultation: $300 for a three-hour consultation on starting your own glamping venture.
• Wedding Venue: Planning a unique wedding? Sky Ridge hosts small ceremonies for the couple and up to 35 guests—exclusive facility rental is required for privacy and accommodation. Inquire for details and availability.

Nearby Attractions

• Nantahala Outdoor Center
• Wildwater Rafting and Ziplining
• Cherokee, NC
• Tsali Cycles
• Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Nearby Roads

The Tail of the Dragon is an iconic route near Bryson City, NC, that demands attention. Starting at Deals Gap Motorcycle Resort and stretching over 11 miles with a whopping 318 curves, this section of US 129 offers a thrilling ride for those craving twisty challenges.

Another gem is the Blue Ridge Parkway, beginning nearby in Cherokee. This scenic ride winds through the Great Smoky Mountains, providing breathtaking views and gentle curves.

Riders can further explore the Cherohala Skyway, starting in Robbinsville, which combines sweeping turns with stunning mountain panoramas, creating a memorable journey through the heart of motorcycling paradise.

Price

Rooms start at $107 per night.

Location

Find Sky Ridge Yurts at 200 Sky Ridge Dr, Bryson City, NC.