Noah "Bud" Ogle Cabin

Step back in time at the Noah "Bud" Ogle Cabin, one of Gatlinburg's most well-preserved examples of Southern Appalachian mountain life from the late 1800s. This historical place showcases the resourcefulness and craftsmanship of early settlers through its carefully constructed hewn-log cabin, which demonstrates the traditional "saddle-notch" building technique common to the region.

The homestead includes three main features that tell the story of mountain farming life: the main cabin, a four-pen barn, and a working tub mill. The barn's unique design, with its four separate pens, allowed farmers to store different types of livestock and crops separately - a practical solution for mountain farming. The rare tub mill, powered by the stream that runs through the property, shows how settlers ground corn into meal, a staple of their diet.

Visitors can explore the property via a self-guided walking tour that takes you around the grounds and past informative plaques explaining the historical significance of each structure. The site sits along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, making it an excellent stop while exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

As part of the National Park, there's no admission fee to visit the Ogle Cabin. The site is typically accessible during daylight hours, though winter weather can affect access via the motor trail. For the best experience, plan to spend about 30-45 minutes exploring the grounds and reading about the history. Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the terrain can be uneven. Photographers will find plenty of opportunities to capture authentic mountain architecture, especially during morning hours when the light is optimal.