For generations, the Maples family has called the Smoky Mountains home. Long before Maples Ridge Vacation Rentals was founded, our family’s roots in hospitality were already deeply planted in the community we love.
In 1937, as Great Smoky Mountains National Park was emerging as one of America’s greatest treasures, Jack Maples’ grandparents, Rel Maples Sr. and his wife, Ruby Bailey Maples, built what would become one of Gatlinburg’s most cherished landmarks—the Historic Gatlinburg Inn. Built on what had once been a family corn patch along the West Fork of the Little Pigeon River, the Inn quickly became much more than a place for travelers to stay. It housed the first Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce, the local newspaper, the town’s first bank, the first dentist’s office, and even the offices of the City of Gatlinburg. As tourism flourished, the Inn became a gathering place for visitors and locals alike and played an important role in shaping the early history of Gatlinburg.
For decades, generations of families returned year after year to experience the beauty of the Smokies and the warm hospitality that became a hallmark of the Maples family. Welcoming guests and treating them like family has been a tradition passed down for nearly a century.
Nearly 30 years ago, Jack and Lori Maples carried that tradition forward when they founded Maples Ridge Vacation Rentals. Starting with just a handful of cabins and a small office off Wears Valley Road, they built their business while raising their three children—Baylee, Haley, and Lexi. Through hard work, personal service, and a commitment to treating every guest like family, Maples Ridge grew into a trusted vacation rental company serving thousands of visitors to the Smoky Mountains.
Along the way, we have been blessed to build lasting friendships with guests from all over the country. Some of the families who stayed with us in the early years are still returning today. We’ve had the joy of watching their children grow up, just as they have watched ours. Those relationships have become one of the greatest blessings of our business and are truly what sets us apart.
Today, Baylee, Haley, and Lexi work alongside Jack and Lori full-time, continuing the values and dedication that have guided our family for generations. Although the next generation now manages much of the day-to-day operations, you may still find Jack checking on properties, performing maintenance, or helping guests, while Lori can often be found making sure each cabin is ready and welcoming for arriving families. Their hands-on approach reflects the same spirit of hospitality that began with Rel and Ruby Maples nearly ninety years ago.
As lifelong locals who still call Pigeon Forge home, we take great pride in sharing the beauty and hospitality of the Smoky Mountains with every guest who stays with us. We know these mountains, we love this community, and we strive to make every stay special.
From the Historic Gatlinburg Inn to the cabins and vacation homes we manage today, our family has spent generations welcoming visitors to the Smokies. We are incredibly grateful for the relationships we’ve built over the years and look forward to welcoming generations of guests for many years to come.
At Maples Ridge Vacation Rentals, you’re more than a reservation—you become part of our extended family.
