I. Introduction
Traveling with my dog is one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had, and this recent road trip truly reinforced that. There’s something magical about sharing an adventure with your furry companion—whether it’s exploring waterfalls, relaxing in a quaint riverside cabin, or indulging in some delicious southern comfort food. This journey took us to several stunning places: Cumberland Falls, Cosby (TN), the Smoky Mountains, and Cummins Falls.
But this wasn’t just a getaway for me—it was also a reflection of my life as a home-based Travel Marketing Rep and Travel Advisor. The flexibility that comes with this career allows me to travel while working, providing valuable firsthand experiences that I can share with my clients. If you’ve ever wondered how to blend your love of travel with a career, keep reading—I’ll show you how to do it!
II. Hitting the Road: First Stops on the Journey
Cumberland Falls – The “Niagara of the South”
First up was Cumberland Falls, often referred to as the “Niagara of the South.” While it might not have the same scale as Niagara Falls, it’s certainly a sight to behold. The falls are majestic, and if you’re lucky enough to visit on a full moon, you might witness the incredible moonbow—a rainbow that appears under the moonlight, created by the mist from the falls. It’s one of nature’s most magical phenomena!
The park has some wonderful pet-friendly hiking trails with scenic viewpoints. However, do keep in mind that some trails can be a bit challenging, so take it slow if your dog isn’t used to hiking. And of course, always keep your dog on a leash and watch for any signs of fatigue.
Pro Tip: If you plan to hike with your dog, be sure to pack sturdy shoes for yourself and some treats to keep your dog motivated!
Have you ever seen a moonbow? Tell me about your experiences with natural phenomena in the comments!
A Cozy Riverside Stay in Cosby, TN
After a day of hiking and exploring, we headed to Cosby, TN, for some much-needed rest. The cabin we stayed in was right by the river, with a hot tub, and a fire pit for s’mores. It was the ultimate spot for relaxing after our adventures.
If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat in nature, Cosby is the place. It’s a small town with beautiful cabins, many of which are pet-friendly. We were able to kick back, unwind, and take in the quiet beauty of the surrounding mountains. There’s something about being near water that just makes everything feel serene.
If you could pick any place to stay during a road trip with your dog, what kind of accommodation would you choose? A cozy cabin, a pet-friendly hotel, or something else? Share your thoughts below!
III. Embracing Nature: Waterfalls, Mountains & Hidden Gems
The Smoky Mountains – Wandering Through Nature’s Beauty
The Smoky Mountains are a must-see, and for me, they were one of the highlights of this road trip. The park offers numerous pet-friendly trails, and we were able to take in some spectacular views while driving through the forest. My dog absolutely loved being surrounded by the beauty of the mountains.
One thing to keep in mind when hiking with your dog in national parks: not all trails are pet-friendly, and there are certain restrictions. It’s important to check ahead for specific trail rules, such as leash policies, and to be prepared for varying terrain. But overall, the Smokies are a great place for pet owners who want to share an outdoor adventure with their dogs.
Do you have any hiking tips for traveling with your dog in a national park? Tell me your best advice in the comments!
Cummins Falls – A Hidden Gem in Tennessee
Our last stop was Cummins Falls, a true hidden gem in Tennessee. We took the hike to the overlook this time, because we weren’t prepared and it was a tad cooler than we wanted to be trekking in the creeks and in the falls. The trail to the overlook is a fairly easy hike with some uneven terrain. The waterfall is breathtaking. The hike to get there is a little challenging, the reward is well worth it. It’s not as crowded as other waterfalls, which made it feel even more special. Just a word of caution—some parts of the trail can be slippery, so make sure you have the right shoes and keep your dog’s comfort in mind.
Cummins Falls State Park is one of those places you might not find unless someone tells you about it—and I’m so glad we went!
Pro Tip: If you’re traveling with your dog, make sure they’re comfortable with some tricky terrain. It’s also a good idea to bring dog-friendly booties to protect their paws.
IV. The Freedom of Being a Home-Based Travel Marketing Rep & Travel Advisor
One of the biggest benefits of my career as a Travel Marketing Rep and Travel Advisor is the ability to work while traveling. It’s a flexible, fulfilling career that allows me to experience destinations like Cumberland Falls and the Smoky Mountains firsthand, and I can share those experiences with my clients.
For those of you thinking about this career, here are a few things to consider:
- Flexibility: I can travel whenever I like, and I set my own schedule, which is a huge perk.
- Earning Potential: I earn commissions from travel bookings, which allows me to fund my own adventures.
- Firsthand Knowledge: Traveling and experiencing destinations gives me valuable insight into what my clients need.
- Heling Others: Not only do I get to help others experience their dream adventures, but I also get to help them start their own career in travel.
It’s not for everyone, but for those who love travel and are willing to put in the work, it can be an incredibly rewarding career. If you’re interested in learning more about becoming a home-based Travel Marketing Rep, I’d be happy to share how you can get started!
V. Final Thoughts
This road trip with my dog was one for the books. From the beauty of Cumberland Falls to the relaxation in Cosby, TN, every stop offered something unique. It reminded me of how lucky I am to experience these places firsthand and how I can use those experiences to help my clients plan their own adventures, and start their own business in travel.
What about you? What’s your favorite pet-friendly road trip destination? I’d love to hear your thoughts—share your favorite places in the comments! Also, if you have any questions about traveling with pets or becoming a Travel Advisor, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Be sure to subscribe for more travel tips, pet-friendly advice, and career insights into being a home-based Travel Marketing Rep and Travel Advisor. Let’s continue the journey together!
Check out my blog post about planning a pet-friendly trip for more tips.
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