The Outdoors
Barrel sauna
Cedar barrel sauna glowing at dusk
Cedar warmth, a round window, and the whole Smoky Mountain sky.

Tucked onto the basement deck, our Almost Heaven Arcadia barrel sauna might be the most quietly magical spot at Tippity Top. It's hand-built from Western Red Cedar — small and intimate, just right for two — with a large round window that frames the mountains. There's nothing quite like sinking into the cedar heat and watching the ridgelines fade into the mist through that porthole. Sunrise coffee, post-hike recovery, or a star-lit unwind before bed: it has a way of becoming the part of the trip everyone keeps sneaking back to.

Getting it going

It's wonderfully simple. Switch on the Harvia heater and give it about 30–45 minutes to come up to temperature — it'll settle into a toasty 160–190°F. Lay a towel down to sit on, then climb in once it's warm. You can enjoy it dry, or ladle a little water from the bucket onto the heater stones for a soft burst of steam (the Finns call this löyly) — start with a splash and add more to taste.

Keep each session to about 15–20 minutes, then step out to cool down, drink some water, and head back in if you like. Two can settle in cozily on the cedar benches — it's small, but that's the charm. When you're done, switch the heater off and leave the door cracked to let it breathe.

A few safety notes

  • The heater and stones get extremely hot — never touch them, and keep towels, clothing, and anything flammable well clear of the heater.
  • Only ladle water onto the stones — never on the heater body or controls.
  • Stay hydrated, and step out right away if you feel dizzy or lightheaded.
  • Children under 16 should be supervised by an adult; it's not suitable for young children.
  • If you're pregnant, have a heart condition, or take medication affecting temperature or alertness, please check with your doctor first — and skip the sauna after alcohol.
  • It's built for two — please keep it to two at a time.
Notice anything off — odd smells, the heater not cycling, or controls acting up? Turn it off and text us. Please don't try to service the heater yourself.