Winter is an incredible time of year in the Smoky Mountains! Arguably, the best part of wintertime is the snow! While the valleys and high-traffic areas of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg may not see large amounts of snow, the higher elevations of the mountains often get plenty, blanketing the distant, gorgeous peaks in white and contributing to the peaceful atmosphere of winter. Take a look at our list of the top places to see snow in the Smokies:
1. Newfound Gap Road
Newfound Gap Road connects Gatlinburg to Cherokee and offers gorgeous scenery, from snow covering the dense forest to overlooks with views of the surrounding mountains. It’s important to note that the National Park Service may close sections of the road for safety when it snows. Stay updated on the latest road closures on the GSMNP website before planning time to explore the national park. We also recommend checking out the Sugarlands Visitors Center, where you can enjoy the many nature trails open during the winter.
2. Pigeon Forge Snow
Does Pigeon Forge get snow? As mentioned, snow doesn’t usually stick around for very long in the valleys, but that’s okay when popular attractions can make their own. Pigeon Forge Snow offers indoor snow tubing and a snow play area all year round. The facility is kept at a comfortable 60 to 70-degree temperature, so there’s no need to bundle up!
3. Rowdy Bear’s Smoky Mountain Snowpark
Another attraction the kids will love is Rowdy Bear’s Smoky Mountain Snowpark. They offer outdoor snow tubing on the longest hill in Tennessee, and the ride to the top of the ridge provides beautiful views of the snowy mountains! They also make their genuine-looking snow during the winter months so you can enjoy the snow tubing experience in addition to their mountain coaster, alpine flyer ride, and axe throwing. Another bonus is that you can get free tickets to area attractions as a perk of staying at a Summit cabin rental!
4. Cades Cove
Cades Cove is the most popular area in Great Smoky Mountains National Park for a reason! Open year-round, the scenic loop features dozens of historic cabins, churches, barns, and a working grist mill. Wildlife viewers and history buffs love coming to Cades Cove, and in the wintertime, the snow adds a little extra magic to an already serene section of the park.
5. Gatlinburg SkyLift and SkyBridge
Gatlinburg SkyPark is home to the oldest attraction in town, the scenic SkyLift, which has consistently provided decades of views and atmospheric wonder for all visitors. For even more spectacular views, walk across the SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge on the continent. Both the chair lift and the bridge will give you incredible views of the snow-covered Smoky Mountains – some that were previously unable to obtain without a drone!
6. Ober Mountain
Ober Mountain is a great place to experience winter and snow in the Smokies, especially since they create their own snow from December to March. Winter sports enthusiasts have plenty of time to get their fill of snowboarding, skiing, snow tubing, ice skating, and other fun activities. And don’t forget about the stunning views from the Aerial Tramway on the way up the mountain!
7. Gatlinburg Space Needle
Short of turning yourself into a bird, there is no better way to see the sights of Gatlinburg than the impossible-to-miss Space Needle. This attraction takes visitors over 400 feet above the ground, providing 360-degree views of the city and majestic mountains. The super binocular stations allow you to see very close up on the downtown strip below and the white-covered mountain peaks. Practically no visit to the Smokies is complete without going to the Gatlinburg Space Needle!
8. Your Smoky Mountain Cabin Rental
When you stay at a cozy cabin in Pigeon Forge, there’s a great chance of you seeing snow right out your window! Our cabins are close to the action but still feel secluded and peaceful, and those feelings are amplified when there’s snow covering the ground and the trees. Even if you get snowed in for a day, there is plenty to keep you occupied at the cabin, with amenities such as game rooms and theater rooms, swimming pool access, cozy spots to curl up with a good book, and a fully stocked kitchen to make meals together as a family.
Now you’re prepared to see snow in the Smokies during your winter vacation! Check out our current cabin specials and save big on your next booking. We can’t wait to welcome you to the Smoky Mountains very soon!
