Top 3 Tips for Visiting the Smoky Mountains in the Winter
While the hours of daylight may be shorter and the weather a bit chilly, the winter months are still a great time to visit the Smoky Mountains! You’ll find plenty of festive holiday events in the area for those coming in December, while January and February offer a unique opportunity to visit your favorite local attractions without the crowds! The national park is also open year-round for your enjoyment, so bundle up for a scenic hike and soak in the dramatic winter landscapes! Here are the top 3 tips for visiting the Smoky Mountains in the winter:
1. Check the Weather and Road Conditions
Since winter weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, be sure to check the weather forecast before heading out to your favorite destinations in the Smokies! The National Park Service provides current road conditions in Great Smoky Mountains National Park so that you can plan your day accordingly. Note that some roads, such as Kuwohi Road (formerly Clingmans Dome Road) and Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, are closed in winter. Other roads may close temporarily due to ice and snow. Drive carefully when navigating the mountain roads, and be extra cautious on bridges and shaded areas where ice is more likely to form.
2. Dress in Layers When Hiking
Another tip for visiting the Smoky Mountains in the winter is to dress in layers when hiking! Since Great Smoky Mountains National Park is open daily all year long, winter is a unique time to explore the trails with frozen waterfalls and other dramatic scenery. Layering is the key to keeping warm and comfortable during the winter months, so start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from your skin. You’ll want to avoid cotton as it absorbs moisture and can leave you feeling cold, wet, and miserable! Add an insulating layer for warmth, and then complete your gear with a waterproof and windproof outer layer. Finally, wear a hat, warm socks, gloves, and waterproof boots to keep your extremities dry and warm!
3. Enjoy Fun Winter Activities
If you love to experience the great outdoors and just can’t wait until white water rafting season, you’ll find plenty of fun winter activities to tide you over! There are cross-country skiing and snowshoeing opportunities in high elevations like Newfound Gap when the conditions allow. Winter is also an excellent time for photography, as the bare trees provide clear views of the landscape and wildlife! You might even get lucky enough to spot a bear, as they typically don’t fully hibernate in the milder southern climate. If you’re looking for some high-flying fun, check out the thrilling Mountaintop Zipline Tour at CLIMB Works Smoky Mountains!
If you enjoy visiting the Smoky Mountains in the winter, just wait until you come back to experience the Smokies in the spring! This is when our white water rafting trips in the Smoky Mountains kick off for another exciting season, so don’t miss the chance to join us for a breathtaking adventure on the Pigeon River!
