December 17, 2024
7 Best Places to See Snow in the Smokies
Winter is a beautiful time of year to visit the Smoky Mountains! This is when you’re most likely to see snow in the Smokies, especially at the higher elevations in the mountains. Few things compare to the beauty of the Smoky Mountains blanketed in fresh snow, creating a peaceful winter atmosphere during your vacation. Here are some of the places where you’re most likely to see snow in the Smokies:
1. Newfound Gap Road
Newfound Gap Road, also called US 441, connects Gatlinburg, TN, to Cherokee, NC. Along this drive, you’ll get to see breathtaking scenery, including dense forests and overlooks with mountain views. In the winter, this road is one of the best places to see snow in the Smokies. You may get the chance to see these sights covered in a blanket of snow to create a winter wonderland like no other. Before you set out on your drive, make sure you check the Great Smoky Mountains National Park website for updates on road closures, as some sections of the road may close during winter weather conditions.
2. Cades Cove
Another one of the popular places to see snow in the Smokies is Cades Cove. This section of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is open year-round and features dozens of historic structures along the scenic loop, including cabins, churches, barns, and a grist mill. This is also a great place to spot Smoky Mountain wildlife such as black bears, deer, turkeys, and more. In the winter, snow adds some extra mountain magic to this peaceful section of the Smokies. Make sure you check for road closures during winter weather conditions to make sure the drive to Cades Cove is clear.
3. Ober Mountain
If you want to experience snow in the Smokies, you won’t want to miss your chance to visit Ober Mountain in Gatlinburg. This adventure park makes their own snow from December to March, so you’ll have a chance to see snow even if the weather forecast is clear. You can participate in a variety of snowsports, including skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, and ice skating. Other activities to enjoy include a mountain coaster, scenic chairlift, wildlife habitat, and others. Make sure you ride the Aerial Tramway to the top to see stunning views of downtown Gatlinburg and the surrounding Smoky Mountains.
4. Pigeon Forge Snow
You’re guaranteed to see snow in the Smokies at Pigeon Forge Snow. This Pigeon Forge attraction makes their own real snow all year long in a climate-controlled facility. You can enjoy indoor snow tubing and a snow play area no matter the weather outside. The facility is kept at a comfortable temperature of 60 to 70 degrees, so there’s no need to worry about getting too cold while you play in the snow even if it’s below freezing outside.
Another one of the guaranteed places to see snow in the Smokies is Rowdy Bear’s Smoky Mountain Snowpark in Pigeon Forge. This attraction offers outdoor snow tubing on Tennessee’s longest tubing hill. During the winter months, they make their own snow, giving you a genuine outdoor snow tubing experience. As you ride the conveyor belt to the top of the hill, you’ll enjoy beautiful views of Pigeon Forge and the surrounding mountains, which are especially breathtaking on a snowy day. Other activities to enjoy at this attraction include the Ski Lift Shootout Coaster, Avalanche Snow Coaster, and Outdoor Axe Throwing.
6. Gatlinburg Space Needle
One of the best places to get a bird’s-eye view of Gatlinburg is the Gatlinburg Space Needle. This landmark attraction stands 407 feet tall and provides a 360-degree view of the city below and the mountains all around. Glass elevators take you up to the observation deck, which features view finders and an educational experience. This is an excellent way to see spectacular views of white-covered mountain peaks during the winter months.
7. Your Cabin
When you stay at one of our cozy Smoky Mountain cabins, you’ll have a great chance of seeing snow in the Smokies right outside your window. Our cabins are situated close to all the action but have a peaceful feel, which is amplified when there is snow blanketing the trees and ground. Many of our cabins feature mountain views, which become even more magnificent after snowfall. Even if you get snowed in for a day, you can still have plenty of fun with amenities such as game rooms, theater rooms, indoor pools, hot tubs, fireplaces, and more.
Are you ready to start planning your winter vacation in the Smokies? Take a look at our selection of Smoky Mountain cabin rentals to find the perfect place to stay!
