Just because the temperature is getting a bit colder doesn’t mean you have to spend your entire winter vacation indoors! There are a variety of excellent outdoor winter activities in Gatlinburg that you don’t want to miss during your getaway. Here are four of our favorite things to do in the winter month:
1. Hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The winter scenery in the Gatlinburg area can be absolutely stunning, which makes a snowy hike through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park a special treat! Although a few of the park’s visitor facilities may close in winter, the park is open throughout the year for your enjoyment. In addition, the winter temperatures in the region are generally moderate, leading to great hiking conditions.
Some of the most popular trails during the winter season are the Laurel Falls Trail, Rainbow Falls, and Alum Cave Bluff Trail. Stop by one of the park’s visitor centers to pick up a trail map and to plan your hike with a park ranger. Remember to keep an eye on weather conditions and to let someone know your trip details before setting out on a hike.
(See Also: Fox News Names Great Smoky Mountains National Park on List of Must-Visit Areas)
2. Snow Tubing
Offering a variety of great outdoor activities, Ober Gatlinburg is the region’s most popular winter sports destination! Snow tubing is an especially appealing option, as practically anyone can do it with no skill involved. In fact, it is a fantastic winter activity for anyone 3 or older! Children ages 3-5 must ride with an adult, and tubers must be at least 6 years old and 42″ tall to ride on their own.
The tubing runs are open daily from November 21st through the early spring, and there are multiple sessions each day. Guests can purchase snow tubing tickets up to three days in advance at the Tramway Mall tubing ticket booth in downtown Gatlinburg or at the ticket booth on the mountain, with same day tickets only available on the mountain.
3. Skiing and Snowboarding
Skiing and snowboarding are two more great winter activities in Gatlinburg that can be enjoyed at Ober. The slopes are typically open from early to mid-December until early to mid-March, depending of course upon the weather conditions. For those who need to rent equipment, Ober Gatlinburg’s rentals cannot be reserved in advance but are available on a first come, first served basis. The lift tickets provide access to the ski slopes for one session of skiing or snowboarding and are good for unlimited use of the slopes during that session. Ticket prices vary based on the age of the individual and the type of session they would like to enjoy.
4. Ski Mountain Coaster
The Ski Mountain Coaster, also located at Ober Gatlinburg, is a thrilling 3,750 foot ride through twists, turns, and dips that is individually controlled by the rider. Guests can zoom down the mountain at speeds reaching 25 miles per hour, or they can choose a more relaxed pace. The ride is suitable for nearly all ages and is open throughout the winter season. The Ski Mountain Coaster opens daily at 10 a.m. and is generally open until at least 4:45 p.m. The cost per ride is $15, or guests can enjoy a 3-ride package for just $36.
Stay with us at Amazing Views Cabin Rentals this season to enjoy one of these fantastic outdoor winter activities in Gatlinburg! To start planning your trip, check out our complete selection of Gatlinburg cabin rentals.
