Even though the weather may be cold, and there may even be snow on the mountaintops, there’s still plenty of things to do in the winter in Gatlinburg! You can have a ton of fun in the Smokies this time of year, from exploring the national park to exciting activities. Here are 4 of our favorite things to do when it’s cold and snowy in the Smoky Mountain area:
1. Ober Mountain
Of course, if you’re looking for fun in the snow, Ober Mountain is the place to be. There’s plenty of snow-covered hills for thrill seekers. Just grab your snowboard and snow skis! A chair lift will take you to the top of the hill, and then you can ride all the way down for a ton of fun and thrills! Even if there’s no snow in the forecast, Ober Mountain uses manmade snow to ensure excited guests like you get to enjoy these fun winter activities. There are lots of other things at the resort for anyone who doesn’t want to hit the slopes. Take a ride on the Aerial Tramway over downtown Gatlinburg. You’ll love the view of the mountains covered in snow. Grab a tube and go snow tubing down the hill! You won’t have to climb back up yourself. Just hop onto the magic carpet, and it will take you back to the top of the hill. You can also enjoy ice skating inside. Don’t forget to grab a hot drink at Ski Mountain Grind Haus!
2. Hike or Drive in the National Park
When you want to see the snowy mountains this winter, you can spend a couple of hours in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. If you enjoy hiking, you should try one of the many trails in the park. Since temperatures drop 3.5 degrees every 1,000 feet in elevation gain, it might be better to stick to a shorter hike this time of year. The Gatlinburg Trail is a great, short, and relatively flat hiking trail with nice river views that turn magical when it snows! Don’t want to get out in the biting cold wind but still want to enjoy the beauty of this area and time of year? Take a scenic drive! Cades Cove is always popular, especially when it snows. The Foothills Parkway would be another great scenic drive for this time of year. Just be sure to check road closures before you head out!
3. Relax in a Gatlinburg Cabin Rental
Still looking for things to do in the winter in Gatlinburg? It doesn’t get any better than relaxing in a Gatlinburg cabin rental! Cuddle up together next to the fireplace as you drink hot chocolate. Play board games together and make a ton of memories. Cover up under a blanket on the couch while you watch one of your favorite movies together. Enjoy the chilly air while you hang out in the hot tub on the private deck of your cabin. You have so many ways to enjoy spending time in your Gatlinburg cabin rental!
You’ll enjoy any of things to do in the winter in Gatlinburg! Ready to start planning your winter getaway? Browse through our Gatlinburg cabin rentals and book one now!