If you are planning a holiday trip to the Smokies to experience Smoky Mountain Winterfest and other fun seasonal events in the area, you might be wondering if it’s worth spending some time in the national park! Of course, our answer is a resounding “YES”! The Christmas holidays can be an excellent time to explore some of the hiking trails in the park, complete with dramatic and unique winter scenery! Before making your plans, check out these 4 tips for visiting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park during the holiday season:
1. Be Aware of Visitor Center Hours
While the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is open year-round for your enjoyment, note that the visitor centers may be closed if you visit on Christmas Day itself. The Sugarlands Visitor Center, Oconaluftee Visitor Center, and Cades Cove Visitor Center are all open on Thanksgiving Day but closed on Christmas Day. The Kuwohi (former Clingmans Dome) Visitor Center is also open for Thanksgiving, but it closes for the winter season at the end of November and doesn’t reopen again until early April. These facilities are an excellent place to start your day in the park, and you’ll find some great things to do at the Smoky Mountain visitor centers!
2. Check for Road Closures
Due to the colder temperatures during the holiday season, some of the roads at higher elevations in Great Smoky Mountains National Park may be closed. For example, Kuwohi Road (formerly Clingmans Dome Road) and the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail close at the end of November for the winter. Always be mindful of the weather forecast and remember that while it may be raining in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge, there could be snow or ice on some of the roads within the park.
3. Dress in Layers When Hiking
If you’re heading out to one of the scenic trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you’ll want to dress in layers for your holiday hike! There are three basic layers you’ll want to ensure you have on every outing, even if you don’t think you will need them. The base layer, which is the closest to your skin after your underwear, should be a synthetic material that is made to wick sweat (avoid cotton). The mid layer is an insulating layer that retains your body heat and insulates you from the cold. Finally, the outer layer is a shell that offers wind and weather protection.
4. Consider Alternate Plans During Inclement Weather
If rain or other inclement weather has spoiled your holiday plans to explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you’ll find plenty of other great activities to enjoy in the Smokies during the holiday season! There are a number of fantastic Christmas shows in Pigeon Forge to get you into the spirit of the season, and most of the local attractions are in full swing to welcome the holiday crowds to the Smokies!
Now that you know some of the tips for visiting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park during the holiday season, you’re ready for a Christmas trip to the Smokies! If you’re wondering why this is such a great time to experience the park, check out these top 4 reasons why you’ll love visiting the Smoky Mountains for Christmas!
