One of the best times to experience the natural beauty of Great Smoky Mountains National Park is during the winter months when the mountains are covered in snow! While there may be a few road closures during significant snowfall amounts, these are typically at the higher elevations in the park. This means that if you enjoy being outdoors and love to “play” in the snow, you’ll have a blast visiting the Smokies in the winter! Here are 3 fun things to do when there is snow in the Smoky Mountains:
1. Go Cross-Country Skiing on Kuwohi Road
If Newfound Gap Road is not closed due to snowy or icy conditions, you can enjoy the unique experience of cross-country skiing on Kuwohi Road! Since Kuwohi Road is closed to vehicles in the winter, the only way to access the Kuwohi observation tower is by hiking, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing.
You may even find volunteers with the Nordic Ski Patrol of Great Smoky Mountains National Park along the road to assist visitors on cross-country skis. While the 7-mile trek from the parking area on Newfound Gap Road to Kuwohi is challenging, you’ll be rewarded with incredible mountain views from the highest peak in Tennessee!
2. Hike a Scenic Snow-Covered Trail
Another one of the fun things to do when there is snow in the Smoky Mountains is hiking a snow-covered trail! While the National Park is beautiful at any time of year, snow creates a magical atmosphere that is truly breathtaking to behold! The Porters Creek Trail is an excellent option, as it winds through a quiet forest past remnants of historic homesteads and often features snow-draped trees and ice streams. The 4-mile roundtrip trail also has a gradual incline, making it ideal for a moderate winter walk or snowshoeing adventure!
Some of the other great options for hikes in the snow include the Abrams Falls Trail, Cataract Falls Trail, and Twin Creeks Trail!
3. Take Advantage of Unique Photography Opportunities
Whether you’re a serious photography buff with the latest high-tech camera or an amateur with a cellphone ready for some amazing selfies, you’ll love the unique photo opportunities when there is snow in the Smoky Mountains! There is nothing quite as stunning as a snow-covered forest, and you might even spot some wildlife meandering through the woods! You’ll also find frozen waterfalls, icicle formations, and other scenic wonders, so have your camera ready to snap some incredible photos during your visit to the park!
One of the best winter destinations in the park is Cades Cove Loop Road, where a stunning valley offers endless photo opportunities and some of the best chances to see wildlife!
More Ideas for Your Winter Visit to GSMNP
Now that you know about some of the fun things to do when there is snow in the Smoky Mountains, it’s time to plan a winter visit to the Smokies! During your trip, don’t miss these top spots in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to visit during winter!
