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Posted by Jon Hoffman in Smoky Mountains
Did you know winter's one of the very best times to visit the Tennessee Smokies? After all...
And that's just for starters. Here are a few fabulous ways to savor the season when you visit the Smokies this winter.
Thrill to Luminous Winter Displays in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge
Throughout December and January, the Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge area glows with millions and millions of festive holiday lights.
Come to downtown Gatlinburg any evening between November 22, 2020, and January 25, 2021, for the annual Winter Magic festival. Stroll along the Parkway to view dazzling LED displays depicting frosty treetops, dainty snowflakes, Smoky Mountain critters, and more.
Better yet, hop aboard a specially designated trolley for the Gatlinburg Trolley Tour of Lights – a warm, cozy trip through the magical light show along downtown and adjacent East Parkway.
Trolley tours run daily (with just a few exceptions) at 6:30, 7:30, and 8:30 p.m. through December 31. After the holidays, they run on Saturdays only – same times – until January 25.
In Pigeon Forge, the light show lasts even longer – clear through to February 15, 2021. Drive along the Pigeon Forge Parkway to take in eye-popping Winterfest sights such as the 12 Days of Christmas display. Plus, visit the Old Mill, Dollywood, and other iconic locales to view sparkling LED spectacles featuring over 5 million lights.
Hike through a Winter Wonderland
Love hiking? You're in luck. Many Smoky Mountains trails remain open all winter – including family-friendly nature trails like Old Sugarlands and Twin Creeks. You'll find their easy-access trailheads just minutes from downtown Gatlinburg... yet you'll feel as if you're in a world apart as you wander uncrowded paths through gorgeous wintry woodlands, along glistening creeks, amid rustic historic ruins.
Up for something a bit more strenuous? Hike the 2.7-mile (one-way) Rainbow Falls Trail along LeConte Creek up to the 80-ft. waterfalls. When the temp's below freezing, the falls freeze into a perfect hourglass shape. Simply stunning!
Enjoy snow sports? Board the aerial tramway in downtown Gatlinburg for a scenic ascent to the Ober Gatlinburg Ski Area and Amusement Park. Here you'll find 10 beautifully groomed trails ideal for skiing and snowboarding... plus a snow-tubing park, freestyle park, indoor ice-skating rink, alpine slide, kiddie play-zone, and more.
But remember, Ober Gatlinburg attracts large crowds during ski season, so purchase your tickets or season passes well ahead of time.
Seeking that perfect one-of-a-kind gift for a hard-to-please friend or family member? Drive Gatlinburg's famous 8-mile "Loop" to discover unique Smoky Mountain wares handcrafted by more than 100 members of the Great Smoky Mountains Arts & Crafts Community. Browse quaint shops and workshops for handmade quilts, jewelry, leather works, pottery, wood carvings, weavings, and more.
Plus, be sure to stop by The Village, just past Parkway Stoplight #6 in Gatlinburg, where you'll find charming boutiques and restaurants in a picturesque Old World setting.
Enjoy all this and more – including uncrowded shows and attractions – here in the Tennessee Smokies. Contact Volunteer Cabin Rentals today to reserve your comfortable family cabin.
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