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Posted by Jon Hoffman in Gatlinburg
"It's the most wonderful time of the year," as the Andy Williams classic puts it. So, why not spend some of that wonderful time here in a wonderful place, the Tennessee Smoky Mountains? Throughout December, this breathtaking region transforms into a winter wonderland, with magical sights, scenes, and sounds around every scenic corner. Check out these festive options.
Did you know that the Smoky Mountains can get up to five feet of snow in any given winter? At the higher elevations, snow often starts falling early in December. So, even if you're staying at a cabin way down in Wears Valley, you can still savor stunning views of majestic snow-capped peaks. And, if you venture out onto the mountain trails, you can revel in snowy scenery, including some pretty spectacular frozen waterfalls.
Perched high above Gatlinburg, this legendary attraction is now under new ownership, with a new name, new branding, and new year-round activities. To get there, come to the original "base camp" – 1339 Ski Mountain Road in the heart of downtown Gatlinburg – and board the enclosed aerial tram. Then, soar above eye-popping scenery to the top of Mount Harrison, where you can choose from a range of fun options:
Downhill skiing and snowboarding, featuring two beginner trails, six intermediate trails, and two advanced trails; open from mid-December onward, depending on the weather
Snow tubing down a 350-foot-long hill with a 50-foot total drop; beginning in mid-November
Ice skating in a spacious indoor ice rink spanning 140' x 75'; open all year 'round
Frolicking in the Snow Zone, an outdoor play and discovery area for snow-bunnies of all ages; open all through the winter months
...plus a whole lot more, including new ice bumper cars and a 2,750-foot mountain coaster.
Eager to get into the Christmas Spirit? Drop by The Incredible Christmas Place at 2470 Parkway in Pigeon Forge. At 43,000 square feet, it's the largest permanent Christmas retailer in the Southern United States.
Here you'll find countless Christmas delights – from lifelike holiday trees to unique decorations, exquisite ornaments, charming collectibles, handcrafted villages, Fontanini Nativities, and more. Stock up for your own hearth and home. Plus, shop for discerning family and friends who appreciate tasteful gifts.
Each year, from mid-November through January, the Gatlinburg SkyPark's iconic SkyBridge becomes an enchanted corridor. Suspended 140 feet above Gatlinburg, this famous pedestrian skyway glows with the splendor of thousands of glistening lights.
It's all part of SkyPark's "Lights Above Gatlinburg," an annual celebration blazing with over 60,000 lights in all.
This year, SkyBridge is more brilliant than ever, because its LED lighting now extends across its entire 680-foot length. To experience the magic, come to 765 Parkway and ride the Gatlinburg SkyLift up 500 vertical feet to the summit of Crockett Mountain.
All season long, you'll discover dazzling displays in Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and Sevierville – featuring over five million LED lights depicting everything from the 12 Days of Christmas to Smoky Mountain critters and landmarks.
The Tennessee Smoky Mountains offer many more family festivities, including Shadrack's Christmas Wonderland, Smoky Mountains Tunes and Tales, Enchanted Christmas at Anakeesta, and classic Christmas-themed dinner shows. Contact Volunteer Cabin Rentals now to book your cozy cabin close to all the excitement.
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