The Smoky Mountains in Winter

Should you visit higher-elevation attractions when it’s cold?

I spent the formative years of my youth living in Northern Indiana where the winter wind whips across the flatland and creates chill factors that feel like frostbite is only moments away.

When we moved south to Tennessee 35 years ago, my cold weather immunity followed. While my fellow Tennesseans were shivering in 35-degree weather, I remained unphased. Sure, it gets cold in Tennessee. Really, really cold sometimes. But it doesn’t last very long – usually no more than a week- until things get back to normal. I enjoyed it actually. Loved that feeling you get stepping outside into temperatures around freezing, giving that invigorating shock to the lungs. It’s like smelling salts, but not nearly as risky for your health.

However, in recent winters I have discovered that my cold weather tolerance has waned. Whether that’s from age, lack of exposure or a combination of the two, I don’t know. But I don’t really like the cold of winter anymore, and I avoid it whenever I can.

A Smoky Mountain winter break?

Which brings us to our mountain getaways. The Smoky Mountains can make for an excellent winter break if you’re looking to go south and get away from the truly frigid temperatures or you’re from the deeper south and want to get a little taste of winter.

But how much is too much? While I enjoy spending winter days in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, I will come prepared for a significant temperature drop when the sun goes down. I ain’t looking to freeze anymore.

And so, before I plan or book a winter visit to one of the area’s higher elevation attractions like Anakeesta, the Gatlinburg SkyBridge or Ober Mountain, I consult the weather report early and often. The last place I want to be in the mountains is up high with the winter wind whipping through.

Should I visit the mountains in the winter?

Yes. Absolutely. I love Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge in the winter. The shops and the decorations and getting out of the cold for a hearty meal – like a good steak – at one of the classic area eateries is the stuff winter dreams are made of. Even up in the mountains can be beautiful in their own way. The varying shades of brown might not make for a great picture. But if you can find a picnic site where you can build a fire near one of the mountain streams, that is a pretty good way to spend a winter afternoon.

I would, however, keep a close eye on the forecast for a couple of reasons. You don’t want to be in the higher elevations when it starts snowing, icing or sleeting.

The National Park Service will close some of the roads if the weather starts looking rough. That said, you don’t want to be on the other side of the mountain when it happens. I don’t worry much about the weather in the Smokies during the spring, summer and fall. But honestly, maybe that should change with the rash of flash floods and landslides. In the winter though, I keep a pretty close eye out.

Remember that even if you’re an experienced snow driver, many of the drivers in the area aren’t. And road treating might not be as robust as what you’re used to back home.

Which higher elevation attraction should I visit in the winter?

The three main higher elevation attractions are Anakeesta, SkyBridge and Ober Mountain. The first two are mainly for sightseeing – and maybe eating, drinking and shopping – in the winter months. Both can be beautiful and offer fire pits for guests who want to sip coffee, hot cocoa or cider – or something a little stronger – near a crackling fire. The views can still be spectacular – especially at night when Gatlinburg is decorated with seasonal lights. But that wind up in the mountains can be cutting. If you’re not dressed properly, it can be a little painful.

They both offer restaurants and places where you can get out of the elements for a bit. But if you tackle either of the first two you’re going to want to come prepared especially for the ride up and down the mountains. The SkyBridge’s SkyLift and Anakeesta’s Chondola both offer amazing views. In fact, I think the Chondola at night is the best ride in the Smokies. But you are really going to be exposed to the elements.

Ober Mountain – the former Ober Gatlinburg – is a different kettle of fish. With its snow making capabilities and skiing and snowboarding options, it has a way for you to keep your blood warm that doesn’t involve alcohol. It also has a large facility with shopping, some dining and ice skating where you can enjoy yourself outside of the elements. The Tram ride up and down the mountain is enclosed so you can enjoy the view in comfort.

Let’s break it down this way, Anakeesta is the best if you want a sit down meal and an alcoholic beverage or two to keep you warm. The SkyBridge is the choice if you want a simpler meal and to keep moving a little more. Ober is the best choice if you really want to get some activities in and aren’t as interested in the resting and relaxing portion of the day.

Do I need any extra preparation?

It’s important to note that we get a fair share of what I call golf days in the winter. Day time temperatures will jump up to the 50s and even the 60s and a long sleeve shirt or light jacket will be plenty. But as soon as the sun drops, you better have something more substantial. It’s gonna get cold and it’s gonna get cold quickly.

You don’t want to be up on Anakeesta or the SkyBridge with your jacket down in the car. And it’s the same if you ride the tram up to Ober. However, you can drive up and park at Ober which would allow you to keep warmer clothes in the car until you need them. Hand warmers for your pockets and something to cover your face – like a good scarf – if the wind kicks up is always a good idea.

You could also pre-game at one of the distilleries downtown, but that comes with its own set of issues. Not the least of which involves actually making it up the mountain.

Is there any other place I can enjoy the view without freezing?

A final option would be to skip the attractions and drive to one of the area’s scenic overlooks that offers all of the views and none of the amenities. But make sure you’re checking the weather and the National Park Service. For instance, the road to Kuwohi, the former Clingman’s Dome, closes for the winter even on the fairest of days. And the park service will close other mountain roads if the weather gets iffy. You don’t want to be driving in the higher elevations when the weather turns bad.

Do you enjoy visiting the Smokies in winter? Let us know in the comments here and on the socials!