4 Best Attractions in the Smoky Mountains to Visit in Winter

November 17, 2023

If you’ve never been to the Smoky Mountains in the winter, you may be wondering what all you can do during this time of year. There are plenty of great attractions in the Smoky Mountains you can enjoy during winter. From getting outside to staying indoors, there’s something for everyone! Here are 4 of the best attractions in the Smoky Mountains to visit in winter:

1. Ober Mountain

One of the top winter attractions in the Smoky Mountains is Ober Mountain. Their pique popularity is in the winter because Ober is known for skiing and snowboarding! Even if you’ve never been on the slopes before, you should definitely visit Ober Mountain. You can take beginner lessons and rent equipment. If you don’t want to try skiing or snowboarding but still want to get on the snow, try snow tubing! A Magic Carpet takes you to the top of the hill so you don’t have to climb up with your tube, and then you just slide down! A really cool fact about Ober Mountain is they make their own snow. While it does snow sometimes in the Smoky Mountains, it doesn’t always stick around, so Ober uses man made snow so people can keep enjoying the slopes! You can also ice skate indoors, ride ice bumper cars, enjoy the alpine coaster, and much more at Ober.

2. Winterfest Lights

Many people enjoy seeing the Winterfest lights throughout Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg during the winter. Just hop in your car and drive around the cities to see all kinds of light displays, from polar bears to Father Winter. As you drive along the Parkway in Pigeon Forge, you’ll see displays representing the 12 Days of Christmas. Everyone from little kids to grandparents will have fun driving around enjoying the lights this time of year.

3. Hiking in the Smoky Mountains

We can’t mention the best attractions in the Smoky Mountains in winter without talking about hiking! Hiking in the winter is very different than going in the other seasons. Since there aren’t leaves on the trees, you’ll have incredible views of the mountains that would be hidden at any other time of year. You might even see icicles on rocks and a frozen waterfall! While this time of year is beautiful, especially with snow, be extra cautious since you could slip on ice. Wondering what trails you should try this winter? Here are the best winter hiking trails in the Smoky Mountains !

4. Pigeon Forge Snow

Has it not snowed while you’re in town and you’re missing it? Want to be inside where it’s comfortable instead of outside where it’s freezing? Pigeon Forge Snow is the attraction in the Smoky Mountains you should visit! It is open all year long, but it’s perfect during the winter because you can get your fill of snow without having to completely bundle up! The temperature inside stays around 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, so you’re comfortable without heavy jackets. You all will enjoy tubing down the hills and chasing each other in the play area!

You have plenty of attractions in the Smoky Mountains to visit this winter! Since you have an idea of what you’re going to do when you’re here, you just need a place to stay! Look at these winter vacation rentals that are perfect for your next winter trip!