Gatlinburg In Winter Tn – Best Things To Do In Winter + Cabin Stay Options + Events

Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a charming destination in the winter, with a range of activities and attractions to enjoy. Here’s a list of things to do in Gatlinburg in winter and celebrate the perfect winter in Gatlinburg Tn.

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Winter in Gatlinburg Tn – Things To Do

Let’s check out some fantastic events, weather, cabin stays, and things to do in Gatlinburg in winter. So save these winter things to do in Gatlinburg and Visit Gatlinburg in winter for a chilling, snowy & festive experience.

Winter weather in Gatlinburg Tn

In winter, Gatlinburg experiences cold temperatures with average highs ranging from the upper 40s to low 50s Fahrenheit (8-12°C) and average lows dropping to the mid-20s to low 30s Fahrenheit (-4 to 2°C). Snowfall is common, particularly at higher elevations, adding a picturesque winter charm.

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Things to do in Gatlinburg in winter – Winter events in Gatlinburg tn

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Explore the park’s beautiful winter landscapes, hike on designated trails, and visit Clingmans Dome for stunning panoramic views.
2. Skiing and Snowboarding: Ober Gatlinburg is a winter sports paradise with slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. 
3. Snow Tubing: Experience the thrill of snow tubing at Ober Gatlinburg’s snow tubing park. 
4. Winter Hiking: Enjoy the tranquility of winter hiking with fewer crowds. Just be sure to check trail conditions and dress warmly.
5. Festival of Trees: Visit the Gatlinburg Festival of Trees, an annual event where you can admire beautifully decorated Christmas trees.
6. Holiday Lights: Walk or drive through Gatlinburg’s Winter Magic Trolley Ride of Lights to see the city adorned with thousands of twinkling holiday lights.
7. Downtown Gatlinburg: Stroll along the Parkway in downtown Gatlinburg, where you’ll find charming shops, restaurants, and attractions.
8. Gatlinburg Space Needle: Take a ride to the top of the Space Needle for panoramic views of the surrounding winter wonderland. 
9. Winter Wildlife Viewing: The Great Smoky Mountains are known for their diverse wildlife. Winter can be an excellent time for wildlife watching.
10. Indoor Waterparks: Enjoy a day at an indoor waterpark like Wild Bear Falls to stay warm and have family fun.
11. Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas: While not in Gatlinburg, Dollywood’s holiday festival in nearby Pigeon Forge is a must-visit for festive shows, lights, and attractions.
12. Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community: Explore the work of local artisans and find unique handmade gifts and crafts.
13. Local Distilleries and Wineries: Sample local spirits and wines at distilleries and wineries in the area.
14. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies: Visit the aquarium to see marine life and enjoy the festive decorations during the holiday season.
15. Cabin Stay – Gatlinburg Cabins in the Winter: Rent a cozy mountain cabin to enjoy the picturesque winter scenery. Many cabins come with fireplaces and hot tubs. 
16. Ice Skating: Visit Ober Gatlinburg’s ice skating rink for a fun winter activity.
17. Sleigh Rides: Some local operators offer horse-drawn sleigh rides for a memorable winter experience.
18. Winter Photography: Capture the beauty of Gatlinburg’s winter landscapes and holiday decorations.
19. Smoky Mountain Ziplines: Experience the thrill of ziplining through the snow-covered trees for an adrenaline rush.
20. Local Dining: Enjoy hearty Southern comfort food at Gatlinburg’s many restaurants, and remember to try the famous moonshine. 
21. New Year’s Eve Ball Drop and Fireworks: Welcome the New Year in Gatlinburg with a spectacular countdown, ball drop, and a fireworks show in the heart of downtown. 
22. Gatlinburg Winter Magic Chili Cookoff: Sample a variety of delicious chili recipes and vote for your favorite in this spicy competition.
23. Winter Heritage Festival: Celebrated in February, this festival offers a glimpse into the area’s rich Appalachian heritage, featuring music, storytelling, and cultural presentations.
24. Sevier County Days at the Titanic Museum: In January and February, this event offers discounts and special exhibits at the Titanic Museum in Pigeon Forge, which is close to Gatlinburg.

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Famous Cabin Stays – Gatlinburg In Winter Tn

Gatlinburg is known for its charming and cozy cabin rentals, especially during winter. Check some famous Gatlinburg cabin stay names that you may consider for a winter getaway:

1. Elk Springs Resort: Known for its luxury cabin rentals, Elk Springs Resort offers beautifully appointed cabins with modern amenities and scenic mountain views.
2. Patriot Getaways: Patriot Getaways provides a range of cabin rentals, including pet-friendly options, making it a popular choice for families and pet lovers.
3. Stony Brook Cabins: Stony Brook Cabins offers a variety of cabin rentals in Gatlinburg, often featuring hot tubs, fireplaces, and breathtaking mountain vistas.
4. Auntie Belham’s Cabin Rentals: Auntie Belham’s is a long-established cabin rental company offering a wide selection of cabins and chalets for all travelers.
5. Gatlinburg Falls Resort: Known for its luxury cabins and amenities, Gatlinburg Falls Resort is an excellent option for those seeking a high-end cabin experience.
6. Mountain Laurel Chalets: This company offers well-maintained and scenic cabin rentals in the Gatlinburg area, often nestled amidst the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains.

These famous cabin rental providers in Gatlinburg offer a range of options to cater to your winter vacation needs, whether you’re looking for a romantic escape, a family retreat, or a group getaway in the Smoky Mountains. It’s better to book well in advance, especially during the popular winter months.

FAQs – Winter Things To Do In Gatlinburg Tn

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about visiting Gatlinburg in winter:

• Are the Great Smoky Mountains accessible in winter?

Yes, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park remains open in the winter. However, some roads and trails may be closed or impassable due to snow and ice, so it’s essential to check for current conditions.

• What winter activities can I enjoy in Gatlinburg?

Winter activities in Gatlinburg include skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, winter hiking, ice skating, holiday light displays, and seasonal events like the Winterfest and Christmas parades.

• Is it crowded in Gatlinburg during the winter season?

While Gatlinburg is less crowded in winter than in the peak summer season, it can still get busy during holiday weekends and events. Planning your visit during weekdays or early in the season can help avoid crowds.

• Can I see holiday lights in Gatlinburg during the winter?

Yes, Gatlinburg hosts its Winterfest celebration with millions of holiday lights illuminating the town, and you can take trolley rides to view these displays.

• Are cabins and accommodations more expensive in the winter?

Cabin and accommodation prices can vary depending on the specific dates and cabin features. Prices may be higher during the holiday season, but deals and discounts can be found, especially in the early winter.

• Are outdoor attractions and activities affected by winter weather?

Some outdoor attractions like ziplining, horseback riding, and outdoor water parks may close or have limited operations in the winter. Check with specific providers for seasonal availability.

• What should I pack for a winter trip to Gatlinburg?

Pack warm clothing, including layers, gloves, hats, and insulated footwear. Remember to bring a good jacket and consider items for winter sports if you plan to ski or snowboard.

• Can I find restaurants and stores open in Gatlinburg during the winter?

Yes, most restaurants and shops in Gatlinburg remain open during winter, but some smaller businesses may have limited hours or seasonal closures, so it’s advisable to check ahead.

• Is it safe to drive in Gatlinburg during winter weather?

While the roads in Gatlinburg are typically well-maintained, winter weather conditions can lead to icy or snowy roads. It’s recommended to have proper tires, drive cautiously, and check local weather and road conditions before traveling.

These are some famous Gatlinburg winter attractions, and now you know how to spend winter in Gatlinburg Tn. 

I hope you loved reading about things to do in Gatlinburg in winter and some unmissable fun events in winter.

Visit Gatlinburg in winter.

Gatlinburg Downtown Walking tour

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