view of snow-covered Gatlinburg
December 2, 2025

The Smoky Mountains transform into a magical winter wonderland this time of year. One of the highlights of visiting Gatlinburg TN during winter is the chance to see the mountain landscape sparkling with snow! Whether you want outdoor adventures, family-friendly fun, or a cozy place to admire the scenery, there are plenty of great places to see snow in Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains! Here are some of the top places you should check out:

1. Ober Mountain

Ober Mountain is one of the best places to see snow in Gatlinburg! This mountaintop adventure park is well-known for its winter sports, and you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and snow tubing this time of year. You can also ride the scenic aerial tram from downtown to the top of the mountain to admire gorgeous views of the landscape blanketed in white. Even if you aren’t hitting the slopes, the crisp mountain air and snowy scenery make this a must-visit attraction!

2. Hiking Trails

smoky mountain hiking trail lined with snow

For nature lovers, winter hiking is a great way to experience snow in Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains. Many trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park climb to higher elevations where snow and ice are more common. Winter hiking trails like Alum Cave, Charlies Bunion, and Abrams Falls offer breathtaking views of the snow-covered landscape and may even feature icicles and frozen waterfalls! Before you embark on your winter hike, make sure you check weather conditions and road and trail closures. It’s also important to wear sturdy hiking boots and layers to keep you warm and safe.

3. Scenic Drives

If you want to enjoy views of snow in Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains without being out in the cold, a scenic drive is an excellent option! Routes such as Newfound Gap Road frequently see snow due to their high elevation, giving you a great chance to experience magical winter views from the comfort of your car! Other great winter scenic drives include Foothills Parkway, Little River Road, and Cades Cove, with peaceful winter landscapes and plenty of photo-worthy stops! Just make sure you check road conditions before you set out.

4. Pigeon Forge Snow

Pigeon Forge Snow

You can play in snow in the Smokies no matter the weather at Pigeon Forge Snow! This indoor attraction features real snow made daily and offers snow tubing and snow play areas year-round! It’s an especially great option for families with young children or anyone who wants snowy fun without bundling up. It stays a comfortable temperature inside all year long, and you can enjoy tubing and snow play even on warm winter days when there’s no snow in the weather forecast.

5. Gatlinburg Space Needle

Are you looking for a stunning bird’s-eye view of snow in Gatlinburg TN? The Gatlinburg Space Needle is the place to go! This 407-foot observation tower provides 360-degree views of downtown Gatlinburg and the surrounding Smoky Mountains, which are often dusted with snow at the higher elevations this time of year. On a clear winter day, the snowy peaks sparkle against the blue sky, creating one of the most breathtaking sights in town!

6. Your Smoky Mountain Cabin

Duck Blind cabin on a snowy day

The coziest place to enjoy snow in Gatlinburg is right from the comfort of your very own Smoky Mountain cabin rental! Many of our cabins offer gorgeous mountain views, covered decks, hot tubs, and warm fireplaces, perfect for watching snow fall across the Smokies. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape or a family getaway, a winter cabin vacation provides both peaceful scenery and a warm, inviting place to unwind after exploring all the fun things to do in Gatlinburg in winter!

Book Your Gatlinburg Winter Stay

Are you ready to enjoy snow in Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains? Find the perfect cabin for your vacation and experience the magic of the Smokies this winter! We have everything from 1-bedroom cabins to large cabins, offering all the comforts of home and luxurious amenities you need for an unforgettable getaway. Check out our selection of Gatlinburg cabin rentals and book your winter stay today!

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