Ober Mountain ski lift on snow-covered mountain
January 5, 2026

Is the forecast calling for snow during your Smoky Mountain getaway? Snow turns your vacation into a magical winter escape! While snow days may limit some of your outdoor plans, they also offer new opportunities for scenic beauty, cozy moments, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you want to play outside in the snow or stay warm indoors, there’s no shortage of fun things to do on a Gatlinburg snow day! Here are some of the top ways to make the most of snowy weather during your Smoky Mountain winter vacation:

1. Play in the Snow at Ober Mountain

Ober Mountain is one of the best places to experience snow in Gatlinburg! This popular mountaintop attraction offers snow tubing, skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and a snow play area where you can enjoy real winter fun! You can also take a ride on the aerial tram or scenic chairlift for a bird’s-eye view of the stunning snow-covered mountains! Whether you’re looking for high-speed fun or breathtaking scenery, Ober Mountain is a great all-day destination during a Gatlinburg snow day!

2. Explore Indoor Attractions

inside Ripley's Believe It or Not! attraction in Gatlinburg

When snow blankets the streets, Gatlinburg’s indoor attractions offer plenty of warmth and entertainment! You can experience everything from museums to arcades to indoor mini golf and more! Ripley’s attractions are especially popular on snow days, with indoor options like Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, and Ripley’s Mirror Maze. You’ll have no trouble finding a variety of family-friendly, easy-to-access indoor attractions throughout downtown Gatlinburg that are perfect for a fun-filled snow day!

3. Hike a Trail

Light snowfall transforms the Smoky Mountains into a peaceful winter wonderland. If conditions are safe, hiking in Gatlinburg snow can be an unforgettable experience! Some of the easiest winter hiking trails to access on a snowy day include the Gatlinburg Trail, Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail, and Cataract Falls Trail. Winter hikes tend to be quieter, less crowded, and full of incredible photo opportunities! Just make sure you wear proper footwear, dress in layers to stay warm, and check road and trail conditions before heading out.

4. Go Shopping in Downtown Gatlinburg

Aunt Mahalia's Candies

Snowy weather provides the perfect excuse to explore downtown Gatlinburg at a slower, more relaxed pace. Shopping is a cozy way to spend a Gatlinburg snow day, with everything from local boutiques to candy stores to artisan galleries and more! There are many great places to go shopping in Gatlinburg, including the indoor Mountain Mall and the famous Village Shops. Snow falling along the Parkway adds a magical, postcard-worthy atmosphere to your shopping spree!

5. Stay Warm and Cozy at Your Gatlinburg Cabin Rental

One of the best ways to enjoy a Gatlinburg snow day is by staying in and embracing the coziness of your Gatlinburg cabin rental! Enjoy the perfect winter retreat, complete with snowy mountain views, crackling fireplaces, soothing hot tubs, full kitchens, and other amenities to make your stay memorable. A snow day is ideal for sipping hot cocoa by the fire and admiring the peaceful scenery right outside your window. Our cabin rentals make it easy to enjoy comfort, privacy, and relaxation while immersed in the Smoky Mountains this winter!

Plan the Perfect Gatlinburg Winter Vacation

A Gatlinburg snow day makes your winter vacation even more memorable! From snowy outdoor adventures to cozy cabin amenities, there are endless opportunities for fun and relaxation this winter! Find out why you should get away this winter in the Smoky Mountains and start planning your stay today!

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