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Winter is a beautiful time of year to visit Gatlinburg. The snowcapped mountains are beautiful, and everything seems to slow down when the temperatures drop. If you’re looking for some of the best views in Gatlinburg this winter, don’t miss out on these great locations when it snows.
If you have ever traveled to Gatlinburg and the surrounding area, you’ve probably been to the Gatlinburg Bypass. The views from the bypass are gorgeous all year long, and winter is no exception. Rolling snow-dusted peaks surround Gatlinburg's lively downtown, creating a stunning backdrop that looks straight from a storybook.
Winter is a great time to find a cabin/chalet, condo, or hotel room with a great view! Visiting during the off-season often means fewer crowds and more opportunities to snag unbeatable deals that allow you to enjoy the area's best lodging options for less. Whether you are dreaming of a cozy cabin or a beautiful hotel, just remember that winter offers plenty of chances to enjoy a warm fireplace and a spectacular view outside your window.
Downtown Gatlinburg has several great spots where you can get those unforgettable views and enjoy an attraction or two. There's a variety of attractions to take in the views and enjoy time with family and friends all at the same time: Ober Gatlinburg / Aerial Tramway, Gatlinburg SkyBridge, Space Needle, and Anakeesta. These are some of the highest points in Gatlinburg that give you a 360-degree view like no other place in town.
The views on this scenic drive to Newfound Gap are spectacular every season, especially during the winter. You will experience tall mountain peaks and drive through several tunnels on your way to the top to see views at Morton's Overlook and at the Tennessee/North Carolina state lines. Be sure to check with Park Services before planning a drive up the mountain. For more help, follow their Twitter account or contact them directly.
While the Smokies may be known for boasting some of the highest summits east of the Mississippi, Gatlinburg has no shortage of nearby trails that are both family-friendly and ideal for taking in winter's most splendid scenes. Located just a few feet from traffic light 10, the Gatlinburg Trail is one of the closest trails for those looking for a nice stroll through the woods. The trail is a relatively flat 1.9 miles that runs one-way to the Sugarlands Visitor Center and through the forest alongside the Little Pigeon River. A pedestrian footbridge greets you at the halfway point and offers a great setting for a photo-op. Remnants of several old homesteads are also visible along the trail. Not far along US-441 S from Gatlinburg lies one of the more popular hiking spots, the Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail. An even 0.5 mile of a paved walkway, this trail is handicap-accessible and frequently rated by visitors as the perfect relaxing walk after a busy day in town. The trail can be found at 1420 Old State Highway 73 Scenic, just passed Sugarlands Visitor Center and the official entry point to Great Smoky Mountains National Park from Gatlinburg. Stop into Sugarlands Visitor Center to learn more about the park's many trails. You’ll find friendly staff who can answer your questions, along with seasonal ranger-led tours.
Share your winter adventures on social with #TheMountainsAreCalling