Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains are filled with beauty and fun during every season! However, winter brings the opportunity to have some unique experiences and the chance to embrace a very magical season in the mountains! We’ve put together 10 winter activities that you’ll definitely want to add to your itinerary!
1. Snow Fun at Ober Mountain
Gatlinburg’s number one spot for winter activities is Tennessee’s only ski resort, Ober Mountain! Sitting just above the city is the perfect place for everyone to play and experience a winter wonderland. Guests will find ice skating, snow tubing, snowboarding, skiing and much more. You can drive up and park or just take a short walk from our hotel and ride Ober’s Aerial Tramway to the top!
2. Gatlinburg SkyPark
In 2019 the Gatlinburg SkyPark and SkyBridge quickly became one of the most visited attractions in Gatlinburg and it’s easy to see why! The views from the park have been absolutely incredible during every season, including this winter! The only way to access the area is by taking a ride on the SkyLift from downtown. Tickets are good for the entire day and beautiful fire pits and the SkyCenter will keep you warm while you wait to experience a Smokies sunset .
3. Winter Hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The winter months bring solitude to even the busiest of summertime trails in the national park. Visitors can find info on trails and needed winter gear at both the NOC Gatlinburg and the Sugarlands Visitors Center. Take a stroll on the Gatlinburg Trail next to our hotel or climb to the summit of Mount LeConte, either way the beauty of the Smokies awaits! Learn more about snow in the Smoky Mountains and what to expect !
4. Anakeesta
Another hot spot in town, even during the cooler months, is Anakeesta! Open year-round and offering multiple ways to access the top makes winter fun possible for just about everyone visiting Gatlinburg. Take a day to explore, have dinner or soak up the views!
5. Shine and Wine Time
Adults that are heading to Gatlinburg for a wintertime escape will enjoy the numerous locations downtown that offer moonshine sippin’, wine sampling and more. Check out all of these distilleries in Gatlinburg you’ll want to visit! Stop in at Ole Smoky’s Holler to hear some free tunes as well!
6. Roam With The Sharks at Ripley’s Aquarium
If you’re in town on an extra cold day or even a rainy day and have children that need to use up some of their energy, then Ripley’s Aquarium is the place for you! With plenty of hands-on experiences and areas to explore they’re sure to be ready for a nap once you’re back to the hotel!
7. A Cozy and Hearty Breakfast at Crockett’s Breakfast Camp
We serve a daily complimentary breakfast at our hotel. However, if you’re looking for an extra hearty meal in a cozy place with a great atmosphere and story, then start your morning off at Crockett’s Breakfast Camp! Bonus: Crockett’s is just a short walk from our property!
8. Shopping With a Side of Coffee and Donuts
A snowy morning filled with browsing the shops of downtown Gatlinburg is a scene straight out of a Hallmark movie. To make it extra special, toss in a side trip to the Donut Friar in the The Village for a cup of hot coffee and a delicious donut! Don’t miss out on these other coffee shops in Gatlinburg too!
9. Explore the Museums
After spending the day playing in the snow at Ober or testing your courage by walking the SkyBridge, plan on spending an afternoon exploring the local museums . You can’t go wrong with a trip to the Salt & Pepper Shaker Museum, Hollywood Star Cars Museum or Ripley’s Believe or Not!
10. Arts, Crafts and Culture
Winter is an excellent time to visit the Arts & Crafts Community and support local artists. Take the time to visit the Geoffrey A. Wolpert Gallery located at Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts in downtown Gatlinburg. Planning on being in town during December? Check out these top things to do in Gatlinburg in December ! We would love for you to be our guest at Bearskin Lodge on the River! Take a peek at Our Guest Rooms and Our Amenities and start planning your next trip to the Smoky Mountains! Click Here to browse our rooms, rates and available dates!
