As winter approaches in the Smoky Mountains, the views switch over from the vibrant colors of fall to the sparkling mountaintops covered with snow. If you have never seen snow in the Smokies, it truly is one of the most incredible sights in the world. While you can see snow practically anywhere throughout the Smokies, it is much more common in the upper elevations! Here are 4 of the best places to see snow in the Smoky Mountains:

1. Cades Cove

Our Gatlinburg restaurant is located right on the doorstep of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. There you can see snow in the Smoky Mountains during winter! For those who aren’t fans of the cold, you can take a scenic drive through Cades Cove to view the snowy fields from the warmth of your vehicle. Although it is less common to see wildlife in the winter, keep your eyes peeled because deer are often lurking in the woods! There are numerous pull-off areas as well throughout the 11-mile loop road where you can stop to take pictures of the snowy scene.

2. Downtown Gatlinburg

As you explore everything that downtown Gatlinburg has to offer, you can enjoy the winter magic as you stroll the streets. If you want to get a bird’s eye view of the scenery, be sure to visit one of the many mountaintop attractions in the area! Some of the most popular places to visit include Anakeesta, the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park, and Ober Mountain. If you need a place to escape the cold, plan to come and eat dinner with us at The Peddler Steakhouse located in the heart of downtown Gatlinburg.

3. Hiking Trails

For those who want to embrace snow in the Smoky Mountains, there are an array of marvelous hiking trails that remain open all year round. Generally, the trails are less crowded during the winter months which allows you to appreciate the serenity of nature, especially after a snowfall. While all the trails are breathtaking, there are a couple that are even more spectacular during winter. Alum Cave Trail is a 2.3-mile hike that features gorgeous mountain views. Plus, it is a relatively short hike so you don’t have to worry about getting too cold. When the weather is chilly, you are likely to see sparkling icicles hanging from the bluffs around Inspiration Point!

4. Our Restaurant

One of the things that guests love the most about our Gatlinburg restaurant is the location. You can enjoy the sights of snow in the Smoky Mountains while you chow down on our incredible entrees and wonderful salad bar. We offer plenty of window seating so you can look out over the Little Pigeon River and the mountains while you enjoy a meal with your loved ones. Be sure to check out our menu to start planning your trip to The Peddler Steakhouse.

For those who want to learn more about the history of the Smokies, there are a ton of ways to explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. To plan your next visit, check out some of the most popular activities in the Smokies! We hope you enjoy the winter season and the snow in the Smoky Mountains!