Winter Hiking In The Smoky Mountains: What’s Open & Closed?
Hiking in the Smoky Mountains can be done during any time of the year, including the winter months. While you may think that most trails would typically be closed during the cold season, it is actually a prime time to see the mountains, streams, waterfalls, and animals in their natural habitat. Anyone can hike in the Smoky Mountains during the warm weather, but it takes skill and determination to see these amazing sights while they are frozen.
The chance of seeing snow isn’t the only reason why should you visit the Smokies in the winter! Hiking enthusiasts love hiking in the Smoky Mountains during the winter months because many of the trails are less crowded and more parking is available at the trailheads. Read on to find out which trails and access roads are closed for the winter!
What’s Closed in Great Smoky Mountains National Park During the Winter?
The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail closes at the beginning of December and doesn’t reopen until late March/early April. The same goes for Kuwhi Road (formerly Clingman’s Dome Road) and its Visitor Center. Kuwohi Road turns into a great place for cross-country skiing during the winter! Other small access roads that are closed to vehicular traffic during the winter include Parsons Branch Road, Rich Mountain Road, Little Greenbrier Road, and Forge Creek Road.
What’s Open in Great Smoky Mountains National Park During the Winter?
The best way to ensure your route is open during winter in the Smoky Mountains is by checking the national park’s updates on seasonal road closures. While the following roads and areas of the national park are open year-round, periods of icy and snow conditions may result in a temporary closure:
- Little River Road
- Newfound Gap
- Cades Cove Campground
- Cades Cove Loop Road
- Smoky Mountain Visitor Centers
Must-Visit Places During Winter in the Smokies
Waterfalls
A must-do when winter hiking in the Smokies is a waterfall hike! Cataract Falls, Laurel Falls, Abrams Falls, Hen Wallow Falls, and Rainbow Falls are all accessible during the winter months, with unique ice formations becoming visible as the water begins to freeze. The combination of frozen waterfalls surrounded by the snowy scenery is nothing short of spectacular!
Grotto Falls is also beautiful during the winter; however, you won’t be able to access this waterfall from the trailhead off of Roaring Fork. Instead, you can access this trail via the Rainbow Falls trail on Cherokee Orchard Road, but this route will add nearly 3.5 miles to your hike.
Mt. Cammerer Fire Tower
If you’re up for a challenge, then we highly recommend hiking to the Mt. Cammerer Fire Tower! At just over 11 miles roundtrip, this hike includes the Low Gap Trail as well as a portion of the iconic Appalachian Trail before reaching the summit. The unique fire tower structure allows you to see for miles in every direction. The frosty trees and snow-capped peaks never fail to disappoint, making the trek well worth the effort.
Alum Cave
Another popular Smoky Mountain hiking trail in the winter is Alum Cave. The water running off of the unique rock formations results in some pretty amazing icicles during the winter! Plus, you can use this trail to hike all the way to the top of Mount LeConte.
Now you know more about winter hiking in the Smoky Mountains! Curious about camping during the winter? Read our Smoky Mountain winter camping guide to learn more!
