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Best Things To Do In The Smoky Mountains In February

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In this Smoky Mountains Vacation Guide on the best things to do in the Smoky Mountains in February, I’m sure you are going to find at least one great reason to visit the Smokies in this chili winter month.

Whether you’re a thrill seeker or just want some peace and quiet in nature, the Great Smoky Mountains have plenty to offer during this winter season. From skiing and snow tubing down snowy slopes to exploring the many trails that wind through the national park– there’s something for everyone!

Things To Do In The Smoky Mountains In February
Things To Do In The Smoky Mountains In February

The Smoky Mountains are bursting with fantastic and romantic things to do even during the winter months! If you are thinking that February is the time to hibernate like the black bears, let me see if I can persuade you to think otherwise.

In this post, we will be exploring exciting things to do in the Smoky Mountains in February! So put on your warmest coat and let’s dive into all that awaits you in these beautiful mountains!

Book 5 Bedroom Cabin Gatlinburg

Is February A Good Time To Visit Smoky Mountains?

While the weather is definitely going to be cold, there are some Pros and Cons to visiting the Smoky Mountains in February.

Pros To Visiting The Smoky Mountains In February

  • Crowds are much smaller
  • Hotel and Cabin rates are dramatically lower. (We booked Camp Margaritaville the 1st week in February for only $76)
  • Restaurants are less crowded and easier to get reservations
  • It’s an enchanting and somewhat romantic time to get a cabin
  • High likelihood of having snow
  • Wildlife (except for bears) is easier to spot
  • Much easier to navigate Cades Cove
  • Winter hiking is peaceful and serene
  • Traffic is less difficult
  • In early February you can still experience Christmas and see the Christmas lights.
Smoky Mountains In February
Things To Do In The Smoky Mountains In February

Cons To Visiting the Smoky Mountains in February

  • Average high temperatures are 39.9°F (4.4°C) and lows are 21.9°F (-5.6°C)
  • On average February is the month with the most snowfall in the Smokies. In the mountains, snow can accumulate to as much as 18″ in February. However, keep in mind, this doesn’t mean that much snow will be in Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg.
  • Dollywood is closed (We personally see this as a pro since it means fewer people on the Parkway)

Things To Do In The Smoky Mountains In February

Whether you are still hung up on the holidays or just want to experience a more peaceful serene side to the Smokies, here are some ideas on the best things to do in the Smoky Mountains in February.

What Festivals Are Happening in The Smoky Mountains in February?

The Smoky Mountains and its surrounding towns offer lots of festivals throughout the year. Happening in February are some unique and really interesting festivals that you should check out.

Winterfest Lights

The Winterfest lights start from early November through the end of February. Draped in over 5 million lights, Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg is transformed into a winter wonderland for the locals and visitors to enjoy. 

There are plenty of ways to enjoy the Winterfest lights, probably the most popular and cost-effective way is driving with the crew along the Parkway.

If you prefer to see it at a slower pace, walking is also an option, you can admire your favorite display and take photos much easier. Just make sure to put on your winter clothes ‘coz it’s gonna be cold.

If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, you can rent a jeep and take it for a scenic drive through the mountains. 

Dollywood Christmas Lights

Tennessee Winter Beer Fest

This unique event started as an idea in 2011 from Maryville resident Mike Adams. Through conversations with several friends, a board was formed and a charity was identified to benefit from the event, New Hope Blount County Children’s Advocacy Center.

A simple idea of just putting on a beer festival grew and is now in its 10th year. The mission of TWBF is to promote the regional craft beer culture within East Tennessee.

This will happen on February 18th, 2023 in Townsend, TN.

Smoky Mountains 7-Day Itinerary

I understand how difficult it can be to plan a trip, especially if it’s your first time going. That’s why I created this 7-day itinerary for the Smoky Mountains. It outlines all of the best places to go in the area and comes with insider tips that will save you a lot of stress–trust me, they saved me when I was planning my own trip!

  • Our 7-day itinerary takes you to the best places in the Smoky Mountains.
  • You’ll get to see all the best sights and attractions with driving directions
  • The itinerary is designed to show you the most scenic routes.
  • Packing Checklist for every season.
  • You’ll have everything you need to make the most of your trip.
  • Insider Tips!

Here’s a quick overview of our Smoky Mountains 7-Day Itinerary.

  • Day 1: Cades Cove Loop
  • Day 2: Rich Mountain Road
  • Day 3: Cataloochee Valley
  • Day 4: Newfound Gap Road
  • Day 5: Roaring Fork Motor Trail
  • Day 6: Little River Road
  • Day6: Foothills Parkway

Get Our FREE Winter Packing Checklist For The Smoky Mountains!

Related Resources

More Related Resources

To make your trip to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park more fun and exciting, try this photo scavenger hunt from PhotoJeepers.

Don’t let the winter chill stop you from planning a family getaway, for more amazing vacation ideas this February check out our post on the Best Things To Do In Tennessee In February.

Don’t Miss Our Smoky Mountains Web Stories!

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