Most people wonder when does it snow in the Smoky Mountains. If you’re one of them, look no further than this Smoky Mountains vacation guide so you can plan your trip accordingly!
Looking to beat the winter blues with a snowy adventure in the Smokies? Or just looking to avoid the cold altogether? Either way, you’ll need to plan ahead and know when is the best time to travel. Luckily we have all the information you need.
If you’re planning a trip to the Smoky Mountains, you’ll want to make sure you visit during the right season. The mountains are beautiful anytime of the year, but some seasons offer better conditions than others.
If you love snow, then make sure to read on so that you know when does it snow in the Smoky Mountains.
Does Smoky Mountains Have Snow?
The answer to this question is yes—the Smoky Mountains do have snow during certain times of the year. During the winter months, snowfall is common in higher elevations of the Smoky Mountains.
The temperatures in these elevated areas can stay very cold for weeks at a time, allowing for plenty of snow to accumulate on the ground.
In Great Smoky Mountains National Park, it snows an average of 27 days a year and accumulates up to 81.5 inches of snow.
When planning a trip to the area, make sure to check weather forecasts and plan accordingly. There are plenty of activities you can enjoy in the Smokies regardless of whether it is raining or snowing, so come prepared for whatever the weather brings.
When Does It Snow In the Smoky Mountains?
Typically, the Smoky Mountains will see their first snow of the year in late November or early December. Although it rarely snows at lower elevations in the Smokies, at higher elevations, it can snow as early as October and as late as March.
If you’re looking for the perfect time to visit the Smoky Mountains to really take in its winter beauty and experince snow, January and February are your best bet!
According to the National Park Service, most snow storms in the Tennessee Smoky Mountains occur during this time of the year.
Where Can I Find Snow In The Smoky Mountains?
If you’re really determined to see some snow while you’re in the Smokies, your best bet is to head up into the higher elevations.
If you want to see or experience the snow in the Smoky Mountains, here are some places you can visit.
Alum Cave Trail
This 2.3 miles hiking trail is an excellent place to see the snowy views. You will come across a few lookout points along the way, one being Inspiration Point.
Once you make it to Alum Cave, the scenery becomes even more captivating, with glaciers forming on ledges of the bluff in colder weather.
Newfound Gap
Located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, at an elevation of nearly a mile, Newfound Gap offers much cooler temperatures than its surrounding areas, allowing for more snowfall.
Tourists can easily pull off at one of the many scenic viewpoints to capture stunning photos of the snowy mountaintops and valleys.
Ober Gatlinburg
Located in the beautiful city of Gatlinburg this mountaintop resort offers something for everyone, from skiing and snowboarding to snow tubing and more.
You’ll also find the Aerial Tramway, which takes you to the top of the mountain for breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains in winter.
Cades Cove
Cades Cove is a gorgeous place that’s especially stunning in the winter. The best part about visiting during the winter months is that the loop road generally stays open (weather permitting), so you can explore without having to worry about traffic or crowds.
Gatlinburg Cabin
GSM Family Vacations Cabin is the perfect spot to experience the snow-covered beauty of Smoky Mountains. This 5BR/5BA cabin offers over 2,600 square feet of finished living space for your family to spread out and enjoy.
In the winter months, the view from this cabin is especially stunning as snow blankets the trees and valleys.
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 Smokies Now!
Related Smoky Mountain Resources
- Pigeon Forge Vacation Guide
- Gatlinburg Vacation Guide
- 125+ Things to Do in the Smoky Mountains
- Great Smoky Mountains Family Vacations Facebook Group
More Related Resources
Planning to go on a winter adventure to the Smokies? Then make sure to head on to our guide on the best Things To Do In the Smoky Mountains In Winter! Try this national park photo scavenger hunt idea for an even more fun trip.