Planning a winter getaway in the Smokies? In this Smoky Mountains vacation guide, we give you our Winter packing list for the Smoky Mountains.
If you’re someone who embraces the depth of winter and loves traveling towards snowy destinations instead of away, then a winter vacation in the Smoky Mountains is perfect for you.
While this can be an exciting season, packing for the winter can be tricky. To help you, we’ve come up with a packing list for the winter season in the Smokies.


If you’re headed to the Smoky Mountains for winter but don’t know what to bring along, then you’ve come to the right place!
We’ve put together a comprehensive Winter packing list for the Smoky Mountains with essentials to make your trip fun and worry-free.
Download the packing list for free below!

How Do You Pack For The Smoky Mountains In Winter?
The Smoky Mountains are a beautiful destination all year round, but the wintertime brings out something special and magical in them. While lesser crowds in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are a major draw-in, the season also comes packed with scenic splendor and tons of recreational opportunities for everyone to enjoy.
One thing to keep in mind though is that winter in the Smokies is also unpredictable so it’s important to keep track of the weather forecast and pack essential items for your winter trip.
Winter Packing Checklist
Packing mishaps range from inconvenient to disastrous, but most are preventable. With that here is a list of everything you need for the winter in the Smoky Mountains.
Daypack Essentials

Winter Hiking Gear
- Goggles or sunglasses
- Hiking backpack
- Kids Hiking backpack
- Insulated winter boots
- Headlamp
- Fire starting equipment
- Compass/GPS
- Whistle
- Multi-tool
Winter Clothing
Depending on the weather and what you plan to do during the day, here are essential winter clothing you need to pack that will ensure you stay comfortable no matter how much the temperatures fluctuate.
- Moisture wicking and quick-drying base layers
- Heavy winter coats
- Sweaters
- Long-sleeved shirts
- Waterproof rain jacket
- Light jackets or hoodies
- Snow pants or Jeans
- Hats or beanies
- Wool socks
- Gloves
- Scarf
- Bathing suit (if you decide to stay in a cabin with an outdoor hot tub)
More Winter Gear & Accessories
- Camera
- Cell phone
- Portable Phone Charger
- Travel apps
- Smoky Mountains guidebooks and maps
Download Your Free Winter Packing List For The Smoky Mountains
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
Now that you’re done with your packing list, now is the perfect time to check out all the best Things To Do In the Smoky Mountains In Winter!
Make your winter visit to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park more fun for the kids with this national park photo scavenger hunt idea from PhotoJeepers.