The 6 Best Winter Hikes in The Smokies

Winter is a magical yet often overlooked season to explore the Great Smoky Mountains. If you’re looking for things to do in Gatlinburg in the winter, hiking in the Smokies should be at the top of your list. It offers peaceful solitude, breathtaking snow-covered views, and more chances for wildlife spotting—making it the perfect time to experience the park’s rugged beauty and unwind in a cozy Gatlinburg cabin rental.

To help you plan your adventure, we’ve curated a list of the best winter hikes in the Smokies based on AllTrails recommendations:

• Laurel Falls Trail
• Alum Cave Trail
• Metcalf Bottoms Trail
• Schoolhouse Gap Trail
• Rainbow Falls Trail
• Huskey Gap Trail
• Trillium Gap Trail
• Porters Creek Trail

Look for key details about each hike, including length, elevation, difficulty, and proximity to Gatlinburg. Once you’ve narrowed down a hike, lace up your boots and head out to experience the serenity of a winter visit to the Smoky Mountains.  

1. Laurel Falls Trail

• Best for: Families, casual hikers 
• Trail length: 2.4 miles round trip 
• Elevation gain: 403 feet 
• Route type: Out-and-back 
• Distance from Gatlinburg: 6.5 miles 
• Hike rating: 4.5 stars 
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Laurel Falls Trail is one of the best winter hikes in the Smokies, offering peaceful serenity as you ascend to view the magnificent 80-foot falls at the top. The falls are split into an upper and lower section divided by a walkway over the stream. These splendid falls garner their name from the Mountain Laurel that blooms along the trail and near the falls during May. 

The trail is open year-round, but because it is paved, there are sections that can be especially slick or icy in the winter. Be sure to watch your step. Parking is limited at the trailhead, and lots fill up quickly, so it’s encouraged to start the Laurel Falls Trail in winter early.

2. Alum Cave Trail

• Best for: Experienced hikers looking for a challenging hike with views
• Trail length: 11 miles round trip 
• Elevation gain: 3,061 feet 
• Route type: Out-and-back 
• Distance from Gatlinburg: 10 miles 
• Hike rating: 4.5 stars 
• Difficulty: Hard

If you want a challenging Smoky Mountain hike, head to Alum Cave Trail. You’ll enjoy a variety of scenic vistas along the way, including panoramic views of the surrounding mountains from the summit of Mount LeConte and cool views of icicle formations. For outdoorsy couples, this breathtaking hike is the perfect romantic thing to do in Gatlinburg.

For those wondering if Alum Cave Trail open in the winter — yes! The trail remains open, but it can be icy and muddy, so take appropriate shoes and trek poles and check the official park website for the latest conditions. The parking lots at Newfound Gap Road fill up quickly, so it’s smart to start early in the morning to secure a spot and make the most of the daylight. 

3. Metcalf Bottoms Trail

• Best for: Families, beginners, and those seeking a leisurely hike
• Trail length: 1.5 miles round trip 
• Elevation gain: 187 ft  
• Route type: Out-and-back
• Distance from Gatlinburg: Approximately 20 miles
• Hike rating: 4.5 stars 
• Difficulty: Easy 

For an easy, family-friendly winter hike in the Smokies, be sure to check out the Metcalf Bottoms Trail. This low-elevation trail can be accessed all year round but is especially beautiful during the winter, offering stunning views of the snow-capped mountains. If you’re looking for things to do in Gatlinburg in February, this is a great hike for when the temperatures drop.

As you hike, you’ll get a chance to see the historic Little Greenbrier Community, which includes a schoolhouse, graveyard, and cabin. The parking lot is accessible year-round, though the Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area may temporarily close during severe weather.  

 4. Schoolhouse Gap Trail 

• Best for: Families, beginners, and those seeking a leisurely hike 
• Trail length: 4.1 miles round trip
• Elevation gain: 521 ft
• Route type: Out-and-back
• Distance from Gatlinburg: Approximately 20 miles 
• Hike rating: 4.3 stars 
• Difficulty: Moderate 

For hikers seeking a more relaxing jaunt, Schoolhouse Gap Trail has minimal elevation gain compared to other trails in the park. Despite its name, there is no actual schoolhouse along the trail, but it offers a wide path for families who want to walk side-by-side. Be aware that this trail is open to horseback riders, and remember to step to the side to yield to oncoming horses until they pass.  

Wildflower viewing is a popular springtime activity in Gatlinburg, but this trail is also great for wildlife viewing during the winter. You may even spot a woodpecker or see deer passing through towards Cades Cove.

Schoolhouse Gap Trail is open year-round and accessible in winter, but you may encounter occasional icy spots. Be cautious—especially if you are traveling with kids. After your adventure, retreat to a kid-friendly cabin in Gatlinburg for a cozy evening by the fire and family game night. 

5. Rainbow Falls Trail

• Best for: More experienced hikers looking for waterfall views 
• Trail length: 5.4 miles round trip
• Elevation gain: 1,617 ft
• Route type: Out-and-back
• Distance from Gatlinburg: Approximately 10 miles 
• Hike rating: 4.7 stars 
• Difficulty: Moderate 

During the winter months, the surrounding forests and mountains of Rainbow Falls Trail are often covered in snow, creating a stunning winter wonderland. The hike itself can be challenging, as the trail can be slippery and icy in places, but the payoff is well worth the effort. 

As you approach Rainbow Falls, the rushing water becomes louder, and you can feel the mist from the falls on your face. The falls themselves are truly breathtaking, with water cascading over an 80-foot drop into a pool below. 

Parking is available at the Rainbow Falls trailhead, and if the lot is full, additional parking is just 0.1 miles past the main area. 

6. Huskey Gap Trail

• Best for: More experienced hikers looking for elevation gains 
• Trail length: 8.9 miles round trip
• Elevation gain: 2,109 ft
• Route type: Out-and-back
• Distance from Gatlinburg: Approximately 15 miles 
• Hike rating: 4.4 stars 
• Difficulty: Moderate 

Also a popular spring and summer hike, Huskey Gap Trail is a great winter hike if you enjoy a little more solitude. This trail begins on Newfound Gap Road and winds up Sugarland Mountain. 

As you ascend, you’ll encounter remnants of a stone fence that once belonged to the historical Appalachian homesteads formerly in the National Park. After 2.1 miles, you’ll reach the Huskey Gap Trail and Sugarland Mountain Trail intersection. If you walk just beyond the trail junction, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the western peaks before you begin your descent. 

This hike will certainly get your blood pumping on a cold winter’s day. At 3,180 feet, it offers limited views of the park. Higher elevations can create slick trails in the winter, so be sure to pack sturdy boots and trekking poles. 

Ober Mountain is a short drive from this trail—a popular destination for snow tubing, ice skating, or a Smoky Mountains ski trip.

7. Trillium Gap Trail

• Best for: Intermediate-level hikers looking for gentle inclines and waterfall views
• Trail length: 6.8 miles round trip
• Elevation gain: 1,243 ft
• Route type: Out-and-back
• Distance from Gatlinburg: Approximately 10 miles 
• Hike rating: 4.5 stars 
• Difficulty: Moderate 

For a tranquil winter escape in the Smokies, the Trillium Gap Trail features a gentle incline and breathtaking views of waterfalls. Great for both hikers or horseback riders, this scenic trail leads to Mt. LeConte and Grotto Falls. 

Grotto Falls winter trails can be wet and slick, so be cautious when walking around. Keep an eye out for icicles hanging from the rocks along the trail in winter; they create a winter wonderland effect.  

There’s limited parking at the trailhead, so you may want to consider carpooling. You can purchase a parking tag online or at the visitor’s center. 

After your hike, head downtown to relax and rejuvenate with a spa or massage in Gatlinburg. If you prefer something lighter, indulge in a soothing foot scrub or a relaxing yoga class!

8. Porters Creek Trail

• Best for: All skill levels, including beginners and families 
• Trail length: 7 miles round trip
• Elevation gain: 1,512 ft
• Route type: Out-and-back
• Distance from Gatlinburg: Approximately 15 miles 
• Hike rating: 4.5 stars 
• Difficulty: Moderate 

One of the top winter hikes in the Smokies is the Porters Creek Trail. This moderate trail offers a steady ascent, rocky terrain, and stunning views of Porters Creek. It’s accessible for all skill levels and provides rewarding scenic vistas and historic homestead remnants.

In the winter, the trail may be slippery and icy, so sturdy footwear is recommended. The trail also offers great wildlife viewing opportunities, so look for species in their winter habitats. 

Parking is available at the Porters Creek Trailhead, which is accessible by car year-round. Just be mindful of potential road closures due to winter weather.

Pro Tips for Smoky Mountains Winter Hikes 

Winter hikes in Great Smoky Mountains National Park offer fewer crowds and breathtaking views, but they also bring unique challenges compared to other seasons. To stay safe and enjoy your adventure, here are a few pro tips to keep in mind. 

• Layer up: Dress in layers to keep yourself warm, but also allow for ventilation if you overheat. Start with moisture-wicking base layers, add an insulating layer for warmth, and finish with a waterproof outer shell to protect against the elements. Wear waterproof boots and gloves to keep your feet and hands dry.
• Bring the right winter gear: Be sure to bring items such as crampons, trekking poles, and an ice axe if necessary. Also, bring plenty of water, snacks, a fully charged phone or GPS device, and a first-aid kit in case of emergency.  
• Check the weather forecast frequently: Gatlinburg weather in the winter can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be prepared. Conditions can change quickly, so avoid hiking in extreme weather like heavy snow, blizzards, or icy conditions. 
• Be aware of potential closures: Before you set out, check the road conditions to ensure your route is open and clear from ice or snow. The National Park website regularly updates conditions and trail advisories, or you can call for the most current information.
• Start your hike early: Keep in mind that the days are shorter during the winter months. In the Smokies, the sun sets as early as 5 p.m., so you’ll want to start early to ensure you have plenty of daylight. Winter hiking can be more strenuous than other seasons, so be mindful of your energy levels and turn back if conditions worsen.

Plan Your Next Smoky Mountain Hike this Winter 

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a beautiful destination that offers endless opportunities for exploration and adventure, even during the winter months or Gatlinburg Christmas. With fewer crowds and stunning views of the snow-capped mountains, the best winter hikes in the Smokies can be a rewarding experience for hikers of all skill levels. 

After your hike, relax in a cozy Gatlinburg cabin with amenities like indoor pools, saunas, or hot tubs—perfect for unwinding after a day on the trails.

Ready to book your winter escape or hit the Smoky Mountains in December? Reserve online or give us a call for a personalized recommendation!