4 Hikes In The Smokies To Take During The Winter Season
Welcome to the beautiful Smoky Mountains! In every season, the landscape is filled with sweeping views and rolling hills. During the winter months snowfall adorns the mountain tops and icicles hang from the trees. In the crisp mountain air, this time of year is a wonderful chance to enjoy the deep views and beauty of the area. To fully experience these views here are five trails you don’t want to miss when visiting:
1. Trillium Gap Trail
Trillium Gap Trail is a challenging hike but well worth the climb to the top of Mt. LeConte. At 13.9 miles and a 3401 ft. elevation gain it’s a steep trail, so pack some hiking poles and plenty of warm clothes. Despite this, between the views and the scenery on the way up, Trillium Gap in the snow is well worth it. Make sure to check if the roads leading to the trail are open before you begin your hike and bring lots of water, it pays to be prepared. This hike though, will leave you wanting to come back time and time again.
2. Alum Cave Trail
This beautiful trail is yet another way to reach the top of Mt. LeConte while seeing some gorgeous caves and scenery along the way. Hike the Alum Cave Trail and then continue on if you want to see the summit. However, if you’re tired for the day, just reaching Alum Cave makes for a wonderful hike. During the winter months the trails are lined with glistening snow and icicles hang from the roof of the cave. At 7.4 miles roundtrip this will be a harder trail and hiking poles are recommended, but it is still well worth the journey.
3. Metcalf Bottoms Trail
The first two trails on this list were more difficult so here is an easier one for the whole family! Metcalf Bottoms Trail is only 1.2 miles and is home to several old homesites, a few footbridges and several other historic landmarks. It’s a fun and easy trail that is perfect for an afternoon picnic or just a stroll through the woods. This is one that is beautiful in the snow and in the summer and you’ll not want to miss out!
4. Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls is a moderately difficult trail with a 5.4 mile roundtrip. It can be steep in areas but that means that you’re climbing to a beautiful view. The trail ends at Rainbow Falls itself. This waterfall is the tallest waterfall in the Smokies and is a beautiful sight to see. During the winter the water still tumbles over the edges hitting the icy water below. This is a great trail to hike for a picnic and to see some majestic sights.
There are many beautiful trails to hike in the crisp mountain air of the Smokies. We hope that this list helps you to pick which one you would like to choose. When you’re visiting, there are also several great places to stay. Top of the list is Smoky Mountain Chalet Rentals, boasting many cozy cabins in the Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge areas. This cabin rental company specializes in comfortable and relaxing cabins, great for resting after a day of hiking through the Smokies.