Winter transforms the hiking trails in the Smoky Mountains into a veritable wonderland. If you pack away your hiking boots when the temps start to drop, you’re missing out on some of the most spectacular scenery imaginable. Towering peaks covered in fresh powder, glittering fields blanketed in white, and frozen waterfalls with dramatic ice formations all come together to create an incredible frozen fantasy. 

When you escape to the winter playground of the Smoky Mountains, you might just find that you have it all to yourself. In the off-season, discover the freedom of hiking for miles through a wintry scene without ever seeing another soul. It’s the perfect time to stretch your legs and lungs and reconnect with nature in a unique way. Are you ready for a rejuvenating adventure? Try these five invigorating winter hiking trails in the Smoky Mountains. 

Alum Cave Winter Hiking Trail

Get a bird’s eye view of a Smoky Mountains winter wonderland from the top of Mount LeConte. The 3rd highest peak in the Smokies, this mountain boasts multiple breathtaking overlooks with scenic vistas. And one of the best ways to get there is the Alum Cave Trail. Start your 10-mile roundtrip hike as you traverse log bridges that lead through an old-growth hardwood forest. Take a breather at Inspiration Point and admire the mountain views. Then marvel at the sparkling icicle formations as you trek to the Alum Cave Bluffs. These 80-ft tall geologic wonders are a typical turning point for most hikers, but if you’re up for the challenge keep climbing the full 1,200 feet to the top for majestic winter views that are well worth the effort. 

Rainbow Falls

Another popular route to the top of Mount LeConte is the Rainbow Falls Trail. This winter hiking trail in the Smoky Mountains comes with impressive ice formations. The steep 6-mile trek – a total elevation gain of 1,700 feet with rocky sections and sharp switchbacks – is not for the faint of heart. But we promise the reward is worth every step. Rainbow Falls is an awe-inspiring 80-ft waterfall that forms giant dazzling icicles on its ledges. If you’re visiting during midwinter, you might get a glimpse of its iconic hourglass ice sculpture that typically forms in the coldest months. 

Laurel Falls

Laurel Falls is one of the most popular hiking trails in the Smoky Mountains, but it’s much less crowded during winter. This gorgeous 2.6-mile roundtrip walk is paved, making it ideal for a fun family-friendly hike with kids or novice trekkers. Follow the trail to its namesake, a beautiful cascading waterfall with icicles that form during colder weather. The stunning multi-tiered falls has an upper and lower section with a wooden walkway that takes you right across the water! When the temps have been consistently low for several days, the frozen waterfall transforms into a fantastical crystal tower that even Elsa would admire.

Porter’s Creek

With easy car access and gentle inclines, Porter’s Creek Trail makes for great family-friendly winter hiking in the Smoky Mountains. Plus, the lower elevation means there’s less chance of roads being closed due to inclement weather. This 4-mile roundtrip hiking trail kicks off in the historic Greenbrier area of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering delightful opportunities to learn more about Smoky Mountain history. You’ll pass by the John Messer Cabin and a barn that was built circa 1875. But the best part of this winter hiking trail is the stunning Fern Branch Falls, a 60-ft waterfall that turns into a shimmering icy spectacle during winter. 

Andrews Bald

Get picture perfect views of snow capped mountaintops on one of the best winter hiking trails in the Smoky Mountains. Andrews Bald is a grassy bald with wide-open vistas that deliver the kind of postcard worthy scenes where winter memories are made. But getting there is half the fun. Take Forney Ridge Trail from the parking lot of Clingmans Dome for 1.8 miles. This winter hike is an exhilarating challenge, beginning with a long descent, then leveling off for a bit before a steep final ascension through the snow-covered forest. When you reach the plateau of Andrews Bald, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking mountain views. 

Tips for Winter Hiking in the SmoIt’s important to be prepared when you head to the Smoky Mountains for your winter hikes. Keep these tips in mind as you get ready to experience the mountains in a new way this season.

  • Dress for the elements. Weather can vary so be sure to wear layers that you can take off or put on as temps can change with elevation.
  • It’s a good idea to wear a moisture-wicking garment as your base layer. It may be cold, but you can work up a sweat when you’re hiking up steep inclines.
  • Make sure you’re wearing the right kind of footwear. Something that protects your toes and gives you a lot of good traction is best.
  • Bring along plenty of water to drink.
  • Pay attention to where you step. The snow is beautiful, but it can also hide rocks, roots, and dips in the trail.
    After a fun-filled day on the winter hiking trails in the Smoky Mountains, relax and warm your feet by the fire in a cozy Smoky Mountain cabin.