Better Views of the Smokies and No Sweat
Most people visit the Great Smoky Mountains in the summer, fall, or holiday season, but they’re missing out on the “secret season.” From January through March, the mountains change. The crowds disappear, the air clears up, and you can see for miles. Let’s take a look as to why the winter is the best time for adventuring outdoors in the Great Smoky Mountains.
While visiting Bryson City, you’re in the perfect spot to experience the parks at their quietest and most beautiful. Here is why you should plan a trip during the cooler months.
See More Wildlife
Winter is actually the best time for wildlife viewing in the Smokies. Because the woods are thin, animals have nowhere to hide and the crisp air has them on the move to stay warm.
- Elk in Cherokee: You’ll almost always see the elk herds near the Oconaluftee Visitor Center. They are easy to spot against the brown and gray landscape.
- Deer and Turkeys: These are all over the lower elevations near Whittier and Bryson City.
- Easier Spotting: Even if you don’t see a bear (they are mostly sleeping this time of year), you can easily see birds and other animals that are usually tucked away in thick leaves.
Elk Safety & Viewing Etiquette
- While seeing these massive animals is a highlight of any winter trip, it is important to remember they are wild and unpredictable. To protect yourself and the herd, the National Park Service requires that you stay at least 150 feet (50 yards) away from elk at all times. Using binoculars or a telephoto lens is the best way to get a “close up” without putting yourself in danger. Approaching, distracting, or feeding elk is illegal and carries heavy fines.
For more on how to view them responsibly, check out the official NPS Elk Safety Guide.
Local Trails to Hit (All within 45 Minutes of Bryson City)
The biggest perk of winter hiking is the visibility. Since the trees have lost their leaves, the “green wall” of summer is gone, so you you can see mountain ridges and rock formations that are usually hidden. It’s also much more comfortable. Hiking in the summer heat can be a slog. In the winter, the crisp air keeps you from overheating on the uphill climbs, and you don’t have to deal with the humidity or gnats that take over in the warmer months. You don’t have to drive far to find a great trail. These trails are all close to town and usually stay clear of heavy snow, leading to a laid back adventure in the Smokies.
Easy & Family-Friendly Trails
These trails are lower in elevation, meaning they are often clear even when the higher peaks are snowy.
- Distance: 2.4-mile loop
- The Draw: A wide, well-maintained path that hits three distinct waterfalls: Tom Branch, Indian Creek, and Juney Whank.
- Winter Perk: At lower elevations, this area stays accessible almost all year. In deep winter, the waterfalls often feature stunning ice pillars and frozen spray along the rocks.
- Distance: 3.0 miles round trip
- The Draw: A flat, riverside walk that connects the Visitor Center to the edge of Cherokee.
- Winter Perk: This is the #1 spot for winter elk viewing. Without the summer foliage, spotting the herd in the misty riverbanks is much easier. It is also one of the few dog-friendly trails in the park.
- Distance: Varies (0.5 to 3+ miles)
- The Draw: Walk through a 1,200-foot-long tunnel that stands as a monument to local history.
- Winter Perk: On the other side of the tunnel, the lack of leaves provides expansive views of Lake Fontana that are completely obscured during the summer months.
Mingo Falls frozen during the winter in Cherokee, NC. Just about 25 minutes from Downtown Bryson City.
- Distance: 0.4 miles round trip
- The Draw: A short but steep climb up 161 steps to one of the tallest waterfalls in the southern Appalachians.
- Winter Perk: During a cold snap, this 120-foot cascade becomes a massive wall of ice, creating one of the most popular winter photography spots in the region.
- Distance: 4.2 miles round trip
- The Draw: A gentle, scenic hike that follows the river and crosses four log footbridges.
- Winter Perk: This trail is home to the ruins of a 1930s CCC camp. Without summer weeds and brush, the old stone chimneys and foundations are much easier to find and explore.
Moderate & Scenic Trails
Perfect for those looking for a bit more effort in exchange for bigger views.
- Distance: 3.1-mile loop
- The Draw: A journey through a hardwood forest filled with signs of old homesites and farms.
- Winter Perk: Leads down to a quiet cove on the Lake Fontana shoreline. The “skeleton views” along the ridge are excellent for seeing the lake’s unique winter water levels.
- Distance: Varies (Out-and-back)
- The Draw: A wide, steady trail that follows a classic Smoky Mountain trout stream.
- Winter Perk: Very secluded in the winter. The trail is dotted with old settlement ruins and cemeteries that feel incredibly peaceful in the winter hush.
- Distance: 5.8 miles round trip
- The Draw: Starts at the historic Mingus Mill and follows a wide jeep track deep into the forest.
- Winter Perk: A quiet “forest bathing” experience. The lack of crowds in Cherokee during the winter makes this one of the most serene walks in the area.
- Distance: 6.7 miles round trip
- The Draw: A steady climb that gains roughly 2,300 feet in elevation.
- Winter Perk: The ridgetop views of Bryson City and the Nantahala Mountains are crystal clear in the dry winter air, offering a 50-mile visibility you rarely get in the summer.
- Distance: 1.2 miles round trip
- The Draw: The highest point on the Blue Ridge Parkway with 360-degree views.
- Winter Perk: The ultimate sunset spot. Note: Check for Parkway closures during snow, but on clear winter days, you can see across several major mountain chains.
Advanced Winter Trails
For experienced hikers prepared for high-mileage and elevation.
Tsali Recreation Area: Right Loop
- Distance: 11.9 miles
- The Challenge: High mileage with constant short climbs and descents.
- Winter Perk: Because it hugs the shoreline of Lake Fontana, you get massive water and mountain views that are usually hidden. It’s a great “leg-burner” for a full day out.
Noland Divide to Lonesome Pine Overlook
- Distance: 6.7 miles round trip
- The Challenge: A very steady, steep climb (over 2,300 feet of gain).
- Winter Perk: The “Lonesome Pine” is a narrow ridge that offers a 180-degree view of Bryson City and the surrounding peaks. In winter, the air is so clear you can see for 50+ miles.
Alum Cave Trail to Mt. LeConte
- Distance: 11 miles round trip
- The Challenge: Massive elevation and high-altitude weather.
- Winter Perk: This is a “bucket list” hike. In winter, the bluffs at Alum Cave often have 30-foot icicles hanging from the cliffs. Note: Microspikes are 100% required for the icy sections near the top.
Charlies Bunion (via Appalachian Trail)
- Distance: 8 miles round trip
- The Challenge: Starts at Newfound Gap. It can be very windy and icy at this elevation.
- Winter Perk: You are walking the “spine” of the Smokies on the AT. The views from the rocky outcrop are legendary and far less crowded than in October.
High Rocks via Road to Nowhere
- Distance: ~10-12 miles round trip (depending on route)
- The Challenge: Remote and steep.
- Winter Perk: Leads to an old fire tower site. It is one of the most remote “big view” spots in the park, overlooking the entire Fontana basin.
Essential Winter Trail Resources we recommend for Adventuring in the Great Smokies
Before you head out, grab these apps to help you stay on track. When gearing up for your outdoor adventure in the Smokies, it is essential for checking trail conditions and navigating where cell service is spotty.
AllTrails Great for checking recent hiker comments to see if there is ice or snow on the trail.
onX Backcountry Highly recommended for offline navigation; it works even when you lose cell service in the park.
Pro-Tip: Even if it’s sunny, some parts of the trail stay in the shade and can be icy. Bringing a pair of “microspikes” (traction covers for your boots) can save you from a slip.
Relax and Unwind After the Hike
The best part of a winter trip is the finish line. After a day in the cold air, heading back to one of our many Smoky Mountains vacation rentals for a soak in the hot tub or hot chocolate by the fire for the perfect way to end the day.
Whether you’re looking for a weekend escape or a week-long vacation, the “secret season” is the most relaxing time to be here. Check out our vacation rentals here to find your perfect getaway!
