2. Prepare your car with tire chains (or bring a 4WD) It’s not always necessary to have a four-wheel-drive when you visit the Smoky Mountains, but it can help. And if you think there’s a chance it will snow during your visit, yes, you might want to consider bringing snow chains for your tires.
Can you drive in the snow in Gatlinburg?
So far Gatlinburg has seen several of very icy nights this winter. One of the reasons why we thought it would be a good idea to post this list is because we’re not known for having bad weather. We’re actually a pretty safe place to drive most of the time.
Do they salt the roads in Gatlinburg Tennessee?
Luckily, all of our cabins are located in areas that do receive snow plow treatment and salting when winter weather hits. However, this treatment of roads can be delayed by 1 to 2 days depending on how bad the storm is.
Do you need 4 wheel drive in Gatlinburg?
All-wheel drive is not necessary. Folks drive all through the park with cars and an assortment of vehicles without any issues.
What month does it snow in Gatlinburg TN?
December. December is the snowfall kickoff month for Gatlinburg and typically you can only find snow at higher elevations such as Ober Gatlinburg and higher elevations in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The average snow amount for Gatlinburg in December is around 1 inch.
Can you drive through the Smoky Mountains in the winter?
Winter Maintenance & Access in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. As long as the weather cooperates, US-441 (Newfound Gap Road), Little River Road, and the Cades Cove Loop Road in the national park stay open throughout the winter.
Are the Smoky Mountains hard to drive through?
Taking a scenic drive is one of the easiest and most rewarding things you can do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With almost 400 miles of roadway in the park and the surrounding scenic area, you can drive to specific locations to enjoy, as well as tour through steadily changing vistas of great beauty.
How do you drive in the snow in the mountains?
Slow Down (a lot)
- Leave early and give yourself plenty of time.
- Avoid using cruise control.
- Maintain a safe distance.
- Ease up on the gas.
- Shift down instead of constantly braking.
- Don’t pass unless it’s absolutely necessary.
- Don’t hug the centerline.
- Use snow chains.
Is 441 from Gatlinburg to Cherokee open?
US Hwy 441 Newfound Gap Road between Gatlinburg,TN and Cherokee,NC is open.
Does it snow in the Smoky Mountains?
Snow falls infrequently at low elevations in the Smokies, but at higher elevations, it can fall anytime from October through April.
What is it like driving through the Smoky Mountains?
There are 384 miles of road in the Smokies. Most are paved, and even the gravel roads are maintained in suitable condition for standard passenger cars. But driving in the mountains presents new challenges for many drivers. Roads in the park are narrow and winding with blind curves and low shoulders.
Is it hard to drive to Ober Gatlinburg?
The new Ski Mountain Coaster is quite and experience as well. Driving up to Ober Gatlinburg is always an option. It is about a 3 mile drive from the tram stop in downtown Gatlinburg and is up a two lane mountain road.
Is it harder to breathe in the Smoky Mountains?
The air becomes thinner at high altitudes, making it more difficult to breathe.
What is the coldest month in Gatlinburg Tennessee?
January
Average Temperature in Gatlinburg
The coldest month of the year in Gatlinburg is January, with an average low of 29°F and high of 47°F.
What is the best month to visit Gatlinburg Tennessee?
The best time to visit Gatlinburg is between September and October. The two peak seasons in Gatlinburg are summer (June, July and August) and the month of October, when the fall foliage is at its zenith. July is the busiest month of the summer season, while weekends in October draw the largest crowds in the fall.
What is the rainiest month in the Smoky Mountains?
* Climate data from: Gatlinburg, United States of America (11 KM, 7 Miles). A lot of rain (rainy season) falls in the months: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, November and December. On average, May is the wettest month with 151 mm (5.9 inch) of precipitation.
Is December a good time to visit Gatlinburg?
Slower Season in the Smokies – With the exception of Thanksgiving to New Years, Gatlinburg isn’t too busy this time of year. If you want to experience the Smoky Mountains without the crowds, the winter season is a great time to visit.
Is Gatlinburg open in the winter?
Winter is the perfect time to visit Tennessee’s only ski mountain. Though Ober Gatlinburg has plenty of year-round attractions, it’s well worth visiting the ski lodge while the slopes are covered in snow. If you plan on visiting Ober Gatlinburg during Gatlinburg’s snowy season, you can enjoy: Skiing.
Is Cades Cove open during the winter?
Primary roads such as US-441 (Newfound Gap Road), Little River Road, and the Cades Cove Loop Road are open year round, weather permitting.
Is driving in the Smoky Mountains scary?
Neither drive is scary, unless you are scared of curvy roads and steep dropoffs. Sorry, just a little mountain razzing. I would guess the Roaring Fork drive would be ok for you. It doesn’t climb high into the mountains at all.
What is the most scenic drive through the Smoky Mountains?
Newfound Gap Road
Also known as US-441, The Newfound Gap Road is arguably the most iconic scenic drive in the Smoky Mountains.