Get Cozy in Gatlinburg This Winter
Words by Paige Townley
Any time of year is a great time to visit Gatlinburg, but perhaps no season is as spectacular in the Smoky Mountains as winter. There’s something truly wonderful about the chill in the air, the snow on the mountains, and the thrill of adventure found everywhere you look. So, get to planning that fabulous weekend getaway before winter is over.
Stay a While
Everyone visiting Gatlinburg should experience its breathtaking mountain views by staying in one of the area’s many cabins or chalets. The chalets and cabins are great for the whole family, the entire group of friends, or simply a romantic weekend getaway for two, and the wide variety found in Gatlinburg—from quaint and rustic to luxurious with every amenity—are sure to suit any need or desire.
Self-Care in the Mountains
For anyone looking for luxurious amenities that are all about relaxing and unwinding, St. Somewhere Spa is for you. Located at the Margaritaville Hotel, St. Somewhere Spa is a full-service spa offering practically any treatment desired—from massages to facials and body treatments. The spa also has an on-site hair and nail salon, steam showers, and retail, offering visitors a chance to take a little of their organic, farm-to-spa products with them.
The Shopping Experience
Shopping in Gatlinburg is on a whole other level thanks to the plethora of options. In fact, Gatlinburg’s infamous parkway boasts nine shopping malls where you’ll find everything from clothing and jewelry to locally-made culinary treats and souvenirs. There’s also the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community, which features some of the most unique artisans around. These crafters boast a variety of handmade products, from pottery and artwork to woodcrafts, jewelry, and hand-poured candles. And just a short drive from Gatlinburg is the ever-popular Tanger Outlet, one of the top outlet malls in the state.
Get Active
Staying warm inside by the fire is always tempting, but no visit to Gatlinburg is complete without experiencing all the outdoors has to offer. Ober Gatlinburg is the spot to visit to take advantage of all the snow with its mountaintop activities, including skiing, ice skating, and snowtubing. Thrill seekers will appreciate Anakeesta and its Rail Runner Mountain Coaster, the first single-rail mountain coaster in the United States. Get an eagle eye view of the city at Gatlinburg SkyLift Park, which sits 1,800 feet above sea level. Home of North America’s longest pedestrian cable bridge, which pans nearly 700 feet, the park provides an incredible view through the bridge’s glass floor. For a little more nature, check out one of Gatlinburg’s many trails and hike out to Laurel Falls or Rainbow Falls to witness an incredibly beautiful waterfall.