1 Places
Snowshoeing
After a Smokies snowfall, the national park transforms into a quiet, white wilderness accessible only by snowshoe. Trails near Clingmans Dome and Newfound Gap offer stunning winter hiking through old-growth spruce and fir when the roads are clear enough to reach them.
What to Know
Best Seasons
December through February. The Smokies get snow most years but accumulation is unpredictable. Clingmans Dome (6,643 feet) averages 75 inches of snow per year. Clingmans Dome road closes December through March for regular vehicles, making snowshoeing the primary access. Check NPS road conditions before every trip.
What to Bring
Snowshoes (rent or bring). Trekking poles. Waterproof insulated boots. Moisture-wicking base layers plus insulating mid-layer plus waterproof outer layer. Hat, gloves, neck gaiter. Headlamp. High-calorie snacks. Water (stays liquid by keeping it inside your jacket). First aid kit.
Finding the Right Snowshoeing for Your Group
For Beginners
Newfound Gap trailheads have moderate terrain suitable for first-time snowshoers. The trails are well-marked and visited regularly enough that conditions are usually tracked.
For Serious Winter Hikers
The Appalachian Trail north from Newfound Gap through the high exposed ridge is a serious winter backcountry route. Proper navigation skills and emergency shelter are required.
For Families
Stick to the lower sections near Newfound Gap for family snowshoeing. The distance to Clingmans Dome is too long for young children in winter conditions.
Tips and Getting There
Insider Tips
- The Smokies can get ice instead of snow, making traction cleats (microspikes) more useful than snowshoes on many winter days. Bring both options if possible.
- Sunrise snowshoe hikes to Clingmans Dome are among the most spectacular winter experiences in the eastern US. Get there before dawn and watch the frosted fir trees emerge from the fog.
- Clingmans Dome road is closed to cars December through March but is open to foot traffic. It becomes a natural snowshoe highway with no vehicle traffic.
Getting There and Parking
Clingmans Dome Road turnoff is at Newfound Gap, 22 miles from Gatlinburg on US-441. The road to the dome parking area is 7 miles (closed to cars in winter). From the closed gate, snowshoe the road or adjacent trails. Check road conditions for US-441 itself before driving in winter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it snow enough in the Smokies for snowshoeing?
Where can I rent snowshoes near Gatlinburg?
Is it safe to snowshoe in the national park alone?
Are permits required for winter hiking?
What is the difference between snowshoes and microspikes?
Can I drive to Clingmans Dome in winter?
Vantage Stays · Smoky Mountain Guide
Snowshoeing
Snowshoe through silent winter forest in Great Smoky Mountains National Park after snowfall. Gear rentals available in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.
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hours & details
What to Know
Best Seasons
December through February. The Smokies get snow most years but accumulation is unpredictable. Clingmans Dome (6,643 feet) averages 75 inches of snow per year. Clingmans Dome road closes December through March for regular vehicles, making snowshoeing the primary access. Check NPS road conditions before every trip.
What to Bring
Snowshoes (rent or bring). Trekking poles. Waterproof insulated boots. Moisture-wicking base layers plus insulating mid-layer plus waterproof outer layer. Hat, gloves, neck gaiter. Headlamp. High-calorie snacks. Water (stays liquid by keeping it inside your jacket). First aid kit.
The Checklist
| Place | Rating | Hours | Phone | Address | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Great Smoky Mountains NP | |||||
| Newfound Gap Overlook | 4.8 ★ | Open 24 hours | Newfound Gap Rd, Great Smoky Mountains NP | ||
Picking the Right One for Your Group
For Beginners
Newfound Gap trailheads have moderate terrain suitable for first-time snowshoers. The trails are well-marked and visited regularly enough that conditions are usually tracked.
For Serious Winter Hikers
The Appalachian Trail north from Newfound Gap through the high exposed ridge is a serious winter backcountry route. Proper navigation skills and emergency shelter are required.
For Families
Stick to the lower sections near Newfound Gap for family snowshoeing. The distance to Clingmans Dome is too long for young children in winter conditions.
Insider Tips
- The Smokies can get ice instead of snow, making traction cleats (microspikes) more useful than snowshoes on many winter days. Bring both options if possible.
- Sunrise snowshoe hikes to Clingmans Dome are among the most spectacular winter experiences in the eastern US. Get there before dawn and watch the frosted fir trees emerge from the fog.
- Clingmans Dome road is closed to cars December through March but is open to foot traffic. It becomes a natural snowshoe highway with no vehicle traffic.