7 Tips for Surviving Winter in Pigeon Forge

Pack layers in case the weather changes. Winters in the South are typically pretty mild. In Pigeon Forge, the average high for December through February stays around 50 degrees, and the average low is about 25 degrees. That’s why so many folks like to travel to the Smokies during their winter vacations. But one thing I’ve learned after living in the South for 20-plus years is that the weather can change drastically and without much warning. So before you head to Pigeon Forge, be sure to check the forecast and pack several layers. Your winter coat, a rain jacket, and even T-shirt or 2 are good to bring to Pigeon Forge—you never know what you might need!
Spend dreary days inside the cabin. Winter weather can also mean dreary weather. Cold, rainy days aren’t the best for exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park or walking around shops on the Parkway. But don’t fret! There’s still plenty to do right inside your Pigeon Forge cabin! Many of our cabins come with a variety of game tables, from pool to air hockey. We also have cabins with covered outdoor hot tubs and indoor jetted tubs—the perfect way to warm up on a cool winter afternoon. Or just enjoy some family time in front of your wood-burning, gas, or electric fireplace. If there’s a specific amenity you’re looking for, search for it on our cabin rentals by amenity page.
Bring movies and games for indoor fun. If you are planning on hanging out in the cabin for a day or 2 during your wintertime retreat, then be sure to pack your favorite games and movies for loads of indoor fun! You’ll love watching your favorite movies in the private theater room that comes with your cabin. Pop some popcorn, and curl up with loved ones for a movie-watching experience that doesn’t come with a steep price tag. Or try a favorite board game in the living room with the family. Popular board games for large groups include Catchphrase, Taboo, or Telestrations. Or you can stick with the classics like Monopoly, Life, or Scrabble. Bring along some options and plan for big fun no matter what the weather looks like outside.
Plan to visit some popular indoor attractions. If the weather is still drab but you’re wanting to explore downtown Pigeon Forge, check out some of the popular indoor attractions in the area. The Titanic Museum Attraction is one of the more unique museums in the area. You can explore replicated hallways and rooms of the ship, learn the stories of original passengers, and even touch a real iceberg during your Titanic experience. Other popular attractions along the Parkway include WonderWorks, the Hollywood Wax Museum, and the Big Top Arcade. All of these are indoor attractions where you can escape the cold weather but still enjoy the best of what Pigeon Forge has to offer during your winter retreat to the Smokies.
Keep a winter safety kit in the car. Before you leave home, be sure to inspect your car thoroughly. Make sure your tire tread is fit for travel and your fluid levels are normal. Then, pack a winter safety kit for your vehicle. Things like an ice scraper, jumper cables, blankets, flashlights, and a first-aid kit are all great to have in case of an emergency. And a few non-perishable snacks and water bottles can easily be stowed away for the times you’re stuck in the car for longer than you expected because of wintertime traffic.
Take the trolley to avoid traffic. Wintertime, especially during the holidays, is one of the most popular times to visit the Smokies. And more visitors inevitably means more traffic! To avoid this, try to stay off the road during peak travel times—usually that’s after 10 a.m. and before 7 p.m. But an even easier way to stay out of Pigeon Forge traffic is to take the Pigeon Forge Trolley. The trolley will take you up and down the Parkway, to Dollywood, to the Gatlinburg Welcome Center, and even to Wears Valley for less than $1 per ride. Or you can purchase an all-day pass for only $2.50. The trolley operates from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. during the months of November and December.
Drive slow though the mountains. Remember that Pigeon Forge is nestled in the Smoky Mountains, and many of our cabins can be found on winding, steep roads. So play it safe and drive SLOW through the mountains, especially during the winter. Even mild precipitation can cause slippery road conditions, and if it dips below freezing, there could be ice on the roads. Check the weather, and stay off the road if you can when the weather’s bad. And when you can’t, take it slow!