Smoky Mountain Attractions: 3 Simple Snow Day Activities

The Smoky Mountains don’t just feel like a magical place, they really are a mystical destination. The phrase “old as the hills” rings true when you really dive into the old lore of the mountains. When you come to visit, take this otherworldly tour and investigate for yourself. Here are six of the Smokies’ best kept secrets.

1. Elkmont Trollbridge

Escape to a place that really feels like a glimpse into a mythical land. The Elkmont Trollbridge is a true hidden gem that only locals know about. Hike along the Little River Trail until you reach this spot. Covered in moss and mushrooms, the Trollbridge is perfect for capturing pictures or looking for hidden fantastical creatures.

2. House Of The Fairies

This whimsical spot is only a mile from downtown Gatlinburg yet it feels like you’ve been transported into another realm. Map to this magical place, then go out and explore. Here, you’ll find towering trees and moss covered logs and boulders. Then at the end of the trail you’ll see it...an arched doorway, that looks like it’s almost cut into the side of the hill, sits with a wooden ladder leaning against the frame. Step inside and find a cool spring, filled with water that tinkles like bells. 

3. Synchronous Fireflies

The synchronized fireflies that come out every year like clockwork might be more science than magic but when you’re sitting among the trees and they begin to spark in unison, flickering in and out of sight, it feels like something otherworldly. This rare phenomenon is only seen in a few places in the world and The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of them.

4. Elkmont Ghost Town

Once a thriving vacation spot for the Knoxville elite, the Elkmont Ghost Town looks like a legend brought back to life. Recently restored, explore inside the homes and hike trails where you will find the remains of homes once occupied by Appalachian locals who would serve, supply and work in the town. This piece of history is frozen in time and feels like stepping back into the past.

There are many magical places in the Smokies and these are only four of them. Don’t stop here, continue to search for more mystical creatures and sprites living in the trees and hollows. To discover more, stay overnight in the mountains in a log cabin. This cabin is even called Magical Moments, which is exactly what you’ll find when you visit the Smoky Mountains.

The mountain peaks are dusted with snow, and chilly weather has set into the Smokies. For families visiting this winter, sometimes the best way to appreciate the area is to stay in and relax. If that’s part of your plan, Bear Camp Cabins has simple ideas for family time on snowy days in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge cabins.

Chill Out

If there’s snow on the ground, guests can get out and enjoy it for a little while without having to travel far. Even if it’s just chilly without snow, most families love exploring the area around their cabins. Not only are there spectacular mountain views, but there are also brooks, streams and woods to see during the stay.

Thaw Out

After spending time outside, families can thaw out in the cabin with a warm meal and a hot cocoa. Since the whole family is together, prepare a hearty soup or other meal. The kids can learn new tasks in the kitchen, and this will shorten prep time for parents.

Cold weather is also the perfect excuse to indulge in foods the family doesn’t eat everyday. Having a snow day in the Smokies is a great reason to make everyone’s favorite treats and cookies, we think. After warming up and filling your bellies, you can spend time together without an agenda or schedule.

Lounge Around

Snow days are all about relaxing and getting time off from the usual schedule, so we recommend you spend time just lounging around. If the kids get bored easily, just choose one of our Pigeon Forge cabins with a game room. We offer rentals with pool tables, air hockey and arcade games, so everyone can be entertained while spending time together.


Piling up on the couch as a group is another one of the most fun things to do in Pigeon Forge cabins with a theater room. Pick a family favorite, and kick back to appreciate the giant screen inside and the magnificent views outside.

With snow covered mountains and year-round attractions, the Smoky Mountains are one of the best places to travel in winter. If you’re dreaming of a snow day in the Smokies, be sure to look at our current Pigeon Forge cabins’ specials. See you in the Smokies!