When temperatures start to dip in the Great Smoky Mountains, so does park visitation, making winter a great time to get out and enjoy the scenery of some of the most popular destinations in the Smokies free of the congestion and traffic more common in other parts of the year.
Although some roads in the park may be closed for the season or temporarily closed due to ice and snow, lower-elevation areas like Cades Cove often remain accessible even when higher places are not following a winter storm. Current road conditions can be checked online at SmokiesRoadsNPS on Twitter or via telephone at 865.436.1200 after selecting option 1.
To get to Cades Cove, you’ll just need to make sure the path is clear on Laurel Creek Road, the continuation of Little River Road from the intersection at the Townsend Wye. Even if Cades Cove Loop Road is closed due to snow and ice after a winter storm, Laurel Creek Road will get you to the parking area in Cades Cove, and from there, you may walk in as far as your interest will take you. Just remember to dress in layers—overheating from the exertion of walking is easily replaced by the chill of damp clothing when you stop.
So, photography already.
Two preserved pioneer structures are within reasonable walking distance from the gate to Cades Cove Loop Road: John Oliver Cabin and Carter Shields Place. Both make great subjects following a recent snowstorm. Get there as soon as practical after the roads open. The snow is often off the branches within a few hours, and children love to knock the snow off the fence rails at John Oliver Cabin, which lessens the attractiveness of the image.
Snow can fool your light meter because of its higher reflectance. Pay attention to the highlight warning indicators (“blinkies”) on your camera and enable them in the appropriate menu if you have not already. The indicators will notify you immediately to decrease exposure if a portion of the image is overexposed. In general, your histogram should be as far to the right as possible without causing blinkies. Most phones do a pretty good job of sorting this out for you.
Once the road opens, you have all the options of a Cades Cove visit to explore. The Cable Mill and Cades Cove Visitor Center feature several historic structures offering additional variety to those earlier in the loop. For the hardy souls who enjoy winter hiking, a visit to Abrams Falls makes a great outing too. The falls are attractive whether adorned with snow or not, and icicles add an accent without snow. Consider some sort of traction cleats to avoid a tumble on icy trails.
Wildlife needs special consideration whether you are trying to photograph them or just observing. They are under increased stress in winter from weather conditions and may not be able to replenish energy stores depleted by running when startled. Photograph from inside your vehicle whenever possible; deer and turkeys are much more tolerant of a vehicle than of a person standing next to one. Staying inside may result in being able to enjoy the sighting longer.
Enjoy your time in the park and don’t stay home just because it’s cold outside. Dress appropriately—there is much to see and do!
The Great Smokies Welcome Center is located on U.S. 321 in Townsend, TN, 2 miles from the west entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Visitors can get information about things to see and do in and around the national park and shop from a wide selection of books, gifts, and other Smokies merchandise. Daily, weekly, and annual parking tags for the national park are also available.
