Combat Winter Fatigue with Outdoor Adventures in Tennessee

Winter transforms the Great Smoky Mountains into a wonderland of snow-dusted peaks and serene trails. Bundle up for a hike along Alum Cave Trail or take in the frost-kissed beauty of Cades Cove, where you might spot deer, turkeys, or even a black bear enjoying the quiet season.

Located in Gatlinburg, Ober Mountain is Tennessee’s only ski resort, featuring skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. Whether you’re an experienced skier or a first-timer, the slopes provide a fun and active way to enjoy the winter months.

One of the best places in Tennessee for stargazing, Obed Wild and Scenic River is designated an International Dark Sky Park. Bundle up and witness the brilliance of the Milky Way on a clear winter night, a tranquil and awe-inspiring way to embrace the season.

Waterfalls near Nashville take on an enchanting appearance in winter, with Rock Island State Park’s cascades often forming striking ice sculptures. A brisk hike along the trails will warm you up while offering breathtaking photo opportunities.

Radnor Lake State Park in Nashville offers an excellent opportunity to observe winter wildlife. The cooler months bring out white-tailed deer, river otters and migratory birds. Take a peaceful walk along the Lake Trail and enjoy the quiet beauty of nature in its winter splendor.

Embrace the crisp winter air with a scenic hike at Percy Warner Park. With a variety of trails winding through rolling hills and forested landscapes, this park offers a peaceful winter escape just minutes from downtown Nashville. The frost-covered trees and quiet surroundings create the perfect setting to refresh and recharge.

Bundle up and bike across Big River Crossing, the longest pedestrian and cycling bridge across the Mississippi River. The views of the river and city skyline in winter are unparalleled, and the fresh air will do wonders for lifting your spirits.

Now through May 21, 2025, marvel at the larger-than-life sculptures of Thomas Dambo's TROLLS: Save the Humans. The collection of six trolls who made a pact together to help save the humans by rediscovering nature and how to live in harmony with the early are sprinkled throughout the garden. Families and art enthusiasts will enjoy the messages of sustainability intertwined with a celebration of art and nature.

Winter is prime time for eagle watching at Reelfoot Lake, one of the best spots in the country to see bald eagles in their natural habitat. Join a guided tour or bring your binoculars to observe these majestic birds soaring above the icy waters.

Located in Henderson, Chickasaw State Park offers scenic hiking trails and horse through hardwood forests and around Lake Placid. Experience the peacefulness of a winter trail ride. The quiet beauty of the forest, combined with the rhythmic motion of horseback riding, is a great way to shake off the winter blues. 

Winter in Tennessee is anything but dull from high-energy activities like skiing and cycling or peaceful pursuits like hiking and stargazing. So, layer up, step outside, and discover the beauty of Tennessee’s winter season — your body and mind will thank you for it.