">
Don’t Count The Winter Out
It’s always a bummer in the East after the leaves have fallen, but the winter hikes can bring some great rewards!
Growing up in California, I had never heard of the “winter blues” and I could never understand it. It stays green year round in Southern California, and the winter brings the best treks into the wild. The San Bernardino and San Gabriel Mountains, my home ranges, would hold their snow until May or June on the high peaks, leaving ample time to plan the perfect snowshoeing ascent deep into the spring months.
The Southeast isn’t quite the same, but the cold temps and leafless trees aren’t enough of a reason to stop the Joy Of Hiking. Bob Ross didn’t stop painting in the winter, and we shouldn’t count the winter out to have a great trip in the mountains!
With the cold keeping many away, the winter can be one of the best times to hike in the Smokies, or one of your favorite trails on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
The Blue Ridge Parkway, when it’s open, is deserted this time of year. You will feel like the road was built for you. The Smokies are the same.
The Alum Cave Trail offers great opportunities for great views during the winter, and it stays green and colorful, much like I’m used to in California. The Chimney Tops Trail is also a great option for winter views.
This website contains affiliate links, which means The Trek may receive a percentage of any product or service you purchase using the links in the articles or advertisements. The buyer pays the same price as they would otherwise, and your purchase helps to support The Trek's ongoing goal to serve you quality backpacking advice and information. Thanks for your support!
To learn more, please visit the About This Site page.
