January brings sparkling frosts and glittering lights to banish winter darkness. Visit Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge in January and enjoy these chill-chasing adventures.

1. Light Up the Night

At the Anakeesta Enchanted Winter of Lights, stroll through thousands of lights that flash in time to festive music. Immerse yourself in nature’s sounds and sights on a sensory walk. Don’t miss the TreeTop SkyWalk. You’ll walk high above the forest on lighted bridges as if you’re stepping among the stars!

2. Take Winter Walks

Spring flowers and fall leaves all make the Great Smoky Mountains National Park a beautiful but busy destination. In winter, crowds depart and it’s time for serene walks in the woods! With a January average daily temperature close to 50 degrees, you’ll enjoy pleasantly brisk weather.

Paved Laurel Falls Trail offers a good walking surface and a two-tiered waterfall that often creates its own icy sculptures. Hike the Alum Cave Trail to hunt for icicles draping the bluff.

3. Warm Up Indoors

January is a great month for exploring indoor attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, the Hollywood Star Cars Museum, or for the over-21 crowd, the Ole Smoky Distillery tour.

• Bounce the day away at TopJump Trampoline & Extreme Arena.
• Play indoor mini-golf, then hit the candy store, at Crave Golf Club.

Whether you love cuddling up by a fireplace or hiking the snowy woods, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are perfect for a January vacation. Reserve a rental cabin today and start planning your midwinter escape!