This is a beautiful time of year in the Greater Pigeon Forge area and the Great Smoky Mountains. The temperatures are dropping and Pigeon Forge has seen a few snow flurries, as well as measurable snowfall already in high elevations.
Typically, downtown Pigeon Forge will see flurries with little to no accumulation of snow throughout winter. Black ice and slick roads can cause problems, but the City of Pigeon Forge is equipped and does an incredible job of maintaining the Parkway. The mountains, including the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, can receive quite a few feet of snowfall throughout the winter. Some cabins that are in the higher elevations may also receive a large amount of snow.
When traveling to the mountains in the winter or any area that receives measurable snow fall, it is always best to be prepared with essential items in your vehicle. Some pre-assembled kits are available online, but it can be easier to put one together yourself. Get a big tote box to store all these goodies in the truck or back of the vehicle.
- Cat litter – Cat litter is a great item to keep in the trunk or back of a vehicle during the winter season. Cat litter can be spread under the vehicle’s tires to allow for traction in slippery situations. Having a small box that doesn’t take up room is a great back up plan.
- Blankets – Each person traveling in the vehicle should have a blanket. When the weather gets rough, power in the mountains can go out. It is a good idea to have these extra blankets in case of no heat or if your vehicle gets stuck.
- Extra Socks, hats and mittens – Not only do you need these extras to maintain body heat, but extra socks are great to slip over shoes to help gain a bit of traction in the snow!
Here are few other great items to throw in the weather emergency kit:
- Flashlights
- Extra batteries
- Windshield Scraper
- Extra Batteries
- Water
- Snack Food, canned soup, protein/energy bars
- Can opener
- Matches
- First aid kit
- Pocket knife
- Rope
- Paper Towels
Enjoy the beauty of the winter season. Be sure to have many adventures when visiting the Smokies! Stay safe and be warm!
