Winter in the Smokies

[Aaron Zagrodnick]

Daydreams of untouched, pristine white powder adorning the ridges as far as the eye can see. The extra planning required to keep yourself warm, dry, hydrated, and fed. Sneaking past closed roads, hiking into storms. Winter: It’s the most exciting time of year for mountain adventures. From the moment the last leaf falls and the throngs of tourists head home until the first fern emerges from the soil, the backcountry belongs to those who adore the unparalleled quietude of winter…

Sean Sparbanie shows us what his winter was like in the Smokies – In words and photos. Take a look below in Issue 21:

The Kingly Season: A Farewell to Winter in the Great Smoky Mountains

Issue 21 Page 1

[wspscott]

I really enjoyed these photos since I have only visited the Smokies in "nicer" weather. I was there the middle of Jan and had an experience completely different from this.

http://backpackandbeer.blogspot.com/2015/01/january-in-smokies.html

[SparbaniePhoto]

Glad you enjoyed the photos! Your experience isn't unusual at all. That's a typical winter view, for sure. You really have to chase the storms here. Your best bet is February through early March.