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Many of the best-view cabins in the Smokies sit at the top of narrow roads with tight switchbacks and steep final driveways. In good weather that is part of the adventure. On an icy December night in a rental minivan, it is not.
Where roads tend to be easier
- Cabins just off the Parkway in Pigeon Forge, which trade a dramatic view for short, gentle drives.
- Flatter areas between Pigeon Forge and Sevierville, where many large lodges sit on wider roads.
- Resort-style cabin communities with maintained shared roads.
The steepest roads tend to be on the high ridges, including the Ober Mountain side of Gatlinburg and some Wears Valley ridgetops.
Questions to ask the host
- Is the road and driveway paved all the way?
- Is four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive recommended in winter?
- Do you plow or salt the driveway, and who handles it?
- Can a large van or truck turn around at the cabin?
- Are there photos or a video of the drive up?
Winter driving tips
- Arrive in daylight on your first night.
- Stock groceries before you go up, so you are not forced out in bad weather.
- Use low gear on the way down rather than riding the brakes.
- Check the rental's cancellation policy for weather.
Search cabins with easier access
Start near the Parkway, then check the map before booking.
Winter is also the cheapest time to visit, with short booking windows of about two to three weeks, so an easy-access cabin can be a great last-minute deal.
