Easy Winter Hikes/Drives in Smoky Mountains
 

My DH and I are headed to GSMNP soon. We've been there a few times before and have done a lot of easy hikes (Laurel, Abrams, Indian Creek, Mingo) and been to the major areas (Cataloochee, Cades Cove, Clingman's Dome.) We are wondering about some good hikes or drives that are pretty in the barrenness of winter and/or are lesser known gems. It probably couldn't be more than 4-5 mi roundtrip for a hike. Are there nearby drives we could do that aren't impacted by seasonal closures? Thanks for any suggestions!

Go to Chimneys picnic area there is a nice little hike from the parking lot. This is our favorite area in the park. We did it in winter in the snow and it was fantastic.

Pretty sure Clingmans Dome road is closed for the winter. We hiked Alum Cave in the winter with a little snow on the trail. It actually made hiking easier. Covered up all the roots, rocks, etc. at one point it starts to get a lot steeper. You can just turn around if you like at that point. Pretty trail follows a creek most of the way.

Have you been to Brevard yet? Wonderful little town with lots of hiking and waterfalls surrounding the town.

Haven't been to any of these yet. Thanks for the suggestions!