Many folks describe the climate in the Smokies to be temperate. Large storms and snowfall are not common occurrences in these parts of Tennessee. However, Mother Nature will do as she pleases, and bad weather sometimes happens. Driving in the mountains can be particularly challenging during bad weather. Many roads in these parts are narrow and steep, with blind curves and low shoulders. But don’t worry! Here are 6 Great Smokies weather safety tips that will help you drive safely in rain and snow when you visit the Great Smoky Mountains and surrounding areas:
Why? Because all-wheel-drive cars are designed for all-terrain driving. With local roads being steep, winding, and narrow, it is important to create the traction needed to help you drive in less-than-optimal driving conditions. And you can do this by using an all-wheel-drive vehicle for your trip to the Smokies.
If you don’t have an all-wheel-drive vehicle, consider swapping your summer or all-season tires for winter snow tires. Unlike regular summer and all-season tires that have rubber that gets cold and hard in cold temperatures, winter snow tires are made of rubber that remains soft and flexible, enabling traction to grip the road surface.Β
Even with an all-wheel-drive vehicle and/or winter snow tires, don’t get a false sense of security, thinking that you are completely safe from getting into an accident. Instead, be cautious and remember to follow these driving practices to stay safe on the road:
It goes without saying that you should never drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. But this is especially true when you need to drive in challenging road and weather conditions. Keep yourself and your family safe by staying sober when you drive.
If you ever do get snowed in and cannot drive to the local store or restaurants, you want to have food readily available to cook and enjoy while you wait out the storm. If it’s cold, wet, and miserable outside, why not stay warm and cozy with a home-cooked meal?
Be sure to check out the National Park Service’s website for their specific park traffic and travel tips. They provide great tips on how to drive safely within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and up-to-date information on current road and facility closures.
Although we want you to be prepared for worst-case scenarios, note that bad weather in the Smokies and surrounding areas does not typically keep visitors from traveling and enjoying their trips. In light of this, we do not provide refunds based on bad weather conditions.
If you have any questions about our Great Smokies weather safety tips, please reach out to us through hello@mightyvacay.com.