Old man winter is leaving the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Spring is just around the corner in the Great Smoky Mountains national park and the campgrounds, picnic areas and horseback riding stables in the national park are all starting to open and the visitor centers are starting to extend hours.

Less than 2 weeks ago the Great Smoky Mountains were still seeing snow falling on the lower elevations as seen by the snow and ice in the picture of a daffodil in Cades Cove but now the daily highs are generally in the 50s and 60s and continue to climb although it is not impossible to get snow in the Smokies as late as May.

We have updated the Camping in the Great Smoky Mountains national park page with the most up to date information about developed campgrounds and backcountry sites in the GSMNP.

The is also some updated information on pricing, opening dates and handicapped accessibility on the Horseback Riding in the Great Smoky Mountains national park page.

Roadways and Picnic Areas around the Great Smoky Mountains national park that were closed for the winter area are also opening on a staggered schedule which can be found on the main Great Smoky Mountains national park information page.

Since weather in the Smokies is unpredictable, it is still possible to have road closures from snow and ice for the next 2 months. Strong windstorms can close roads due to trees being knocked down year round.