Enjoy a Peaceful End of Year in the Smoky Mountains of North Carolina

Many think October is peak season in the Smoky Mountains, but we disagree. When the crisp autumn evenings of November merge into snowy winter nights of December, you can enjoy the beauty of the Carolina Mountains at a slower pace. Whether you love hiking through quiet fall forests, skiing on powdery slopes, or walking through quaint mountain towns, Maggie Valley offers the perfect escape. Here are some of our favorite ways to end the year from our home base at Creekwood RV Park in Waynesville.

Holiday Shopping in Downtown Waynesville

Let’s start with our hometown of Waynesville. Spend the morning strolling along Main Street, shopping in local shops, and eating at local hot spots. Then enjoy the small-town atmosphere that makes this mountain community such a pleasant visit.

Some of our favorite stops are:

• Mast General Store
• Twig & Leaves
• Axe & Awl

When it’s time to stop for lunch, we recommend:

• Singletree Heritage Kitchen
• The Scotsman

Travel Tip: Dress in layers so you can comfortably explore downtown and nearby outdoor attractions

Winter Adventures in Maggie Valley

Just a short drive from Waynesville, Maggie Valley has that classic mountain-town charm that makes it particularly appealing in the colder months. In addition to visiting the town itself, it’s also home to two of the best snow-day attractions.

Best Winter Spots:

• Cataloochee Ski Area: Skiing and snowboarding, available all season when conditions allow
• Tube World: Snowy fun, perfect for smaller children and non-skiers. 

Travel Tip: Winter conditions can vary considerably from one day to the next. Check current conditions and operating schedules before heading out for snow activities.

Find the Hidden Gems of the Smokies

Some of North Carolina’s best-kept secrets are in our backyard! If you really want to experience the beauty of winter in the Smokies like a local, check out these spots:



• Soco Falls: A beautiful roadside waterfall where two streams come together before cascading over the rocks. In colder weather, you can expect impressive icicle formations.
• Lake Junaluska: Take a walk around the lake and enjoy the mountain scenery. In November and December, the quieter atmosphere can make this lakeside community especially relaxing.

Travel Tip: Remember, cold weather and water mean ice. Wear deep-tread shoes and walk carefully around these locations.

Field Trip to Cherokee and Great Smoky Mountains

For a deeper look at the region's history and culture, plan a day trip to Cherokee. The Qualla Boundary is home to the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, whose history and traditions remain an important part of the area.

Activities to do in Cherokee:

• Visit the Museum of the Cherokee People
• Shop for Cherokee Arts and Crafts
• Walk around the Oconaluftee Area

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Make sure you save some time and energy to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Located a stone’s throw from Cherokee, these areas are like a two-for-one special!

Towards the end of the year, the park has a pensive kind of beauty you don’t see during the busier seasons. In November, you can enjoy the final foliage of the autumn season while winter dusts the scenery in pristine snow. 

Travel Tip: Check road and trail conditions before leaving and be prepared to change your plans if needed.

Easy Holiday Day Trips From Waynesville

Creekwood RV’s Waynesville location also makes it a convenient base for holiday adventures throughout the region. Most of which are just an hour away!

Some famous holiday attractions include:

• Christmas at Biltmore in Asheville
• Dollywood's Smoky Mountain Christmas
• Gatlinburg’s Winter Magic and Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade

Travel Tip: These cities are much larger than Waynesville, so expect some traffic during the bigger holiday events.