Packing for Gatlinburg: What to Bring on Your November Cabin Vacation

November is a great choice for an off-peak vacation in Gatlinburg. October’s leaf-peeping crowds are gone. December’s Christmas and winter sports visitors haven’t arrived. Booking a Gatlinburg cabin is easy and quick. Why not book now, and start packing these essentials? 

Clothing You Can Layer 

The Smokies are gorgeous but fickle in November. Temperatures rise into the sunny 60s. Then the thermometer sinks into the 30s on crisp nights. Temperatures vary widely from the foot of a mountain to its peak, making a scenic drive or hike into a wardrobe challenge. Bring layers, like t-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, light fleeces and jackets and warmer sweaters.

Rain Gear

Toss in a raincoat. November isn’t especially rainy. Gatlinburg gets nine days of rain in November, on average. But you’ll want to keep dry if you’re out on the trail and drops start to fall. Bring an umbrella for town, but don’t take it on hikes. Umbrellas and tree branches don’t get along.

Walking Shoes and Boots

Whether you plan to conquer mountain trails or go shopping downtown, you don’t want your feet complaining! Bring supportive shoes and hiking boots, so the only pain you feel is the pain of choosing between the aquarium and the Space Needle. (Stay longer, and enjoy both!) 

Games, Books and Crafts

When was the last time you could spend hours playing board games with the kids, or reading a book uninterrupted? Enjoy down time in your Gatlinburg cabin. Bring games, cards, crafts, and that novel you keep trying to finish. Reading pairs well with a glass of local fruit wine!

Parking Permit for the National Park

You’ll need a parking permit to park anywhere in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Go online here to buy one for weekly parking ($15) or one-day parking ($5). Print and pack your parking tag in advance, so you’re ready to explore as soon as you arrive.

What You Don’t Need to Bring

When you stay in a Colonial Properties cabin, we provide all the fluffy towels and comfy sheets. No need to haul your own linens like at some rentals! Every Colonial cabin has a fully equipped kitchen, too, stocked with cookware, dishes, silverware and everything from microwaves to coffee makers. We wouldn’t leave you without a way to brew a fresh, hot cup o’ joe! 

It’s not too late to plan a November escape. Browse Colonial’s cabin listings today and start packing!