It is important to put out there... route 144 that crosses from the south of the park to Gatlinburg and intersects Newfound Gap is usually closed and the gate locked during the winter. The park does not ice that road. If you need emergent care, it is a good idea to call the park (number in AWOL) and let them know to unlock the gate so an ambulance can get through. Also, if coming down from Mt. Collins shelter, Clingmans dome road is almost always closed so it is a 5 mile hike to the Newfound Gap trail head.

Cheers