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Embracing Winter at Mountainwood Cottages: Magic, trails and cozy mountain evenings...
Winter is truly my favorite season at Hitherside of Mountainwood cottages.
When winter settles over Lookout Mountain, a quiet magic transforms the landscape around Mountainwood Cottages. Crisp mountain air, dusting frosts, rushing waterfalls, and peaceful, uncrowded trails make this one of the most serene times of year to escape to Mentone.
If you are planning a chilly getaway and wondering what winter brings, what to do, and whether you can still hit the trail—here is your complete guide to winter on the mountain!
🏔️ What Winter Brings to Lookout Mountain
Unlike the humid buzz of summer or the packed crowds of autumn, winter brings tranquility and clarity.
Expansive Ridge Views: With the leaves off the hardwood trees, long-range views across the brow and valleys open up in every direction. The woods are quiet and still.
Cascading Waterfalls: Winter rains and seasonal runoff mean waterfalls like DeSoto Falls flow at full strength—often framed by icy, sparkling cliff faces.
Crisp, Clear Skies: Stargazing from your porch or hot tub is never better than on a sharp, clear winter night.
Cozy Cottage Vibes: Think crackling fire pits, warm mugs of cider or hot chocolate, a cozy fireplace, and slow mornings wrapped in blankets.
🥾 Can You Still Hike in the Winter?
Yes, absolutely! Winter is actually one of the best seasons for hiking around the area. Without the summer heat, bugs, or thick canopy, winter trails offer crisp air, fewer crowds, and unobstructed views of rock formations and streams.
Top Nearby Winter Hikes & Trails:
DeSoto State Park Trails: Just minutes away, DeSoto offers over 30 miles of hiking trails. The Bluff Trail and Talmadge Trail provide stunning cliff-edge overlooks and winter waterfall views.
Little River Canyon National Preserve: Take a scenic drive along the rim and stop at canyon overlooks, or hike down the Little River Canyon Trail to stand beside the roaring river.
Brow Park (Mentone): Perfect for a short, easy walk with breathtaking sunset vistas overlooking the valley floor.
💡 Winter Hiking Tip: Layer up with moisture-wicking clothes, wear sturdy boots with good tread (rocky paths can get slippery near wet areas), and carry warm drinks in a thermos!
🍽️ Warm Up with Local Mountain Eats
After a brisk winter hike or a scenic afternoon drive, nothing beats a hot meal or a cozy gathering spot in Mentone.
Moon Lake Kitchen (Mentone): A wonderful local favorite nestled right near Moon Lake Village, offering delicious, comforting cajun inspired, farmhouse-style meals, hearty plates, and a welcoming atmosphere that hits the spot after a day outdoors.
Mentone Market (Mentone): Located right in the heart of town, it's the ultimate stop for grab-and-go treats, a hot pizza, local provisions, or picking up comforting food to take back and enjoy fireside at the cottage.
The Wildflower Café (Mentone): Known for its warm, eclectic atmosphere, famous tomato pie, mountain-style shrimp & grits, and decadent homemade desserts.
Elevation Bistro (Mentone): Perfect for an intimate winter date night, offering refined, chef-inspired dishes crafted with locally sourced ingredients.
The Hatter Café (Mentone): A charming, Alice-in-Wonderland-themed spot ideal for warming up with a cup of coffee, breakfast, or an afternoon tea service.
Tiger's Inn (Valley Head): A cozy nearby gem in Valley Head serving up hearty country breakfasts and delicious comfort food.
Mountain Inn Restaurant (DeSoto State Park): Located in the historic 1930s sandstone lodge, offering buffet and dining options with views overlooking the canyon.
🌲 What Else Is There to Do Around Mentone?
Whether you're looking for outdoor adventure or cozy indoor retreats, winter offers plenty to explore:
1. Chasing Winter Waterfalls & Scenic Drives
Take a slow winter drive along the Lookout Mountain Parkway. Be sure to stop by DeSoto Falls—the view from the overlook during the colder months is nothing short of majestic.
RIde the beautiful and scenic county road 176 Canyon Rim Drive with its many overlooks and waterfalls.
2. Exploring Downtown Mentone
Stroll through charming mountain towns:
Local Shopping at Log Cabin VIllage: On week-ends, pop into local artisan shops, galleries, and antique spots in the downtown area of Mentone.
The shops of Moonlake Village: The old elementary school in Mentone that features artisan shops and retail.
3. Cozying Up at Mountainwood Cottages
Sometimes the best winter activity is doing nothing at all.
Fireplace & Fire Pit Evenings: Warm up indoors beside a cozy, crackling fireplace, or head outside under the stars with a fire pit and hot s'mores.
Hot Tub Relaxation: Soak away the winter chill in a steaming outdoor hot tub after a morning hike.
Cabin Comforts: Pack your favorite books, board games, and comfort food ingredients for a relaxing day or night indoors by the fire. .
📋 Quick Winter Packing List
Outdoor Gear | Cottage Comforts |
• Layered warm clothing & fleece jacket | • Cozy slippers & heavy socks |
• Waterproof hiking boots | • Hot cocoa, coffee, or tea |
• Beanies, gloves, and thick socks | • Board games, cards, or a good book |
• Insulated travel mug for hot drinks | • S'mores ingredients for the fire pit |
🌲 Plan Your Winter Escape
Robert Frost famously reflected on the captivating quiet of winter in “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening,” marveling at the beauty of dark, silent forests before remembering he still had miles to go.
Here on the mountain, winter offers that exact same stillness—a rare chance to pause, watch the trees, and breathe in the crisp mountain air. But unlike the traveler in the poem, you don't have to keep moving right away. You can step inside, warm your feet by the fire, and let the quiet rest of the mountain wrap around you.
Whether you spend your days trekking through state park trails or your nights fireside with a cup of cocoa, Mountainwood Cottages is waiting to welcome you home.
Can't wait to return for more adventures...