Scenic Drives
The Great Smoky Mountains, known for their mist-shrouded peaks and lush forests, offer some of the most breathtaking scenic drives in the United States. These drives provide visitors with the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the Smokies from the comfort of their vehicle, making them accessible to everyone, regardless of hiking ability. Whether you’re seeking sweeping mountain vistas, cascading waterfalls, or a glimpse into the region’s rich history, the scenic drives in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee have something to offer for every traveler.
Newfound Gap Road (U.S. Highway 441)
Newfound Gap Road, also known as U.S. Highway 441, is one of the most iconic scenic drives in the Smoky Mountains. Stretching 33 miles from Gatlinburg, Tennessee, to Cherokee, North Carolina, this road takes you through the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The elevation climbs from about 1,289 feet in Gatlinburg to over 5,000 feet at Newfound Gap, offering stunning views and access to several notable landmarks.
As you drive along Newfound Gap Road, you’ll pass by some of the park’s most popular attractions, including Clingmans Dome Road, which leads to the highest point in the Smokies. The scenic overlooks along the way provide panoramic views of the rolling mountains and deep valleys, especially breathtaking during the fall when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. The road is also lined with dense forests, clear streams, and opportunities to spot wildlife, making it a quintessential Smoky Mountains experience.
Cades Cove Loop Road
Cades Cove Loop Road is a must-do for anyone visiting the Smoky Mountains. This 11-mile, one-way loop takes you through Cades Cove, a picturesque valley surrounded by mountains. The road is slow-paced, allowing visitors to take in the stunning scenery, which includes historic buildings, open meadows, and abundant wildlife.
Cades Cove is known for its rich history, with preserved log cabins, churches, and a working grist mill that harken back to the 19th century. The loop is also one of the best places in the park to see wildlife, including white-tailed deer, black bears, and wild turkeys. The drive is especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset when the light casts a golden glow over the valley. For those looking to explore further, several trailheads along the loop offer access to hikes such as the Abrams Falls Trail.
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a 5.5-mile, one-way loop road that offers a more intimate experience with the Smoky Mountains’ natural beauty. Located just outside of Gatlinburg, this drive takes you through a lush forest filled with hemlocks, wildflowers, and cascading streams. The narrow, winding road follows the course of the Roaring Fork stream, providing a peaceful and scenic journey.
Along the way, you’ll find several pull-offs and short trails that lead to historic buildings, such as the Noah “Bud” Ogle Cabin, as well as stunning views of waterfalls and the surrounding forest. The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is particularly beautiful in the spring when wildflowers bloom in abundance, and in the fall when the leaves turn vibrant colors.
Little River Road
Little River Road stretches for 18 miles between the Sugarlands Visitor Center and Townsend, Tennessee. This scenic drive follows the course of the Little River, offering stunning views of the river, cascading waterfalls, and the surrounding mountains. The road is lined with pull-offs where you can stop to take photos, explore short trails, or simply enjoy the sound of rushing water.
Highlights along Little River Road include the trailhead for Laurel Falls, one of the most popular and accessible waterfalls in the park, and the Sinks, a powerful waterfall that flows into a deep, rocky pool. The drive is a perfect way to experience the beauty of the Smokies, with opportunities to picnic, hike, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Scenic drives in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee offer an unparalleled way to explore the park’s diverse landscapes and natural wonders. From the high-elevation vistas of Newfound Gap Road to the tranquil beauty of Cades Cove and Roaring Fork, these drives provide a glimpse into the timeless beauty of the Smokies. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, the scenic drives in the Smoky Mountains are sure to leave you with lasting memories of this extraordinary region.
