Scenic Drives: Exploring the Smoky Mountains by Car

Nestled within the misty embrace of the Appalachian Mountains, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park welcomes travelers with its breathtaking beauty and rich biodiversity. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, photographer, wildlife lover, history buff or someone looking for their very own slice of paradise – the Smokies offer adventure to anyone that roams those mist covered peaks.

Since the park’s inception, people have been building roads that quietly slice through the wilderness, connecting communities and providing easier means of transport. Today, these serpentine roads provide visitors with the perfect opportunity to experience large portions of Smokies without ever having to break a sweat. By taking the scenic route, you’ll weave between historical and natural wonders alike – from the remnants of a bygone era to stunning mountain panoramas. Regardless of what your itinerary holds, a trip on one of these Smoky Mountain drives will ensure your visit is one you won’t soon forget. To learn more about some of the most beautiful and worthwhile scenic routes through one of America’s most beloved national parks – check out this comprehensive guide!

Why Explore by Car?

When it comes to exploring the Smoky Mountains, a great option for doing so (that will allow you to see the sights without the sweat) is to hit the road!

• Flexibility and Freedom: Driving offers the freedom to set your own pace, allowing you to stop at scenic overlooks, waterfalls, and hidden gems along the way. Whether you’re captivated by a surging waterfall or intrigued by a 150-year-old cabin, having the flexibility to pause and take it all in – while remaining on schedule – is a bonus that only driving can provide.
• Panoramic Views and Vistas: Wind your way through the park’s labyrinth of roads and be rewarded with sweeping vistas of mist-shrouded peaks, vibrant valleys, and rolling hills stretching as far as the eye can see. Scenic overlooks peppered throughout the park provide perfect vantage points to pause, reflect, and capture the beauty of the Smokies.
• Accessibility and Comfort: Experience the convenience of sightseeing in the Smoky Mountains from the comfort of your car. With easy access to scenic overlooks, historical structures, and other popular landmarks, you can explore the park’s natural wonders without compromising on comfort or accessibility. Shielded from the elements, you’ll have the freedom to savor the sights, sounds, and scents of the wilderness at your own pace, making everyone’s journey a memorable adventure – regardless of physical ability.

And to top it all off, if your accommodations are located in Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg, you’ll have easy access to all of the best scenic routes the Smokies have to offer.

Newfound Gap Road

Embark on an awe-inspiring journey from Gatlinburg, Tennessee, to Cherokee, North Carolina, along the iconic Newfound Gap Road. This 31-mile drive covers roughly 3000 feet in elevation and passes through the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering a stunning showcase of the region’s natural splendor.

Highlights:

• Sugarlands Visitor Center: Begin your journey at the gateway to the Smokies, where you can learn about the park’s history and wildlife.
• Chimney Tops: Catch glimpses of the iconic twin peaks that rise above the surrounding landscape, offering a sneak peak of the rugged scenery that awaits.
• Newfound Gap Overlook: Coming in at an elevation of more than 5000 ft, this is the lowest drivable pass in the park. Once parked, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains stretching as far as the eye can see. Please note that due to inclement weather, it’s a good idea to check the park’s webcams for visibility conditions before heading up the road.

Clingmans Dome Road

From Newfound Gap Overlook, you can take the seven-mile journey to the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park via Clingmans Dome Road.

Highlights:

• Fraser Fir Forest: Explore one of the last remaining stands of Fraser fir trees in the eastern United States, a testament to the park’s rich biodiversity.
• Weeping Wall: Behold nature’s artistic ability as water trickles down the rock face, creating a mesmerizing display of light and shadow.
• Clingmans Dome Observation Tower: Ascend to the tallest point in the park for a 360-degree panorama of the Smokies, where you’ll be surrounded by a sea of peaks and valleys stretching as far as the eye can see.

Keep in mind that this route is not open during the winter months, so be sure to plan accordingly!

Cades Cove Loop Road

Step back in time as you explore the historic Cades Cove Loop Road, a scenic route that winds through a picturesque valley dotted with historic homesteads, churches, and abundant wildlife.

Highlights:

• Wildlife Spotting: Keep your eyes peeled for deer, black bears, wild turkeys and other native species as you meander through the valley. Wildlife sightings are frequent and varied within the valley, so keep those cameras ready and ensure you review the wildlife safety guidelines before your trip.
• Cable Mill Historic Area: Discover the rich history of the region at the Cable Mill Historic Area, complete with a restored grist mill and surrounding homesteads, which offer a glimpse into the lives of early settlers. During the warmer months you can even watch the mill in action, as volunteers answer questions and demonstrate how the mill was once used.
• Hyatt Lane: This scenic shortcut cuts right through the heart of Cades Cove, providing you and your passengers with the chance to encounter history without stepping out of the car. While this route does shorten the overall trip, it in no way lessens the experience!

Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

Experience the wild beauty of the Smokies as you journey along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, a one-way winding road that follows one of the more ferocious streams of the park. This nature drive will lead you through lush forests, past rushing mountain streams, and historic homesteads.

Highlights:

• Old-growth Forest: Marvel at towering trees that have stood for centuries, a testament to the park’s rich biodiversity and conservation efforts.
• Mountain Streams: Listen to the soothing sound of rushing water as you traverse the trail, where crystal-clear streams meander through the forest, providing habitat for a variety of wildlife.
• Place of a Thousand Drips: Conclude your trip by stopping at one of the only waterfalls that can be reached by car. During the wet season, the usual drips lining the jagged rock wall, transform into multiple streams of cascading water. This makes for a uniquely picturesque scene and an experience you won’t want to miss.

When the Wheels Stop Turning

After a day of exploration, return to the comfort and luxury of your very own private retreat. Nestled amidst the natural beauty of the region, Parkside Resort offers a wide range of amenities and luxury cabins designed to make your trip to the Smoky Mountains a truly unforgettable experience.

Exploring this majestic region by car not only provides a different perspective of some of the Great Smoky Mountains’ most popular sites, but also allows visitors to witness these things whatever their physical capabilities may be. From panoramic vistas to mesmerizing waterfalls, each drive promises new discoveries and breathtaking beauty that will leave you spellbound. And with Parkside Resort  as your ultimate basecamp, you can rest easy knowing that every moment of your Smoky Mountains adventure will be filled with comfort, luxury, and good old Southern hospitality. So pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare to be amazed by the wonders of the Smokies – your adventure awaits!

Call us today at 888-908-6066 or visit our website to learn more about our amazing accommodations!