If you’ve never been on a scenic drive in the Smoky Mountains, you need to the next time you’re in town. Going for a drive is a great way to explore the mountains and enjoy spending time together. Here are 6 scenic drives in the Smoky Mountains you need to see:
1. Newfound Gap
Newfound Gap is a great drive to go on if you want to really enjoy mountain views. It runs from Gatlinburg, Tennessee to Cherokee, North Carolina and takes about 90 minutes to drive from one end to the other. You’ll see incredible views of the mountains all along your drive, so this is a great activity to do to take in the sights. You’ll find plenty of stops along this road where you can get out and take pictures in front of a view.
2. Foothills Parkway
Foothills Parkway is a unique scenic drive in the Smoky Mountains. It has been completed in phases over the last few decades, and it still has about 33.5 miles left to be completed. You can drive the western end or the eastern end and get beautiful views from either. There are several overlooks where you can get out and take pictures or just enjoy the views.
3. Roaring Fork Motor Trail
If people want to get away from large crowds, they typically drive the Roaring Fork Motor Trail. This is a one-way road near Gatlinburg that’s pretty popular. Many people see black bears, white tailed deer, and all kinds of other animals along their drive. It’s beautiful any time of the year but especially during the fall when the leaves have changed colors. You can get out at the Ogle cabin to explore or if you want to go hiking, there are a few trailheads along the road.
4. Cades Cove
The most popular scenic drive in the Smoky Mountains is Cades Cove. Millions of people visit the 11-mile loop every year. It’s especially popular in the fall when the leaves change colors, but it’s beautiful any time. This is another drive where people usually see wildlife. There are several spots where you can explore old homesteads and buildings, and there are hiking trails along the loop too.
5. Wears Valley Road
Wears Valley Road isn’t quite as popular as the previous drives we’ve mentioned, but it’s incredible to drive. If you want to skip traffic and really enjoy the scenery, this is the road for you. It runs from Pigeon Forge to Townsend. There are a ton of little mountain shops along the road, and you’ll enjoy views of rolling hills and little homes.
6. Little River Road
Little River Road is the road you use to get to several major places in the national park. It curves through the mountains with the Little Pigeon River. You can see Meigs Falls from the road, and it takes you to places like The Sinks and Metcalf Bottoms. You’ll love driving this road in the Smokies.
These scenic drives in the Smoky Mountains are just one thing you can enjoy on your next trip. Are you ready to start planning your vacation? Look through our cabins in the Smoky Mountains and book one now!
