Best Scenic Drives in the Great Smoky Mountains
1. Newfound Gap Road
Overview:
Newfound Gap Road (U.S. Highway 441) is arguably the most famous scenic drive in the Smokies. It traverses the heart of the park and provides stunning views at nearly every turn. Starting from Gatlinburg, Tennessee, it climbs through dense forests, crosses the state line, and peaks at Newfound Gap, which sits at 5,046 feet above sea level. From this point, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Distance and Time:
The drive covers about 33 miles, taking approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on stops along the way.
Best Time to Go:
Fall is particularly stunning here, as the leaves change colors, offering a vibrant display of reds, oranges, and yellows. Spring is also a great time, with wildflowers and lush greenery along the route.
What to Bring:
- A camera for breathtaking views
- Comfortable shoes for possible hiking stops
- A picnic if you plan to stop at any of the scenic overlooks
- Warm clothes, especially if you reach higher elevations, where temperatures can be cooler even in summer.
Budget Considerations:
This drive is free of charge, but if you plan on stopping at some of the hiking trails or overlooks, be sure to check if there are any associated parking fees. Most areas along Newfound Gap Road do not charge a fee, but some trailheads may have a small parking fee (usually around $5 per day).
2. Cades Cove Loop Road
Overview:
Cades Cove is one of the most popular destinations in the Great Smoky Mountains, and the 11-mile one-way Cades Cove Loop Road offers one of the best scenic drives in the park. The loop provides plenty of opportunities for wildlife sightings, including deer, wild turkeys, and black bears, and is lined with historic buildings like old cabins, churches, and barns. The valley views framed by the surrounding mountains are nothing short of spectacular.
Distance and Time:
The drive is 11 miles long and typically takes about 2 to 3 hours, depending on how often you stop to take in the views or explore the historic structures.
Best Time to Go:
Early mornings or late afternoons during the warmer months (spring and summer) are prime for spotting wildlife, but the fall foliage in Cades Cove is also exceptional.
What to Bring:
- Binoculars and a camera for wildlife spotting
- Snacks and water, as there are limited amenities on the loop
- A good map of the area, as it’s easy to get distracted by the beauty and miss the next turnoff
Budget Considerations:
There is a small fee for entering the Cades Cove area ($25 per vehicle for a 7-day pass). It's best to plan for this when budgeting for your trip. You may also want to budget for food if you decide to eat at the Cades Cove Campground Store, which offers simple snacks and meals.
3. Little River Road
Overview:
Little River Road offers a peaceful drive alongside the Little River, which carves through the forest, offering some of the best natural views in the park. This route takes you through beautiful wooded sections and past crystal-clear streams. It also connects to other scenic drives and trailheads, making it a great starting point for exploring the park.
Distance and Time:
The drive spans 18 miles, taking approximately 1 hour to travel one way.
Best Time to Go:
Spring and early summer bring vibrant greenery, and fall showcases brilliant foliage. The road also offers great views in winter, when snow-covered trees line the route.
What to Bring:
- A picnic to enjoy by one of the many pull-offs along the river
- A fishing rod if you’re into fishing (the Little River is known for its trout)
- A hiking guide if you plan to explore the nearby trails
Budget Considerations:
This drive is free of charge, though if you plan to stop at nearby areas like Elkmont or Laurel Falls, there may be parking fees. The cost for parking usually ranges from $5 to $10 per day at certain trailheads.
4. Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
Overview:
The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a one-way loop that’s just under 6 miles in length but packed with natural beauty. The trail takes you through a lush forest, offering picturesque views of old-growth trees, wildflowers, and a stream that rushes alongside the road. The drive also passes by old cabins, including the historic Carter Shields Cabin, giving a glimpse into the region’s past.
Distance and Time:
At just under 6 miles, this loop can be completed in about 30 minutes, but it’s worth taking your time to stop and explore the historic sites and take in the peaceful surroundings.
Best Time to Go:
Spring, when the wildflowers bloom, and fall, when the foliage turns vibrant, are the most popular times. However, the summer months are great for experiencing the forest's full green beauty.
What to Bring:
- A camera to capture the scenic views and historic cabins
- A hiking guide if you want to explore some of the nearby trails
- A blanket and snacks for a relaxing stop by the stream
Budget Considerations:
The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is free to drive, and there are no parking fees at most stops along the route.
5. Cherohala Skyway
Overview:
For a more extended scenic drive outside the main boundaries of the Smoky Mountains, the Cherohala Skyway offers 43 miles of stunning vistas. The highway links the town of Tellico Plains in Tennessee to Robbinsville in North Carolina, crossing the rugged peaks of the Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests. Along the way, visitors can enjoy panoramic mountain views, high-altitude vistas, and a variety of wildlife.
Distance and Time:
The drive spans 43 miles, taking approximately 2 to 3 hours depending on stops.
Best Time to Go:
Fall is a great time to visit for vibrant colors, while spring offers lush greenery. It’s also a good winter route for those interested in experiencing the Smoky Mountains’ snow-covered landscape.
What to Bring:
- A camera for wide-angle shots of mountain vistas
- Warm clothes if you’re traveling at higher elevations, as it can be chilly
- A hiking guide, as there are several trailheads along the way
Budget Considerations:
The Cherohala Skyway does not have an entrance fee, but some of the nearby recreational areas may charge for parking. Plan for around $5 to $10 per day for parking in these areas.
Conclusion: Planning Your Scenic Drive Adventure
The Great Smoky Mountains offer some of the most stunning scenic drives in the country, each providing its own unique perspective of this remarkable landscape. To make the most of your journey:
- When to Go: The Smoky Mountains are a year-round destination, with fall offering brilliant foliage, spring showcasing blooming wildflowers, and summer providing lush, green views. Winter brings a quiet, snow-covered beauty.
- Where to Go: Each of the drives listed here offers its own charm, but Newfound Gap Road and Cades Cove are must-see attractions, especially for first-time visitors.
- What to Bring: Always bring a camera, sturdy shoes, water, snacks, and a picnic if you plan on making several stops. For wildlife spotting, binoculars are recommended.
- Budget Considerations: Most drives in the park are free, though some areas require parking fees. The Cades Cove loop and the Cherohala Skyway do have associated fees. Budget for gas, food, and any potential parking charges to ensure a smooth experience.
The Smoky Mountains are a destination that invites exploration, and with this guide, you’ll be able to fully enjoy the natural beauty, wildlife, and history of this iconic park.
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