When you come to the Smoky Mountains, there are so many incredible ways to explore the scenic beauty the area has to offer. But sometimes all the exploration can leave you feeling like a break from walking, which is when the scenic drives here in the Smoky Mountains are an amazing option. These roads pass by picturesque sights and offer plenty of chances to pull off and admire the views, all while enjoying the Smoky Mountains from the comfort of your vehicle! Here are some of the top scenic drives here in the Smoky Mountains that you have to check out:
1. Newfound Gap Road
One of the best scenic drives in the Smoky Mountains, Newfound Gap Road spans 33 miles from Gatlinburg to Cherokee, NC. Starting at the Sugarlands Visitor Center, this drive will take you past overlooks with stunning sights including a direct view of Mount LeConte, the spot where FDR first dedicated Smoky Mountains National Park, and lots more. If you are looking for a drive that will offer great views and unique stops, this is a perfect option!
2. Cades Cove Loop Road
Among the most popular scenic drives in the Smoky Mountains is the Cades Cove Loop Road, which is an 11-mile one-way road that gives visitors the chance to see a little bit of everything here in the Smoky Mountains. There are numerous spots throughout this road where visitors can pull off and enjoy short hikes, discover historic cabins, spot native wildlife, learn about the park, and lots more. Just remember that because this is a popular place to visit, you should build in time for traffic when you come to do this scenic drive.
3. Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
Another popular drive in the Smoky Mountains is the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. It's a 5.5-mile, one-way loop road that invites you to slow down and take in the forest scenery and historic buildings in the area. Along the way, you'll be able to see rushing mountain streams, an old-growth forest, and a number of well-preserved structures, from log cabins to grist mills. The drive ends in the perfect way, with a view of a roadside waterfall, Place of a Thousand Drips. If you plan on doing this scenic drive when you visit, please note that it's open seasonally and closed from Dec. 1st through March.
4. Little River Road
Another great scenic drive in the Smoky Mountains is Little River Road, which runs along the Little River and offers plenty of access points to soak in the sights of the rushing stream. Whether you decide to just drive along this road, or utilize the pull offs to stroll down to the river on foot, you are sure to enjoy this picturesque drive between Gatlinburg and Townsend.
These are just some of the many scenic drives here in the Smoky Mountains that you can enjoy when you come to visit. Plus, there are lots of other ways to see the sights here in the area, including right from the comfort of your very own cabin rental. Our cabins with mountain views allow you to soak in the sights of the Smoky Mountains right from your porch, living room, or wherever you prefer – so browse our cabins with mountain views today and get ready to relax here in the gorgeous Smoky Mountains. We look forward to welcoming you!
