The Smokies are packed with breathtaking drives that offer stunning views, wildlife sightings, and unforgettable memories. Whether you're chasing mountain sunrises, cruising through historic valleys, or tackling winding roads, there's a scenic route for everyone! Here is our list of 10 scenic drives you can check out while visiting the Smokies.
Cades Cove Loop Rd
Step back in time as you cruise through Cades Cove, one of the most picturesque and historic areas of the Smokies. This 11-mile, one-way loop winds through a lush valley surrounded by majestic mountains. Keep your eyes peeled for black bears, white-tailed deer, and wild turkeys! Along the way, explore well-preserved pioneer cabins, churches, and a grist mill, offering a glimpse into 19th-century Appalachian life. Whether you drive, bike, or stop for a hike, Cades Cove is an unforgettable journey into the past.
Step back in time as you cruise through Cades Cove, one of the most picturesque and historic areas of the Smokies. This 11-mile, one-way loop winds through a lush valley surrounded by majestic mountains. Keep your eyes peeled for black bears, white-tailed deer, and wild turkeys! Along the way, explore well-preserved pioneer cabins, churches, and a grist mill, offering a glimpse into 19th-century Appalachian life. Whether you drive, bike, or stop for a hike, Cades Cove is an unforgettable journey into the past.
Clingman’s Dome Road / Kuwohi
Experience breathtaking, 360-degree views from the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! The drive to Clingman’s Dome winds through misty ridges and dense forests, reaching an elevation of 6,643 feet. Once you park, take the short but steep half-mile hike to the observation tower for panoramic views that stretch over seven states on a clear day. Perfect for sunrise or sunset, this scenic drive is a must for those looking to experience the Smokies from above.
Foothills Parkway – Cosby to I-40
One of the newest sections of the Foothills Parkway, this stunning drive offers incredible views of Mount Cammerer and the Cosby Valley. The road winds along the foothills, providing scenic pull-offs where you can soak in sweeping mountain vistas. As you approach I-40, you'll be near Big Creek and the Appalachian Trail, making this a great route for travelers looking to explore beyond the road.
Foothills Parkway – Wears Valley to Walland
Known as the "Missing Link", this section of the Foothills Parkway was completed in 2018 and quickly became a favorite for travelers. The 17-mile stretch offers breathtaking, unobstructed views of the Smokies, with several scenic pull-offs perfect for photos. Whether you're taking a leisurely drive or catching a golden sunset, this route is pure mountain magic.
Foothills Parkway – Walland to Chilhowee Lake
This quiet and scenic drive connects Walland to Chilhowee Lake, offering sweeping views of rolling foothills and the Tennessee River Valley. Enjoy a peaceful, crowd-free journey with plenty of pull-offs to take in the scenery. Chilhowee Lake at the end of the route provides a perfect spot for a picnic or a quick nature break before heading back into the mountains.
Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook
For one of the most iconic views of Gatlinburg, take a short but stunning drive to the Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook on the Gatlinburg Bypass. This quick stop gives you a perfect view of the town nestled in the mountains, especially at sunrise or sunset. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Mount LeConte. It’s a must-visit spot for photographers and anyone wanting that classic Smoky Mountain shot!
Newfound Gap – Gatlinburg to Cherokee
This 33-mile scenic highway takes you on a breathtaking journey from Tennessee to North Carolina, crossing the highest drivable pass in the Smokies at 5,046 feet. Along the way, stop at Newfound Gap Overlook for stunning views, visit the site where President Franklin D. Roosevelt dedicated the national park, and continue into Cherokee, NC, home to the Oconaluftee Visitor Center and elk sightings. This drive is especially gorgeous in the fall when the leaves turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold.
Rich Mountain Rd
For those seeking a quieter, off-the-beaten-path scenic drive, Rich Mountain Road is a hidden gem in the Smoky Mountains. This seasonal, one-way gravel road begins in Cades Cove and winds its way northwest to Townsend, TN, offering stunning elevated views of the cove and surrounding mountains. At just over 7 miles long, this remote and peaceful route provides a chance to escape the crowds while still enjoying the incredible natural beauty of the park.
Along the way, keep an eye out for wildlife, as deer, black bears, and wild turkeys are often spotted. You'll also pass through serene forested areas, with occasional scenic overlooks perfect for photos. Rich Mountain Road is only open from mid-April through mid-November, and due to its gravel surface and steep inclines, it's best suited for vehicles with good clearance.
If you want a quieter, more adventurous exit from Cades Cove that connects you directly to Townsend, this is the drive for you!
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
Escape into the wilderness on this 5.5-mile, one-way loop that showcases rushing mountain streams, old-growth forests, and historic cabins from early settlers. Named for the fast-moving Roaring Fork stream, this drive is perfect for those who love waterfalls and a touch of adventure. Be sure to stop at Grotto Falls Trailhead, where you can hike to the only waterfall in the park that you can walk behind!
Tail of the Dragon
Thrill-seekers, this one’s for you! The Tail of the Dragon (US-129) is world-famous for its 318 curves in just 11 miles, making it a favorite among motorcyclists and sports car drivers. This legendary road winds through the mountains on the Tennessee-North Carolina border, offering a heart-pounding driving experience. Whether you're here for the adrenaline rush or just to enjoy the stunning forested surroundings, this drive is unlike any other in the Smokies.