Best Scenic Drives in the Smoky Mountains
Whether you're traveling with children, planning a relaxed day, or simply want to see more of the mountains from the comfort of your vehicle, the Smokies offer several memorable driving routes.
Popular scenic routes include:
- Cades Cove Loop Road
- Newfound Gap Road
- Foothills Parkway
- Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
- Little River Road
- Wears Valley Road
- Rich Mountain Road
- National park and community roads
Road access and seasonal closures can change, so check current conditions before traveling.
Explore the Routes
Cades Cove Loop Road
The approximately 11-mile loop takes visitors through a historic mountain valley. See mountain landscapes, historic cabins, churches, barns, wildlife, streams, and scenic overlooks. Allow plenty of time because traffic and frequent stops can make the drive much longer than expected.
Newfound Gap Road
Crosses the Great Smoky Mountains between Tennessee and North Carolina. Provides access to several overlooks, trailheads, and high-elevation areas where temperatures and weather conditions can be very different from those in Gatlinburg or surrounding valleys.
Foothills Parkway
Known for its expansive mountain views. The road travels through the foothills and includes overlooks where visitors can stop and enjoy panoramic scenery. It's an excellent choice for photographers and travelers who want a relaxed sightseeing experience.
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
A scenic one-way route near Gatlinburg. The road passes through forest landscapes and historic mountain areas. Visitors can see streams, old buildings, trailheads, and other natural features. The road is seasonal and can close during certain periods.
Little River Road
Follows the Little River between the Gatlinburg area and Townsend. The route provides frequent opportunities to see mountain streams, forests, and scenic river views. There are also access points to hiking trails, picnic areas, and attractions.
Wears Valley Road
Connects the Pigeon Forge area with Wears Valley and provides a scenic alternative to some of the busier routes. Offers views of the surrounding mountains and access to attractions, restaurants, cabins, and outdoor activities.
Rich Mountain Road
Offers a different perspective of the Smokies and connects the Cades Cove area with Townsend. The road is seasonal and has specific vehicle restrictions. Check current park information before planning this route.
A Drive for Every Season
Spring
Spring brings fresh greenery, wildflowers, and flowing streams. It's an excellent time for photographers and nature lovers.
Summer
Summer offers long daylight hours and lush green forests. Traffic can be heavier, especially around popular destinations and weekends.
Fall
The changing leaves create colorful mountain landscapes. Leave early and allow plenty of extra time, as the season's popularity means heavier traffic.
Winter
Winter can offer clear views through bare trees and a quieter experience. However, snow and ice can affect higher-elevation roads.
Who Are Scenic Drives For?
Ideal because everyone can enjoy the mountains without committing to a long hike. Stop at designated overlooks, picnic areas, and historic sites. Bring snacks, water, and activities for children during longer drives.
Turn a scenic drive into a relaxed mountain date. Stop at overlooks, photograph the scenery, and enjoy a meal in a nearby mountain community. Sunrise and sunset can provide beautiful lighting.
Scenic Drive Tips & Preparation
🚗 Driving Safely
- Check Road Conditions: Roads close due to weather, maintenance, or seasonal schedules.
- Fill Your Tank: Some routes have limited services.
- Use Designated Pull-Offs: Never stop in the roadway.
- Allow Extra Time: Traffic, wildlife, and stops extend trips.
📸 Photography on the Road
Look for mountain ridges, fog, rivers, waterfalls, historic buildings, wildlife, fall foliage, and wildflowers.
Note: Always pull completely off the roadway in designated areas before taking photographs.
📍 Basecamp Townsend
Townsend is a particularly convenient base for scenic driving. Little River Road, Cades Cove, Foothills Parkway, and nearby mountain routes provide numerous opportunities for sightseeing.
Plan Your Smoky Mountain Road Trip
You don't need to complete every scenic route in one vacation. Choose a drive based on how much time you have and what you want to see.
A short riverside drive may be perfect for a relaxed afternoon, while Cades Cove or Newfound Gap Road can become a full-day adventure when combined with hiking and sightseeing.