Sometimes the best way to experience the Great Smoky Mountains is from the comfort of your car. With miles of winding roads, towering peaks, and hidden valleys, the Smokies offer some of the most beautiful scenic drives in the eastern United States. These routes bring the beauty of the mountains right to your windshield—perfect for families, photographers, or anyone looking for a relaxing adventure.
In this guide, we’ll take you through 7 unforgettable drives through the Smokies, complete with tips, must-see stops, and when to go for the best experience.
1. Cades Cove Loop Road
Distance: 11 miles (one-way loop)
Best For: Wildlife spotting and historic buildings
Cades Cove is the most popular scenic drive in the Smokies—and for good reason. This wide, open valley surrounded by mountains offers an easy drive with stunning views, historic churches and cabins, and a high chance of spotting wildlife like deer, black bears, wild turkeys, and coyotes.
Must-See Stops:
- John Oliver Cabin
- Missionary Baptist Church
- Cable Mill Historic Area
Tip: Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best wildlife sightings.
2. Newfound Gap Road (US-441)
Distance: 33 miles (Gatlinburg to Cherokee, NC)
Best For: Panoramic mountain views and elevation changes
This route takes you through the heart of the Smoky Mountains National Park, ascending to Newfound Gap at 5,046 feet. Along the way, you’ll pass scenic overlooks, picnic areas, and access to top trails.
Must-See Stops:
- Newfound Gap Overlook
- Clingmans Dome (side road)
- Rockefeller Memorial (site of the national park dedication)
Tip: Bring layers—it’s often 10–20 degrees cooler at the top.
3. Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
Distance: 5.5 miles (one-way loop)
Best For: Waterfalls and historic cabins
This narrow, winding road is closed in winter but open spring through fall. It showcases old-growth forest, mountain streams, and remnants of Appalachian homesteads.
Must-See Stops:
- Noah “Bud” Ogle Cabin
- Grotto Falls trailhead
- Place of a Thousand Drips waterfall
Tip: Vehicles over 25 feet long are not allowed due to sharp turns.
4. Foothills Parkway
Distance: Varies – 33 miles (best scenic section between Wears Valley and Walland)
Best For: Long-range views and a peaceful drive
This lesser-known drive offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains and Tennessee Valley. It’s a quiet alternative to the busier main roads and ideal for a relaxing afternoon cruise.
Must-See Stops:
- Look Rock observation tower
- Pull-offs with western Smokies views
Tip: Sunset drives here are unforgettable.
5. Little River Road
Distance: 18 miles (Gatlinburg to Townsend)
Best For: River views and waterfall access
This scenic stretch follows the Little River and connects Gatlinburg to Townsend via winding turns and beautiful overlooks. It’s one of the park’s most traveled roads due to its access to several major hikes.
Must-See Stops:
- Laurel Falls trailhead
- The Sinks (powerful waterfall)
- Metcalf Bottoms picnic area
Tip: Watch for kayakers and fly fishermen in spring and fall.
6. Upper Tremont Road
Distance: 8 miles (gravel road)
Best For: Off-the-beaten-path forest drive
For a quieter, more rustic experience, this gravel road takes you deeper into the Tremont section of the park. It’s great for spotting wildlife, birdwatching, or just getting away from the crowds.
Must-See Stops:
- Middle Prong Trail (hike to waterfalls)
- Tremont Institute
Tip: Drive slowly and enjoy the serenity—this area is rich in flora and fauna.
7. Blue Ridge Parkway (Cherokee Entrance)
Distance: Varies – up to 469 miles total (start at southern terminus in Cherokee, NC)
Best For: Fall foliage and dramatic overlooks
While not technically inside the Smoky Mountains National Park, the Blue Ridge Parkway begins at its southern edge and is worth the side trip. Known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” it offers spectacular mountain vistas and peaceful scenery.
Must-See Stops:
- Oconaluftee Visitor Center
- Waterrock Knob
- Richland Balsam (highest point on Parkway)
Tip: Drive the first 30–40 miles out of Cherokee for a manageable day trip with scenic reward.
Scenic Drive Tips
- Go early or late in the day for better light and fewer crowds
- Bring a camera or phone with zoom—wildlife and sweeping views await
- Use pull-offs safely; never stop in the road
- Pack snacks or a picnic for longer drives
- Check seasonal closures—some roads close in winter
- Gas up before entering the park—no fuel stations inside
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re seeking epic overlooks, peaceful forest drives, or a journey through history, the Smokies have a scenic route for you. These 7 drives showcase the region’s natural beauty from every angle—without needing to lace up your hiking boots.
Roll down the windows, turn on your favorite road trip playlist, and let the mountains do the rest.
