Exploring the Smoky Mountains by car is an unforgettable experience, offering breathtaking scenery, historic sites, and abundant wildlife. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Smoky Mountains enthusiast, this comprehensive guide will help you plan the perfect drive through this natural wonder.
Best Routes for Driving Through the Smoky Mountains National Park
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Cades Cove Loop Road: This 11-mile loop takes you through a lush, peaceful valley surrounded by the majestic Smoky Mountains. Along the way, you’ll discover historic cabins, churches, and mills, as well as opportunities to spot wildlife like white-tailed deer, black bears, and wild turkeys.
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Newfound Gap Road: Spanning 33 miles from Cherokee, North Carolina, to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, this scenic drive offers panoramic views of the Smokies and access to the Appalachian Trail. Stop at the Newfound Gap overlook for a breathtaking vista of the mountains.
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Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail: This 5.5-mile one-way loop road showcases the natural beauty of the Smokies, with historic structures, cascading streams, and dense forests. Keep an eye out for the historic Ephraim Bales cabin and the Noah “Bud” Ogle cabin.
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Clingman’s Dome Road: A 7-mile spur road leading to the highest point in the Smoky Mountains, Clingman’s Dome offers 360-degree views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Hike the half-mile trail to the observation tower for an unparalleled panoramic experience.
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Upper Tremont Road: Explore the peaceful, less-crowded area of the park along this scenic drive, which features historic buildings, mountain streams, and opportunities to spot wildlife like black bears and wild turkeys.
Tips for Driving in the Smoky Mountains National Park
- Start your drive early: Avoid crowds and enjoy the serene morning scenery by hitting the roads before the peak visitation hours.
- Slow down and take your time: The roads in the Smoky Mountains can be narrow, winding, and steep, so it’s important to drive cautiously and keep an eye out for wildlife.
- Be prepared for changing weather conditions: The Smoky Mountains are known for their unpredictable weather, so be sure to check forecasts and pack appropriate gear.
- Fill up on gas before entering the park: There are no gas stations within the Smoky Mountains National Park, so plan to fill up in nearby towns before your drive.
Estimated Time and Distance for Driving Through the Park
The Smoky Mountains National Park boasts over 270 miles of paved and gravel roads, with an average speed of around 30 miles per hour. To fully explore the park’s scenic drives, plan to spend at least half a day, if not a full day, taking in the stunning vistas and historic sites.
Additional Resources for Your Smoky Mountains Drive
- Visitor center guide booklets: Pick up informative guide booklets at the park’s visitor centers or purchase them online, which provide detailed information on the park’s history, wildlife, and plant life.
- Scenic overlooks: Take advantage of the numerous scenic overlooks throughout the park, where you can pull over and soak in the breathtaking views.
- Cabin rentals: For a comfortable and convenient stay near the Smoky Mountains National Park, consider booking a cabin in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, or Wears Valley.