For those interested in touring the Great Smoky Mountains from Nashville, there are several options available, including bus tours that provide a convenient and hassle-free way to experience the natural beauty and rich history of this stunning region.
Are There Bus Tours Available from Nashville to the Smoky Mountains?
Yes, there are bus tours available from Nashville to the Smoky Mountains. One of the most popular options is the Smoky Mountains and Pigeon Forge bus tour offered by Diamond Tours. This tour includes visits to downtown Gatlinburg, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and various shows such as the “Lumberjack Feud Dinner Show” and the “Country Tonite” show.
Scenic Stops on a Bus Tour from Nashville to the Smoky Mountains
The bus tour from Nashville to the Smoky Mountains typically includes stops at several notable locations within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park:
- Sugarland: The main ranger station where visitors can watch a 20-minute film about the park’s history and geology.
- Newfound Gap: A famous lookout point at 5,046 feet, offering breathtaking views of the border between Tennessee and North Carolina.
- Cades Cove: A historic valley with preserved log cabins, churches, and other structures from the 18th and 19th centuries.
Is a Bus Tour from Nashville to the Smoky Mountains Worth It?
While some people find the drive from Nashville to the Smoky Mountains to be boring, others appreciate the scenic beauty and unique attractions along the way. Renting a car and driving yourself can provide more flexibility and control over your itinerary. However, a bus tour can offer a more relaxed experience, allowing you to enjoy the views without worrying about driving.
Cost and Timings
- Cost: The cost of a bus tour from Nashville to the Smoky Mountains varies depending on the tour operator and the specific package chosen. Diamond Tours offers packages that include accommodations, meals, and show tickets, with prices ranging from around $500 to over $1,000 per person for a multi-day trip.
- Timings: The duration of the bus tour can vary, but a typical trip from Nashville to the Smoky Mountains takes around 4 hours, depending on traffic and the route taken.
Directory and Hours
- Diamond Tours: Offers bus tours from Nashville to the Smoky Mountains, with departures from various locations in Nashville. Contact them at 866.240.4441 for more information.
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Open year-round, but some facilities may have limited hours or be closed during winter. Check the park’s website for specific hours and information.
Value of a Nashville to Smoky Mountains Bus Tour
- Scenic Beauty: The Great Smoky Mountains offer stunning natural scenery, including mountains, forests, and wildlife.
- Convenience: A bus tour can provide a hassle-free experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying the sights without worrying about driving or logistics.
- Variety of Activities: Many bus tours include a range of activities, such as shows, meals, and guided tours, which can enhance the overall experience.
References
- Rome2rio. (n.d.). Nashville → Great Smoky Mountains: Bus, car, and plane. Retrieved from https://www.rome2rio.com/s/Nashville/Great-Smoky-Mountains
- Reddit. (2023, January 19). Bus tour from Nashville to Smoky Mtns? Retrieved from https://www.reddit.com/r/nashville/comments/10fu8yw/bus_tour_from_nashville_to_smoky_mtns/
- Diamond Tours. (n.d.). Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on our Bus Tour. Retrieved from https://www.diamondtours.com/Attractions/pigeon-forge-smoky-mountains-bus-tour/Smoky-Mountain-National-Park
- Rome2rio. (n.d.). Nashville to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Retrieved from https://www.rome2rio.com/s/Nashville/Great-Smoky-Mountains-National-Park
- Diamond Tours. (n.d.). Bus Tours & Trips to Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg. Retrieved from https://www.diamondtours.com/pigeon-forge-smoky-mountains-bus-tour.