The Smoky Mountain Loop Drive is a captivating journey through the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering visitors a chance to experience the region’s breathtaking natural beauty, rich history, and diverse wildlife. Spanning across eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina, this scenic route is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an unforgettable adventure in the Appalachian Mountains.
Length and Travel Time
The Smoky Mountain Loop Drive covers a total distance of 141 miles and typically takes around 5 hours to complete, depending on the number of stops and the pace of travel.
Notable Attractions
Cades Cove Loop Road
Explore the hidden gem of Cades Cove, an 11-mile, one-way loop that showcases the region’s rich history. Discover period settler’s homes, farms, cemeteries, and churches, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains. This loop is renowned for its scenic beauty and abundant wildlife, including bears and deer.
Tail of the Dragon
Experience the thrill of the Tail of the Dragon, an 11-mile stretch of US 129 with 318 curves, offering a heart-pounding driving experience. This road is a popular destination for motorcyclists and sports car enthusiasts seeking an adrenaline-fueled adventure.
Foothills Parkway
Traverse the 17-mile Foothills Parkway, which offers breathtaking views of the Tennessee Valley and Maryville. On clear days, you can even see as far as the Cumberland Mountains, 50 miles in the distance.
Newfound Gap Road (US 441)
Embark on the 38-mile Newfound Gap Road (US 441), which climbs to an elevation of over 5,000 feet at Newfound Gap before descending to 1,500 feet at Sugarlands Visitor Center. This route provides unparalleled mountain vistas and is a popular choice for scenic drives.
Little River Road (TN 73)
Discover the natural beauty of the 20-mile Little River Road (TN 73), a two-lane road that winds through scenic mountain areas, offering pull-offs, hiking trails, and picnic spots. This road is often considered one of the top ten scenic roads in America.
Tips and Precautions
- Speed Limits: Be mindful of the varying speed limits along the loop, which range from 30 mph to 50 mph.
- Road Closures: Check for any road and facility closures before embarking on the drive, as some sections may be temporarily closed for maintenance or due to weather conditions.
- Wildlife: Exercise caution when encountering wildlife, especially bears and deer, which are commonly seen along the Cades Cove Loop Road and other sections of the drive.
Accommodations and Resources
Lodging
The Smoky Mountain Loop Drive offers a variety of accommodations, ranging from basic tent camping to exclusive mountain top resorts, catering to the diverse needs of visitors.
Visitor Centers
Stop by the Sugarlands Visitor Center and Great Smoky Mountain Park Headquarters to learn more about the park’s history and attractions, and to obtain valuable information to enhance your journey.
Scenic Stops
Take advantage of the numerous scenic pull-offs and overlooks along the route to fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking views of the Great Smoky Mountains.
The Smoky Mountain Loop Drive is a true gem, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, scenic drives, and historic attractions. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a thrill-seeker, or simply someone seeking a peaceful escape, this loop drive is sure to leave a lasting impression and create unforgettable memories.