Gatlinburg and the rest of the Smokies are known for their natural beauty, which is why hiking and mountain climbing are so popular. However, there's another way to explore: by vehicle. Done right, vehicles can be the best way to explore the Smoky Mountains. To help you maximize your auto tour, we're going to explore the best scenic drives in Gatlinburg, TN.
Choosing Where to Drive
The good news is that almost anywhere you drive in the Smokies can lead to a scenic drive. Even better, specific loop road scenic drives in Gatlinburg showcase the best scenery while letting you stay within the Smoky Mountain boundaries. No matter which of our top picks you try, you'll love every curve, turn, and straightway.
Cades Cove Loop Road
Cades Cove is one of the most popular spots in the national park, and the 11-mile one-way Cades Cove loop road is a significant reason for this. Throughout this stretch of road, you'll see a collection of historic buildings, wildlife such as deer and even black bears, and gorgeous scenery for a pleasant drive. Remember to bring your camera to take pictures to commemorate the occasion.
Newfound Gap Road
Some of the best drives last a while, which is precisely what you get when you try out the Newfound Gap Road. Stretching over 33 miles, you'll get unmatched views of the mountains and forests while having plenty of options to stop for a moment. Make sure to check out favorites like Clingmans Dome along the way.
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
This nature trail is just outside of downtown Gatlinburg. It is a short 5.5-mile stretch of road, and you and everyone else in the car will see mountain views, historic buildings, gorgeous foliage (especially in the Fall), and even a waterfall.
Make a day of it and find one of the trailheads so you can enjoy a fun hike simultaneously. After driving, you can check out the many attractions throughout the Gatlinburg area.
Little River Road
The Little River Road is the perfect choice when you're in the mood for a longer drive without driving for hours. Covering 22 miles, it winds its way through the national park between Gatlinburg and Townsend.
In addition, this road is the primary access point for other area destinations like Cades Cove and Elkmont. Feel free to stop at one of the many pull-offs to explore, take pictures, and admire the scenery.
Motorcycle Lovers Rejoice
One of the best ways to experience the Smoky Mountains is by enjoying motorcycle rides in the Smoky Mountains. With the wind through your hair, two wheels underneath, and a wide-open road, hitting one of the biker-friendly roads is a great way to experience the Gatlinburg area.
The Tail of the Dragon
Rated as America's #1 road for motorcycles, you can't go without traveling the Tail of the Dragon. This winding road boasts 318 curves across 11 miles, making it a peaceful scenic drive for everyone. The road starts at Deals Gap and winds down US 129, ending at the Tabcat Bridge. See gorgeous views on a ride less than an hour long for a memorable experience.
Gatlinburg Bypass to Townsend
The best drives are the ones that don't have you stuck in the crowd with everyone else. See the Smokies and enjoy less traffic by hitting the Gatlinburg Bypass to Townsend. This ride takes less than an hour and 25 miles through the park on winding curves.
Start off US 441 and end on Highway 321. At the end, you can turn on Fighting Creek Gap Rd and then Little River Gorge Rd to come out on 321 again. At that point, the ride can continue through Wears Valley to arrive in Pigeon Forge or Townsend, depending on your direction.
Helpful Tips to Remember
While driving is a lot of fun, especially with gorgeous views outside the windows, there are a few things to remember to ensure your trip remains safe and fun. Keep in mind these helpful tips to stay safe while having an incredible experience:
- Plan your Drive: Narrow down your options to match your interests to maximize the drive for you and others in the car with you.
- Coordinate Your Schedule: The best drives occur when everyone else isn't trying to do the same thing simultaneously. Avoid peak hours and busy seasons for the best driving experience. We recommend driving during the early morning or on weekdays.
- Verify the Conditions: Different weather conditions can affect the quality or safety of your drive. In some cases, certain roads may be closed. Verify the conditions before heading out to enjoy your scenic drive properly.
- Remember the Essentials: While driving is excellent, you'll be in the mountains and surrounded by nature, so it's vital to bring items like water, snacks, sunscreen, a camera, and more, especially if you plan to pull off the road and explore on foot.
- Watch for Wildlife: All kinds of animals may be close to the road or in the forests when on foot so remain vigilant. Animals you may see include but aren't limited to bears, elk, and deer.
- Go Analog: While driving in and around the mountains, you may lose signal for your phone and/or GPS. Use updated maps of the area to manage your navigation.
Above everything else, make sure to go slow and enjoy the views. There are many hidden passages and off-roads to explore to add to your trip. The road is yours for the taking so make every moment count. Remember to take pictures, so you can look back on the trips long after returning home.
Try Every Scenic Drive When Staying in Our Gatlinburg Cabins
With so many options available, picking which scenic drives to enjoy on your next vacation to the Smokies is challenging. Fortunately, with a stay in our Gatlinburg cabins, you'll be close to every option and, best of all, have all the time needed to experience them between other adventures.
With every rental option you can think of, from romantic 1 bedroom cabin rentals to large family-sized cabins or our cabins with a game room, there's a rental just right for your group, ensuring the best vacation possible. Don't wait to experience the best scenic drives in Gatlinburg, TN and make excellent memories with those who matter most.