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6 Awesome Auto Touring Routes in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

By Jason Barnette | Travel writer and photographer with 15+ years of road tripping experience

• Last Updated on May 3, 2024
• Published on June 25, 2018

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my Affiliate Disclosure here .

Not everyone has the time, ability, or desire to strap on a pair of trail runners and hike dozens of miles through a rugged mountain terrain. Sometimes all a person wants is to enjoy some scenic beauty along a route from the comfort of a personal vehicle. Fortunately the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has six of those routes, called auto touring routes, throughout various sections of the park.

What is an Auto Touring Route?

An auto touring route is simply a designated highway within the boundaries of a National Park System site that allows people to explore history, culture, and nature with their own personal vehicle. It’s not strictly a driving route; there are usually scenic overlooks, exhibits, information shelters, and hiking trails to enjoy along the route.

The biggest difference with an auto touring route is that they are usually, but not always, one-way roads. This creates a more peaceful atmosphere with just one-way traffic and makes it safer and easier to get that chicken across the road.

Cades Cove is one of the most popular and iconic areas of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The 11-mile Cades Cove Loop Road whisks visitors into a cellphone dead spot in the mountains along a one-lane road winding through a dead end valley.

Cades Cove is the location of popular destinations like John Oliver Place, Abrams Falls, John Cable Mill, and Tipton Place. The early morning hours and late evening hours an abundance of wildlife including deer, wild turkeys, and bear will appear along the road in trees and large open fields.

It takes about an hour to drive the eleven mile loop road but that entirely depends on traffic (and people who block traffic). Sparks Lane and Hyatt Lane are the only two-way roads in Cades Cove, both gravel roads that allows visitors to cut the 11-mile loop short.

READ MORE: 8 Fun Things to Do in Cades Cove in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Cataloochee Valley Road

Cataloochee Valley is the most remote section of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The only way into the valley is a partially paved, partially graveled road from Interstate 40 near Waynesville. The journey into the valley takes a good forty minutes – but the effort could be worth it for the peaceful scenery.

Elk roam the large fields and wild turkey frequently gather along the road. Historic buildings like an old barn and residence are open for visitors to explore. There are a few hiking trails or you could just sit by the creek and listen to the water churn.

Foothills Parkway

The 38.6-mile Foothills Parkway is one of the most overlooked areas of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Broken into two sections, the length between Wears Valley and U.S. Highway 221 rides along a ridge opposite the national park.

The parkway features scenic overlooks with gorgeous views of the Great Smoky Mountains and a peaceful drive that should not be missed. Spend an evening at Look Rock where you’ll find an observation tower at the end of a short hiking trail.

READ MORE: The Complete Travel Guide to the Foothills Parkway in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

National Park Week 2024

Learn about the annual celebration of the National Park System and read my travel guides to national park units across the country.

Little River Road

Beginning at the Sugarlands Visitor Center in Gatlinburg the Little River Road winds twenty-five miles along the Little River across an old railroad path past Townsend and into Cades Cove. This two lane highway is one of two major arteries running through the national park connecting various destinations and campgrounds.

Along the way visitors can discover the not so hidden Elkmont Historic District , learn the history of The Sinks , take a look at the only waterfall in the park visible from your car, and go for a splash in the cool waters at The Townsend Wye.

Newfound Gap Road

Newfound Gap Road (US Highway 441) is the main highway through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park connecting Gatlinburg, Tennessee with Cherokee, North Carolina. The road passes through Newfound Gap, the lowest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park at 5,046′ in elevation. At 16 miles from Gatlinburg and 18 miles from Cherokee, Newfound Gap is near the middle of the most-traversed section of the national park.

The two lane road is the busiest section of the entire park that sees thousands of vehicles a day travel the road back and forth. Each end of the road is anchored by a visitor center: Sugarlands Visitor Center in Gatlinburg and Oconaluftee Visitor Center in Cherokee. Popular trails at Chimney Tops and Alum Cave draw dozens of early morning hikers who eagerly claim the few parking spots for themselves. Mingus Mill in North Carolina is one of only two mills left in the national park.

Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

My favorite auto touring route in the national park also happens to be the shortest and easiest to access. The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is an 8-mile one-way route that begins and ends in Gatlinburg. It’s a popular destination for people who know it is there but ironically, despite the location in town, it remains mostly hidden.

The route begins at Ogle Place, one of many historic homes and structures scattered along the motor trail. Rainbow Falls and Grotto Falls are two of the most popular waterfall hikes in the national park, each located along the road here. But the Roaring Fork gets its name from the bubbling creek that runs along the last half of the route; this is a popular place for people to capture photos of the cascading water and take a dip in the cool mountain stream.

READ MORE: Travel Guide to the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail at Great Smoky Mountains National Park

6 Responses

All three links provided in Little River Gorge section are broken. Exceptional info otherwise.

Well, thank you for letting me know! That’s what happens so often with web links. I’ll update soon.

Will you be open 8/12/20 till 8/19/30. Rv trailer, what would the price be. Could you give me a ball park figure, thank you.

Roaring Fork is NOT open year round. It’s a seasonal closure and closes in winter every single year. It should also be noted it’s narrow, winding, and no large vehicles (motor homes, pulling trailers, etc.) are allowed.

All very good points! I’ll look into revamping this a little bit and adding in some of that information. This was just a simple roundup, though, and if I start adding notes about all the routes it would get so big!

These are eye-popping pictures Jason. I definitely look forward to a road tip to and through this region. One of my readers lives in this general area and raves about it. I can see why now. Talk about an unending flow of inspired natural beauty to enjoy, in peaceful, chill surroundings. Totally my speed.

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12 Scenic Drives In Great Smoky Mountains (With Maps + Stopovers)

Great Smoky Mountains is the most visited National Park in the USA, and if you are planning for it, read some of the best scenic drives in Great Smoky Mountains. Most of these scenic drives are unique romantic getaways in Tennessee . 

Scenic Drives In Great Smoky Mountains (Great Smoky Mountains Road Trip)

The Great Smoky Mountains border North Carolina and Tennessee with half a million acres of nature landscape covering splendid valleys, huge forests, cool mountain streams, cascading waterfalls, and vast mountain peaks has so many scenic drives too. So read about some of the best scenic drives in Great Smoky Mountains with their highlights and scenic stopovers. 

• 7 Best Scenic Drives In Florida (With Scenic Stops + Maps) 
• 7 Best California Scenic Drives – Beautiful Road Trips In California

Newfound Gap Road (US-441)

• Total Drive/Miles  – 29.2 miles one way (58.4 miles round trip)
• Start and End Point –  Between Cherokee and Gatlinburg. This scenic drive in the Smoky Mountains starts at the Sugarlands Visitor Center and ends at the Mountain Farm Museum in North Carolina.
• Scenic Stopovers –  Chimney Tops ,  Campbell Overlook, with amazing views of Mount LeConte, Newfound Gap, Rockefeller Memorial, Morton’s Gap Overlook, Clingmans Dome Road, Oconaluftee Valley Overlook, and Mingus Mill are some of the scenic stopovers on Newfound Gap Road in the Great Smoky Mountains. 

Best Newfound Gap Road Trip Itinerary – Newfound Gap Scenic Drive, Trails, Campgrounds

About:  This scenic road runs from Gatlinburg, Tennessee, to Cherokee, North Carolina, and crosses the park, offering stunning views of the Smoky Mountains. It is a popular spot for sightseeing, with several vistas/overlooks along the way, including the popular Newfound Gap Overlook. This Overlook offers panoramic views of the Smokies and the surrounding landscape. The beauty of these mountain ranges is the fog coming out from the peak of the mountains, and it looks like the mountain are smoking(pun). 

This drive tops the list of best places to visit in Great Smoky mountains.

Clingmans Dome Road

• Total Drive/Miles  – 7 Miles
• Start and End Point –  Turn off Newfound Gap Road 0.1 mile south of Newfound Gap and ends at Clingmans Dome Observation Tower. 
• Scenic Stopovers –  Indian Gap, The Fraser Fir Forest, Spruce-Fir Nature Trail, Weeping Wall, Secret Tunnel Under Clingmans Dome.

About –  This scenic drive takes you to the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the summit of Clingmans Dome. The 7-mile drive offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, and if you are lucky, then can spot wildlife such as black bears and wild turkeys. You can take a short hike to the observation tower at the summit for panoramic views of the valley, mountains, and scenic landscape. 

Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

• Total Drive/Miles  – 5.5 Miles
• Start and End Point –  This trail starts   at the Cherokee Orchard entrance, forms a loop, and ends at Gatlinburg, Tn.
• Scenic Stopovers –  This trail is famous for its impressive waterfalls in Gatlinburg, Tn. Look out for Rainbow Falls, Baskins Creek Falls, Grotto Falls, and Place of a Thousand Drips. Also, you will spot the historic mountainous home of Noah “Bud” Ogle Homestead. 

About – This Smoky Mountains drive is a 5.5-mile loop road that winds through the National park’s lush forests, stunning waterfalls, and rushing streams is famous for its fantastic mountainous scenery. This loop is narrow; hence, only cars are allowed on this drive. In winter, this trail is closed due to the closure of roads. 

Cades Cove Loop Road

• Total Drive/Miles  – 11 Miles 
• Start and End Point –  You can start from these three start points  –  Laurel Creek Road, Parson Branch Road, or Rich Mountain Road (the last two roads are closed in winter). It is a way loop road that starts from Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge. In between, you can exit towards Townsend direction if you do not want to go back to start.
• Scenic Stopovers –  Best stopovers on this scenic drive is Oliver Cabin, Primitive Baptist Church, Methodist Church, Elijah Oliver Place, Abrams Falls, Cable Mill, Carter Shields Cabin, Becky Cable House Historical Structure, Riding Stables with Ranger Station, and many walkable trails too. 

This scenic drive gives you an experience of rural mountainous life in the broad Cades Cove Valley, surrounded by stunning mountains. You can see farm animals initially and then be followed by historic homes. You can spot deer and bears in a lush green forest deep inside. The drive is narrow, and hence drive carefully. 

TIP : On Wednesday, this drive is closed to motorists, and only bike riders and hikers can enjoy nature on foot.

The Little River Road

• Total Drive/Miles  – 22 Miles
• Start and End Point –  It starts from   Sugarlands visitor center near Gatlinburg and ends at Cades Cove. It is also known as Laurel Creek Road. 
• Scenic Stopovers –  Maloney Point, Laurel Falls trail, Elkmont, Metcalf Bottoms, The Sinks, Meigs Falls, and Townsend “Y”, historic Little Greenbrier school, and Walker sisters’ cabin.

This scenic drive takes you along the Little River, past cascading waterfalls, picnic grounds, and narrow streams passing by your side. This drive is on low elevation; hence, you will not see giant Smoky mountains, but you will pass through scenic lush green forests, cascaded streams, and campgrounds.

Heintooga Round Bottom Road

• Total Drive/Miles  – 14 Mile
• Start and End Point – It starts at the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 458.2 and ends at Big Cove Road north of Cherokee. 
• Scenic Stopovers –  Heintooga Overlook, Balsam Mountain Campground, Flat Creek hiking trail, Palmer Creek Trail, Beech Gap Trail. 

About – This scenic drive takes you through a remote mountainous region on an unpaved gravel road with beautiful views of the mountains and valleys. This drive is famous for its scenic beauty and opportunities to see wildlife such as elk, bears, and wild turkeys. You will start this curvy drive from an altitude of 5,535 feet and descends to about 2,000 feet.

This drive is one of the best places to visit in Great Smoky Mountains to experience wild rugged mountains with amazing wildlife.

Tip –  The drive is one way on an unpaved road and a purely rustic car hike. Therefore be cautious about surprises and adventures in this scenic drive.

Note:  This scenic drive in Smoky mountains is open from late May through October. 

Foothills Parkway

• Total Drive/Miles  – 33 Miles 
• Start and End Point –  Drive from US 129 to US 321 in Tennessee across the Little Tennesse river. You can start from Walland, TN, and end in Chilhowee, TN, or Sevierville, TN.
• Scenic Stopovers –  Caylor Gap Overlook ,  Look Rock Picnic Area(highest point on Chilhowee Mountain), Great Smoky Mountains Overlook, Emerine Gap Overlook, Maryville Overlook, Gregory Bald Overlook, and Happy Valley Overlook

About – This scenic Smoky Mountains drive offers panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains and the surrounding landscape, with several overlooks and picnic areas along the way. This drive is top-rated in the spring and fall when the wildflowers and foliage bloom.

Tail Of The Dragon – US 129 Drive

• Total Drive/Miles  – 11 Miles with 318 Curves
• Start and End Point –  It starts from   Foothills Parkway and US 129, Chilhowee, TN, and ends at Deals Gap, NC. 
• Scenic Stopovers –  Robbinsville and Fontana Dam when you start. As this road is known for its beautiful adventure drive, it is best to do it non-stop; therefore, when this drive begins, there are no vista points. If your vehicle needs rest, there are some rest areas, but no scenic overlooks after you start the loop. You can relax at Deals Gap Motorcycle Resort when you finish the drive. 

About  – This is the most adventurous drive for bikers in the US, with 318 curves on an 11-mile stretch within a forest backdrop. Not only bikers, cars to enjoy the curvy adventure here, and so it is one of the world-famous roads for biking and adventure driving. So the highlights of this drive are turns, twists, and tall trees. 

The Blue Ridge Parkway

• Total Drive/Miles  – The route is 469 Miles from Virginia to North Carolina, with two national parks on the road. 
• Start and End Point –  It starts from Rockfish Gap, VA, and ends at Cherokee, NC. You can also do this from Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge while staying in the Great Smoky mountains range. 
• Scenic Stopovers (Gatlinburg – Blue Ridge Parkway Drive) –  Mount Pisgah, Julian Price Memorial Park, Fox Hunter’s Paradise where, Ridge Junction Overlook, View Devil’s Courthouse, Waterrock Knob( where you can view the Appalachians and the Smokies at the same spot) and many more stopovers.
• 8 Best Hikes In Blue Ridge Parkway With Campgrounds

About – The Blue Ridge Parkway links Shenandoah National Park to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with an enchanting view of the Appalachian Mountains in the United States. Technically this scenic drive does not belong to the Smoky mountains but is a beautiful drive to reach the Smoky mountains from Shenandoah. So if you are driving to the Smoky Mountains, this route will be more scenic.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most iconic drives of the US and hence must be included in your scenic drives in Great smoky mountain. It is in the list of  top 10 scenic drives in the USA.  If you cannot drive for so long, do a little to get the feel of this fantastic drive in the USA. 

Big Creek To Cataloochee Valley Drive 

• Total Drive/Miles  – 12 Miles
• Start and End Point –  Big Creek campground and ends at Cataloochee valley.
• Scenic Stopovers –  You can enjoy the attractions at Cataloochee valley, and there is not much to do in between the drive. 

About – This historic valley offers a scenic drive through rolling hills, past old homesteads, cabins, and barns, and opportunities to see native wildlife such as elk. 

Note:  The road is narrow and unpaved; you need a 4×4 drive. Many times this road is closed due to obstacles. So be careful if you are taking this scenic drive. 

Rich Mountain Road – Places To Visit In Great Smoky Mountains

• Total Drive/Miles  – 7 Miles One way
• Start and End Point –  It starts at Cades Cove and ends at Townsend, Tn, with turns and twists.
• Scenic Stopovers –  view of the Primitive Baptist Church and many sudden encounters with wildlife. 

About  – This scenic drive goes through the one-way path on the gravel road with quiet forest surroundings. This laid-back drive is perfect for a picturesque, peaceful experience and to escape the crowd of Cades Cove. If you start this drive, you can return as it is a narrow one-way drive. So fuel your car to complete and be sure to take this drive. In winter, this drive remains closed. Also, you will encounter much wildlife while driving, so do not disturb them or act wildly. 

Upper Tremont Road – Smoky Mountains Drive

• Total Drive/Miles  – 8 Miles Round Trip 
• Start and End Point –  Pigeon Forge, TN
• Scenic Stopovers – 

About –  A secret drive in the forest with an unpaved road. This drive is famous in the fall time due to fantastic foliage colors. This drive is a hidden gem in The Great Smoky Mountains National Park. 

Where To stay in the Smoky Mountains – Things To Do In Great Smoky Mountains

• Pigeon Forge .
• Gatlinburg .
• Sevierville .
• Wear Valley .

General Guidelines – Scenic Drives In Great Smoky Mountains

• Fuel up your vehicle whenever you go for these mountainous drives, as sometimes you do not find any gas stations or help. 

• Check road closures on official websites or GPS warnings before you start, as these drives are open in the specific season due to natural obstacles. 
• For many unpaved drives, you need to drive a 4×4 vehicle; on some of them, RVs and trucks are not allowed. 
• Carry food and water with you, as often you do not find any restaurant or eating zones in between. 
• It isn’t easy to get Online GPS signals in mountain regions. So download offline maps before you start, as they help navigate when there are no signals. 
• Try to cover up your drive before sunset as in the dark, driving in mountains and forests is a little dangerous. 
• Spring, summer, and Fall are the best time to visit the Great Smoky Mountains drive.

Where To Stay In Smoky Mountains – Gatlinburg Hotel Video Tour

Now you know some of the best places to visit in Great Smoky mountains. I hope you loved reading about scenic drives in Smoky Mountains National Park or Smoky mountains drive with their highlights. 

Read More – USA Scenic Drives

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The top 6 road trips in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Jan 27, 2023 • 6 min read

These are the best road trips to and around Great Smoky Mountains National Park © Daniel Korzeniewski / Shutterstock

A drive through and to Great Smoky Mountains National Park has many breathtaking advantages.

Whereas hiking gets you up close and personal with waterfalls, wildlife and often rock-draped hikes, a drive provides a fuller scope of this multi-faceted, 520,000-plus acre wonder. Plus – as you will see – there are plenty of labeled “Quiet Walks” to pit-stop at, should you need to stretch your legs in the wild itself.

Most routes in the park include swirling fog, rigid peaks and towering hardwoods. And, via one loop, there’s even a centuries-old European settlement to explore. Getting to the park can be half the fun, too, with diverse routes including small-town charm, sprawling destinations with family-friendly establishments and additional parks to hit.

When you pull out your map for your Great Smoky Mountains National Park visit, factor in these scenic road trips.

1. Cades Cove Loop

Best inner-park road trip loop Cades Cove–Cades Cove; 11 miles

Among the loops and build-your-own adventure possibilities within Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this oval route is perhaps the most popular. This is largely due to its wildlife, which includes white-tailed deer, the periodic turkeys and groundhogs and, yes, black bears. There are plenty of historic structures to gawk at within Cades Cove , too, including barns, churches and even a working gristmill dating back to the early 1800s that were all once part of a European-settled community.

If the traffic crawls too much for your liking or if you need a solid stretch, there is a visitor center mid-loop as well as several trails stemming from the loop, including the 5-mile Abrams Falls trek. For campers, Cades Cove Campground is open year-round and has nearly 160 sites.

Planning tip: Cades Cove Loop is open from 8am to sunset daily, with crowds typically steady post-10am.

2. Newfound Gap Road from Gatlinburg to Cherokee

Best road trip for first timers Sugarlands Visitor Center–Oconaluftee Visitor Center; 29 miles

Look at any map of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and there’s a north–south route that beautifully cuts right through the middle of the park – that would be the  Newfound Gap Route . Considered the lowest-elevation pass through the park, this is where the hardwoods and spruce firs particularly tower over the oft-foggy landscape.

There is so much beauty to take in and fortunately, there are plenty of viewpoints to do so, notably the Carlos C. Campbell Overlook . At approximately mile 15 of the drive at the Tennessee – North Carolina state line, note the Rockefeller Memorial – this is where the park was officially dedicated by President Franklin Roosevelt in 1940.

3. The Foothills Parkway

Best road trip for fall foliage Wears Valley–Route 129; 32 miles

It’s an impossible task to pinpoint the absolute best spot for fall foliage in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. However, the western portion of The Foothills Parkway is tough to beat with winding tree-clad vistas and plenty of viewpoints for stopping and taking it all in. There are 19 scenic overlooks in total. Prioritize Overlook #8 in Emerine Gap, where you can take in prime park and city views – with the quaint town of Maryville and towering Smokys visible.

There is an eastern portion of The Foothills Parkway , too, which runs between Interstate 40 and the town of Cosby. This stretch runs less than 6 miles and includes four overlooks, with vistas of Inadu Knob and Mt Cammerer .

Planning tip: The Eastern and Western portions of The Foothills Parkway do not connect. Should you want to experience both stretches, Route 321 is currently the best straight shot between the two.

4. Knoxville to Gatlinburg via Sevierville and Pigeon Forge

Best kid-friendly road trip Downtown Knoxville–Sugarlands Visitor Center; 45 miles

For folks flying in to experience the Smoky Mountains, many journeys begin at Knoxville ’s McGhee Tyson Airport. After snagging a rental car, head north and make a pitstop in Knoxville for some barbecue at Sweet P’s BBQ and Soul House and then Cruze Farm for some fresh-churned ice cream. From there, take Interstate 40 to Tennessee Road 66, where you’ll eventually run through the tourist- and kid-friendly towns of Sevierville , Pigeon Forge and eventually Gatlinburg .

Stop in Sevierville to experience its revitalized downtown with a statue of local icon Dolly Parton in front of the town’s courthouse. In Pigeon Forge, in addition to Dollywood , pop by The Historic Old Mill to see grits and grains ground before your eyes. The Island area of Pigeon Forge is loaded with attractions like a 200ft-tall Ferris wheel . In Gatlinburg, before reaching the park’s entrance, there are numerous mini-golf courses, waterparks and ziplining opportunities. The Gatlinburg Space Needle is a nice spot for vistas, towering 400ft above the town.

5. Asheville to Gatlinburg via Cherokee

Best road trip to visit breweries Downtown Asheville–Sugarlands Visitor Center; 86 miles

If you’re not flying into Knoxville, odds are you’re landing on the North Carolina side, perhaps in Asheville . “The Land of the Sky” has deservingly earned its reputation as a craft beer hot spot. So, if you’re the lucky one who isn’t driving, prioritize some sips at the likes of Hillman Beer and heavyweights such as Sierra Nevada and New Belgium . 

After you’ve stocked up on some beverages in Asheville, cruise through Maggie Valley , which is home to the double cascading Soco Falls. Cherokee is the last town before entering the park, where you can keep the party going at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort . For history lovers, the Museum of the Cherokee Indian is open year-round and sheds light on the tribe’s 11,000-year history.

Detour: The entrance to Pisgah National Forest is 30 minutes north of Downtown Asheville, home to Mt Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi River.

6. Atlanta to Cherokee via Blue Ridge, Georgia

Best road trip for a multi-day adventure Downtown Atlanta–Oconaluftee Visitor Center; 178 miles

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is the busiest airport in the US. Odds are if you want a nice deal in flying into the Southeast USA , you may find it flying into Atlanta . From Georgia’s capital city, the Oconaluftee Visitor Center on the North Carolina side of Smoky Mountains National Park is within a four-hour drive.

Don’t take the quicker Interstate 85 to Route 23 journey. Instead opt for the Interstate 75 to US Route 74 option that takes you through the charming southern towns of Canton and Blue Ridge, Georgia as well as the Nantahala National Forest . In the national forest there are more than 600 miles of trails for biking, hiking and horseback riding. So, plan a night or two to camp in the forest for sure, with the Jackrabbit Mountain grounds having 100-plus sites.

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Scenic Drives

Sometimes the best way to experience all that the Smoky Mountains have to offer is on a driving tour. With so many routes to take, you can lose yourself in the scenic beauty, unique foliage and animal sightings.

As you enjoy the view, don’t forget to take advantage of many of the scenic pullouts  throughout the park. You will be able to take in endless views of ridges and valleys, as well as mountain streams and waterfalls. Don’t forget your cameras! With so many wildlife in the park, you never know when you will come across an elk, deer or even a wild hog. You can also take advantage of our 800 miles of trails for hiking, exploration and plenty of sightseeing.

Weather conditions in the mountains tend to be moderate making it a favorite vacation spot for couples and families alike. However, weather can be unpredictable and we recommend you plan accordingly by checking out our  weather page before you set out on your scenic drive.

ROAD CLOSURE ALERT

For current road, facility, trail & backcountry updates.

Scenic Drives in the Great Smoky Mountains

Cades Cove Loop Road

Newfound Gap Road

Upper Tremont Road

Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

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Clingmans Dome

Waterfall Hikes

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Welcome to the smoky mountain tour.

Explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park and discover why it’s the most visited National Park in the country! Tour these famous mountains while learning about Cherokee history and legends, Appalachian life, and much more. We’ll point you to all the best spots to take in the timeless wonders of the mountains. There’s no better way to see Clingman’s Dome, Cades Cove, or Rainbow Falls than on the Smoky Mountains tour!

About the Tour

Explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park and discover why it’s the most visited National Park in the country! Buckle up and prepare for a deep dive into the most famous stretch of the Appalachians.

As you drive through these scenic mountains, you’ll hear all about parts of Cherokee history you’ve never heard before, like the ancient Cherokee monarchy and the revolutionaries who fought against it! You’ll also get to hear detailed accounts of Cherokee ancestral legends about these mountains, from the great buzzard who shaped the Smoky Mountains from clay to the witch whose droplets of blood bloom into stalks of corn!

The Great Smoky Mountains are so vast that it can be tricky to find all the best spots—that’s where we come in. We’ll point you to all the most breathtaking, awe-inspiring sights in the park. Witness the majesty of Rainbow Falls, the 360-degree views atop Clingmans Dome, and the deep-rooted history of the Elys Mill. Our flexible route allows you to take all the time you need to admire the timeless wonders of the mountains.

Along the way, the Smoky Mountains Tour will fill you in not just on the rich history of the area and the people who have lived here but also on the complex flora and fauna which call these mountains home. Get to know the creatures of Cades Cove and learn how wildfires form an integral part of this vast, interconnected ecosystem.

All this without fussing with a map or adhering to someone else’s schedule! As you drive, audio stories will automatically pop up and start playing, allowing you to keep your attention on the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is situated in eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina, covering 800 square miles or 520,000 acres.

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NOTE: Learn more about the road conditions, admission fees, and other pertinent information here .

Where To Start?

Start Point Addresses:

Great Smoky (From Gatlingburg):   1151  Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

Great Smoky Reverse tour (From Cherokee):   1194 Newfound Gap Rd, Cherokee, NC 28719

How Does It Work?

• Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
• Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If there are multiple versions or entrances for your tour, be sure to download all audio guides.
• To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
• The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
• Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.

What You'll See

Welcome - oconaluftee visitor centre.

Your drive through the beautiful, majestic Smoky Mountains begins at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center. Get ready to explore the Smokies and discover why this is the most visited National Park in the country!

Mingus Mill and Trail

As you drive, you'll have the option to take a detour to the Mingus Mill, an 1886 grist mill which, believe it or not, is still fully functional! If you're here on weekends, you can even see the mill operators grind corn just like they did back in the 1800s.

Beech Flats Quiet Walkway

Your first major stop is the Beech Flats Quiet Walkway, a perfect spot for anyone who wants to soak up the natural beauty of the mountains without having to hike an arduous trail.

Your route takes you next to Webb View, a spectacular overlook offering unmatched views of the Smokies. It's the perfect spot to snap a few photos!

Clingmans Dome

Next, you'll have the option to visit Clingman's Dome. Standing at over 6,600 feet above sea level, this peak offers an unbeatable panorama of the Smokies.

Clingmans Dome Tower

Heading toward Clingman's Dome, you'll soon see its famous observation tower. You really haven't seen the Great Smoky Mountains until you've seen them from up here!

Clingmans Dome VC

Then you'll arrive at the Clingman's Dome Visitor Center, where you'll find the trail leading the final half-mile to the top of the dome.

Newfound Gap Story

From there, your drive continues to Newfound Gap, a stunning mountain pass with huge historical significance. Hear the story of how trappers, farmers, and merchants used to cross the Smokies, and how this gap changed all of that.

Rockefeller Memorial

Up next is the Rockefeller Memorial, where you'll learn more about Rockefeller's importance to the park! This memorial was dedicated by President Theodore Roosevelt himself.

Morton Overlook

After that, you'll reach Morton Overlook, hugely popular for its unbelievable sunsets.

Morton Tunnel

Continuing on, you'll pass through the heart of a mountain using the Morton Tunnel. Here, you'll also hear about how a politician named Ben Morton got his name all over the park.

Next you'll pass the Alum Cave Trail, which takes hikers to the remains of an old salt mine packed with fascinating history.

Chimney Tops Overlook

Your route takes you next to Chimney Tops Overlook, where you'll hear all about wildfires in the Smokies and how they cause lasting damage to mountains like this one.

Turn for Cade Coves Tour Ahead

After that, you'll have the option to head to Cades Cove for a separate, in-depth tour of that beautiful and historic part of the park.

Balsom Point Quiet Walkway

Up next is Balsam Point Quiet Walkway, offering nature-filled solitude and lovely views of Pigeon River.

Carlos Campbell Overlook

The next overlook on your route is Carlos Campbell Overlook, which serves up panoramic views of towering mountains and lush forests.

Sugarlands Valley Trail

Next up is the most accessible trail in the park: Sugarlands Valley Trail! This scenic trail can be accessed by wheelchair or stroller, and offers a great way to venture into the wilderness.

Sugarlands Visitor Centre

The tour leads next to the Sugarlands Visitor Center, a perfect rest stop and the site of a few trailheads.

Cataract Falls

Your drive continues to Cataract Falls, a beautiful, secluded set of waterfalls tucked beneath a shaded canopy of beech trees.

Ripley's Believe It or Not!

Our next stop is perfect for anyone amused by kitschy oddities. This funky museum displays everything from shrunken human heads to rare animal skeletons. We'll get the inside scoop on how it started as a simple one-panel comic strip and grew into a national phenomenon.

Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

Continue following the road to the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. This driving trail invites you to slow down and enjoy the forest and historic buildings of the area. It also features three of the park's most famous waterfalls!

Next, we'll pass by the Ogle Place, the historic home of one of Gatlinburg's earliest families, which offers us a fascinating glimpse into how people lived a couple hundred years ago.

Rainbow Falls

Our route takes us next to the Rainbow Falls Trail, which leads to the park's most popular waterfall. Standing at 80 feet, Rainbow Falls is the tallest waterfall in the Smokies, but that's not all! When the sun hits it right, it glimmers like a rainbow--hence the name.

Grotto Falls

Keep driving until you reach the Grotto Falls trail. While it's not quite as grand as Rainbow Falls, this secluded, less crowded waterfall is absolutely worth a visit. On your way, hear about a rare salamander you can only find right here!

Place of a Thousand Drips

Why settle for one waterfall when you can have several? Our next stop is the Place of a Thousand Drips, where numerous narrow falls come together to form a stunning torrent.

Baskin Creek Falls

Our drive takes us next to the Baskin Creek Falls, a sparkling waterfall where we'll hear about the amusing, and slightly misguided history behind the name of these falls.

Ephraim Bales Cabin

Up next, we'll pass the Ephraim Bales Cabin, a portal back in time to the 19th century. We'll hear all about the family that lived here, and why there's a big hole in the middle of their cabin!

Reagan Tub Mill and Cabin

The road brings us next to the Reagen Cabin, which displays a perfect example of old-timey technology in the form of the so-called "tub mill." Hear all about what that is and why it was useful here.

Next, our drive takes us to Ely's Mill, a historic mill on the outskirts of Gatlinburg which gives us another window into the lives of the early Appalachian settlers. Here, we'll learn about Andrew Ely, the bigshot lawyer who upended his entire life after his wife died, abandoned his law practice, and moved to Gatlinburg to start over and live a simpler life.

Gatlinburg - Conclusion

Finally, you'll arrive in the picturesque mountian town of Gatlinburg, where your tour will conclude.

Preview The Tour

  how did the great smoky mountains get their name.

It was actually a publicity stunt from Charles Webb, a newspaper editor in the 1920s. To encourage tourism to the Smokies, he hired a journalist and a photographer to capture the mountains’ natural beauty. Webb thought “The Smoky Mountains” was too boring; he needed to capture the grandeur, the scope, the sweeping majesty. So all his advertisements and brochures were emblazoned instead with “Visit the Great Smoky Mountains!” And that’s the name that stuck when the mountains were turned into an official national park.

  Are dogs allowed in the Great Smoky Mountains?

You can bring your dog to campgrounds, picnic spots, and along paved roads, as long as you keep them on a leash. But please, DON’T bring your pet along the walking and hiking trails. 

  Can you drive through Great Smoky Mountain National Park?

Yes! The Smokies have a vehicle route that allows you to observe the mountains on your Great Smoky Mountains driving tour. 

  When is the best time to visit the Great Smoky Mountains?

Visit in September or October for stunning fall foliage. 80% of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is covered in hardwood forests: trees like birch, beech, and maple. Each of these trees flares up in vibrant colors in early fall. Whether you’re looking down at them from a scenic overlook or walking among them on one of the park’s many trails, there’s no understating how incredible it is to see the Smokies in fall.

  Which side of the Smoky Mountains is best?

How can you pick just one? Both the Tennessee side and North Carolina side of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park have so much to offer.

  How long does it take to drive through Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

A driving tour through Great Smoky Mountains National Park only takes about two hours.

  How do you avoid crowds in the Smoky Mountain National Park?

Most visitors come to the Great Smoky Mountains for summer vacation. July is by far the busiest month for the park. The park will reach its busiest point between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Try visiting before or after those times for a more relaxed experience.

  What is the most popular destination in the Smoky Mountains National Park?

The location in the Great Smoky Mountains that attracts the most tourists every year is the fabulous Cades Cove Loop Road.

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GREAT SMOKY MTNS NATIONAL PARK TOUR

• Location: NC & TN, USA
• Audio Points: 180
• Valid: No expiry
• Start: Gatlinburg, Cherokee, or Townsend
• Direction: Multi
• Download: ~87Mb

Tour Route Map

Audio preview.

Highlights Include

• Chimney Tops
• Clingmans Dome
• Grotto Falls
• John Oliver Place
• Laurel Falls
• Mingus Mill
• Morton Tunnel
• Newfound Gap
• Oconaluftee Farm Museum
• Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

What to Expect

A diverse set of experiences await you in the most visited National Park in the US.

Don’t miss the immensely popular Cades Cove with its collection of historic homesteads, preserved buildings like Cable Grist Mill and churches. The scenic valley is also one of the best and most reliable areas to see wildlife, including bears.

Crossing the park using Newfound Gap Road , you’ll enjoy that typical mystical scene from Newfound Gap with the blue fog rising from the valleys – the reason why they’re called the Smoky Mountains. Enjoy a side trip to Clingmans Dome , the highest peak in the park, and take the short but steep hike up the walking trail to the flying saucer-style viewing platform.

The 5.5 mile one way loop Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail leaves from right in Gatlinburg and features lush, hardwood forest, Rainbow Falls and the Place of a Thousand Drips , as well as more historic cabins like Noah “Bud” Ogle’s , grist mills, and other preserved buildings.

No matter what your hiking ability or level of enthusiasm is, the Smokies has a trail for you. Maybe one of the short and easy Quiet Walkways is your style. Moderate choices include the Grotto Falls Trail where you maybe lucky enough to see the llamas hauling supplies to LeConte Lodge trekking behind the waterfall.

Or perhaps it’s a steep challenging trail like the Chimney Tops hike that’s on your list. 

Hear stories about the hardy pioneers and founders of the Park, wondrous wildlife and stories about Cherokee Nation culture and museums, all while you explore Great Smoky Mountain National Park at your own pace.

Suggested Start Location

Gatlinburg, Cherokee, or Townsend

Suggested Time

In a single day you’ll be able to visit the highlights of Newfound Gap, Clingmans Dome and Cades Cove. If you have an extra day, consider saving Cades Cove for its own day and add Roaring Fork Nature Motor Trail. With more time available, stop to enjoy hiking opportunities and time in the towns.

Driving Distance

There are 145 miles of touring inside the Park

WHY ARE THE GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS UNIQUE?

More than 12 million annual visitors make Great Smoky Mountains National Park the most visited of America’s National Parks. Spreading across the North Carolina-Tennessee state line, Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers hikers, wildlife lovers, photographers, waterfall chasers and campers a 522,000-acre playground where they can reconnect with nature.

WHAT IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT THE GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS?

Summer and Fall are the Great Smoky Mountains National Park’s high seasons . Summer sees visitors flocking here for high-elevation hikes and in Fall the mountains turn into patchwork quilts of color as the leaves change.

Conversely, Winter and Spring see fewer visitors. During Winter, some facilities will be closed, but hikers will have trails to themselves and can experience the park in a way few visitors do. Spring begins to see visitors return, drawn by wildflowers, warming days and wildlife. 

WHAT IS THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PART OF THE GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS?

Driving Newfound Gap Road is a highlight for many visitors to Great Smoky Mountains National Park . This 33-mile road passes a number of scenic overlooks and trailheads including Clingmans Dome where the views are impressive. Other popular highlights include Cades Cove Loop and the Roaring Fork Motor. Nature Trail.

HOW MANY DAYS DO YOU NEED IN THE GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS?

Most visitors can experience Great Smoky Mountains National Park in 3 days , visiting pockets of the park like Clingmans Dome and Newfound Gap, Cades Cove, and the areas around Sugarlands and Oconaluftee Visitors Centers; getting in a couple of short hikes; and finding a waterfall or two where they can rest and recharge. 

WHEN IS THE GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS OPEN?

Great Smoky Mountain National Park is open daily, year-round, with some facilities closing for the slower, colder winter season . Clingmans Dome Road and Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail close to automobile traffic in late November and reopen in early April, and inclement weather causes the temporary closure of some roads like Newfound Gap Road during winter.

ARE THERE ENTRANCE FEES FOR GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK?

Great Smoky Mountains National Park has no entrance fees or admission costs, but the park is introducing mandatory parking tags in March 2023 .

Consider making a donation to Friends of the Smokies who Preserve Protect and Provide for needed projects.

WHEN CAN I SEE THE FIREFLIES IN THE GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS?

The Elkmont area of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the home to a rare sight: a colony of synchronous fireflies. For two weeks from late May through early June, they rise from the grass in a field near the campground to blink out their mating call message. Each spring, a lottery for parking passes and access to the synchronous firefly field takes place. It’s only $1 to put your name in the hat for a chance at one of a few thousand passes.

Trip Planning

Reservations and vehicle access.

A lottery determines who gets to view the synchronous fireflies that are usually on display for a few weeks around late May to late June. For more details, visit the NPS website .

Cades Cove Loop Road is closed to all vehicles on Wednesdays from May through September to accommodate cyclists and pedestrians and their safe use of the scenic loop road.

Trailers, RVs and buses are prohibited on some secondary roads in the park , including Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Trip Planner

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Narrated Driving Tour App by GuideAlong

Plays automatically as you drive..

Wish you had a guide while touring Great Smoky Mountains National Park? Download the GuideAlong (previously GyPSy Guide) app.

Highlights include the hike to Clingmans Dome, driving the historic Cades Cove loop dotted with pioneer churches, cabins and a working mill, plus where to watch for wildlife such as bears, elk, salamanders and fireflies.

“We recognized that travelers preferred to set their own pace and itinerary, but still enjoyed a fun, informative and educational guided experience” says Rick Bulich of GuideAlong. “That became our inspiration. How do we recreate that experience for people who want remain independent and self tour in their own vehicle?”

The narrated driving tour app uses your device’s location service to automatically play entertaining commentary about the behind-the-scenes stories, historical events and notable geologic formations as you drive. In doing so, it tells you about upcoming sights, so you have time to make an informed decision as to whether you want to stop. Because the app relies on your phones GPS signal, not cell towers, no cell, network or WiFi is required while touring.

For more information: guidealong.com/tour/great-smoky-mountains/

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10 Amazing Things To Do In The Scenic Smoky Mountains

• Hiking to Clingmans Dome offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the Smoky Mountains, best enjoyed early in the morning before the crowds arrive.
• Driving through Cades Cove allows visitors to spot abundant wildlife and explore historic homes, churches, and mills while enjoying the most beautiful views of the national park.
• Visiting the Oconaluftee Mountain Farm Museum provides a glimpse into 19th-century Appalachian life through preserved log cabins, demonstrations, and a replica Cherokee community.

Boasting over 800 miles of hiking trails, abundant wildlife, scenic drives, and picture-perfect waterfalls, the Smoky Mountains offer some of the best mountain vacations in the US , providing the perfect outdoor playground for nature lovers, photographers, families, and anyone looking to soak up the natural beauty of this iconic region.

Towering over the Tennessee-North Carolina border, the Smokies contain one of the largest protected areas in the Eastern United States, offering travelers countless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Whether looking for an invigorating hike to a stunning summit, a leisurely wildlife drive, or a day filled with Appalachian history and culture, the Smoky Mountains have something to satisfy every interest.

With so many amazing sights and activities to experience, travelers can enjoy some of the best scenic Smoky Mountain vacations by adding any of these epic adventures to their trip to-do lists. Here are some of the most scenic things to do in the Smoky Mountains, from hiking trails to helicopter tours and much, much more.

Related: Maggie Valley: This Town Is Closest To The Smoky Mountains

Hike To Clingmans Dome

One of the best things to do in the Smokies is to hike to Clingmans Dome , the highest point in Tennessee. Located along the state-line ridge on the Tennessee side, the Clingmans Dome trail climbs uphill through spruce-fir forests before opening up to reveal sweeping 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

The observation tower at the summit gives hikers a panoramic vista of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park all the way into North Carolina. The strenuous 7-mile roundtrip hike is best done early in the morning before the crowds arrive to experience the breathtaking views.

• Length: 7 miles roundtrip
• Time: 3–4 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous due to steep sections
• Best Times: Early morning and spring through fall for wildflowers

Drive Through Cades Cove

Every visit to the Smokies is complete with a scenic drive through Cades Cove , an isolated valley surrounded by mountains. This 11-mile loop road allows visitors to spot abundant wildlife such as deer, turkeys, raccoons, and black bears. Travelers can stop at historic homes, churches, and mills to learn about the families that once resided in this peaceful valley.

With lush meadows, preserved cabins, and fascinating stories of early settlers, Cades Cove provides a glimpse into the past and showcases the Smokies' diverse plants and animals. The route is also one of the most scenic drives in the Smoky Mountains, perfect for those looking to soak up the most beautiful views of the national park.

• Length : 11-mile loop
• Time : 2–3 hours to drive plus stops
• Best Times: Early morning and late evening to see wildlife

Visit The Oconaluftee Mountain Farm Museum

To learn about the mountain culture and pioneer history of the Smokies, travelers can visit the Oconaluftee Mountain Farm Museum. This outdoor mountain farmstead features preserved log cabins, barns, and outbuildings filled with artifacts that provide insight into 19th-century Appalachian life.

Costumed interpreters do demonstrations such as soap making, blacksmithing, and weaving to showcase the skills and crafts of early settlers. Visitors can also explore the replica of a Cherokee community in Oconaluftee village , meet heritage-breed farm animals, and take guided tours to immerse themselves in the everyday activities from the 1800s.

• Location: 1194 Newfound Gap Rd, Cherokee, NC
• Hours: Open daily, 9 am-5 pm
• Tour Duration: 1–2 hours
• Top Attractions: Cabins, farm animals, demonstrations

Hike To Laurel Falls

One of the most popular and easily accessible waterfalls in the park is Laurel Falls , located near Sugarlands Visitor Center. One of the most beautiful Smoky Mountains hikes in the fall for leaf-peeping, this moderate 2.6-mile roundtrip hike follows alongside a rushing mountain stream before culminating at the breathtaking 80-foot cascade.

Photographers flock to this trail to capture perfect pictures of Laurel Falls cascading down from its scooped-out amphitheater. The trail also passes through groups of wildflowers and towering hemlocks, making it one of the most scenic moderate hikes in the Smokies. The shady, gradual uphill trek showcases the beauty of these ancient mountains.

• Length: 2.6 miles roundtrip
• Time: 1.5-2 hours
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Related: 10 Places For The Perfect Fall Camping Trip In The Smoky Mountains

Go Whitewater Rafting On The Pigeon River

For an adrenaline rush in the Smokies, go whitewater rafting down the Pigeon River along the Tennessee-North Carolina border. Rafters experience thrilling Class III-IV rapids with names like "Lost Guide" and "Whirlpool" as they paddle through the picturesque river gorge.

Trips range from mild half-day adventures to heart-pounding dam-controlled releases. Rafters can spot wildlife along the banks, admire towering rock walls, and take refreshing dips during calm sections. Companies provide guided trips, safety instructions, and all necessary gear for a fun day of rapids on the Pigeon River.

• Tour Duration: Half-day to full-day options
• Difficulty: Class III-IV rapids
• Best Times: Spring through fall

Unleash Your Inner Kid At Dollywood

With the 2019 expansion, Dollywood theme park provides Smoky Mountain fun for the entire family. Named after legendary country singer Dolly Parton, Dollywood features exciting rides, live shows, traditional crafts, and Southern cuisine. Thrill seekers can ride one of Dollywood's 10 roller coasters, while kids can enjoy tamer rides like the carousel and train.

Visitors can also watch talented craftspeople demonstrate skills like glassblowing, take the Dollywood Express vintage train, or see one of Dolly's musical productions. With its unique blend of rides, entertainment, and culture, Dollywood offers the perfect family amusement park experience.

• Location: 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN
• Hours: Open daily, hours vary by season
• Top Attractions: Rollercoasters, shows, crafts, food

Take A Scenic Helicopter Tour In The Smokies

Looking for some of the most scenic views in the Smoky Mountains? Take a helicopter tour for bird's-eye views of the Smokies' craggy peaks and forested ridges. Companies like Scenic Helicopter Tours provide exhilarating flights where passengers can see famous sights like Clingmans Dome, Mount LeConte, Cades Cove, and the twin bridges of the Tail of the Dragon.

Tours range from quick 15-minute flights to longer excursions of the entire national park. Soaring above the Smoky Mountains in a helicopter gives travelers an unforgettable way to appreciate this region's vast scale and natural beauty.

• Locations: Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, TN
• Tour Duration: 15 minutes to 1 hour options

Go Fishing In The Smoky Mountains

The Smokies provide premier fishing opportunities with thousands of miles of trout streams and large lakes. There are plenty of fishing spots in the Smoky Mountains; anglers can cast a line for trout in the rushing mountain streams of rivers like Abrams Creek and the Little River. Lakes like Fontana Lake, Douglas Lake, and Hazel Creek feature bass, catfish, crappie, and more.

A special license is required for fishing in the national park. Whether wading in a secluded stream or trolling across a large lake, the variety of fishing in the Smokies satisfies every angler. Guided fishing tours in the Smokies are also available for those wanting an expert to show them the best spots.

• Top spots: Abrams Creek, Little River, Fontana Lake
• Best catches: Trout, bass, catfish, crappie
• License required: Yes, special permit for national park

Ride The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Take a ride through the countryside on the stunning Great Smoky Mountains Railroad , a scenic railway running from Bryson City, North Carolina, into the heart of the national park. Travelers can choose from multiple classes of service, from comfortable coach cars to open-air observation gondolas.

The rail journey winds through tunnels and across valleys, creeks, and 100-year-old trestles. Knowledgeable guides narrate the history and highlights during the scenic excursions. The railroad provides a unique perspective of the Smokies as well as great photo opportunities of the national park's remote landscapes only accessible by rail.

• Hours: Vary by season
• Tour Duration : 1–4 hours
• Route: Through the national park from Bryson City

Related: Great Smoky Mountains Railroad: What Makes This The Most Scenic Fall Train Ride

Hike To Abrams Falls

One of the tallest and most scenic waterfalls in the Smokies is Abrams Falls , located in the western part of the park. Reaching this picturesque 20-foot-tall waterfall requires a moderate 5-mile roundtrip hike along Abrams Creek. The trail winds through a hemlock and pine forest filled with blooming wildflowers during summer.

Swimming is allowed below Abrams Falls, so many hikers bring swimsuits and water shoes during warm weather. For its gorgeous cascading falls, refreshing swimming holes, and solitude, the Abrams Falls hike is one of the most scenic hikes in the Smokies.

• Length: 5 miles roundtrip
• Difficulty: Moderate

Swimming is available at Abrams Falls in the warmer months.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a gem. Here's everything to know for your visit

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most-visited national park in the country for a reason. Many reasons, in fact: the natural beauty of its trails and waterfalls, the salamanders and the synchronous fireflies , the picturesque route it provides for those traveling between the states of Tennessee and North Carolina.

The East Tennessee landmark drew nearly  13 million visitors  in 2022, after setting an all-time record with 14 million people exploring the park in 2021.

Whether you're a first-time visitor or are looking for fresh ideas for a return trip to the Smokies, here's what you need to know and where to find even more information to get the peak experience.

What is the most popular destination in Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

Two of the most popular spots are:

• Cades Cove , which offers an 11-mile loop road visitors can drive - or, when the road is closed to cars every Wednesday through Sept. 27, bike or walk - for a leisurely view of the scenery.
• Clingmans Dome, at 6,643 feet, is the highest point in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the state of Tennessee, offering spectacular 360° views of the Smokies.

For subscribers: 'History is complicated as hell': Cherokee will ask to restore native name for Clingmans Dome

What is the best month to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

The summer months are the most popular for hiking, camping and other activities, but autumn has its fans. Though peak fall color season varies year to year, the National Park Service lists these times as best:

• Above 4,000 feet, fall colors tend to develop in early to mid-October, and can be viewed by driving along the the Clingmans Dome Road, the Blue Ridge Parkway or the Foothills Parkway.
• At lower elevations, the most spectacular display of fall colors tends to occur between mid-October and early November.

How many days do you need for a visit to Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

You can easily spend a full day enjoying the park by driving around or walking a trail, or give yourself multiple days to hike and explore. Find links to park workshops and attractions online at nps.gov/grsm .

Can I just drive through Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

No rental cabins are available within the park, but there are campgrounds and backcountry campsites available by reservation, as well as LeConte Lodge , which is accessible only by hiking. Plenty of lodging options outside the park are available in nearby communities .

Yes, you can! In fact, driving through the park is the most popular way to enjoy it.

The most popular entrance in Tennessee is at Gatlinburg. From the North Carolina side, it's the Oconaluftee entrance near Cherokee.

There are 384 miles of roads in the massive park. They meander through the woods and up to destinations like Clingmans Dome.

Most roads are slow and narrow, and can be mountainous. And always be sure to check for road closures , which occur frequently in the winder months.

Camp with a cocktail: New, deluxe Smokies campsite elevates the classic experience

Where can I find trails to hike in Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

The park offers 150 official trails, including kid-friendly hikes and trails to waterfalls, vistas and other destinations.

A map showing all the park's trails is available to download on the website or to purchase at the park's visitors centers (Sugarlands, Oconaluftee, Cades Cove or Clingmans Dome). And before you head out on your hike, you can check for any trail closures or bear warnings online or by calling 865-436-1200.

How much does it cost to go to Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

Unlike most other national parks, Great Smoky Mountains does not charge a fee for admission, but in 2023 started requiring visitors to  buy and display a valid parking tag  for any vehicle parked longer than 15 minutes.

Visitors can buy a $5 tag for the day, a weekly tag for $15 or an annual tag for $40. Daily and weekly parking tags are available online at  recreation.gov  and from machines at the park.

More: Worried about finding parking in the Smokies? Here's a way around the park's new rules

Parking is free on three upcoming National Park Service fee-free days in 2023:

• Aug. 4 for the anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act
• Sept. 23 for National Public Lands Day
• Nov. 11 for Veterans Day

How big is Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

Great Smoky Mountains National Park covers 522,427 acres, divided between Tennessee and North Carolina.

How old is Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

President Calvin Coolidge signed a bill in 1926 establishing the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to conserve the forest and wildlife there, and in 1934, the states of Tennessee and North Carolina donated 300,000 acres of land for the park, according to the Tennessee State Museum website .

Robin Gibson is the people and trends editor for Knox News. Contact her at [email protected] and follow her on Twitter @RobinGibsonTSP.

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