Are you looking to enjoy the breathtaking views around Gatlinburg and the Smokies, but don’t feel like leaving the comfort of your car? You’re in luck! Gatlinburg is located at the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is full of scenic drives for everyone to enjoy for free! Gather your friends and family, pack some snacks, and hit the road. Here are the top Gatlinburg scenic drives you must experience when visiting the area.
1. Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is conveniently located minutes from downtown Gatlinburg via Cherokee Orchard Road. This narrow, winding trail offers a spectacular view of mountain streams, roadside waterfalls, forests, log cabins, and a historic mill! The drive is especially pretty in the fall since the leaves change color. The trailheads to Rainbow Falls and Grotto Falls can be found along this route. Be sure to stop at Ely's Mill at the end; it's a hidden gem in Gatlinburg you won't want to miss!
2. Cades Cove Loop Road
Cades Cove Loop Road is another popular road to travel in the Smoky Mountains. This scenic drive near Gatlinburg TN is perfect for those hoping to catch a glimpse of wildlife. It provides the opportunity for visitors to spot black bears, coyotes, deer, turkeys, and even raccoons! This 11-mile loop road also offers views of historic cabins and the mountains. It is one of the most-visited areas of Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning or after dinner during the summer to avoid the crowds! Winter and early spring is also much less crowded than peak vacation season.
3. Rich Mountain Road
If you’re looking for a more rustic drive through the Smoky Mountains, try Rich Mountain Road. This one-way gravel road takes you out of Cades Cove and ends in Townsend, TN. It is guaranteed to bring you closer to nature and is known for its incredible overlook about halfway down the road. Keep in mind that this road is open seasonally during the warmer months.
Fun Fact: For about 100 years, this used to be the only way to reach Cades Cove!
4. Newfound Gap Road
Newfound Gap Road, one of the most popular scenic drives in the Smoky Mountain area, stretches from Gatlinburg Tennessee to Cherokee North Carolina. You’ll be able to see many different types of trees and beautiful mountain views during your drive. One of the most popular overlooks includes the famous Rockefeller Memorial, plus access to the iconic Appalachian Trail!
5. Little River Road
Little River Road runs from Gatlinburg through Townsend, ending in Cades Cove. The 18-mile drive provides visitors with overlooks to stop and take pictures of the beautiful scenery. During the drive, you’ll see wildflowers and find opportunities to stop and stretch your legs at several picnic areas and trailheads, including Metcalf Bottoms, Mannis Branch Falls, and Elkmont.
6. Wears Valley Road
Wears Valley Road stretches about 15 miles, from Pigeon Forge to Townsend. Because it’s a high mountain valley separated from the city, this scenic drive lets you take a breather and relax from the stress of everyday life and appreciate the nature around you. It’s nicknamed the “Jewel of the Smokies.” When driving down Wears Valley Road, catch glimpses of gorgeous foliage or make a pit stop at a general store or craft shop along the way. There's even a secret entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park along this route!
More Free Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN
These are just a few of the many Gatlinburg scenic drives. You won’t want to waste any time before embarking on a memorable road trip to experience the Smoky Mountains from the comfort of your car. Wondering what else there is to do while you’re in town? Learn more about free activities in Gatlinburg!
