Want to get out and explore the Smokies but you don’t want to go hiking? There are plenty of other ways to enjoy being out in the national park! You can go on a drive in the Smoky Mountains to see mountain views and maybe even pull off and walk around. Here are the top 4 drives in the Smoky Mountains near our campground you should go on:
1. Roaring Fork Motor Trail
Roaring Fork Motor Trail is one of the most scenic drives in the Smoky Mountains! This is a one-way loop that goes through the woods in the national park. There are several spots where you can stop and get out of the car if you want. There are historic buildings you can explore, as well as hiking trails along this road. Roaring Fork is a road where you might be able to see wildlife along your drive. It’s also a great place to go if you want to drive next to a creek or go through the woods in the spring and fall.
2. Foothills Parkway
When it comes to drives in the Smoky Mountains you have to experience for yourself, Foothills Parkway is at the top of the list! Your mind will be at ease when you drive this route and soak up the stunning natural views it offers. The drive begins near Chilhowee Lake and stretches to Wears Valley, known for being one of the most peaceful places in the Smokies. It's a great spot to enjoy either a sunrise or sunset and is particularly beautiful when fall arrives and reds, oranges, and yellows paint the landscape. Stop at one of the pull-offs or overlooks to snap some photos you'll cherish!
3. Little River Road
Little River Road is another of the best drives in the Smoky Mountains that’s close to our campground. It connects Gatlinburg to Townsend. There are several hiking trails and scenic spots where you can get out and explore along this road. It winds alongside the Little Pigeon River, providing you with beautiful views and the peacefulness of the flowing water. This is a great drive any time of the year, but it is especially beautiful in the fall when the leaves change colors. You can use this road to get to The Sinks, Cades Cove, Metcalf Bottoms picnic area, and more.
4. Newfound Gap
One of the most popular drives in the Smoky Mountains near our campground is Newfound Gap. This road goes from Gatlinburg, Tennessee to Cherokee, North Carolina. There are several places where you can pull off and enjoy the mountain views. A really popular place along this road is Kuwohi, a short paved hike to an observation tower that has incredible mountain views. Newfound Gap is the lowest drivable pass in the national park.
These drives in the Smoky Mountains are a great way to get out and explore, and they aren’t far from our campground! Are you ready to come visit the Smokies? Find out more about our campground in the Smoky Mountains, then book your spot!
