Top 6 Scenic Drives in the Smoky Mountains You Should Go On
Looking for great places to drive in the Smoky Mountains? We know some of the best routes to take! Scenic drives in the Smokies are a pretty popular way to see historic sights, incredible views, and possibly wildlife. Some are near our rafting outpost, and others make for a great day trip! Here are the top scenic drives in the Smoky Mountains you should go on:
1. Cataloochee
If you want to take a scenic drive through the mountains that’s quiet, you should drive through Cataloochee. While people enjoy driving in this area, it’s not quite as crowded as other drives in the Smokies! You’ll love the scenic views as you go through the area, and you might just see wildlife while you’re driving through, such as elk. There are also several historic buildings along this drive that you can explore.
2. Maggie Valley
Maggie Valley is another quiet yet beautiful area people enjoy exploring on the North Carolina side of the Smokies. It’s one of the best scenic drives in the Smoky Mountains for taking in the serene mountain life. The town itself is an old mountain town with mom and pop shops, arts and crafts, festivals, and more. Along your drive through Maggie Valley, you can browse the local businesses along Soco Road, stop by the Maggie Valley Visitor Center, or visit the Wheels Through Time Museum!
3. Foothills Parkway
The closest Smoky Mountain scenic drive to our rafting outpost is the Foothills Parkway. This beautiful road has been under construction for years and has been completed in sections. There are about 33 miles left until the road is completely finished, but you can drive on completed sections. You’ll see all kinds of mountain views, which are especially stunning in the fall. There are also plenty of spots where you can stop and take pictures or enjoy being out in nature.
4. Little River Road
Little River Road is the road that runs from Gatlinburg to Townsend. You can get to several popular spots by driving through the Smoky Mountains on this road, including Cades Cove, Metcalf Bottoms, the Y, and the Sinks. You’ll drive along the windy road beside the river, providing you with a beautiful view. There are a few places where you can pull off and get out to explore. This road is especially beautiful in the fall since the colorful leaves are changing on the trees surrounding the road.
5. Roaring Fork Motor Trail
Roaring Fork Motor Trail is another pretty popular scenic drive in the Smoky Mountains. It’s a one-way loop, and people usually see wildlife along their drive. You’ll follow along the creek, and the drive will make you feel like you’re far away from it all. There are several places where you can stop and get out to explore historic buildings or hike one of the popular hiking trails.
6. Newfound Gap
Newfound Gap is one of the best drives in the Smokies and also one of the highest elevation roads. It runs from Gatlinburg, Tennessee, to Cherokee, North Carolina, with incredible views of the mountains and beautiful wildflowers in the spring and summer along the side of the road. You’ll also find all kinds of hiking trails and sights to check out along Newfound Gap.
These scenic drives in the Smoky Mountains are just some of the fun things you can do to enjoy being out in the national park. For more outdoor fun, come rafting with us at SMO Rafting! Look through our white water rafting trips and pick one out for your group to try!
