Explore / Outdoors

Scenic Drives and Overlooks in the Smokies

Discover the scenic drives and overlooks around Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville that reveal the breathtaking beauty of the Smoky Mountains. Explore winding roads and panoramic viewpoints to experience nature from every angle.

How to Choose

Find the Right Fit

1

Select Your Preferred Drive Length

Choose from short overlooks like Newfound Gap or full loop drives such as Cades Cove Loop Road. Consider how much time you want to spend on the road versus at stops.

2

Decide Between Mountain Views or Historic Routes

Some drives focus on spectacular mountain vistas like Kuwohi, while others such as the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad offer a scenic trip with historic interest.

3

Consider Accessibility and Activities

If you want a leisurely experience with family, places like Gatlinburg Skylift Park offer easy access and additional attractions. For thrill seekers, Tail Of The Dragon offers a challenging drive.

Scenic Drives and Overlooks

53 Options Across the Smokies

Sorted by visitor rating and review count. Click any card for full details, photos, and directions.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Top Rated

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

4.9 stars, 45678 reviews

Gatlinburg
Cades Cove Loop Road

Cades Cove Loop Road

4.8 stars, 12543 reviews

Cades Cove
Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

4.6 stars, 9876 reviews

Gatlinburg
Kuwohi / Kuwohi

Kuwohi / Kuwohi

4.9 stars, 8765 reviews

National Park
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

4.6 stars, 8765 reviews

Bryson City
Newfound Gap Overlook

Newfound Gap Overlook

4.8 stars, 8765 reviews

National Park
Ober Mountain

Ober Mountain

4.4 stars, 8765 reviews

Gatlinburg
Tail of the Dragon

Tail of the Dragon

4.9 stars, 8765 reviews

Other Tennessee
The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel

The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel

4.6 stars, 7654 reviews

Pigeon Forge
Newfound Gap

Newfound Gap

4.9 stars, 5678 reviews

National Park
Smoky Mountain Knife Works

Smoky Mountain Knife Works

4.6 stars, 5678 reviews

Sevierville
Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster

Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster

4.5 stars, 5621 reviews

Pigeon Forge
Treetop Skywalk

Treetop Skywalk

4.7 stars, 4734 reviews

Gatlinburg
Legacy Mountain Ziplines

Legacy Mountain Ziplines

4.8 stars, 4567 reviews

Sevierville
Rocky Top Mountain Coaster

Rocky Top Mountain Coaster

4.5 stars, 4567 reviews

Pigeon Forge
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

4.7 stars, 4321 reviews

Gatlinburg
Rowdy Bear Snowpark

Rowdy Bear Snowpark

4.3 stars, 3876 reviews

Gatlinburg
Scenic Helicopter Tours

Scenic Helicopter Tours

4.8 stars, 3456 reviews

Pigeon Forge
Cades Cove Scenic Loop

Cades Cove Scenic Loop

4.7 stars, 3393 reviews

Cades Cove
Adventure Park Zipline Tour

Adventure Park Zipline Tour

4.7 stars, 3210 reviews

Sevierville
Wild Eagle at Dollywood

Wild Eagle at Dollywood

4.9 stars, 3063 reviews

Pigeon Forge
Ripley's Mountain Coaster

Ripley's Mountain Coaster

4.5 stars, 2876 reviews

Gatlinburg
Smoky Mountain River Rat Tubing

Smoky Mountain River Rat Tubing

4.6 stars, 2876 reviews

Townsend
Foxfire Mountain Adventure Park

Foxfire Mountain Adventure Park

4.7 stars, 2345 reviews

Sevierville
Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook

Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook

4.8 stars, 2345 reviews

Gatlinburg
Who Is This For

Picking the Right Scenic for Your Group

For Families with Young Kids

Gatlinburg Skylift Park provides an easy ride up Ober Mountain with stunning views and kid-friendly attractions. Newfound Gap Overlook is another accessible spot where children can enjoy nature without long hikes.

For Scenic Drive Enthusiasts

Cades Cove Loop Road offers a peaceful drive with abundant wildlife and historic buildings. Tail Of The Dragon 318 Curves In 11 is ideal for those seeking an exciting, twisty road experience.

For Hikers and Nature Lovers

Visit Kuwohi for panoramic mountain views accessible via a short walk. Ober Mountain also offers hiking trails after enjoying the scenic drive or Skylift ride.

For History and Train Fans

The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad provides a unique scenic experience combining the beauty of the mountains with historic rail travel through the region.

For Photographers

Newfound Gap Overlook and Kuwohi offer expansive vistas perfect for sunrise and sunset shots. The winding roads of Cades Cove Loop Road provide diverse scenic photo opportunities.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best scenic drives in the Smoky Mountains near Gatlinburg?

Popular scenic drives include Cades Cove Loop Road and Tail Of The Dragon 318 Curves In 11. Both offer distinct experiences, with Cades Cove focusing on wildlife and history, and Tail Of The Dragon highlighting challenging curves.

Is Kuwohi accessible by car or do I need to hike?

Kuwohi is accessible via a paved trail from the parking area near the visitor center. While the overlook itself requires a short walk, it is manageable for most visitors.

Are there scenic overlooks suitable for families with small children?

Yes, the Gatlinburg Skylift Park and Newfound Gap Overlook are family-friendly locations with easy access and facilities that accommodate young children.

Can I drive the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad route?

The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad is a train experience and not a drive. However, it travels through scenic areas and offers a unique way to see the mountains if driving is not preferred.

What should I know about driving Tail Of The Dragon 318 Curves In 11?

Tail Of The Dragon is a challenging road with many sharp curves and is popular with motorcyclists and sports car drivers. It requires experienced driving and caution, especially in bad weather.

How many scenic drive and overlook options are available around Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge?

There are 53 scenic drives and overlooks in the area, ranging from short viewpoints to extensive loop roads and mountain trails.

Are there cabins available near these scenic drives and overlooks?

Yes, there are 53 cabins available for rent in the region, offering convenient access to many of the scenic drives and overlooks.

Where to Stay

Stay Within Reach of Scenic Drives and Overlooks

More than 50 luxury cabins within a short drive of the best scenic drives and overlooks in the Smokies. Hot tubs, mountain views, room for the whole crew.

Browse Cabins
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Related Categories

Hiking Trails Waterfalls Picnic Areas and Parks Historic Sites Adventure Parks Mountain Coasters