Best Scenic Drives in the Smoky Mountains (Perfect for Any Season)

Grandview Holidays
Jan 17
3 min read

One of the best ways to experience the Great Smoky Mountains is from the comfort of your car. Scenic drives offer breathtaking views year‑round—whether you’re chasing fall colors, spring wildflowers, misty summer mornings, or snow‑dusted winter landscapes. Here are the top scenic drives in the Smokies, perfect for any season and easy to enjoy during your stay.

1. Newfound Gap Road (US‑441)

Best for: Year‑round views, quick access to highlights

Stretching from Gatlinburg, TN to Cherokee, NC, this is the most popular scenic drive in the Smokies—and for good reason.

Why it’s special:

Elevation changes create dramatically different scenery along the route
Access to scenic pull‑offs and short hikes
Home to Newfound Gap, one of the park’s highest drivable points

Seasonal highlights:

🌸 Spring: Wildflowers bloom at lower elevations

🍁 Fall: One of the best routes for leaf‑peeping

❄️ Winter: Snowy views (weather permitting)

⏱️ Approx. drive time: 1–2 hours (one way, with stops)

2. Cades Cove Loop Road

Best for: Wildlife sightings & peaceful scenery

This 11‑mile one‑way loop is a must‑do for first‑time visitors.

Why it’s special:

Frequent sightings of deer, turkeys, and sometimes bears
Historic cabins, churches, and barns
Wide open valley views surrounded by mountains

Seasonal highlights:

🌼 Spring: Lush greenery and flowing streams

🍁 Fall: Golden meadows and colorful hillsides

❄️ Winter: Quiet, serene landscapes with fewer crowds

⏱️ Approx. drive time: 2–4 hours (depending on traffic and stops)

3. Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

Best for: Waterfalls & forest scenery

Located just outside downtown Gatlinburg, this one‑way loop feels like a hidden gem.

Why it’s special:

Close‑up views of rushing streams and waterfalls
Dense forest canopy
Access to short hikes like Grotto Falls

Seasonal highlights:

🌿 Summer: Cool shade and flowing water

🍁 Fall: Stunning foliage in a compact drive

⏱️ Approx. drive time: 1–2 hours

⚠️ Note: Typically closed in winter

4. Foothills Parkway

Best for: Panoramic mountain views & photography

This scenic drive offers some of the best overlooks in the Smokies, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Why it’s special:

Long‑range views of the mountains
Multiple pull‑offs for photos
Less crowded than main park roads

Seasonal highlights:

🌸 Spring & Summer: Rolling green ridges

🍁 Fall: Incredible color contrast

❄️ Winter: Clear views on crisp days

⏱️ Approx. drive time: 30–60 minutes

5. Little River Road

Best for: Relaxing drives & river views

Running between Gatlinburg and Townsend, this drive follows the Little River nearly the entire way.

Why it’s special:

Peaceful water views
Picnic spots and pull‑offs
Easy access to trailheads and swimming areas

Seasonal highlights:

🌞 Summer: Great for picnics and creek‑side stops

🍂 Fall: Reflections of fall colors in the water

⏱️ Approx. drive time: 45–60 minutes

Tips for Enjoying Scenic Drives in the Smokies

Start early to avoid crowds, especially during peak season
Bring snacks, water, and a camera
Check weather and road conditions in winter
Be patient—wildlife crossings and slow traffic are common

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a longer stay, these scenic drives offer unforgettable views in every season. They’re perfect for families, couples, and anyone who wants to experience the Smokies without strenuous hiking.

✨ Tip: Pair a scenic drive with a cozy cabin evening—hot tub, fireplace, and mountain views included.

Looking for the perfect home base for your Smoky Mountain adventure? Our cabins are ideally located for easy access to these scenic routes while still offering privacy, comfort, and incredible views.

Phoenix Lodge- Our Mountain Cabin in Sevierville, Tn

5 br and 4.5 ba, sleeps 12