The Cades Cove Loop is a fascinating drive presenting an exceptional combination of scenic natural beauty and rich cultural legacy. No matter which county you're in, you'll find that there's exquisite scenery to explore at every turn. The Screaming Eagle Trail, traveling across Tennessee's middle lands, is a thrilling and beautiful journey that bears the name of the illustrious 101st Airborne Division. However, this road won't take you into Cades Cove. This trail will take you around a seven-mile loop with under 500 feet of elevation gain and is the best way to stretch your legs along the drive. Take a journey through some of East Tennessees beautiful scenery and best-kept secrets. Moreover, the town features several popular attractions like the Gatlinburg SkyBridge, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, and Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort and Amusement Park. It's where you can take a view from the Double Arch Bridge in Birdsong Hollow (pictured) and meander through the deep beauty of Middle Tennessee's rural countryside. Discover some of Middle Tennessees most unique experiences and rich history from settlers and Civil War soldiers to the Bell Witch and underwater ghost towns. Features Tennessee: Scenic Byway and All-American Road Paradise By Pamela A. Keene April 1, 2021 7 Mins Read What state east of the Mississippi River boasts the most National Scenic Byways and All-American Roads? Smoky Mountain Scenic Drives. Tourists can also take advantage of the chance to go hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the iconic Appalachian Trail,or fishing in the area's pristine streams. Click on any scenic byway or backway listed below for complete information. Thousands of car and motorcycle enthusiasts flock to the Dragon, also designated as US 129, throughout the spring, summer and fall to take in the spectacular . 11 Most Scenic Road Trips to Take in Tennessee Awe-inspiring sights and hints of the area's lengthy military history will be revealed as travelers maneuver the twists and turns. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a strolling nature lover, the views on this mountain trail are some of the best Tennessee has to offer. Love Tennessee? Some of the most beautiful places in Tennessee to experience in any season include Cades Cove, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Big South Fork National Recreation Area, Chattanooga, Burgess Falls State Park, Rock City, Savage Gulf State Natural Area, Greeter Falls, Signal Point, Cane Creek Cascades, and Fall Creek Falls State Park. Some of the best scenic overlooks in Tennessee include Lookout Mountain, Sunset Rock, Love Circle, Signal Mountain, Newfound Gap, Tom Lee Park, Morton Overlook, and Pot Point Loop. Bear inGreat Smoky Mountains National Park, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg, TN, the most beautiful small towns in the Tennessee mountains. Mills, cabins, and forests there's a lot to notice when driving on one of the most popular scenic drives in the Great Smokies. If it's scenery you're after, Tennessee will not disappoint. This Tennessee Trail Is One Of The Best Places To View Summer Wildflowers, 10 Tennessee Swimming Holes You Cant Miss This Summer, The Natural Swimming Hole At Stillhouse Hollow Falls In Tennessee Will Take You Back To The Good Ole Days, True To Its Name, Fun Fest Is An Epic Nine-Day Festival Of Summer Fun In Tennessee, Tennessees Windiest Road Has Over 300 Curves And Its Not For The Faint Of Heart, Tennessee Has A Roller Coaster Road And You Need To Drive On It, The Tail of the Dragon Is 11 Miles Of White Knuckle Driving In Tennessee Thats Not For The Faint Of Heart, have you ever explored beneath the surface of Tennessee. Trust us - you won't regret it! After your meal with a view, you can continue on this scenic road or turn back around and do it all in reverse. It's probably time for you or your family to arrange a getaway from the monotony of a pre-scheduled lifestyle and enjoy relaxing adventures. The bypass is also dotted with pull-outs where visitors can pause to snap photos or simply soak up the stunning scenery. Tennessee Group Urges Drivers to Take the Scenic Route About | Archive | Travel Resources | Submissions | Work With Us | Contact | Privacy Policy | Cookie Policy Copyright 2021 Go Backpacking | All Rights Reserved. This story was brought to you in partnership with Sidney James Mountain Lodge. Breathtaking Scenic Drives in Tennessee | Roadtrip Tips Roaring Fork Motor Trail / Scenic Drives In Gatlinburg The Roaring Fork Motor Trail is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Located on the Gatlinburg Bypass, Gatlinburg Overlook stretches from the Great Smokies to the Gatlinburg Spur Road. Tennessee is full of rich history, vibrant communities, and beautiful scenery. ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. Explore charming small towns, mom-and-pop eateries, courthouse squares and barbecue gems. The road is filled with motorcyclists and sports car drivers every day, chock full of humans looking to take those turns hard and fast. The Great River Road is an iconic scenic route beginning at Reelfoot Lake and following the Mississippi River through Tennessee all the way to Memphis. There are several pull-outs along the road where visitors can stop to take photos or enjoy the scenery. The drive also passes through dense forests, providing a serene and calming experience. The Tail Of The Dragon Is A Beautiful Scenic Drive In Tennessee This almost-100-year-old pathway lets you drive leisurely with little to no traffic. We have an abundance of scenic drives in Tennessee, from the Foothills Parkway to the Land Between Lakes we have plenty of places for beautiful views. Or springtime for the flowers. The road is a primitive back country road, and while graveled, it can get a bit rough in spots. The next highest ascent for scenic driving trails is. Finally, remember to include Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook when you plan to visit Tennessee. We have an abundance of scenic drives in Tennessee, from, The Shady Valley Country Store In Tennessee Is The Start Of One Of The Most Scenic Drives In The Nation, Take These 10 Country Roads In Tennessee For A Scenic Drive, The Ultimate Waterfall Road Trip In Tennessee Is Right Here And Youll Want To Do It, The Scenic Drive In Tennessee That Will Take You On An Unforgettable Adventure, The Ultimate East Tennessee Waterfalls Road Trip Is Right Here And Youll Want To Do It, Everyone In Tennessee Should Take This Underappreciated Scenic Drive, The Scenic Drive To Sams Gap Is Almost As Beautiful As The Destination Itself, 7 Country Roads In Tennessee That Are Pure Bliss In The Fall. A historic route that travels through the beautiful landscape of Tennessee is the Natchez Trace Parkway. The 11-mile road circles the Cove and loops around this area; it's a well-known attraction among local motorists. Tennessee Scenic Drives and Road Trips on myscenicdrives.com Get ready for a rural journey through West Tennessee, named for the hypnotic beauty of the regions signature cotton fields. Tourists can become familiar with the state's history and learn about the people who traveled the Historic Walton Road years ago by taking a road trip. After purchasing a new bottling line in 2006, the winery now bottles up to 3,000 bottles of wine per hour. Fish. The road also winds through open meadows, offering an opportunity to spot some of the park's wildlife, such as deer, turkey, and even black bears. The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile scenic drive that winds through the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia and North Carolina, stretching from Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. When most folks think about daredevil driving or high-speed roadways, theyre probably not immediately calling to mind a backroad through the Tennessee mountains. Located in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee, the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is an impressive scenic drive that spans six miles. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. These Tennessee road trips are a great . You can even buy a photo of you driving the road from one of the freelance photographers that set up along the way. This massive limestone behemoth was built in 1854 to smelt down the areas iron ore. Make sure to read the signs to find out how this tall structure was used before you continue along the road. With so many routes to take, you can lose yourself in the scenic beauty, unique foliage and animal sightings. She can guide you through your next bucket-list vacation, from outdoor camping to the glitz and glamour of luxury yachting. The next highest ascent for scenic driving trails is Natchez Trace Parkway: Nashville to Tupelo with 3,127 m of elevation gain. This sweet bit of a backroad really shows you Tennessee's true colors - the beauty of a curvy road, the quiet sweetness lost in the depth of the woods. 1. This route's filled with hidden treasures, including lakes, streams, and impressive mountains. As visitors drive along the road, they can take in the beauty of the Little River, which flows parallel to the road for much of the way. Newfound Gap stretches from North Carolina to Tennessee, though if you hop on over the Tennessee line you'll be crossing back over soon enough. Related: Visit These 10 Most Beautiful Small Towns In Tennessee. 1 - Great River Road The is the oldest scenic byway in North America. Get more stories delivered right to your email. We have a whole YouTube Channel dedicated to it called Adventuring in the Moment. The parkway also passes through several small towns, which provide opportunities for visitors to explore local shops, restaurants, and attractions. Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. 1. We included the famous Tail of the Dragon and the well-known Cades Coves Loop Road. The Ocoee River, known for its fantastic whitewater rafting, follows this twisting route. All maps, graphics, flags, photos and original descriptions 2023 worldatlas.com. 2023 Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism, Most Scenic Overlooks in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Best Things to Do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Things to Do and See Along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Best Spots for Capturing Fall Foliage in the Smoky Mountains. The East Tennessee Crossing route provides an enthralling tour of the region's captivating scenery. However, weather can be unpredictable and we recommend you plan accordingly by checking out ourweather page before you set out on your scenic drive. Take The Cherohala Skyway, One Of The Best Scenic Drives In Tennessee The Deals Gap, commonly referred to as The Tail of the Dragon, is a famous and demanding driving course situated in the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee and North Carolina. This 87-mile-long journey begins in Nashville. Find a scenic drive or plan a road trip with myscenicdrives.com Cades Cove is the most frequented area in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, drawing over 2 million annual visitors. The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is an official National Park Service (NPS) scenic drive along a 5.5-mile loop road. For road-trip fanatics, we've mentioned some scenic drives in Tennessee above. Hike. Comments Off on Breathtaking Scenic Drives in Tennessee, on Breathtaking Scenic Drives in Tennessee, Towing and Hauling Features in the 2023 Nissan Titan XD, Put Your Tax Return Towards A Downpayment, Best Nissan Cars for Camping in the Great Smoky Mountains, enjoy the Tennessee stretch of this scenic byway, Five Nissan Service Essentials for Summer, Why Families Love the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder. Let's take a look at the best scenic drives through the Smoky Mountains, TN. by Kristi . 3h 45m This road through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park runs through a lush valley, see wildlife & historic buildings. A gray road winds through the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee. Its a pretty incredible drive, that Tail of the Dragon, but have you ever explored beneath the surface of Tennessee? Make your way through high bluffs and natural areas brimming with wildlife, stopping through small towns and stories of Civil War tension. There are a couple of hiking trails along the trace and one of the best ones is the Bear Creek Loop. Discover the hiking routes to peaceful picnic areas and unknown waterfalls. You cant go wrong with the 126-mile Chattanooga Loop. A true adventure awaits! This 16-mile road runs from Pigeon Forge to Townsend and offers unparalleled views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. How many of these scenic views in Tennessee have you experienced? The Screaming Eagle Trail is a drive that honors the country's military history while also showcasing the area's natural beauty. Plus, it's one of the, Curvy, dangerous and a homing beacon for adrenaline junkies everywhere, the Dragon is perfect for a ride through the Smokies. Dave is the Founder and Editor in Chief of Go Backpacking and Feastio. By continuing to browse this site, you're accepting the use of cookies. The route is also extremely scenic and beautiful, making it a favorite for visitors of all kinds. Keyword Destination Appalachian Mtns Chattanooga Great Smoky Mtns NP Memphis Length Under 30 miles 30 to 75 miles Over 75 miles Time to Allow 1 hour or less 1 - 3 hours Over 3 hours Reset Show on Map Add Your Listing! If you have a few more hours, consider adding a trip to Nickajack Cave, Lookout Mountain, or Signal Point Park to your road trips itinerary. The road runs alongside the Little River, offering visitors breathtaking views of the park's stunning landscape. Scenic Drives in Tennessee Enter dates Filters 2 Attractions Traveler favorites All things to do Attractions Types of Attractions Sights & Landmarks Historic Sites Points of Interest & Landmarks Churches & Cathedrals Farms Scenic Drives Budget-friendly Good for Kids Free Entry Good for Couples 13 places sorted by traveler favorites That's Tennessee! Get exclusive stories delivered right to your inbox. Hikers on AllTrails.com recommend several popular national parks in Tennessee. These historic sites provide a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage and offer a unique experience for visitors. Search more about these road trips and scenic byways online and make a plan accordingly. Next, visitors can retreat to the serenity of the Cherohala Skyway, a picturesque byway that crosses the Nantahala and Cherokee National Forests. Every turn will reward visitors with breathtaking views as they travel across the Appalachian Mountains, lush valleys, and next to clear rivers. That's where they're wrong. The Scenic Route: Tenn. Group Urges Drivers to Exit Freeways and Use Back Roads. Even though the route begins from Sevierville, starting your journey from Rogersville will allow you to check out some of the prettiest farmhouses and mountains. This gorgeous road will take you straight through lower Appalachia. Dubbed the Snake, 421 takes you across the Shady Valley, after which you have to cross over the fair, South Holston Lake. While beautiful year-round, these roads are especially stunning in the fall, when you'll catch a glimpse of Tennessee's famous fall foliage through your windshield. These are the kinds of roads you only know if you are a local, so for those roads, we have you covered. Let's conclude this article by mentioning one of the most well-liked scenic routes in the USA. Even if you stay in your Nissan for the whole trip, youll enjoy great scenery at a relaxing pace. As drivers go along the road, they will meander through dense forests filled with deciduous trees and may even spot some of the park's wildlife, like deer or black bears. Newfound Gap is prized by forest lovers because . Which scenic driving trail has the most elevation gain in Tennessee? You may have heard of the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail before. On one side of the road, you will be treated to beautiful farmlands in a charming country setting. What a treat! Tennessee's heritage is shown through scenic farms and quaint tiny villages along this historic path. Youll experience the smoke effect that hovers over the tips of the Smokys as you navigate your Nissan along the winding pavement. The trip is a haven for nature enthusiasts with birdwatching, hiking, and camping options. You can travel the Dragon either from North Carolina to Tennessee, or vice versa. Lush green meadows, blooming dogwoods, oaks, and other spring flowers make the drive just amazing. This little pond is the perfect place to take a break and bring along a packed lunch. Tennessee is known for its many scenic drives, so grab a loved one or two, pile into your car, and set your GPS for some of these breathtaking drives. If you need to stretch your legs, pause for a spell at Reelfoot Lake State Park to watch native birds and to dip your feet in the water. If you've yet to take this scenic drive, it's time to plan your trip. You can simply take the drive or make all of the stops, the choice is yours, but we have to say, this is one scenic area that you are sure to enjoy. Hikers on AllTrails.com recommend several popular national parks in Tennessee. You can simply take the drive or make all of the stops, the choice is yours, but we have to say, this is one scenic area that you are sure to enjoy. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. You can catch a sneak peek of this scenic drive by, Considered the "Best Drive in America," the Great River Road counts Tennessee amongst one of the 10 states it runs through. Tourists can also take a relaxing stroll down the shoreline at the Ocoee Whitewater Centre. 2023 Best 10 Scenic Driving Trails in Tennessee What are the most beautiful places in Tennessee? But, as the name indicates, this route isn't straight at all. Scenic Drives in Tennessee Tail of the Dragon . The Townsend "Y" is one of the most visited destinations on Little River Road. Nolichucky Produce, 224 TN-107, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USA, Take the mile-long trail with a slight incline in elevation up to. The parkway offers one-of-a-kind views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and valleys, making it one of the most popular scenic drives in the United States, attracting millions of visitors annually. The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. The trail is a 6-mile loop that winds through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Another activity travelers to Tennessee enjoy involves embarking on scenic drives across the forest-filled countryside and state parks. Caught in the Land Between the Lakes, we share Woodlands Trace with Kentucky. It is a popular destination for tourists due to its numerous hiking trails, picnic areas, and campgrounds. Getting off the interstate could ease congestion, reduce stress, and expose drivers to greater scenic beauty, according to Tennessee Infrastructure Alliance. unique American stories told every day through Appalachian arts and crafts, preserved buildings and sites, historic town squares and the tales of legendary characters. The Woodland Trace is a great place to visit for a busy day of exploring the Land Between Lakes. Travelers will be enveloped by tranquil woodlands, undulating hills, and gorgeous scenery traveling along the route. Scenic Drives In The Smoky Mountains | Pigeon Forge & Gatlinburg The Farmer's Daughter, 7700 Erwin Hwy, Chuckey, TN 37641, USA, Good thing you fueled up with some country comfort food because this hike will be a little bit tougher than Sill Branch Falls. #6 - Newfound Gap Road: Gatlinburg to Cherokee, #7 - Chickasaw Bluffs and Pioneer Springs Blue Trail, #10 - Great Smoky Mountains Scenic Drive: Maryville to Clingmans Dome. Sometimes the best way to experience all that the Smoky Mountains have to offer is on a driving tour. By taking this bypass, visitors can avoid the downtown area and instead marvel at the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests. On this breathtaking scenic byway, visitors will travel through the lovely Sequatchie Valley. Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park, explore an underground world, take a wildflower hike and see first hand why this magical landscape draws nature-lovers from around the globe. Our list of the best scenic drives in Tennessee starts with Newfound Gap Road. For current current road, facility, trail & backcountry updates click here. Here are the best scenic drives in the Great Smoky Mountains so you can do so from the comfort of a car (or RV). Although the . These roads are perfect any time of the year and are sure to get your little ones or your squad of best friends in the wild and free spirit. LeConte and Clingmans Dome. We can't move forward without mentioning what most Tennessee tourists may describe as the scenic drive in the state. Inside you will find fresh-from-the-farm fruits and veggies which are perfect for a healthy snack for the road. We have a lot of scenic places in Tennessee, stretching from east to west. Hazel Bloom is a native English creative Copywriter and Proofreader. With so many different routes to take, it's near impossible to decide on just one road trip to take. Ready to explore Gatlinburg by road? What are the most beautiful drives in Tennessee? Beautiful scenic drive in Spring with lots of animal sightings in the morning and evening (did both). No big deal, though - we're neighborly. The Farmer's Daughter treats guests with good, old-fashioned country cooking. Camp Nakanawa, 1084 Camp Nakanawa Rd, Crossville, TN 38571, USA The Woodland Trace is a great place to visit for a busy day of exploring the Land Between Lakes. However, there are several other reasons to visit the captivating Appalachian state. We love to inspire others to get outside too. To help you make the most of your next vacation, we've put together a guide to 3 of the best scenic drives near Gatlinburg TN. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Birdwatch. So, gas up the car and hit the scenic route. Suggest edits to improve what we show. Tucked away high, high in the eastern mountains of Tennessee is a road of epic proportions. This popular route attracts millions of visitors each year who come to take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and meadows. As you drive around Tennessee, you'll enjoy the state's curvy roads and swelling highways. She holds a degree in English, and has worked in the digital marketing realm with companies such as Apartments.com, USA Today and HarperCollins Publishing. Without further ado, here are the best scenic drives in Tennessee. Nissan of Cookeville Sales 888-471-8099 Visitors must check out the city of Pigeon Forge for exciting adventures, including the Dollywood theme park. Here are some of the most scenic overlooks in Great Smoky Mountains National Park to add to your summer bucket list of things to see and do in Pigeon Forge. With proper preparation, you can enjoy a trail with creek crossings, beautiful forests, and some peace and quiet. Experience where country music stars and fans align. The byway also provides opportunities for camping, fishing, and hiking, so one can fully appreciate the area's natural splendor. My name is Chris Dodge and I love to bring my family along for many adventures. Newfound Gap is the lowest available mountain pass for drivers in the entire park, at an elevation of just over 5,000 feet. Visit charming riverside locations like Dyersburg and Memphis or discover historical places like Memphis' Cotton Museum. Our 16 self-guided driving routes connect Tennessees 95 counties so you can discover places you never knew youve always wanted to visit. To explore the area's beauty, visitors can take scenic drives that showcase the town's stunning location, surrounded by lush forests and magnificent peaks of the Smoky Mountains. Are you daring enough to take the plunge? This scenic drive takes you through sprawling forests and rolling hills positioned between two beautiful lakes. These trails feature attractions, restaurants and other places worth a . Thank you! Travelers can appreciate magnificent sunsets over meandering rivers, drive through verdant woods abounding with wildlife, and explore lovely quaint towns bursting with rich traditions as they set out on these breathtaking trips. Little churches and homesteads line the road from time to time but most of it is used for farming and we think there is just something special about backroads like this. This 31-mile winding highway starts in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and travels all the way to Cherokee, North Carolina, offering incredible views of the park's varied landscapes. The Great Smoky Mountains is the most-visited United States National Park for a reason. 9 Best Scenic Drives in the Smoky Mountains, Ranked John Gullion 10/03/2022 7 Cherokee Gatlinburg GSMNP North Carolina The Foothills Parkway is a work in progress, but it still offers spectacular views (photo by Wirestock/stock.adobe.com) The Jesse Lemons museum is temporarily closed as of May 2022, but the stunning scenery of Cherokee National Forest will be here to cheer you up. For those who want to escape the stress of daily life, Gatlinburg is a must-visit destination, touted as one of America's most beautiful spring vacation spots. We love to inspire others to get outside too. With a delicious menu and enough Southern charm to warm any Tennesseans heart, this is one great option for lunch on this scenic drive. Let us know below! Visit the Cherohala Skyway during autumn if you want to see a splendid display of fall color. his forested nature trail features rustic driving bridges, restrooms, and picnic areas. Numerous scenic overlooks line the road, providing visitors with abundant opportunities to stop, take photos, or appreciate the stunning scenery. Cades Cove Loop Road. The 20 Best Scenic Drives in America A panel of drivers, enthusiasts and collectors chart the country's most iconic road trips, from the PCH to the Tail of the Dragon By John Munson As you make your plans to step cautiously back into the world this summer, might we suggest revisiting one of the most American of vacation pursuits: the road trip. The Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area is traversed by this picturesque byway, providing breathtaking vistas of Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley. Canoe. Cherohala Skyway (Tellico Plains) - All You Need to Know - Tripadvisor Instead, you can only view the Cove while driving, as this route will take you further away from your destination. Every turn of the Cherohala Skyway brings tranquility and magnificent surroundings. Discover the good life. 7 Of The Best Scenic Drives in Tennessee You'll Want To Take Take A Scenic Mountain Drive In East Tennessee For An Adventure 1 2 Sometimes the best way to experience all that the Smoky Mountains have to offer is on a driving tour. Online Title Loans | 7 of The Best Scenic Drives in Tennessee The East Tennessee Crossing gives visitors a fantastic experience by showcasing the area's scenic beauty and cultural attractions. The Townsend "Y" offers various shops, restaurants, and amenities for visitors to explore, making it a must-see destination. FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. It's no secret that Tennessee is home to some of the most staggeringly gorgeous places in the country. Unlimited stops Plan trips worldwide