Great Smoky Mountains National Park is renowned for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, attracting millions of visitors annually. Scenic views play a crucial role in the park’s appeal, offering awe-inspiring vistas that showcase the area’s natural beauty.
In this article, I’ll guide you to 8 must-see views in the park, ensuring you don’t miss any of its spectacular sights. With so many picturesque spots to choose from, you might wonder which ones truly stand out.
Where can you find the most breathtaking panoramas that will make your visit unforgettable? Read on to discover the top viewpoints in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park!
Clingmans Dome (best view)
Location: On the state line between North Carolina and Tennessee, within Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is the highest point in the park.
Accessibility: You can reach Clingmans Dome by driving along Clingmans Dome Road, followed by a half-mile paved but steep walk to the observation tower. The path is wheelchair accessible up to the tower.
Best Time to Visit: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the clearest views and fewer crowds. Clear days in the fall have the best visibility.
What to Expect: On clear days, expect panoramic views extending over 100 miles. The observation tower provides a 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Be prepared for cooler temperatures and high winds.
Newfound Gap
Location: At the midpoint of Newfound Gap Road, which traverses Great Smoky Mountains National Park from Gatlinburg, Tennessee, to Cherokee, North Carolina.
Accessibility: You can access Newfound Gap by car, with a large parking area available at the viewpoint.
Best Time to Visit: During the fall, when the foliage is at its most vibrant, showcasing a phenomenal display of colors.
What to Expect: At Newfound Gap, you can expect views of the Tennessee and North Carolina state lines. The site also has historical significance: President Franklin D. Roosevelt dedicated the park in 1940. The Appalachian Trail crosses through here, providing additional hiking opportunities.
Cades Cove
Location: Cades Cove is situated in an isolated valley within Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Accessibility: You can access Cades Cove via an 11-mile one-way loop road that is open to cars, bicycles, and pedestrians.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning and late afternoon, around dusk, when wildlife is most active. This gives you the best chance to see deer, black bears, and turkeys.
What to Expect: In Cades Cove, you will encounter rolling meadows, historic buildings, and a scenic mountain backdrop. The area features preserved homesteads, churches, and a working grist mill, reflecting its rich history. The Loop Road has several pull-offs where you can stop, take photos, and explore the surroundings.
Charlies Bunion
Location: On the Appalachian Trail within Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Accessibility: You can reach Charlies Bunion by hiking an 8-mile round trip from the Newfound Gap parking area. The trail is moderately difficult and well-marked.
Best Time to Visit: Late spring or early fall when the weather is mild, and the trail conditions are optimal.
What to Expect: On your hike to Charlies Bunion, you will encounter outstanding mountain views, various plants, and interesting rock formations. At the summit, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. But, be prepared for changing weather conditions and carry enough water and supplies for the hike.
Alum Cave Bluffs
Location: Along the Alum Cave Trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Accessibility: You can reach Alum Cave Bluffs by hiking 2.3 miles one way from the Alum Cave Trailhead on Newfound Gap Road. The trail is moderately difficult and well-maintained.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds. Spring and fall have the best trail conditions and views.
What to Expect: On your hike to Alum Cave Bluffs, you’ll be rewarded with scenic views, interesting geological formations, and lush forested areas. The bluffs themselves provide a cool, shaded area to rest and take in the impressive overhang. Be prepared for a steady incline and carry enough water and snacks for the hike.
Morton Overlook
Location: Along Newfound Gap Road in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, near the Tennessee-North Carolina state line.
Accessibility: You can access Morton Overlook by car, which has a convenient parking area right at the viewpoint.
Best Time to Visit: At sunset when the lighting creates a beautiful, dramatic view over the mountains.
What to Expect: At Morton Overlook, you will experience sweeping views of the Smoky Mountains, with layers of ridges extending into the distance. The overlook provides an excellent spot for photography, especially during the golden hour. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and bring a camera to capture the superb scenery.
Mount LeConte
Location: Mount LeConte is one of the tallest peaks in Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
Accessibility: You can reach Mount LeConte by hiking one of several trails, with the Alum Cave Trail being the most popular. The hike is strenuous and covers approximately 11 miles round trip.
Best Time to Visit: During the late spring or early fall when the weather is mild and the trails are less crowded.
What to Expect: On your hike to Mount LeConte, you will encounter diverse landscapes, including dense forests, rocky outcrops, and expansive views. At the summit, you will find breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The hike is challenging, so be prepared with adequate water, food, and proper hiking gear.
Andrews Bald
Location: Within Great Smoky Mountains National Park, accessible via the Forney Ridge Trail.
Accessibility: You can reach Andrews Bald by hiking 1.8 miles one way from the Clingmans Dome parking area. The trail is moderately difficult and well-maintained.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Andrews Bald is in late spring or early summer when the wildflowers are in full bloom, boasting vibrant colors and scenic beauty.
What to Expect: On your hike to Andrews Bald, you will pass through lush forests and enjoy scenic views. At the bald, you will find open grassy areas with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The trail can be rocky and uneven, so wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring water and snacks.
Final Thoughts
So, to wrap things up, we’ve explored some of the best viewpoints in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, including Clingmans Dome, Newfound Gap, Cades Cove, Charlies Bunion, Alum Cave Bluffs, Morton Overlook, Mount LeConte, and Andrews Bald.
Remember, when planning your visit, consider the weather and time of year. Fall offers vibrant foliage, while spring brings wildflowers. Be prepared for varying weather conditions, especially at higher elevations. Ensure your safety by carrying adequate water, snacks, and proper gear.
Now’s the time to plan your visit to the heart of Appalachia! These scenic viewpoints and much more await you in Great Smoky Mountains National Park!
I WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU! Scroll to the bottom to leave a comment about a trip you’ve taken to this remarkable park or any questions you might have.
National Parks List, Map, and Complete Guide (All 63 Parks + Downloadable List & Map)
Want a FREE complete list and recap of all our US National Parks as well as downloadable maps and other great resources? Check out our US National Parks List and Map guide!
National Parks Scratch Off Map of United States
Best Travel Gifts to Track Your Travels and Adventures! Check out the top-selling National Parks scratch off map of the United States!
FAQ’S
What is the most scenic view in the Smoky Mountain National Park?
The most scenic view is often considered to be from Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the park, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Where’s the best place to see the Smoky Mountains?
The best place to see the Smoky Mountains is from Newfound Gap, which offers expansive views of the park’s Tennessee and North Carolina sides.
What is the most scenic drive through the Smoky Mountains?
The most scenic drive is the Newfound Gap Road, which traverses the park from Gatlinburg, Tennessee, to Cherokee, North Carolina, providing numerous overlooks and stunning views.
Which side of the Smoky Mountains is best?
Both sides have unique attractions, but the Tennessee side is often preferred because it is easily accessible to popular sites like Cades Cove and Clingmans Dome.
What not to miss in Smoky Mountains National Park?
Don’t miss visiting Clingmans Dome, Cades Cove, and the Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte. Each offers unique and stunning views of the park.
What time of day is best to see Smoky Mountains?
Early morning or late afternoon are the best times to see the Smoky Mountains, providing clear views and optimal lighting for photographs.
