Sign up to receive trip ideas and inspiration from Tennessee Tourism. 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. The other side, however, will give you incredible views of the Cherokee Mountains -- 107 runs parallel to this national forest and the scene just makes the drive breathtaking. What national parks in Tennessee have scenic driving trails? The Great Smoky Mountains is the most-visited United States National Park for a reason. 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. As visitors traverse the loop, they will be treated to panoramic vistas of the valley and its lush, dense forests. This scenic drive takes you through sprawling forests and rolling hills positioned between two beautiful lakes. Tennessee's finest scenic drives provide various activities, from traveling alongside mighty streams to discovering old trails and hiking in majestic mountains. 14 Stops that Should Be on Every Tennessee Road Trip Devote about four hours to the journey and let your Nissan devour the pavement as you feast on the views from the drivers seat. The Tail of the Dragon is known around the world for its mind-bending turns and allowance for high speed. These historic sites provide a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage and offer a unique experience for visitors. After substantial growth, Stonehaus Winery wines can now be found in liquor stores and grocery stores across Tennessee as well as on site. It may be a sleeper hit, but we have a feeling one drive down this 11-mile roadway is going to make it in your family history books forever. Get more stories delivered right to your email. Whether you want to walk in the. The bypass is also dotted with pull-outs where visitors can pause to snap photos or simply soak up the stunning scenery. That's how this trail can help you quench your thirst and conclude a vacation. Experts suggest four-wheelers when a person intends to drive this treacherous trail; this road is steep and winding. Newfound Gap Road Chris Gafford - Flickr Our list of the best scenic drives in Tennessee starts with Newfound Gap Road. This almost-100-year-old pathway lets you drive leisurely with little to no traffic. Next, Smyrna happens to lie on this route so that you can pay homage to the historic home and plantation of Sam Davis. Scenic drives to consider in Tennessee are listed below. The trail is flanked by trees, which not only offer shade but also provide an opportunity to bask in the tranquility of nature. Drive through Smoky Mountain backroads and lush Appalachian countryside to find your thrills. Named after the Roaring Fork River that runs alongside it, this 33-mile scenic drive promises an unforgettable experience for travelers of all kinds. 10 Prettiest Places for Fall Foliage in Tennessee - Southern Living Explore the most popular scenic driving trails in Tennessee with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. The Townsend "Y" is one of the most visited destinations on Little River Road. Located in eastern Tennessee, Gatlinburg is a picturesque mountain town famous for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. Tennessee Group Urges Drivers to Take the Scenic Route OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. No thanks, Im not into adventure The Cades Cove Loop is a fascinating drive presenting an exceptional combination of scenic natural beauty and rich cultural legacy. Located in the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, the scenic Rich Mountain Road spans 12.5 miles from Cades Cove to the Townsend "Y," showcasing remarkable views of the mountains and valleys. Thank you! It fosters heroic stories of speed and daring, invites daredevils from around the world to enjoy its hairpin twists and turns, and is known by only one name With 318 curves in 11 miles, the Tail of the Dragon has become a global legend for a reason. Thank you! 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. So, remember to visit the Grand Ole Opry for some country music, after which you can embark on this adventure. 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 . However, you can easily see them along the Woodland Trace. A true adventure awaits! Car Enthusiast's Guide to Tennessee - Tennessee Vacation 2. That's where they're wrong. 3 Breathtakingly Scenic Drives Near Gatlinburg TN 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. 9 Best Scenic Drives In Tennessee By: Eliza Jeffrey Last updated: June 3, 2022 Tennessee - the "Volunteer State" - is famous for its picturesque woods and majestic mountain views. Visitors should keep their cameras handy, as wildlife might be spotted along the way - from black bears and deer to eagles soaring overhead. There are wildlife sightings and lovely woodlands beside the road. Tennessee Scenic Drives and Road Trips on myscenicdrives.com And while you're at it, be sure to keep your eyes out for these 15 hidden gems along the Tennessee countryside. Trails feature attractions, restaurants and other places worth a stop as you're driving around the . The Grand Ole Opry and the Ryman Auditorium allow one to take a glimpse of the bustling musical legacy of Nashville. The Screaming Eagle Trail is a drive that honors the country's military history while also showcasing the area's natural beauty. Tucked away high, high in the eastern mountains of Tennessee is a road of epic proportions. All that driving can run that heart rate up! Its a pretty incredible drive, that Tail of the Dragon, but have you ever explored beneath the surface of Tennessee? This scenic drive in Tennessee takes you through the beauty of the Smokies on US-441. 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. Take A Scenic Drive On The Woodlands Trace In Dover Tennessee Posted in Tennessee Trips April 07, 2023 by Chris Dodge This Scenic Drive Runs Straight Through Two Tennessee Lakes, And It's A Breathtaking Journey We have a lot of scenic places in Tennessee, stretching from east to west. Its a gorgeous drive through some of Tennessees most dynamic country. 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? 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. So, you can make a random stop to catch some fish. Unlimited stops Plan trips worldwide Continue along the Cherohala Skyway afterward to continue to experience the beauty of the mountains. Top 10 Scenic Drives in Tennessee | YourMechanic Advice This 32-mile-long journey takes you from Benton to Tellico Plains. Follow the brown signs; they showcase the Discover Tennessee Trails & Byways, making them a little easier to find. It roughly follows the "Old Natchez Trace" a historic travel corridor used by American Indians, "Kaintucks," European settlers, slave traders, soldiers, and future presidents. The pioneer spirit lives on. Read our Privacy Policy, A magical and memorable evening experience in Nashville, Experience SoundWaves at Gaylord Opryland. Or winter with coffee. Tennessee, a southeastern US state, boasts stunning natural scenery, varied topography, and extensive cultural history. Stonehaus Winery, 2444 Genesis Rd # 103, Crossville, TN, USA, +1 931 484 9463. The East Tennessee Crossing gives visitors a fantastic experience by showcasing the area's scenic beauty and cultural attractions. Scenic Driving Difficulty Length Suitability More filters Top trails ( 15) Easy 4.5 (1302) #1 - Cades Cove Loop Road Great Smoky Mountains National Park Length: 10.5 mi Est. Hikers on AllTrails.com recommend several popular national parks in Tennessee. The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. As drivers pass by, they will enjoy panoramic views of the Smokies' rolling hills, verdant forests, and majestic peaks. Natchez Trace Parkway Tabitha Kaylee Hawk/Flickr The Natchez Trace Parkway is a lonely road that runs from the heart of Tennessee straight on through to Mississippi. Scenic Drives Road Trip Planner Passes About Us Tennessee Scenic Drives & Road Trips Cades Cove Loop A Scenic Drive through the 1800s Cherohala Skyway From Cherokee National Forest to Nantahala National Forest Newfound Gap Road Great Smoky Mountains National Park Explore Nearby Side Trips Hikes Arkansas Illinois Kentucky North Carolina 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. There are no driveways along the 11-miles, and you won't find a single intersecting road either. Official website of the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development 2023. Along the way, visitors can stop at numerous pull-outs to take photos, have a picnic, or simply bask in the beauty of the scenery. It stretches for 5.5 miles, and this solemn pathway takes you deep into some stunning scenes from our country's incredible history. Little River Road is a picturesque 18-mile stretch located in the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee. 9 Best Scenic Drives in the Smoky Mountains, Ranked - TheSmokies.com Discover the hiking routes to peaceful picnic areas and unknown waterfalls. Located on the Gatlinburg Bypass, Gatlinburg Overlook stretches from the Great Smokies to the Gatlinburg Spur Road. Related: 10 Must-Do Things Around Gatlinburg. 10 - Natchez Trace Parkway Flickr user: Matthew Nichols Starting Location: Collinswood, TN Ending Location: Hohenwald, TN Length: 38 miles Best Season to Drive: All See this drive on Google Maps 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. 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. It received the National Scenic Byway designation after its construction in 1996 and has become one of the most popular drives in the state. Stop a few times along the drive to drink in the view or to hike down one of the adjacent nature trails. Best Scenic Drives in the Great Smoky Mountains, TN You can stumble upon a lot of hidden gems when you take the scenic routelike secret swimming hole. There are still, however, many off-the-beaten path drives that don't always make the "scenic drives" section of the Tennessee guidebooks. Choose your own Tennessee vacation and discover new food, classic whiskey, rockin' music, and so much more. The Best Scenic Drives Through The Smoky Mountains TN For current current road, facility, trail & backcountry updates click here. Make pit stops at significant sites along the journey, like the Black Rock Scenic Lookout, offering expansive views of the vibrant surroundings. We love to inspire others to get outside too. Our list of the best scenic drives in Tennessee starts with Newfound Gap Road. The journey passes through the enchanting Prentice Cooper State Forest, providing numerous possibilities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and taking in spectacular valley views. With the Mississippi River as your constant companion, youll wind through small towns, heading south from Memphis. These 16 self-guided scenic drives will take you off the beaten path and through all of the state's 95 counties. Online Title Loans | 7 of The Best Scenic Drives in Tennessee It's estimated that almost one-half of Americans took summer vacations last year. 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. Tags: Roadtrip Tips Posted in A small community in East Tennessee, Tellico Plains is the gateway to one of Tennessee's newest scenic drives. From panoramic views at scenic overlooks to amazing fall colors along hiking trails, here are the best spots for capturing fall foliage in the Smoky Mountains. Tennessee's heritage is shown through scenic farms and quaint tiny villages along this historic path. Cherohala Skyway (Tellico Plains) - All You Need to Know - Tripadvisor 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 Without a doubt, it's one of the most. Then, your party can camp in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains and picnic in the embrace of a mesmerizing forest. 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) Let's take a look at the best scenic drives through the Smoky Mountains, TN. However, some tourists prefer to take the Mecca Pike to travel between these two small towns. Take These 10 Scenic Roads In Tennessee For A Beautiful Drive Canoe. Thats where theyre wrong. The road also passes through small towns such as Wears Valley and Townsend, offering an opportunity to explore the local shops and restaurants. 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. Experience where country music stars and fans align. It passes through the Cherokee National Forest and Nantahala National Forest; the skyway's name is a combination of these two Native American words. Dubbed the Snake, 421 takes you across the Shady Valley, after which you have to cross over the fair, South Holston Lake. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to 9 scenic driving trails with an average 4.5 star rating from 2,551 community reviews. With views of stunning peaks, sprawling farmlands, and wonderful waterfalls, and delicious detour for some fresh fruit and country cooking, we cant think of a better way to spend an adventurous day in Tennessee. My name is Chris Dodge and I love to bring my family along for many adventures. This story was brought to you in partnership with Sidney James Mountain Lodge. 1 - Great River Road The is the oldest scenic byway in North America. 1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where visitors can indulge in activities such as hiking and fishing. 10 Most Scenic Drives In Gatlinburg Where You Can See Breathtaking The picturesque Cades Cove Loop Road is an 11-mile, one-way drive located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee. Cades Cove Loop Road is also home to several historical buildings and structures, including rustic log cabins, charming churches, and a fully operational grist mill. Cades Cove is the most frequented area in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, drawing over 2 million annual visitors. Wineries, honky tonks, the great outdoors and secrets from the past. Roadtrip fanatics should also try driving State Route 66, a 32-mile-long route that stretches from Rogersville to Sneedville. For more information about this area please visit, For another epic road trip on a scenic byway check out, 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, The Natchez Trace Parkway Practically Runs Through All Of Tennessee And Its A Beautiful Drive, One Of The Most Scenic Drives In America Is Right Here In Tennessee, Drive Down The Scenic Cherohala Skyway And Fall In Love With The Beauty Of Tennessee All Over Again, Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area - U.S. Forest Service/ Facebook. 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. 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. Sometimes the best way to experience all that the Smoky Mountains have to offer is on a driving tour. A historic route that travels through the beautiful landscape of Tennessee is the Natchez Trace Parkway. Although we wont be directing you to social media, you can learn more about the Tail of the Dragon with a visit to its official website. Learn more about the Tail of the Dragon, one of the most, Known for stunning views and autumn colors that crackle and burn in the sunlight, the Cherohala Skyway is something you'll never forget - never. Top road trips from Tennessee | Enjoy Travel | EnjoyTravel.com Here are some options for a beautiful drive in Tennessee. There's always demand from tourists to visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, wander Beale Street in Memphis by the Mississippi River, and watch colorful parades at Dollywood. 1. The Sequatchie Valley Scenic Byway in Tennessee is the ideal choice for a tranquil and picturesque drive. Near Wears Valley, Upper Tremont Road provides the perfect setting for a scenic drive, especially during the peak of fall. Whether you want to walk in the footsteps of Johnny Cash or go on a rolling river adventure, theres a trail to help you discover more of Tennessee. Visitors will witness captivating sunsets gleaming off the water, with plenty of boating and fishing possibilities. You can stumble upon a lot of hidden gems when you take the scenic routelike, Trails feature attractions, restaurants and other places worth a stop as youre driving around the state. The Ocoee River, known for its fantastic whitewater rafting, follows this twisting route. Keep your eyes peeled during your journey because this protected area is filled with wildlife. 1. 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. She is an avid traveler, backed up by ample memorable experiences spanning Asia, Africa and Europe. Named after the adjacent Roaring Fork River, this narrow and winding road is a favorite among tourists who love exploring the outdoors and marveling at natural beauty. In the article above, we highlighted the best scenic drives in Tennessee. Learn more about it below, and maybe plan a trip out to East Tennessee. Numerous scenic overlooks line the road, providing visitors with abundant opportunities to stop, take photos, or appreciate the stunning scenery. Dont drive in a caravan, let the cars pass at pullouts and enjoy the peace. But, as the name indicates, this route isn't straight at all. 1. An image of Gatlinburg town. Take A Scenic Mountain Drive In East Tennessee For An Adventure These are the kinds of roads you only know if you are a local, so for those roads, we have you covered. 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. Explore early Native American footpaths, the passages of the early westbound settlers, the railroads that changed life and commerce forever, and todays protected scenic byways and gorgeous overlooks. Finally, remember to include Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook when you plan to visit Tennessee. Gorilla Girl/flickr Setting out along Tennessee's Highway 143 will yield some of the most breathtaking views in the entire state. By taking this bypass, visitors can avoid the downtown area and instead marvel at the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests. However, this road won't take you into Cades Cove. One of the most famous mountain ranges in the US, the Smoky Mountains, comes to life for tourists traveling along the route.