A Guide to the Best Views in the Smoky Mountains

When you visit the Great Smoky Mountains, you probably want to take in some of the most breathtaking scenery in the area. People come from all over the world to take in the beauty of the area. So where will you find the best views? That depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for! We’ve broken down the best views in the Smoky Mountains based on if you want to go to an attraction, hike in the national park, or take a drive.

Best Attractions With a View

If you want to experience fun attractions on your vacation and check out gorgeous views, then you should check out some of these things to do in Gatlinburg.

Gatlinburg Space Needle

An attraction that’s just dedicated to the jaw-dropping views in the Smokies is the Gatlinburg Space Needle. This observation tower stands at over 400 feet tall, providing visitors with miles of views, including downtown Gatlinburg and the surrounding mountain peaks. It’s a great place to go when you just want to take it all in!

Anakeesta

Another attraction with some of the best views of the Smoky Mountains is Anakeesta. After a ride up to the top of the mountain, you’ll be blown away by the mountains that seem to go on forever. You can look out at the views in the villages, or you can make your way to the top of AnaVista tower for an even more incredible view!

Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

One of the other Gatlinburg attractions that has unique views of the Smokies is Gatlinburg SkyLift Park. Once you’re at the top of Crockett Mountain, you’ll be able to look out at the mountains surrounding downtown, and there’s no other view quite like it. Plus, you’ll have fun walking across the SkyBridge and experiencing the SkyTrail while you also take in the views!

Best Hikes With a View

Maybe you want to get out and truly be immersed in nature when you take in the beautiful Smoky Mountain views. Here are some of the best hikes with views:

Clingmans Dome

An easy hike with incredible views is Clingmans Dome Trail. This trail is only 1 mile round trip, but it is pretty steep. However, the views at the top of the observation tower are worth it! On a clear day, you can see over 100 miles away!

Alum Cave Trail

Alum Cave Trail is another hike that provides people with some of the best views in the Smoky Mountains. If you just hike to the Bluffs, you’re in for a 5-mile round trip hike. Alum Cave Trail is also one of the hikes you can take to get to the summit of Mt. LeConte, so if you continue past the bluffs, you’ll experience even more incredible views!

Charlies Bunion

Any avid hiker will probably be looking for more of a challenge, which is why we included Charlies Bunion on this list! This trail is 8 miles round trip, but the views at the top are worth it. You’ll look out at the Smoky Mountains, and you won’t be able to believe your eyes! Pictures don’t do this hike justice, so you’ll definitely want to see it in person.

Best Drives With a View

Some people aren’t able to hike, so we also wanted to include some drives with the best views in the Smoky Mountains. You don’t have to leave your car to enjoy the views along these roads, but it’s more fun if you do!

Cades Cove

The most popular destination in the entire Great Smoky Mountains National Park is Cades Cove. And once you see this area, you’ll understand why! This little valley is surrounded by mountains, making it one of the most picturesque places in the park. Visitors can stop anywhere along the road to snap a photo or get a better look at the scenery. There’s also historic buildings to explore, and it’s a great place to spot wildlife.

Newfound Gap

Newfound Gap is a fantastic scenic drive that provides riders with loads of views. This road connects Gatlinburg TN to Cherokee NC, and it takes about 1.5 hours to drive it one way. There are also several overlooks and places to stop along the road, which is perfect for really soaking up the views! You can even enjoy the views of Newfound Gap without being here by watching these webcams!

Foothills Parkway

Foothills Parkway is another drive with incredible mountain views, but it’s more of a unique road. It was approved to be built over 75 years ago, and the road is still not completed. There are two sections you can drive, and both of them provide beautiful views of the mountain peaks. You won’t regret driving along Foothills Parkway!

You can’t go wrong with any of these ways to take in the best views of the Smoky Mountains. You’ll have fun driving, hiking, or running around the attractions. We know you can’t wait to enjoy the views, but what else will you do when you stay with us? Check out these attractions in Gatlinburg for more ideas!