Best of Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The most-visited park in the country, and still quiet if you drive the cove loops early.
Checking live park conditions…
Wildflowers in spring and the country's best-known autumn color in October. Higher roads close in winter storms, and October weekends bring heavy traffic to the cove loops.
Day 1·Newfound Gap and Gatlinburg
Open in MapsSightseeing
Newfound Gap
Straddling the state line, this overlook offers expansive views and a historic Appalachian Trail access point.
Activity
Gatlinburg Parkway
A kitschy, fun stroll with attractions and shops perfect for an arrival evening.
Day 2·Cades Cove Loop Road
Open in MapsActivity
Cades Cove Loop Road
Drive this scenic 11-mile loop early for the best chance to spot wildlife and enjoy historic homesteads.
Activity
Abrams Falls Trailhead
A popular, relatively flat hike to a picturesque waterfall (access via a side road from the Cades Cove Loop).
Day 3·Summit of Kuwohi
Open in MapsSightseeing
Kuwohi
Drive to the highest point in the park for incredible panoramic views, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Day 4·Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail & Visitor Center
Open in MapsSightseeing
Sugarlands Visitor Center
Stop here for park information, restrooms, and exhibits before or after your scenic drive.
Activity
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
A winding, one-way road showcasing historic buildings, old-growth forest, and rushing mountain streams.
Day 5·Foothills Parkway
Open in MapsActivity
Foothills Parkway (East)
Enjoy a final scenic drive with sweeping vistas of the Smoky Mountains and surrounding valleys.
Make it your own
Start from this curated plan — Runes copies it into your trips so you can tweak dates, budget, pace, and stops. Personalized to your style soon.