Gatlinburg is an ideal destination for nature lovers who want to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. With breathtaking views, lush landscapes, and a range of scenic spots, Gatlinburg offers something for every outdoor enthusiast. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a photographer, or someone who just wants to enjoy the serene mountain vistas, Gatlinburg has plenty of places to explore.
Let’s take a look at some of the top scenic spots that will make your trip unforgettable!
Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Gateway to Endless Beauty
No trip to Gatlinburg would be complete without visiting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a natural paradise with endless scenic opportunities. This massive park, home to diverse wildlife and rich greenery, is famous for its iconic spots like Kuwohi and Newfound Gap.
At Kuwohi, visitors are treated to one of the highest viewpoints in the Smokies, with a stunning 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains. On clear days, you can see for miles, witnessing the misty layers of the Great Smoky Mountains that give the range its name. Newfound Gap, another popular viewpoint, offers breathtaking vistas and a unique glimpse into the border between Tennessee and North Carolina.
For those looking to explore the park conveniently, there are plenty of cozy places to stay in Gatlinburg near the national park. Options like The Grand Cedar Hideaway, a spacious six-bedroom retreat complete with a theater room and arcade games; Bears Den, a three-bedroom cabin with professional decor, a gas log fireplace, and four TVs; and Southern Grace, a tastefully decorated two-bedroom cabin with HDTVs, a cozy fireplace, and easy access to local attractions, provide the perfect settings to relax after a day in the Smokies.
Being close to the park allows you to get an early start, maximizing your chances of catching a sunrise over the mountains.
Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook: A Classic View of the Smokies
For nature lovers and sightseers, the Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook along the Gatlinburg Bypass is a must-visit. This spot offers a sweeping view of both downtown Gatlinburg and the expansive Smoky Mountains. Accessible year-round, the overlook is especially popular in fall when the landscape comes alive with vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows.
The overlook features multiple parking areas, making it convenient for visitors to pull over, step out, and fully appreciate the scenery. It’s a popular spot for photographers and anyone looking to capture the beauty of the Smokies without needing to hike.
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail: A Quiet Journey Through Nature
The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail offers a peaceful, scenic drive that takes you through some of the lushest and most picturesque areas around Gatlinburg. This narrow, winding trail is a one-way loop road that winds through dense forests, alongside flowing streams, and past historical structures from early settlers.
One of the highlights of this drive is the chance to stop and explore a variety of spots, including cascading waterfalls like Grotto Falls, where you can walk behind the waterfall—a unique experience that’s sure to be memorable. The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a slower-paced scenic experience that’s perfect for those wanting to appreciate Gatlinburg’s natural beauty without a challenging hike.
Mount LeConte: For the Adventurous Hiker
For those up for a challenge, Mount LeConte offers one of the most rewarding hiking experiences in the Great Smoky Mountains. Reaching the summit of Mount LeConte is no easy feat, but the views from the top are unmatched. The Alum Cave Trail, the most popular route to the summit, takes you through a variety of landscapes, from lush forest paths to rocky outcroppings with panoramic vistas.
Reaching the summit rewards hikers with stunning views and a sense of accomplishment that’s well worth the effort. If you’re an adventurous hiker, tackling Mount LeConte is a must-do experience in Gatlinburg.
The Gatlinburg Space Needle: City Views and Smoky Mountain Vistas
The Gatlinburg Space Needle is a unique landmark that combines the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains with the charm of the town. This 407-foot observation tower features a 360-degree observation deck that offers views of both the city of Gatlinburg and the surrounding Smokies. It’s a fantastic spot for visitors who want to appreciate Gatlinburg from a bird’s-eye view.
Aside from the incredible views, the Gatlinburg Space Needle also offers educational exhibits about the history of Gatlinburg and the Smokies, making it both a scenic and informative experience. This spot is particularly popular at sunset when the city lights up against the backdrop of the mountains, creating a picture-perfect moment.
Ober Mountain: Year-Round Scenic Beauty and Activities
Ober Mountain is another must-visit for those seeking a blend of scenic views and adventure. Known for its winter sports and year-round mountain views, Ober Mountain offers a scenic Aerial Tramway ride that takes you up the mountain while providing views of Gatlinburg and the Smokies.
During the winter, Ober Mountain is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding, while in the warmer months, visitors can enjoy the Scenic Chairlift, Wildlife Habitat, and Ski Mountain Coaster. The mix of activities and panoramic views makes Ober Mountain a versatile destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Gatlinburg SkyPark: Stunning Views and the Iconic SkyBridge
Gatlinburg SkyPark, home to the famous Gatlinburg SkyBridge, is one of the town’s most iconic attractions. The SkyBridge stretches 680 feet across a deep valley and provides a thrilling yet scenic experience with unbeatable views of the Great Smoky Mountains. Walking across this bridge gives visitors an unforgettable perspective, especially when viewing the mountains through the glass panels in the center of the bridge.
In addition to the SkyBridge, the park offers an observation deck and a SkyTrail that winds around the mountain, giving visitors multiple viewpoints. It’s a fantastic place to enjoy panoramic scenery, relax, and take in Gatlinburg’s incredible landscapes.
Gatlinburg is a paradise for nature lovers, offering everything from easy scenic overlooks to challenging mountain trails. Whether you’re exploring the expansive views of Kuwohi in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, crossing the Gatlinburg SkyBridge, or hiking up Mount LeConte, you’ll find that every spot offers a unique and memorable perspective of the Smokies. Staying nearby in Gatlinburg not only gives you the convenience of easy access to these stunning locations but also allows you to immerse yourself fully in the natural beauty of the area.
