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Day Trips from Great Smoky Mountains

Day Trips from Great Smoky Mountains

Great Smoky Mountains Tennessee, USA Travel Guide

Knoxville, TN

A larger city approximately 1 hour west of Gatlinburg. Knoxville is home to the University of Tennessee, a revitalized historic downtown, a diverse dining scene, and cultural attractions.

A full day (6-8 hours minimum) allows for downtown exploration, a museum visit, and a meal. Drive via I-40 West from Sevierville/Pigeon Forge. Independent travel is easy; city navigation is clear.

Suggested Itineraries

  • Explore Market Square, a lively pedestrian area with shops and restaurants.
  • Visit the Sunsphere, a structure from the 1982 World's Fair.
  • Explore the McClung Museum of Natural History & Culture or the East Tennessee History Center.
  • Enjoy diverse dining options.

Natural Escapes

Beyond the national park, other natural areas offer scenic drives and outdoor recreation.

Foothills Parkway

A partially completed scenic parkway with panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains and the Tennessee Valley. The "Missing Link" section, recently completed, features stunning engineering.

Details

  • Easily accessible from Townsend or Wears Valley, TN.
  • 1-3 hours depending on exploration.
  • Drive the "Missing Link" section (Walland to Wears Valley) for remarkable views.

Blue Ridge Parkway

A 469-mile scenic roadway along the Appalachian Mountains, starting near the Cherokee, NC, entrance of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Breathtaking vistas, hiking trails, and cultural sites are along its path.

Details

  • Accessible from Newfound Gap Road (US-441) on the North Carolina side.
  • A half-day to a full day for exploration.
  • Drive north from Cherokee towards Asheville, with stops at overlooks and short trails.

Asheville & Chattanooga

Asheville, NC

  • Approximately 1.5 hours east of the park's Cherokee entrance.
  • Independent travel is best for exploring.
  • Explore the River Arts District or craft beer scene.
  • Visit the Biltmore Estate, America's largest private home.

Chattanooga, TN

  • Located on the Tennessee River, 2.5 hours southwest of Gatlinburg.
  • Ride the Incline Railway up Lookout Mountain.
  • Explore Ruby Falls, an underground waterfall.
  • Visit the Tennessee Aquarium.

Other Nearby Considerations

  • Time for Asheville:A full day (8+ hours)
  • Transportation to Asheville:Drive (I-40 East)
  • Time for Chattanooga:A full day (overnight for relaxed exploration)
  • Transportation to Chattanooga:Drive (US-74 W & I-75 S)
  • Explore River Arts District:Asheville
  • Rock City Gardens:Chattanooga
  • Downtown Art Deco:Asheville
  • Civil War history:Chattanooga

Explore Day Trip Options

Consider various day trip experiences to enhance your visit to the Great Smoky Mountains region. A variety of Day trip booking options are available.

Cultural Excursions

Cultural fabric of the region is present in rural communities and historical sites outside the main park.

Wears Valley, TN

A less developed valley with a glimpse of rural life, scenic farms, and local shops. Find local produce and crafts.

Cherokee Indian Reservation Qualla Boundary, NC

Explore the Oconaluftee Indian Village, Museum of the Cherokee Indian, and traditional crafts. A deep dive into Cherokee culture.

Dandridge, TN

Tennessee's second-oldest town, approximately 45 minutes from Gatlinburg. A charming downtown square and historic buildings.

Museum of Appalachia

Located north of Knoxville (about an hour from Gatlinburg), this living history museum preserves buildings and artifacts from early Appalachian life.

Visitor Information

  • Clinton, TN (north of Knoxville).
  • Provides a broader view of regional heritage.
  • Buildings and artifacts from early Appalachian life are on display.

Rural Contrast

Wears Valley provides a peaceful contrast to the busier tourist towns. A quieter, more rural experience.

Cherokee Cultural Experiences

  • Oconaluftee Indian Village as a living history museum.
  • Museum of the Cherokee Indian for in-depth knowledge.
  • Witness traditional crafts being made.

Cultural Insights

Wears Valley offers:Rural life glimpse
Cherokee Indian Reservation location:Beyond Oconaluftee Visitor Center
Dandridge is:Tennessee's second-oldest town
Museum of Appalachia preserves:Early Appalachian life artifacts
Cherokee Indian Village type:Living history museum
Dandridge location:On Douglas Lake

Cultural Exploration Note

  • These sites allow for a connection with the regional history and traditions.
  • An understanding of local heritage enhances the travel experience.
  • The distinct character of each cultural site becomes apparent.
  • Support local communities by engaging with their unique offerings.

Multi-Day Extensions

Additional days to your trip allow exploration of more distant regional attractions, creating a comprehensive itinerary.

Asheville & Blue Ridge Parkway

Combine the urban charm and craft beer scene of Asheville with scenic drives and hiking opportunities along the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway.

Details

  • 2-3 days recommended.
  • Overnight stays in Asheville for nightlife and dining.
  • Opportunities for scenic drives and hiking.

Chattanooga & North Georgia

Explore Chattanooga's attractions (Tennessee Aquarium, Lookout Mountain) and then extend your journey into North Georgia for additional historic sites and natural beauty.

Details

  • 2-3 days recommended.
  • Cloudland Canyon State Park as an example of natural beauty.
  • Blend of city attractions and natural escapes.

Knoxville & Norris Dam

Explore Knoxville's city life and then visit Norris Dam State Park for boating, fishing, and hiking opportunities around Norris Lake.

Details

  • 1-2 days suggested.
  • Boating and fishing at Norris Lake.
  • Hiking opportunities around the lake.

Logical Next Destinations

Consider adding a city like Nashville or Atlanta, or another national park, to your trip.

Options

  • Nashville, TN (3-4 hours west) for music history and entertainment.
  • Atlanta, GA (3.5-4 hours south) for diverse attractions.
  • Shenandoah National Park, VA (north along Appalachian chain) for mountain scenery.

Suggested Routes for Longer Regional Travel

Combine the Smokies with other regional highlights for an expansive journey.

Appalachian Mountain Loop

Combine Great Smoky Mountains with Blue Ridge Parkway and Shenandoah National Park for a scenic mountain road trip.

Tennessee Music Trail

Pair your visit with exploring Knoxville, Nashville, and potentially Memphis for nature and music history.

Southern Charm Trail

Combine the Smokies with charming Southern cities like Charleston, SC; Savannah, GA; or Asheville, NC.

Extend Your Journey

Planning multi-day extensions allows for a deeper dive into the rich tapestry of the Southern Appalachian region and beyond. Consider booking tours for these extended trips via GetYourGuide.