Also known as US-441, The Newfound Gap Road is arguably the most iconic scenic drive in the Smoky Mountains. Weave your way on and off of Interstate 40 between Nashville and Asheville, stringing together an eclectic assortment of must-sees including an upscale farmstead retreat, misty Appalachian forests, and the capital of country music kitsch. more. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-94326323', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Pigeon Forge. Even though you could do the trip in less than a day, it is best to devote two to three days to the road trip alone and appreciate the mountainous landscapes of East Tennessee. Let us know in the comments. Fun fact: The village is home to the largest cedar wood bucket in the world. It can offer shelter from the weather to go along with the most amazing views. Anakeesta offers majestic views of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park as well as Gatlinburg below. I-40 West to Exit 443 (Foothills Parkway - toward Gatlinburg/Great Smoky Mountains National Park). The city offers a little bit of it all, and is only a two-hour drive from Gatlinburg. Gatlinburg Sky Lift Information Address: 765 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 Contact: (865) 436-4307 Price: $16 for adults, $13 for kids. Located on the Alum Cave Trail, Inspiration Point offers beautiful views of the North Carolina side of the Smokies. You can see a pink elephant to a dinosaur made from spare parts or quirky boutiques to state parks. Many other interests in the city dont necessarily deal with just shopping. Nantahala National Forest, Bryson City Named the land of the noonday sun in the Cherokee language, the Nantahala National Forest is a formidable place where the majestic sights are sure to leave an impression. While we do our best to bring you the most up-to-date information, TheSmokies.com LLC makes no warranties regarding the accuracy or completeness of any content contained within. The breathtaking hills and peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains are only a 5-minute drive from the resort and the outdoor recreational opportunities in this national park are endless, spanning from hiking and bicycling to waterfall and wildlife viewing. Huntsville, Alabama Huntsville is a well-known city for its hardworking scientists that develop military and aerospace technology at the U.S Space & Rocket Center. Via: There are 6 ways to get from Nashville to Gatlinburg by bus, car, shuttle, taxi or plane Select an option below to see step-by-step directions and to compare ticket prices and travel times in Rome2rio's travel planner. View our suggested park itineraries for more park activity ideas. The parking lot on the left has a nice scenic overlook of the valley between the foothills and the Great Smoky Mountains. In order to make the most out of this exciting trip, it is advisable to make as many stops along the way as possible. The hotel boasts impressive amenities and a fabulous indoor pool you might not want to leave. The most popular station is Riverfront but, we think, that the most scenic is Mt Juliet. How do you get to Pigeon Forge without going through the mountains? Pigeon Forge is a mountain town and vacationing spot that houses Dollywood country singer Dolly Partons theme park, featuring rides, a water park, and a museum of her costumes and memorabilia. Get off of Interstate 24 at Highway 453 and take that road between the Barkley Dam and Kentucky Dam out onto the peninsula. Just past the visitor center is the intersection with Newfound Gap Road/ hwy 441. Hwy 321 turns to the right in Maryville and it is 18 miles to Townsend. This resort offers many amenities, including an indoor pool, an outdoor pool, tennis courts, a fitness centre, boat rentals, and more. If you choose to brave the weather and visit in winter, make sure to check out the festive New Year's Eve Ball Drop and Fireworks Show, which is the highlight of the holiday season in Gatlinburg. But what if you want to see both destinations in one Tennessee trip? The Read House is an excellent resort with luxurious, atmospheric chandeliers and dark wooden dcor that strongly contributes to the classy and elegant ambience. Take a shuttle bus from Black Bear Resort to Hot Springs, NC. We have a late flight 10pm, and we dont want to. You can ski, snowboard, and tube the mountain . Sean Pavone/Shutterstock Explore the Charming Town of Gatlinburg. We typically arrive on Fridays around midday and almost never run into much traffic. This route takes just under five hours if you drive without stopping, and only requires you to drive just over 280 miles. It was built in the 1960s and renovated many times since its opening. While youre there, be sure to check out the Rockefeller Memorial from which President Franklin Delano Roosevelt spoke at the parks dedication. The operating hours, policies and procedures of other businesses may change at any time without notice. 1. If you arrive early enough in the day, or if you stick around for a while in the morning, you can enjoy a riverboat cruise, a troll along the citys riverwalk (or take advantage of the citys bike share program) or the views from the top of Lookout Mountain. Chimney Tops. There are plenty of possibilities for exciting detours, some of which can extend your trip up to a couple of days, such as those to Atlanta and Huntsville. Gatlinburg was built on a rich and interesting history (left photo by Morgan Overholt/TheSmokies.com; right photo public domain), Lake proponents argued that turning Cades Cove into a body of water would promote tourism (photo by Patrick Jennings/stock.adobe.com), Our site produces editorial content for the purpose of entertainment. ft. house located at 1151 Wiley Oakley Dr, Gatlinburg, OK 73953 sold for $663,000 on Feb 24, 2023. Note that, at the beginning of October tourist rates skyrocket and subsequently, you will definitely run into higher prices and crowded attractions. I understand that. Hotel Margaritaville is an eccentric paradise for those who enjoy bright colors, coastal themes and the welcoming feel of a quirky dcor. We arrived on a Saturday and no traffic issues at all - we did drive through (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? If we start a discussion of the best scenic overlooks near Gatlinburg TN, we should begin with a caveat. Townsend is a suburb in the southeastern United States. Top attractions include the Ijams Nature Center, Worlds Fair Park and Zoo Knoxville. Some of Huntsvilles top attractions include the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, Huntsville Botanical Gardenand Monte Sano State Park. It occurred despite the efforts of the Federal Reserve and the U.S. Department of the Treasury. From Cherokee, it's U.S. 441/Hwy. A drive that's love to see AND historic. Nearby waterfalls are also fantastic places to take photos. There are many things to do for people of all ages. Continuing Education ActivityA medication administration route is often classified by the location at which the drug is applied, such as oral or intravenous. To reach Great Smoky Mountains National Park from Nashville, drive east on Interstate Highway 40, continue east on Interstate 140 and turn north on U.S. Route 321, which brings you to the park's Townsend, Tennessee, entrance, a quieter and less-trafficked alternative to the one farther east in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.The Townsend route rolls through Nashville's outer suburbs and eventually into . Which route of medication has the fastest rate of absorption? You can also make a detour to Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests here by following US-74 past Cleveland. Hi, what is the best route from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? The drive is overflowing with unforgettable sites, gorgeous landscapes and scenic attractions, such as Old Stone Fort State Archeological Park, The Lost Sea Adventure, Nantahala National Forest and many more. The Stones River National Battlefield memorializes the Battle of Stones River, one of the enormous and most significant wars of the American Civil War. If you are driving at night, make sure to use high beams when its dark out. A great foodie scene? Sign up for Weekend Wanderer and join thousands of readers getting epic travel ideas weekly. For a more scenic route, the Gatlinberg Bypass can be used. Camping at Disney: Tips and Tricks for Travelers 9 Best Resorts in Arizona | A Definitive Guide, Six Tips to Capture Your Travel Memories in Beautiful Photos, Six Important Steps to Take if Youre Hit by a Car While Out Walking in Atlanta, Best Tips for College Students to Travel While Studying, Things to do at Liberty Lagoon Water Park, Things to do at Liberty Lagoon Water Park: Baton Rouge, LA. Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests, Georgia This colossal forest features nearly 867,000 acres, thousands of miles of streams, rivers and overall rich natural scenery, as well as dozens of campgrounds, picnic areas and a whole bunch of recreational activities. The direct drive from Asheville to Gatlinburg is 80.8 mi (130 km), and should have a drive time of 1 hr 48 mins in normal traffic.. 2530 Parkway , Between Light 2B & 3 Pigeon Forge, TN 37863. The road trip from Nashville to Gatlinburg might seem like a short one, but it is packed with many attractions on the way for a memorable adventure. Strollers and/or wheelchairs are not allowed on the path which is quite steep. Popular sites include Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cherokee National Forest, Fall Creek Falls and Cloudland Canyon State Parks as well as Chattanooga and Knoxville. Road Trip Itinerary: Asheville to Nashville. The Gatlinburg Skylift Park and its SkyBridge also offer an observation deck and is also a great spot to get panoramic views of the Smokies. There's far less traffic, and it's much more scenic. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Here are 6 Gatlinburg scenic drives you won't want to miss when visiting the area. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. A left turn takes you into Gatlinburgabout 2 miles. The drive is overflowing with unforgettable sites, gorgeous landscapes and scenic attractions, such as Old Stone Fort State Archeological Park, The Lost Sea Adventure, Nantahala National Forest and many more. The fact that all you need is a packed lunch and a blanket to create one of the worlds greatest picnic areas is an added bonus. 4 Days From $539pp Trip Details Atlanta, Nashville, and the Great Smoky Mountains Roundtrip New Orleans Atlanta, GA Nashville, TN Pigeon Forge, TN Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN Atlanta, GA New Orleans, LA 7 Days From $2,079pp Trip Details Atlanta, Nashville, and the Great Smoky Mountains Roundtrip New York City Gatlinburg Attractions Gatlinburg offers outdoor adventures, kid-friendly attractions, and laid-back scenic charms that keep families, friends and couples coming back, year after year. Roaring Fork is an exceptional value in terms of time invested to get the best of the good stuff. While you could make it from Asheville, NC to Nashville, TN in four to five hours on the Interstate, taking the scenic route offers opportunities for unique stops that make a memorable family road trip. And it is a great way to enjoy amazing views. Read Also: Where are the Smoky Mountains? Where is the prettiest part of the Smoky Mountains? When I Google map directions from Knoxville (TYS) to Gatlinburg, it suggests the route 129 south to TN-71, east to 441 south. The winding journey up two interstates does not take you directly to Gatlinburg, though, but up and around the Great Smoky Mountains, which puts you in the perfect location to explore Knoxville and Pigeon Forge, as youll be traveling right through both. Reservations go quickly in advance but it is possible to hike in and out on the same day if you have the stamina. Moreover, DriveTime can help you better with bookings! Average cost of living in California per year. Whether you are a beginner or an expert voyager, this thrilling adventure is bound to astound you with its beautiful natural and urban scenery. How does it work? You can learn more about our editorial policies here. The Big A is packed with many terrific and exciting attractions, offers a vibrant nightlife and is overall a great tourist destination for friends and family vacations alike. Nearby homes similar to 914 High Mountain Way have recently sold between $1,010K to $1,010K at an average of $435 per square foot. For bonus points, did you know that this was actually the first designated national forest scenic byway in the United States? The road is flat but curvy. We hope we've inspired you today! Learn More Ready for Every Adventure However, many of these will be located on roads that are closed during bad weather including snow or high winds. Report inappropriate content shannon v Lewisburg, Tennessee Level Contributor 220 posts 54 reviews 43 helpful votes 2. The population was 244 (2000) and 448 (2010). This hike is short (3.3-miles) but steep and is one for those seeking out the prettiest spots in the national park.. The riverfront city of Chattanooga is a great spot to stay overnight, as youll find lots of dining, shopping and entertainment. Whether you are a fan of colorful fall foliage, fluffy snowy scenery or bright and warm sunny days of July, the road trip from Nashville to Gatlinburg is exceptional all year round. Discover the Asheville to Gatlinburg - Distance, Drive Hours, Stops & Best Driving Route with everything you must know about it. We hope weve inspired you today! Answer 1 of 17: Hi all, we are on a 3 week road trip and the last part of out road trip we stay 2 nights in Gatlinburg, and after that we have 1 night to spend somewhere before we fly back to Denmark from Atlanta. When many travelers talk about visiting Gatlinburg, they often talk about visiting Pigeon Forge as well. 6 Abandoned Places in the Smokies You Didnt Know Existed, The Ogles vs the Gatlins: The Family Feud That Built Gatlinburg, Cades Cove Lake: The effort to turn the Cove into a body of water, Is the Laurel Falls Hike Easy? For the purposes of our trip, however, were not taking the fastest route on I-40 West from Nashville to Gatlinburg. Ft. 852 Resort Way, Gatlinburg, TN 37738. Gatlinburg is just 3 hours 222 miles by car from Nashville, and there are lots of great things to do here! The breathtaking hills and peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains are only a 5-minute drive from the resort and the outdoor recreational opportunities in this national park are endless, spanning from hiking and bicycling to waterfall and wildlife viewing. The abundant kayak routes, hiking and climbing trails will make for a great vacation and so will a night at The Read House. The more scenic route is by driving the Little River Road, so be sure to take that route if you're looking for the more scenic route! There is a Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort, Tennessee, in Nashville. Located on the Alum Cave Trail, Inspiration Point offers beautiful views of the North Carolina side of the Smokies. The small tourist hub is less than an hours drive from downtown Knoxville, and is a close neighbor to Gatlinburg, with just 1520 minutes separating the two. Sold: 1 bed, 3 baths, 2042 sq. While driving, keep your eyes open for white deer, coyote, elk, fox and black bears. Re: Best route from Nashville to Gatlinburg, Get answers to your questions about Gatlinburg. And so, you can get great views on your vacation without ever leaving the confines of Sevier County. Still, I would be remiss not to include the view from the front of the one-way loop road across the wide-open spaces of the valley to the mountains beyond. Eventually the bypass turns into Highway 23 North. Family-friendly attractions are also abundant, such as the Ripleys Aquarium of the Smokies, the ski and amusement destination that is Ober Gatlinburg and the skyline-dominating Gatlinburg Space Needle. Google Maps Hopkinsville, Kentucky It is narrower and more curves than 441 but the drive is great. The Read House is an excellent resort with luxurious, atmospheric chandeliers and dark wooden dcor that strongly contributes to the classy and elegant ambience. It's popular because it leads the driver straight through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and a number of picturesque landscapes on their way to Gatlinburg. Why are they so popular? If you aren't short of time, driving to Ruby Falls and taking a hike around Point Park around Lookout Mountain is a great opportunity to reconnect with nature. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. From the East: -Those making the trip to Gatlinburg from Asheville, North Carolina can take I-40 West to Exit 440 and follow Highway 321 South to Gatlinburg. After you have decided whether or not you would like to rest up at one of the resorts in Chattanooga, you should consider driving to Atlanta for an exciting adventure in this dazzling city. Ober Gatlinburgs aerial tramway offers views along the trip as well as a spectacular view once you reach the ski resort, amusement park and scenic mountain getaway. Nashville to Gatlinburg drive is long but scenic. You could also visit the Museum of East Tennessee History and learn about the regions culture, art and textiles. Also check. Looking for chef to come to rented cabin for a special dinne, Shades of the Past 2023/Events in September. Murfreesboro, Tennessee, is a very quick little drive outside of Nashville, so its easy to see why its a favorite small-town getaway for those who want to escape the bright lights of the city. Dont worry, though its not that much longer. You will be mostly driving through interstates and main roads, which makes this scenic drive also a smooth one. Imbued with southern charm, the city on the Tennessee River offers lots to do, no matter what youre into when you travel. If possible, avoid driving through tunnels during the daytime because they can be boiling and uncomfortable without air conditioning or ventilation. LLC Nashville. Even if you plan your vacation according to the weather forecast, it is essential to pack an additional layer of clothes, just in case. Best stops along Asheville to Gatlinburg drive. Like the Gatlinburg Overlook, the Roaring Fork Overlook isnt the highest spot in the mountains to take in the view. If you do, the hotel is located downtown so you will find many attractions such as the Tivoli Theater, Tennessee Aquarium, and Ross's Landing which boasts incredible views of the Tennessee River within walking distance. After you have decided whether or not you would like to rest up at one of the resorts in Chattanooga, you should consider driving to Atlanta for an exciting adventure in this dazzling city. Three hours east of Nashville, clocking in at 180 miles, make a pit stop in Knoxville. Fun Fact: Captain William Driver, who flew the U.S. flag in front of his Nashville mansion, is credited with nicknaming the flag "Old Glory" in 1837. Drive past Douglas Lake, through Sevierville and Pigeon Forge where you can visit Dollywood and TITANIC Museum Attraction. Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we may earn commissions from qualifying purchases from Amazon.com. If youre considering an overnight stay in Asheville, heres some unforgettable glamping stays. To illustrate, there are several great views located just a short walk from downtown Gatlinburg. If you do, the hotel is located downtown so you will find many attractions such as the Tivoli Theater, Tennessee Aquarium, and Ross's Landing which boasts incredible views of the Tennessee River within walking distance. As mentioned, the fastest way to get to Gatlinburg from Nashville is via a quick drive along I-40 West, whichll take you across the state, about 220 miles, over 3 hours and 40 minutes. Discounts for the military. In order to continue enjoying our site, we ask that you confirm your identity as a human. Whether you go straight from Murfreesboro to Chattanooga, or you make that side trip over into Alabama, once youre ready to head on to Gatlinburg, youll find that only 150 miles or so separate you from the mountain town. Now, you can start your journey. Cherokee National Forest, Elizabethton Scenic mountain views, over 700 miles of trails and seven whitewater rivers are what you'll find at the heart of the Cherokee National Forest. The route runs along the river and is very scenic. At 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the National Park, the highest point in Tennessee and the third highest mountain east of the Mississippi. Theyre beautiful, amusing and full of wonders. - People driving from Nashville to Gatlinburg, you will take I-75 South and follow the same directions as if you were coming from Chattanooga. If you really want to make a thorough trip of it, you can make a little side visit to Huntsville, Alabama, after you leave Murfreesboro, but before you reach Chattanooga. Take the bus from Nashville to Johnson City. To help you decide, we compiled a list of our top suggestions as to what to see and do. Located on the Gatlinburg Bypass, the Gatlinburg Overlook offers great views of the City of Gatlinburg and the surrounding mountains. If you stay on Chapman Highway, this road will eventually deliver you to Sevierville, TN and Downtown Pigeon Forge. That will take you to Hwy 321 to Maryville, then to Townsend. The other exciting attractions include the Huntsville Botanical Garden and Monte Sano State Park. Outdoor enthusiasts would find September to be the best time to visit, especially during weekdays when rates drop to offseason lows and attractions are less crowded. After all, about the journey of Nashville to Gatlinburg information, we discussed what you could do during your trip and places to visit for a better experience. If we leave early enough. Tennessees Museum of Aviation has a variety of vintage aircraft, including its two rare Thunderbolt fighter jets. While leaving Nashville, take Exit 53 and hop on to Interstate 24 (I-24) towards Murfreesboro, where you would want to stop for a tour at Stones River National Battlefield. Heres What You Should Know, 29 Best Restaurants in Pigeon Forge, Ranked [2023], Great Smoky Mountains National Park Entrance Fees, What You Should Know, Smoky Mountains in March: Events in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge [2023], A Simple Guide to Smoky Mountain Parking Passes, Park it Forward. This route is the Chapman Hwy., the old road into G'burg before they put the interstates in and will bring you into S'ville at the main intersection then turn right. We suggest you visit Natchez Hills Winery at Andrew Jacksons Hermitage, where you can enjoy wine and learn more about its ties with President Andrew Jackson. You can also make a detour to Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests here by following US-74 past Cleveland. The best and most scenic road trip route from Nashville to Gatlinburg will take around 5 hours of driving and will cover 295 miles. The road trip from Nashville to Gatlinburg might seem like a short one, but it is packed with many attractions on the way for a memorable adventure. The city sits south of Nashville and Murfreesboro, about two hours from Murfreesboro and about the same from Chattanooga. Event Details . Nashville is a metropolitan area that has experienced rapid growth over the last few years. The Lost Sea Adventure, Sweetwater Explore the largest underground lake in the northern hemisphere, through an intricate cave system and learn about the amazing story behind the lake's discovery. Whether you decide to relax at the hotel or spend a day cruising around Chattanooga, you shouldn't miss the opportunity to dine at the fashionable Bridgemans Chophouse on-site. Home Facts. Nashville to Gatlinburg Road Trip Itinerary Trip Length: It takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes to drive from Nashville to Gatlinburg. Schedule. Nearby bus routes include 41 . The cities youll find between Nashville and Gatlinburg are Pigeon Forge, Knoxville, Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Sevierville and Townsend. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-94341800', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Pigeon Forge via Wears Valley. Home to the largest college in Tennessee (Middle Tennessee State University), Murfreesboro is also known for its abundant history. 1Ober Gatlinburg. Thank you very much for your cooperation. The straightforward and laid-back nature of the road trip from Nashville to Gatlinburg will make your journey feel seamless. It is situated perfectly for sunsets if you dont mind driving the twisty mountain highway after dark. The temperatures tend to fall downwards to 30 degrees Fahrenheit accompanied by snowfall in winter, so make sure to check road and weather warnings, especially if visiting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-94338434', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Nashville, following I-40 east all the way to exit # 407. It is an 11-mile, one-way loop road that circles the cove, offering motorists the opportunity to sightsee at a relaxing pace. It is located a short drive from downtown Gatlinburg. (Photo by Andrew Woodley/Universal Images Group/Getty Images) Distance from Nashville: Start your drive in Louisville, which is roughly 2 hours and 30 minutes away.. After your visit, continue northeast towards Manchester where you can find the Old Stone Fort State Archeological Park. Start: Nashville, Tennessee. Located along the Alum Cave Trail on the hike up to Mt. Gatlinburg City is the perfect place for a vacation. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee You will discover a plethora of plant and animal life blooming amidst ancient mountains, roaring falls and splashy mountain streams. If you see google maps suggesting 2 routes, Little River . However, before getting to Chattanooga, we're going to take a quick stop off into Murfreesboro. And it also offers a great vantage point to see the surrounding mountains. Due to the high elevation of the city, even the busiest seasons are susceptible to rapid and unpredictable weather changes. On your way out of Manchester, you could immediately make a long detour to Huntsville by taking Exit 127 for US-64, which will merge onto TN-121 before taking you to Huntsville in Alabama. 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Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is conveniently located minutes from downtown Gatlinburg. This narrow, winding trail offers a spectacular view of mountain streams, forests, log cabins, and a historic mill! Keep on reading to learn about the best road trip route, where to stay along the way, and the best time to take your road trip. For fun in the mountains, head to Gatlinburg. A quick stay for a few days gives you plenty of opportunity to explore the attractions in and around the popular city, including the Biltmore Estate, North Carolina Arboretum and Pisgah National Forest. The quality service, amazing location and spacious rooms will shape up a unique getaway. The temperatures tend to fall downwards to 30 degrees Fahrenheit accompanied by snowfall in winter, so make sure to check road and weather warnings, especially if visiting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. If you have some extra time, you can easily enjoy so much more that this beautiful state has to offer, and all without spending a ton of time in the car. Holly Riddle is a freelance lifestyle and business journalist who also dabbles in ghostwriting and fiction. DriveTime is one of the countrys largest used car dealers, with over 100 dealerships nationwide. Visitors often spot black bears in the late afternoon or early evening hours. Newfound Gap Road. Depending on the season, you might run into some traffic or run into some closed out routes, which shouldn't be a problem as long as you inform yourself beforehand.