One of the best parts about visiting the Smoky Mountains is seeing all the breathtaking views it has to offer. No matter what time of the year you visit, you are guaranteed a gorgeous sight. Whether it is snow-covered mountaintops in the winter, or wildflowers blooming in the spring, you want to make sure you bring your camera when you come to capture the beautiful scenery. To help you plan your visit, we’ve come up with a list of 5 unbeatable views in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park:
1. Clingmans Dome
Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, standing at 6,643 feet. The best spot to take in the sights is from the observation tower, which offers 360-degree views of the Smoky Mountains and beyond. The half-mile walk to the top of the tower is well worth it! Because of air pollution, viewing distances are often under 20 miles, but on clear days, views can expand over 100 miles! You don’t want to miss the chance to see the Smoky Mountains from Clingmans Dome.
2. Mount LeConte
At 6,593 feet, Mount LeConte is the third-highest peak in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is the perfect spot to view Smoky Mountain sunsets and sunrises. You can get to Mt. Leconte from a variety of different trails, but the shortest and most popular is the Alum Cave Trail. During the hike to Mt. LeConte, you will get to see Arch Rock, a prominent landmark along the trail. You will also see Inspiration Point, which offers a beautiful overlook, and the Alum Cave Bluffs. After 5.5 miles on the trail, you will reach your destination at the summit of Mt. LeConte. The hike to Mt. LeConte is not easy, but the view from the top is definitely worth it.
3. Abrams Falls
Abrams Falls is one of the most picturesque waterfalls in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Standing at only 20 feet high, it definitely isn’t one of the tallest waterfalls in the park, but the large volume of water rushing over the falls more than makes up for its lack of height. You will definitely want to bring a camera with you when you complete this hike. To get to the waterfall, it is 5 miles there and back along Abrams Falls Trail.
4. Cades Cove
Cades Cove is one of the most scenic spots in the Smoky Mountains. You will not only get views of gorgeous scenery, but you will also see historic sites like cabins and churches, as well as the Cable Mill, the only working gristmill in the Smoky Mountains! And of course, Cades Cove is one of the best places to spot wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for black bear, white-tailed deer, turkey and more! Cades Cove can easily be accessed by foot, bike, or car, depending on when you decide to visit.
5. Ramsey Cascades
Ramsey Cascades is one of the most incredible views in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! It is the highest waterfall in the park, with water dropping 100 feet over rock outcroppings and collecting in a small pool below. Not only does the waterfall itself provide a picture-perfect scene, but the trail to get there includes gorgeous sights as well! You will follow rushing rivers and streams, and pass through an old-growth cove hardwood forest. It’s a hike you have to try.
Now that you know where to get the best views in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, it’s time to take a trip to see them for yourself! Find out more about the national park and plan your visit.
