One of the main reasons why people plan a trip to the Smoky Mountains is to experience the peacefulness and serenity of the mountains. When you see the amazing scenery, you will forget about your troubles and feel a sense of relief. If you are looking for different ways to take in the scenery, we have you covered! Here are 4 of the best ways to experience gorgeous Smoky Mountain views:
1. Take a Hike
Hiking is one of the best ways to get some exercise and explore the nature of the mountains. There are hundreds of different trails that have everything from waterfalls to historic buildings. The one common theme among all the Smoky Mountain hiking trails is that they all present amazing views of the Smokies! When planning your hike, you can pick your favorite trail based on difficulty level, length, features, and much more! Because each hike is unique, there is a trail for everyone waiting in the Smoky Mountains!
2. Explore a Scenic Drive
If you don’t feel up to hiking, there are plenty of other ways to take in the amazing Smoky Mountain views, and you don’t even have to leave your car! With one of the scenic drives in the Smokies, you can take in the majesty of the mountains from the comfort of your vehicle. One of the most common scenic drives in the mountains is Cades Cove. This 11-mile loop road presents plenty of fantastic views, plus the opportunity to spot incredible wildlife! Some of the other drives to check out include Newfound Gap Road, Foothills Parkway, and Roaring Fork Motor Trail.
3. Have a Picnic
If you want to spend some extra time enjoying the magnificent scenery, you can have a picnic with your family. There are plenty of Smoky Mountain picnic areas that are surrounded by beautiful landscapes. At Metcalf Bottoms, you can enjoy lunch with your family while you listen to the rushing stream in the background. On pretty days, you can even get in the water to cool off and splash around. You can also simply pack a blanket and enjoy your picnic in a grassy area in Cades Cove.
4. Enjoy a Bicycle Ride
If you want a unique way to travel through the Smokies, we highly recommend taking a bicycle ride. When you ride your bike, you can take your time and really take in the stunning scenery of the area. Some of the most popular places to ride bicycles in the Smokies include Cades Cove, Greenbrier, and Tremont. All of these places have paved roads that make it easier for cyclists to explore the area. Keep in mind the only hiking trails in the national park that allow bicycles are the Gatlinburg Trail, the Oconaluftee River Trail, and Lower Deep Creek Trail.
Now that you know the best ways to experience gorgeous Smoky Mountain views, be sure to check out these popular places in Great Smoky Mountains National Park to visit! We look forward to seeing you soon!
