Classic Great Smoky Mountains Driving Tour from Gatlinburg to Newfound Gap
A three-hour guided drive from Gatlinburg up Newfound Gap Road that pairs sweeping Smoky Mountains vistas with on-the-ground history about logging, CCC projects, and the 1940 park dedication. Perfect for travelers who want context with their view.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in layers
Temperatures can change dramatically from town (low elevations) to Newfound Gap (≈5,000 ft); a windproof jacket is useful year-round.
Bring a charged camera and binoculars
Overlooks are the prime photography moments—battery and zoom will let you capture distant ridgelines and wildlife.
Watch road conditions
Newfound Gap Road can close for snow or ice in winter; check park alerts the morning of your trip.
Hydrate and snack
The tour includes bottled water and snacks, but bring extra water if you’re sensitive to elevation or planning side walks.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Remains of the century-old resort town along the Sugarlands River—quiet stone foundations and interpretive stories
- •Short pullouts along Newfound Gap Road with unobstructed east-west valley views that few larger tours linger at
Wildlife
- •Black bear
- •White-tailed deer
Conservation Note
Great Smoky Mountains is a UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve; stay on roads and designated overlooks to prevent erosion and protect fragile high-elevation plant communities.
The park’s creation in 1940 followed intense local debate over logging and land use; CCC crews later built many roads, trails, and stonework seen on the tour.
Photographer's Notes
- • Sugarlands Valley pullout for layered valley shots
- • Stone plaza at Newfound Gap for historical and panoramic frames
- • Several roadside overlooks along Newfound Gap Road for wide ridge photos
What to Bring
Windproof layered jacketEssential
Keeps you warm at higher-elevation overlooks where wind and temperature drop sharply.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Required for short walks on uneven, often rocky overlook paths.
Camera or smartphone with extra batteryEssential
Overlooks and historical sites offer strong photo opportunities—battery life is essential.
Reusable water bottle
Hydrates during warmer months; refill at provided water stops or in Gatlinburg.
Common Questions
Where do we meet the tour?
The tour meets in the upper parking lot behind the Gatlinburg Welcome Center; arrive 10–15 minutes early.
Is the route wheelchair accessible?
Most of the scenic driving is accessible, but some overlooks and viewpoints have uneven ground—check with the operator for specific accessibility details.
Are park entrance fees included?
Park entrance fees are not required for this tour as Newfound Gap Road is a public thoroughfare, but standard park regulations apply.
What should I wear in fall?
Layered clothing and a windproof jacket; fall mornings can be chilly, and wind at high elevations is common.
Can the tour run in bad weather?
Tours are canceled for unsafe road conditions such as heavy snow or ice; operators will notify you and offer refunds within the policy window.
Will we see wildlife?
Wildlife sightings (black bears, white-tailed deer) happen but are not guaranteed; guides will stop when safe viewing opportunities arise.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3 hours
Location
Gatlinburg, TN
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; mostly seated with brief, easy walks to overlooks
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