Breathtaking Road Trips Through Tennessee & the Blue Ridge Mountains

 

Best Scenic Road Trips in Tennessee & the Blue Ridge Mountains

Introduction

Tennessee and the Blue Ridge Mountains are home to some of the most beautiful road trips in America. Whether you prefer to drive to the fog-shrouded peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains, cruise across rolling hills, or see the brilliant fall foliage, there's something for every road trip traveler here. From the best roads to take, the best times to go, the cost, the must-have packing advice, and more, this guide has it all.

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Best Time to Go

The best time for a scenic road trip depends on your preference for scenery and weather:

• Spring (March-May): Wildflowers bloom, and the weather is mild.

• Summer (June-August): Lush green landscapes but expect more tourists.

• Fall (September-November): Peak foliage season with breathtaking colors.

• Winter (December-February): Snow-covered peaks create a magical landscape, but some roads may be closed due to icy conditions.

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Top Scenic Road Trips

1. Blue Ridge Parkway

Route: Cherokee, NC to Afton, VA (469 miles)
Duration: 2-3 days
Highlights:

• Clingmans Dome: Highest point in the Smokies

• Linn Cove Viaduct: Stunning mountain bridge

• Mabry Mill: Historic gristmill with scenic views

• Waterrock Knob: Panoramic sunset spot

Fees: Free to drive, but some attractions may charge entry fees.

Where to Stay: Cabins in Gatlinburg, Asheville lodges, or campgrounds along the parkway.

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2. Cherohala Skyway

Route: Robbinsville, NC to Tellico Plains, TN (43 miles)
Duration: 1 day
Highlights:

• Santeetlah Overlook: 5,300 feet above sea level

• Bald River Falls: 90-foot waterfall accessible from the road

• Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest: Ancient trees and scenic hikes

Fees: Free
Where to Stay: Mountain lodges in Tellico Plains or camping at Indian Boundary Lake.

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3. Natchez Trace Parkway

Route: Nashville, TN to Natchez, MS (444 miles)
Duration: 3-5 days
Highlights:

• Jackson Falls: Beautiful cascades and trails

• Meriwether Lewis Site: Burial site of the famous explorer

• Cypress Swamp: A unique boardwalk trail through bald cypress trees

• Loveless Cafe: Famous for Southern-style biscuits

Fees: Free
Where to Stay: B&Bs in Leiper’s Fork, hotels in Tupelo, MS, or campgrounds along the route.

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4. Newfound Gap Road (US 441)

Route: Gatlinburg, TN to Cherokee, NC (33 miles)
Duration: Half-day to full day
Highlights:

• Newfound Gap Overlook: Straddling TN-NC border

• Oconaluftee Visitor Center: Elk viewing area

• Clingmans Dome: Short hike to the highest peak in Tennessee

• Mingus Mill: Historic 19th-century gristmill

Fees: Free, but Great Smoky Mountains National Park parking requires a $5/day fee.

Where to Stay: Cabins in Gatlinburg or Cherokee lodges.

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5. Foothills Parkway

Route: Chilhowee Lake to Wears Valley, TN (33 miles)
Duration: 1 day
Highlights:

• Look Rock Tower: Short hike with 360-degree views

• Little River Road: Waterfalls and scen

  
  
  ic river views

• Sunrise & sunset viewing points

Fees: Free
Where to Stay: Cabins in Townsend or Pigeon Forge hotels.

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Budget Breakdown

Expense Category	Estimated Cost (Per Person Per Day)
Gas	$30-$50
Accommodation	$50-$200 (camping to luxury lodges)
Food	$20-$50
Entrance Fees	Mostly free; occasional $5-$10
Miscellaneous (souvenirs, snacks)	$10-$30
Total	$110-$340 per day

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Packing List

Essentials:

• Driver’s license, car registration, and insurance

• Offline maps or GPS device

• Sunglasses, hat, sunscreen

• First aid kit and medications

• Reusable water bottles and snacks

• Emergency kit (jumper cables, flashlight, tire repair kit)

Seasonal Items:

• Spring/Summer: Bug spray, light clothing, rain jacket

• Fall: Warm layers, camera for foliage

• Winter: Snow chains, extra blankets, gloves

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Tips for a Smooth Road Trip

• Check Road Conditions: Some routes may be closed in winter. Visit the National Park Service or state transportation websites.

• Fill Up on Gas: Some areas have limited gas stations, especially along the Blue Ridge Parkway and Cherohala Skyway.

• Book Lodging in Advance: Especially during peak fall foliage season.

• Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles and avoid feeding wildlife.

• Be Prepared for Limited Cell Service: Some mountain areas have no signal, so download maps offline.

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Conclusion

Tennessee and the Blue Ridge Mountains offer a mix of adventure, natural beauty, and historic charm. Whether you prefer a multi-day journey like the Blue Ridge Parkway or a short scenic drive like the Foothills Parkway, there's a road trip for every traveler. Plan your route, pack wisely, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery these roads have to offer.