Smoky Mountains

Nestled in the heart of the southeastern United States, the Smoky Mountain region stands as a testament to nature’s grandeur and cultural heritage. Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and historical significance, the region is intricately woven with an intricate network of highways that offer unparalleled access to its treasures.

Interstate 40 (I-40): Serving as a vital conduit for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the Smoky Mountain experience, Interstate 40 winds through the heart of the region. Stretching roughly from coast to coast, this transcontinental highway allows for convenient access to the Smokies from both the east and west. As it traverses the region, I-40 offers glimpses of panoramic vistas, dense forests, and charming small towns.

US route 129 - Tail of the Dragon

US Route 441: Revered as the “Gateway to the Smokies,” US Route 441 provides a scenic route that leads directly into the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This iconic highway leads travelers through an array of elevation changes, granting a front-row seat to the park’s dramatic terrain and abundant wildlife. As the main artery connecting the towns of Gatlinburg and Cherokee, US 441 epitomizes the region’s enchanting allure.

Blue Ridge Parkway: Meandering along the spine of the Appalachian Mountains, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers a leisurely drive that unveils captivating vistas of the Smokies and its environs. While not confined solely to the Smoky Mountain region, this national treasure seamlessly integrates with its surroundings. The Parkway’s scenic overlooks, meadows adorned with wildflowers, and well-preserved natural landscapes create an idyllic driving experience that beckons exploration.

US Route 321: Tracing a picturesque path from the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains into the heart of the region, US Route 321 offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and small-town charm. As it winds through the Tennessee countryside, this highway showcases rolling hills, meandering rivers, and a sense of tranquility that encapsulates the spirit of the Smokies.

US Route 129 (Tail of the Dragon): Acclaimed by driving enthusiasts, US Route 129, also known as the Tail of the Dragon, is a world-famous road that winds through the Smokies with 318 exhilarating curves over 11 miles. This challenging and thrilling stretch is a haven for motorcyclists and sports car enthusiasts, offering an unmatched driving experience amid the lush mountain landscape.

Foothills Parkway: As a testament to human engineering harmonizing with the natural world, the Foothills Parkway provides a scenic corridor that elegantly frames the Smokies. Offering unobstructed panoramas of the mountain range, this parkway delivers an awe-inspiring driving experience. Its carefully designed overlooks and thoughtfully curated vistas ensure that every mile traversed is a celebration of the region’s majestic landscapes.

The Smoky Mountain region stands as an epitome of natural beauty and cultural significance, seamlessly connected by an intricate web of highways. Whether venturing through the iconic vistas along Interstate 40, immersing oneself in the grandeur of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park via US Route 441, embarking on a serene journey along the Blue Ridge Parkway, exploring the picturesque countryside along US Route 321, embracing the exhilarating twists of US Route 129 (Tail of the Dragon), or savoring the breathtaking views offered by the Foothills Parkway, each highway presents a distinct facet of the region’s multifaceted allure. As you traverse these roads, you’ll forge a profound appreciation for the Smoky Mountain region’s captivating landscapes and rich heritage.

Our Smoky Mountains Videos

Tennessee Highway 66* – Pigeon Forge to Interstate 40

Tennessee Highway 66* – Pigeon Forge to Interstate 40

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gl955VdO9Po Drive America's Highways for 13 miles north along Tennessee Highway 66 from Pigeon Forge to Interstate 40 in East Tennessee. We start the video driving north on U.S. Highway 441 leaving Pigeon Forge. Continuing through...

U.S. Highway 441 South – Pigeon Forge to Gatlinburg, Tennessee

U.S. Highway 441 South – Pigeon Forge to Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Drive America's Highways for 5 miles south along scenic US-441/US-321 from Pigeon Forge to Gatlinburg in Tennessee We start the drive leaving Pigeon Forge south on snowy U.S. Highway 441 / U.S. Highway 321 / Great Smoky Mountains Parkway towards Gatlinburg. Along the...

Tennessee Highway 66 – Interstate 40 to Sevierville

Tennessee Highway 66 – Interstate 40 to Sevierville

Drive America's Highways for 8.5 miles south along Tennessee State Highway 66 from Interstate 40 to Sevierville. Join us as we drive Tennessee Highway 66 -- Winfield Dunn Parkway -- south towards Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park....