Most Scenic Road Trips in Knoxville, Tennessee, United States

Knoxville, United States, Knoxville, Activity-Based Travel Pages, Most Scenic Road Trips

Most Scenic Road Trips in Knoxville, Tennessee, United States

1. Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

A scenic road trip taking you through the beautiful Cumberland Plateau and the historic pass where Daniel Boone led settlers into Kentucky.
  • Historic Landmark: Offers a glimpse into America's early history.
  • Hiking Trails: Features numerous hiking trails for nature enthusiasts.
  • Scenic Drive: Offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

2. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

A scenic drive through one of America's most visited national parks, offering stunning views of the Smoky Mountains.
  • Biodiversity: Home to a diverse array of plant and animal life.
  • Cultural Heritage: Preserves the rich cultural heritage of the Southern Appalachian region.
  • Auto Touring Routes: Features several auto touring routes for a relaxing drive.

3. Foothills Parkway

A scenic road trip offering panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains and the Tennessee Valley.
  • Engineering Marvel: Constructed along the contours of the mountains, providing a unique driving experience.
  • Photography Opportunities: Ideal for photography enthusiasts due to its picturesque landscapes.
  • Least Crowded Route: Less crowded compared to other popular routes in the area.

4. Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

A scenic drive through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with numerous stops for waterfalls and historic cabins.
  • Waterfall Viewing: Allows for multiple waterfall viewing opportunities.
  • Historic Sites: Features historic sites like the Old Mill and Sugarlands Visitor Center.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Provides opportunities to spot various wildlife species.

5. Tail of the Dragon

A challenging and scenic drive along 11 miles of twisty roads in Deals Gap, offering breathtaking views of the Tennessee Valley.
  • Motorcycle Rally: Hosts an annual motorcycle rally attracting enthusiasts from around the world.
  • Driving Experience: Known for its unique driving experience due to the numerous curves.
  • Scenic Photography: Offers excellent opportunities for scenic photography.

6. Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway

A scenic ride up to Ober Gatlinburg Ski Area and Amusement Park offering panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains.
  • Ski Resort: Serves as a ski resort during winter months.
  • Amusement Park: Features an amusement park with numerous attractions.
  • Scenic Views: Offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valley.

7. Clingmans Dome

A scenic drive to the highest point in Tennessee, offering panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains.
  • Observation Tower: Features an observation tower for a 360-degree view.
  • Sunrise and Sunset Viewing: Ideal spot for watching the sunrise or sunset over the mountains.
  • Hiking Trails: Surrounded by hiking trails, providing opportunities to explore further.

8. Chilhowee Mountain Scenic Highway

A scenic drive offering panoramic views of the Tennessee Valley and Cherokee National Forest.
  • Cherokee National Forest: Passes through the beautiful Cherokee National Forest.
  • Lake Tellico Views: Offers scenic views of Lake Tellico and the surrounding mountains.
  • Historic Bridges: Features several historic bridges along the route.

9. River Road Scenic Byway

A scenic drive following the Tennessee River, offering views of historic sites, parks, and wildlife.
  • Historic Sites: Passes by several historic sites like Fort Loudon and the Museum of Appalachia.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Provides opportunities to spot various wildlife species along the riverbank.
  • Recreational Opportunities: Offers numerous recreational opportunities like fishing, boating, and picnicking.

10. Norris Dam State Park

A scenic drive through a state park featuring Norris Dam, offering views of the Clinch River and surrounding mountains.
  • Norris Dam: Features the impressive Norris Dam and Lake.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Provides opportunities to spot various wildlife species along the riverbank.
  • Recreational Opportunities: Offers numerous recreational opportunities like fishing, boating, and picnicking.

11. Tellico Plains Scenic Byway

A scenic drive offering panoramic views of the Tennessee Valley and Cherokee National Forest.
  • Cherokee National Forest: Passes through the beautiful Cherokee National Forest.
  • Historic Sites: Features several historic sites like Fort Louden and Historic Tellico Plains.
  • Recreational Opportunities: Offers numerous recreational opportunities like hiking, fishing, and camping.

12. Fall Creek Falls State Park

A scenic drive through a state park featuring Fall Creek Falls, one of the highest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River.
  • Waterfall Viewing: Features the stunning Fall Creek Falls.
  • Hiking Trails: Surrounded by hiking trails, providing opportunities to explore further.
  • Recreational Opportunities: Offers numerous recreational opportunities like camping and fishing.

13. Cumberland Mountain State Park

A scenic drive through a state park offering panoramic views of the Cumberland Plateau and surrounding valleys.
  • Scenic Views: Offers breathtaking views of the Cumberland Plateau and surrounding valleys.
  • Hiking Trails: Surrounded by hiking trails, providing opportunities to explore further.
  • Recreational Opportunities: Offers numerous recreational opportunities like camping and boating.

14. Hiwassee River Scenic Byway

A scenic drive following the Hiwassee River, offering views of historic sites, parks, and wildlife.
  • Historic Sites: Passes by several historic sites like the Copperhill Mining Museum.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Provides opportunities to spot various wildlife species along the riverbank.
  • Recreational Opportunities: Offers numerous recreational opportunities like fishing, boating, and picnicking.

15. Clinchfield Railroad Scenic Byway

A scenic drive offering panoramic views of the Clinch Mountains and the Clinch River.
  • Mountain Views: Offers breathtaking views of the Clinch Mountains.
  • River Viewing: Provides opportunities to view the scenic Clinch River.
  • Historic Railroad Sites: Features several historic railroad sites and artifacts.