
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.