One of the best parts about planning a camping trip here at River Cove Campground is having access to all of the amazing places here in the Smoky Mountains during your stay. Whether you decide to plan a hike to a scenic overlook, or pile into the car to check out a scenic drive, there are so many opportunities to discover the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains when you are here in the area. With that in mind, let’s explore some of the top places that you can check out to admire stunning Smoky Mountain views:
1. Gregory Bald
The first of the places to check out Smoky Mountain views that we are covering is Gregory Bald. While the hike to reach this point is a fairly strenuous 11.3-mile roundtrip, the views are more than enough reward to make it worthwhile. Gregory Bald features stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, plus visitors can see the blooming flame azaleas that bloom during June each year! Just make sure to wear good hiking shoes and carry drinking water with you, as it will take several hours to complete this hike.
2. Clingmans Dome
As the highest point in Great Smoky Mountains National Park at 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome is another of the top spots to see Smoky Mountain views. For most of the year, you can easily access Clingmans Dome by using the access road, but keep in mind that the road is closed from early December to late March. You can still reach Clingmans Dome during this time of year, but you will need to embark on a 14-mile roundtrip hike. Some people even choose to go cross country skiing on Clingmans Dome Road during winter!
3. Mount LeConte
Another of the best spots for Smoky Mountain views is the summit of Mount LeConte. In order to reach the summit and return, you will need to hike 11 miles total. Since there is considerable elevation gain, this hike is considered strenuous. However, there are tons of fun spots to check out along this trail, including Arch Rock, Alum Cave, and of course, the summit itself.
4. Newfound Gap Road
As the lowest drivable pass in the Smoky Mountains, Newfound Gap Road offers some unique views of the area. This 33-mile road passes by a variety of sights, including overlooks, trails, and more! The most notable site along the drive is Newfound Gap itself, where President Franklin D. Roosevelt first dedicated Great Smoky Mountains National Park. From great views, to historical sites, and more, this scenic drive has something for everyone!
5. Gatlinburg Overlook
If you are looking for an easy way to check out Smoky Mountain views without hiking, the Gatlinburg Overlook is the perfect spot for you! This overlook is located along the side of the road, which makes it easy to get to this spot. From the overlook, you can see Gatlinburg itself as well as the surrounding mountains, which can make for excellent photos!
When you stop by some of these places to see Smoky Mountain views, you will be able to take in some of the most stunning sights around, get memorable photos with family and friends, and plenty more. If you are ready to explore all that the Smoky Mountains have to offer, then what are you waiting for? Go ahead and book your stay here at our Smoky Mountains campground today and get ready for lots of adventures here in the Smokies!
