Travel Discovery

Day Trips from Nashville to the Great Smoky Mountains

Destination: Nashville, TN to Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    1. Morning Departure to Gatlinburg
    2. Overview: Begin your adventure early by hitting the road towards Gatlinburg, a charming gateway town to the Smoky Mountains. The scenic drive takes approximately 3.5 hours via I-40 E and US-441 S, allowing you time to enjoy the transitioning landscapes from the rolling hills of Tennessee to the towering mountain vistas.

    3. Departure Time: 6:00 AM from Nashville

    4. Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

    5. Detailed Description: Upon arrival in Gatlinburg, start with the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, a 6-mile loop drive that showcases the natural beauty and historic structures of the Smokies. Meander through dense forests, past rushing streams, and witness old log cabins and grist mills that whisper stories of the area's pioneer past. Rating: 4.8/5
    6. Duration: 2 hours including stops

    7. Next Stop: Lunch at the Pancake Pantry in Gatlinburg, famous for their fluffy pancakes and Southern comfort food.

    8. Hike to Grotto Falls

    9. Detailed Description: After lunch, embark on a moderate 2.6-mile roundtrip hike to Grotto Falls, a unique waterfall where visitors can walk behind the cascading water. This family-friendly trail in the Trillium Gap area offers a cool respite and an unforgettable experience. Rating: 4.6/5

    10. Duration: 2-3 hours including the hike and relaxation at the falls

    11. Cades Cove Loop

    12. Detailed Description: Late afternoon, head to Cades Cove, a broad valley surrounded by mountains known for its abundant wildlife viewing opportunities and preserved pioneer homesteads. The 11-mile, one-way loop offers numerous pull-offs for wildlife sightings, from white-tailed deer to black bears, and historic structures exploration. For a quieter experience, consider biking the loop before 10 AM or after 5 PM. Rating: 4.9/5

    13. Duration: 2-4 hours, depending on stops and traffic within the loop

    14. Sunset at Clingmans Dome

    15. Detailed Description: Conclude your day with a sunset visit to Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. A half-mile steep paved trail leads to an observation tower offering panoramic views of the Smokies bathed in golden light. Arrive about an hour before sunset to capture the full experience. Rating: 4.7/5

    16. Duration: 1.5 hours including hike and viewing

    17. Return Journey to Nashville

    18. Departure Time: Begin your journey back to Nashville after sunset, around 8:30 PM, ensuring a safe and well-rested return.