Get ready for a road trip that will inspire you at every turn as you drive from Nashville to Gatlinburg. This 220-mile stretch is an adventure through the heart of Tennessee. Picture rolling hills, charming towns, and mouth-watering Southern eats that make each mile worth savoring. While it takes about 3.5 hours without stops, you’ll want to soak in the beauty along the way. This guide will help turn your Smoky Mountain road trip into an unforgettable experience.
So, pack your bags, cue up your playlist, and get ready to make some incredible memories!
The Scenic Route to the Smoky Mountains
Nashville
Your adventure begins in Nashville, the heart of country music. Spend time exploring Broadway, where honky-tonks line the streets, and live music fills the air. Catch a show at the legendary Grand Ole Opry and stroll along the Music City Walk of Fame. For a glimpse of history, visit the Country Music Hall of Fame, home to several artifacts from Taylor Swift’s early country music career, or explore the Johnny Cash Museum for an in-depth look at the Man in Black’s legacy. You could easily spend a couple of days here soaking it all in.
Before hitting the road, treat yourself to Nashville’s culinary scene. Grab a bite of the famous Nashville Hot Chicken at Hattie B’s, or enjoy a hearty brunch at Biscuit Love. With your stomach full and your spirits high, it’s time to head east toward Gatlinburg!
Burgess Falls State Park
About an hour and a half from Nashville, Burgess Falls State Park is a must-see nature escape. Known for its series of stunning waterfalls, including the 136-foot main cascade, this state park is perfect for a scenic break. Take the River Trail, a moderately strenuous 1.5-mile round-trip hike that rewards you with breathtaking views of the falls. Bring sturdy shoes, as some parts of the trail can be steep, but the sights and photo ops make the effort well worth it. It’s the perfect spot for nature lovers looking to stretch their legs and breathe in some fresh air before continuing east.
Cumberland Caverns
Continue your adventure by driving 30 minutes to Cumberland Caverns in McMinnville. This remarkable cave system stretches for over 32 miles underground, offering guided tours through its stunning formations of stalactites, stalagmites, and underground waterfalls. For a unique experience, enjoy a concert in an underground concert hall. Whether you opt for a standard walking tour or something more adventurous like a spelunking tour, the caverns are a fascinating geological wonder worth exploring.
Knoxville
Continue on I-40 East for about an hour and a half to Knoxville, a city with a rich history and vibrant downtown. Take a stroll through Market Square, lined with 19th-century buildings, including the site of the 1796 Constitutional Convention, where Tennessee gained statehood. For history buffs, the Museum of East Tennessee offers interactive displays of regional artwork, textiles, and Civil War relics.
If you have more time, explore World’s Fair Park, home to the 1982 World’s Fair and the iconic Sunsphere, a golden, disco ball-like tower with an observation deck offering views of the Smokies. Head to the South Knoxville Bluffs for a short hike offering panoramic sunset views. Knoxville is also known for its festivals, live performances, and access to the Tennessee River, where you can paddle past the downtown skyline and forested banks.
The Foothills Parkway Scenic Drive Near Townsend
After Knoxville, take a short detour onto the Foothills Parkway near Townsend. This 33-mile stretch offers stunning mountain views, which become especially breathtaking in the fall. As the road winds through the Smokies, you’ll find multiple overlooks where you can pull over, stretch your legs, and soak in the scenery en route to your next stop: Pigeon Forge.
Pigeon Forge
Just 15 minutes from Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge is packed with family-friendly attractions, shops, and restaurants. Thrill-seekers can head to Dollywood, a theme park offering over 60 rides and slides, shows, and plenty of Southern charm. The town is also home to the Titanic Museum, a replica of the famed ship featuring recovered artifacts, along with dinner theaters, and the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster.
If you’re torn between staying in Gatlinburg vs. Pigeon Forge, check out our guide to help you decide. These two gateway towns are only a few miles apart, offering unique experiences just a short drive from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Gatlinburg
Welcome to Gatlinburg, your gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Gatlinburg boasts a charming downtown filled with log cabin-style shops, art galleries, and cozy restaurants. The town’s proximity to the Sugarlands Visitor Center makes it easy to explore the national park’s trails, swimming holes, and outdoor adventures.
Where to Stay Near Gatlinburg
Under Canvas Great Smoky Mountains offers a one-of-a-kind retreat just 10 miles from Gatlinburg in Pigeon Forge. Set on 182 acres of forest near the park entrance, our safari-inspired tents, equipped with king-size beds and plush bedding, let you wake up to birdsong and morning light filtering through the trees. Start your day with yoga in nature, explore the outdoors, and unwind with al fresco dining and mountain views just steps from your tent after a full day of adventure. Gather around the campfire for s’mores each night under a canopy of stars, creating memories to last a lifetime.