Scenic Drives

Explore the Scenic Beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains

Bryson City's scenic drives through the Smoky Mountains and Blue Ridge Mountains are some of the best in the country.Experiences will vary by season. Winter and early spring provide better long-range views along leafless overlooks. Summer and fall are the pefect time to combine a scenic drive with a hiking adventure.. No matter when you plan to visit, make time for a day trip from Bryson City to experience some of our favorite scenic drives.

Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway has several access points near Bryson City

Scenic Byway - The Nantahala Gorge

Drive the scenic Nantahala River Gorge to view beautiful river scenes, whitewater…

Newfound Gap Road

A 33 mile scenic drive through the high elevations of the Great Smoky Mountains…

Road to Nowhere

Venture Into History One of the most unique areas in Bryson City is found on Lakeview…

Clingmans Dome Road

Clingmans Dome Road takes you on a scenic journey to the highest point in the…

Hellbender 28

North Carolina Highway 28 N twists and turns its way through the Smokies and near…

Cherohala Skyway

This scenic highway features spectacular mountain views with multiple overlooks.

Tail of the Dragon

Test your wheels on the Dragon, a thrilling drive with 318 curves in just 11 miles…

Little River Road

This 18-mile scenic drive dead-ends at Cades Cove, and provides spectacular scenery…

Roaring Fork Motor Nature Tour

The 5.5-mile-long, one-way, loop road is a favorite slow drive for many people. It…

Winter Road Closure Information

Because scenic drives are often located a higher elevation, winter weather such as snow or ice in tunnels can cause road closures during the winter months. Know before you go on the Blue Ridge Parkway or through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park:

Blue Ridge Parkway

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Scenic Drives 3 years ago