These are the most stunning views in the Great Smoky Mountains: How to see them
In the hills and mountains East Tennessee, nearly every walk or drive has great views. It's why we're a top tourist destination and why thousands of families have pointed their U-Hauls in our direction.
.
This is part of a new USA TODAY network project showcasing breathtaking -- and perhaps, underappreciated -- views throughout the United States. These are some of the most beautiful landmarks, scenic vistas and hidden gems you can truly treasure in your area.
So of course our mountaintops are a part of the USA TODAY Network's new project showcasing breathtaking — and perhaps, underappreciated — scenic views throughout the United States.
These are some of the most beautiful landmarks, scenic vistas and gems you can truly treasure in our area.
Blackberry Mountain
Things to do at Blackberry Mountain: In short: It's the luxury vacation of your dreams. The 5,200-acre property in the Great Smoky Mountains foothills has amazing hiking, of course, as well as world-class dining and spa experiences.
The Blackberry Mountain experience is about revitalizing the mind and body. Try something new with fitness and arts classes, horseback riding, fly fishing, climbing, cocktail mixology lessons and seasonal activities. Plus there are two epic waterslides!
The views from a 1950s lookout and the Firetower restaurant below it are nothing short of breathtaking.
Do you have to pay to see Blackberry Mountain: You can only access Blackberry Mountain as a paying resort guest. Prices at about $2,000 a night with a three-night minimum.
What is the closest city to Cades Cove: Walland, a small community on the Tennessee side of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Getting there: Don't go unless you have a resort reservation: 1507 E. Millers Cove Road, Walland, TN 37886
Kuwohi in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Things to do at Kuwohi: Kuwohi's best view is atop its famous observation tower. It's one mile up and back from the parking lot, and it is steep in sections. But the views to several states are unrivaled!
The Kuwohi parking lot is a launching site for many great hikes, both long and short. The Appalachian Trail follows the ridge and is integrated into several hikes. The adventurous can take the 8-mile hike to Charlies Bunion outcropping, or the less strenuous but equally beautiful 3.6-mile roundtrip to Andrews Bald high-elevation grassy field.
There's a visitors center with a small bookshop and places to have a snack on benches scattered throughout the area.
You might see references to Clingmans Dome, which is the site's former name. It was restored to the Cherokee name, meaning mulberry place, in 2024.
Do you have to pay to see Kuwohi: Entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park is free, but those who park for 15 minutes or longer must buy a $5 parking pass.
What is the closest city to Kuwohi: Kuwohi is between Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and Cherokee, North Carolina.
Getting there: Drive your own car or take a private shuttle. The address is Clingmans Dome Road in Cherokee, NC, 28719.
Cades Cove in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Things to do at Cades Cove: Cades Cove isn't one specific view but a collection of them along the 11-mile loop road. The cove is a valley surrounded by gorgeous mountains and peppered by historic cabins, churches and other buildings.
To experience it best, drive slowly with your windows open or take advantage of biking and walking on vehicle-free days (summertime Wednesdays).
Do you have to pay to see Cades Cove: Entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park is free, but those who park for 15 minutes or longer must buy a $5 parking pass.
What is the closest city to Cades Cove: The charming small town of Townsend, Tennessee, is quite close.
Getting there: Drive your own car or take a private shuttle. Enter the national park in Townsend and follow the signs headed west.
This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: These are the most stunning views in the Great Smoky Mountains: How to see them
