When you visit the Great Smoky Mountains, you quickly learn there are only two roads in national park.  One that goes over the mountain, Newfound Gap Road; and the other which goes across the mountain, Little River Road.   

Each road offers things to do and see, trailheads to hike, and places to rest, fish, play in the water, and see the wildlife and wildflowers.  Most often visitors’ are wanting to go to the most popular places they find on the internet.  The most traveled trails and waterfalls.  There are around 160 trails in the park equaling over 900 miles to  hike.  Not everyone is experienced, or prepared for what they think will be easy.  Many visitors’ lack the knowledge that elevation means ‘colder, windier, sometimes wetter’.  Even in the Summer months, take a jacket, or rain gear on your hikes.  Find a reliable weather or trail app and look up the trails and what the weather will be during your visit on the mountain.  

Smoky Mountains Road Guide Facebook page just completed a daily series of things to stop and see and enjoy while you are on Newfound Gap Road. This is worth reading and following the page to keep updated on road conditions.  The top of the mountain is Kuwohi and has a half-mile hike to the top of the dome or tower at 6,643 feet.  You will be at the highest elevation and have 360 degree views of the mountains. Great for Sunrise or Sunset photography and special memories.  It is a ‘must visit’. 

Along Newfound Gap Road, there are quiet walkways, Chimney Tops Picnic area and hike, Alum Bluffs Trail, that continues to Mt. LeConte Lodge atop the mountain ridge and has the Clifftop Bluff Lookout across from the lodge.  Let’s not forget the many pull-offs to stop and see the valleys and beauty of the mountains.  Newfound Gap Lookout itself is steeped in history as President John D. Rockefeller gave the dedication speech of the park from this location. 

As you enter into Cherokee, the elk may be on the roadside in the fields near the Oconalufte Visitor Center.  Go slow and watch for them.  The Mingus Mill and Farm Museum by the visitor center are stops worth visiting.  Rich history about the area, the CCC that helped to build the park and Cherokee way of life are found here.   Slow down and enjoy your visit to the Great Smoky Mountains and share with your friends and family how it made you feel.