Scenic Drive: The Southern Blue Ridge Parkway Near the Smoky Mountains TN

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Discover the Blue Ridge Parkway's southern end - right at the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains!

 
If you're staying with us at Blue Mountain Cabins in the Smoky Mountains (near Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, or Sevierville, TN), one of the best day trips is hopping on the Blue Ridge Parkway from its southern terminus. The Parkway begins near Cherokee, NC (on the southern side of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, close to the Oconaluftee Visitor Center), offering stunning mountain views, overlooks, and easy access without crowds in some sections.
 

Why this section?  

Although no part of the Blue Ridge Parkway is on the TN side, it's the closest part of the iconic 469-mile Parkway to the Tennessee side of the Smokies - perfect for a relaxed drive or short outing. Access it by driving through the park via Newfound Gap Road (US 441) from Gatlinburg, TN, to Cherokee, NC, then entering the Parkway at Milepost 469. Or, start from Cherokee directly. This southern stretch features rolling ridges, wildflowers (in season), historic sites, and pull-offs for photos.
 

Suggested Route & Highlights (Southern Focus):

Starting Point: Milepost 469 near Cherokee, NC (junction with US 441, adjacent to Oconaluftee Visitor Center in Great Smoky Mountains NP). Drive north on the Parkway for breathtaking vistas.

Make the Oconaluftee Visitor Center and Mountain Farm Museum your first (or must-do) stop along the way!

  • Located right at the southern entrance to the Parkway (just steps from Milepost 469), the Oconaluftee Visitor Center of GSMNP is an excellent starting point with park maps, exhibits on Smokies history and wildlife, restrooms, and friendly rangers. Next door is the Mountain Farm Museum - a fascinating open-air collection of authentic 19th-century log structures (farmhouse, barn, blacksmith shop, corn crib, and more) relocated here to showcase Appalachian pioneer life. Wander the grounds for free year-round, read interpretive signs, and imagine daily life in the mountains. It's a quick, enriching stop that adds cultural depth to your drive.
  • Wildlife highlight:  The expansive fields surrounding the Oconaluftee Visitor Center and museum are one of the most reliable spots in the Great Smoky Mountains to observe the park's elk herd grazing peacefully. Sightings are common year-round, but the best times are early morning (around sunrise to mid-morning) and late afternoon/evening (dusk hours), when the elk are most active in cooler temperatures. In fall, you might even hear bulls bugling during the rut! Keep a safe distance (at least 150 feet), use binoculars or zoom lenses, and never approach or feed them—enjoy from the parking areas or trails for unforgettable views.
Key Stops (closest to TN/Smokies side):
  • Waterrock Knob (Milepost ~451 - 452): The Parkway's highest visitor center area - short trail to panoramic views. Picnic tables are available. 
  • Richland Balsam Overlook: (Milepost 431.4): Our favorite. The highest point on the entire Blue Ridge Parkway at 6,053 feet! Pull off for a parking lot overlook with sweeping views over Nantahala National Forest. This marks the road's peak elevation - great for that "top of the world" feeling without a strenuous hike. Usually, you can smell balsam firs.
  • Other nearby stops: Oconaluftee Valley Overlook, Cowee Mountains Overlook, or short trails/pull-offs for wildflowers and birdwatching.

Drive Time: From Smokies area (e.g., Gatlinburg via Newfound Gap Road to Cherokee), you can reach the southern 30–50 miles in 1.5 - 2 hours one way, depending on stops. Turn around at Richland Balsam or continue farther north if open.

Tips for Your Trip:

  • Check Conditions First: The Parkway is open year-round, but sections (especially higher elevations) close for winter weather, snow, ice, or maintenance. As of February 2026, many parts are closed due to seasonal conditions—verify real-time status at https://www.nps.gov/blri/planyourvisit/roadclosures.htm or call 828-298-0398. Ungated sections may allow access for recreation at your own risk.
  • Weather Prep: Temperatures drop quickly at elevation (10 - 30°F cooler than the lowlands). Bring layers, rain gear, and check forecasts - fog/clouds are common, but clear days offer epic views.
  • Best Time: Spring for blooms, fall for colors; summer is mild; avoid winter drives if closures are widespread.
  • No Fees: Free to drive/explore; no entrance fee.
  • Safety:  Drive slowly (curvy roads), watch for wildlife, and pull over safely at overlooks.
 
This southern section is a perfect "taste" of the Blue Ridge Parkway without committing to the full drive. Pair it with Smokies hikes or relax back at your cabin afterward!