Scenic Drives & Day Trips
The Quiet Side of the Smoky Mountains: Places to Escape the Crowds Near Gatlinburg
The Great Smoky Mountains are one of the most visited national parks in the country, but that does not mean your vacation has to feel crowded. Many visitors come to Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville expecting beautiful mountain scenery, peaceful mornings, and time in nature - only to find themselves stuck in traffic or surrounded by crowds during peak seasons. We often recommend these areas to guests who want to slow down, enjoy the scenery, and experience the mountains' quieter side.