Mountain Getaway: Road Trip from Atlanta to the Great Smoky Mountains

Mist fades into a sunny panorama in the Great Smoky Mountains the blue-hued, forested ridges give the range its name. This mountain road trip from Atlanta leads you to sweeping vistas, adventure-packed towns like Chattanooga, TN, and the natural beauty of America’s most visited national park.

Distance: ~200 miles direct from Atlanta to Great Smoky Mountains National Park (around 3.5–4 hours). However, with scenic stops (e.g. Chattanooga, mountain byways) our suggested loop is closer to 300 miles and best done over 2–3 days.

Route: Head north from Atlanta on I-75 for about 118 miles (roughly 2 hours) to reach Chattanooga, Tennessee, your first stop. After exploring Chattanooga, you have options for reaching the Smokies:

The quickest route is to continue on I-75 north to Knoxville, then take I-40 east to Exit 407 for TN-66/US-441, which leads into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Gatlinburg, TN (this approach enters from the north side).
A more scenic alternative is from Chattanooga to head east on US-74/US-64, known as the Ocoee Scenic Byway, which winds through the Cherokee National Forest alongside the Ocoee River (site of Olympic whitewater events). This route will take you toward western North Carolina; you can then go north through the mountains to enter the Smokies from the south near Cherokee, NC. This path is longer and curvier, but very beautiful for those who enjoy mountain drives.
Either way, you’ll likely base yourself around Gatlinburg, TN or Pigeon Forge, TN (on the park’s north edge) or Cherokee, NC (on the south edge) while exploring the park. You can then loop back to Atlanta via I-40/I-75 or through the Asheville area and down I-85, depending on your route.

Highlights:

Chattanooga, TN: This vibrant city on the Tennessee River makes a great first stop (about 2 hours from ATL). Don’t miss the Tennessee Aquarium, which is often rated among the best aquariums in the country it’s two buildings (River Journey and Ocean Journey) with over 12,000 animals, including a walk-through shark tank and playful river otters. Chattanooga’s walkable downtown has a lovely riverfront; you can stroll across the Walnut Street Pedestrian Bridge, one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world, for great views of the skyline and river. If you’re up for some heights, take the historic Lookout Mountain Incline Railway to the top of Lookout Mountain with a maximum grade of 72.7%, it’s one of the world’s steepest passenger railways (the trolley-style car climbs at a breathtaking angle). At the summit, you can visit Point Park for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. Also on Lookout Mountain are Rock City (famous for its ancient rock formations and “See 7 States” viewpoint) and Ruby Falls, an underground waterfall both are touristy but fun stops if time permits. Back in town, Chattanooga has a growing food scene and is known for its craft breweries. For a local bite, try a Chattanooga classic: a MoonPie and an RC Cola the marshmallow-chocolate MoonPie was invented here in 1917 and is still made in Chattanooga. If you have kids, the Creative Discovery Museum is a great hands-on stop. Two to three hours in Chattanooga (or stay overnight if you can) will set a nice tone for your mountain journey.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee/North Carolina): The Smokies are the grand centerpiece of this trip. Straddling the TN–NC border, Great Smoky Mountains NP is America’s most visited national park, with over 12 million visitors in 2024. As you approach, you’ll notice the signature “smoky” haze hanging over the blue ridges (caused by natural water vapor from the dense forests). One iconic drive is Newfound Gap Road (US-441), which cuts through the park from Gatlinburg, TN to Cherokee, NC over the mountains. Along this road you can stop at Newfound Gap (elevation ~5,046 ft) on the state line there’s a scenic overlook and the spot where President F.D. Roosevelt dedicated the park in 1940. A side road leads 7 miles up to Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the Smokies at 6,643 ft (also the highest point in Tennessee). At Clingmans Dome, a steep half-mile paved path takes you to a 45-ft tall observation tower on clear days you can see 100 miles and into seven states from the top! (The views are spectacular, but bring a jacket; it’s often much cooler up there due to elevation.) If you enjoy hiking, the park has hundreds of miles of trails. Even a short nature walk is rewarding consider the Laurel Falls Trail (2.6 miles round-trip to a beautiful 80-ft waterfall) or Grotto Falls (where you can actually walk behind the cascade). Wildlife spotting is a highlight in the Smokies: keep an eye out for black bears (never approach them; observe from a distance), white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and in the lower fields, maybe elk. In fact, near the Oconaluftee Visitor Center (on the NC side by Cherokee), a herd of elk often grazes in the evenings dawn and dusk are best for sightings. The park also preserves historic mountain culture you can explore old log cabins, mills, and churches in places like Cades Cove or the Mountain Farm Museum at Oconaluftee. The Smokies have no entry fee (one of the few free national parks), but note as of 2023 they require a small parking tag (~$5/day) if you park longer than 15 minutes. Allocate at least a full day (preferably two) to drive and explore the park’s highlights. Even a leisurely drive with scenic pullouts soaking in endless layers of blue ridges is pure medicine for the soul.
Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge, TN: On the Tennessee side, these twin towns cater to millions of park visitors with a mix of attractions. Gatlinburg sits right at the park entrance a walkable mountain town with a kitschy, fun vibe. You’ll find mountain souvenir shops, fudge and taffy stores, and attractions like the SkyBridge (a long pedestrian suspension bridge with glass panels) and Ober Gatlinburg (an aerial tram leading to a small amusement area and winter ski park). You can sample free moonshine at a distillery (the legal kind!) or visit the Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg. A few miles north is Pigeon Forge, famous as the home of Dollywood Dolly Parton’s theme park filled with roller coasters and Appalachian music and crafts. Pigeon Forge’s main strip is lined with dinner theaters, mini-golf, and go-karts a bit like a country-fried Las Vegas. Depending on your interests, you can embrace or skip these touristy diversions. Even if you bypass the commercial stuff, the area is still great for family-friendly fun and serves as a convenient base with plenty of hotels and cabins for rent. In the evenings, consider a classic Tennessee dinner of pulled pork BBQ or flaky catfish with hushpuppies. For a sweet treat, try some fresh-made apple pie or funnel cake from a local bakery. One tip: traffic in Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge can be very heavy in summer and fall weekends using the park’s bypass roads or staying in lodging within walking distance of downtown can save you some headaches.
North Georgia Mountains (Alternate Loop): If you prefer a shorter trip without going as far as the Smokies, consider exploring the North Georgia mountains and looping back. On the drive up I-75 or on the way back down, you could detour through towns like Blue Ridge, GA or Ellijay, GA in the southern Appalachians. Blue Ridge has a quaint downtown with antique shops and a scenic railway, while Ellijay is famous for its apple orchards (fall apple picking and festivals). These communities have a slower pace and beautiful rolling mountain scenery. Closer to Atlanta, the town of Dahlonega, GA (site of a 19th-century gold rush) offers a charming square and even local wineries. While not as towering as the Smokies, the North Georgia mountains provide lovely vistas, hiking to waterfalls (e.g. Amicalola Falls), and that cozy mountain town feel. This could be an alternative route back from the Smokies or a weekend trip on its own.

Tips:

Mountain Driving: Be prepared for winding roads as you get into the hills. If you take the Ocoee Scenic Byway (US-74) or other backroads, the curves can be tight take your time and enjoy the scenery. When descending steep grades in the park or mountain highways, shift to a lower gear to avoid overheating your brakes (you’ll see truckers do this). The roads inside Great Smoky Mountains NP are well-paved but can be narrow with sheer drop-offs in places; obey posted speed limits and use pull-offs to let faster cars pass if needed. In winter (and occasionally early spring), some mountain roads can close for snow/ice always check park updates if traveling in colder months. Weather can change quickly in the mountains; a sunny day in the valley could mean fog or an afternoon storm on the peaks. Keep an eye out for wildlife crossing the roads, especially at dawn/dusk deer and elk don’t understand traffic laws!
Avoiding Crowds: The Smokies see heavy visitation, so plan around peak times if possible. Early morning is the best time to enter the park you’ll find quieter trails and better chances to spot wildlife (plus the soft light filtering through the trees is magical). Popular spots like Clingmans Dome parking or Cades Cove loop can fill up late in the day, so go early or late. If you’re visiting in October (peak fall foliage season), expect large crowds especially on weekends, as the autumn colors in the Smokies are legendary. In summer, weekends and holidays likewise bring traffic weekdays are calmer. Even when it’s busy, you can usually find less crowded trails by avoiding the famous ones; the park is huge. The Sugarlands Visitor Center (Gatlinburg side) or Oconaluftee Visitor Center (Cherokee side) are great first stops for maps and advice from rangers on that day’s best hikes or wildlife spots.
Lodging: For the Smokies portion, consider staying overnight in or near the park to maximize your time. Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge have plentiful hotels, cabins, and motels at various price points. If you prefer more peace, look at Townsend, TN (called the “Quiet Side of the Smokies”) or Bryson City, NC smaller gateways to the park. Camping is also an option at park campgrounds like Elkmont or Smokemont (reservations recommended in summer). In Chattanooga, an overnight stay would let you enjoy the riverfront nightlife (the downtown is safe and lively) and perhaps catch a sunset from Lookout Mountain.
Packing & Gear: Even in summer, mountain weather can be cooler at higher elevations bring a light jacket or sweatshirt for nights and for Clingmans Dome (it can be 10–20°F cooler up top). Comfortable hiking shoes or sneakers are a must if you plan to hit the trails. Carry water when hiking (don’t underestimate even short hikes in humid weather). Insect repellent is wise for wooded trails to ward off ticks and mosquitoes. And have rain gear handy a compact poncho or umbrella because mountain storms can surprise you. If you plan on enjoying river activities (like whitewater rafting on the Ocoee or tubing in the Little River), pack quick-dry clothes or swimsuits.
Attractions & Tickets: If you’re interested in Dollywood or any big attractions (like the Incline Railway, Rock City, etc.), look into tickets in advance or combo passes, which might save money. Dollywood, for example, can be very busy in summer and around Christmas; purchasing tickets online and arriving at opening can help avoid lines. In Chattanooga, the Tennessee Aquarium doesn’t usually require advance purchase, but check hours (it’s typically open daily). For free activities like hiking and scenic drives, no tickets needed just your park parking pass in the Smokies (available on-site or online). If you plan to do a popular hike like Alum Cave Trail or Laurel Falls, try to go early in the day for parking.
Wildlife Safety: The Smokies are home to over 1,500 black bears. Chances are you might see one from a distance (especially if driving through Cades Cove at dusk). This is a treat, but do not approach or feed bears for any reason it’s dangerous for you and the bear (park rangers strictly enforce this). Keep a safe distance (at least 50 yards). If camping or picnicking, use bear-proof trash cans and never leave food out. The same goes for elk (they can be aggressive in mating season) admire from afar. For hiking, consider carrying bear spray if you’re going deep into backcountry, though most busy trails are safe and bear encounters are very rare. More commonly, you’ll see cute smaller critters like squirrels, chipmunks, or maybe a salamander near streams (the Smokies are known as the “Salamander Capital of the World” for all their species). Always drive the park roads at or below speed limit, especially at night, to avoid hitting wildlife.

This mountain road trip provides an exciting contrast to city life in Atlanta one day you’re marveling at an aquarium and urban bridges, the next you’re surrounded by the calm of misty mountains and chirping wood thrushes. Whether you’re riding roller coasters in Pigeon Forge, enjoying a slice of homemade pie in a mountain town, or watching the sunset from a Blue Ridge overlook, you’ll get a refreshing dose of “mountain magic.” Take a deep breath of that pine-scented air and enjoy the journey!

Mountain Getaway: Road Trip from Atlanta to the Great Smoky Mountains

The quickest route is to continue on I-75 north to Knoxville, then take I-40 east to Exit 407 for TN-66/US-441, which leads into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Gatlinburg, TN (this approach enters from the north side).
A more scenic alternative is from Chattanooga to head east on US-74/US-64, known as the Ocoee Scenic Byway, which winds through the Cherokee National Forest alongside the Ocoee River (site of Olympic whitewater events). This route will take you toward western North Carolina; you can then go north through the mountains to enter the Smokies from the south near Cherokee, NC. This path is longer and curvier, but very beautiful for those who enjoy mountain drives.
Either way, you’ll likely base yourself around Gatlinburg, TN or Pigeon Forge, TN (on the park’s north edge) or Cherokee, NC (on the south edge) while exploring the park. You can then loop back to Atlanta via I-40/I-75 or through the Asheville area and down I-85, depending on your route.

Highlights:

Chattanooga, TN: This vibrant city on the Tennessee River makes a great first stop (about 2 hours from ATL). Don’t miss the Tennessee Aquarium, which is often rated among the best aquariums in the country it’s two buildings (River Journey and Ocean Journey) with over 12,000 animals, including a walk-through shark tank and playful river otters. Chattanooga’s walkable downtown has a lovely riverfront; you can stroll across the Walnut Street Pedestrian Bridge, one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world, for great views of the skyline and river. If you’re up for some heights, take the historic Lookout Mountain Incline Railway to the top of Lookout Mountain with a maximum grade of 72.7%, it’s one of the world’s steepest passenger railways (the trolley-style car climbs at a breathtaking angle). At the summit, you can visit Point Park for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. Also on Lookout Mountain are Rock City (famous for its ancient rock formations and “See 7 States” viewpoint) and Ruby Falls, an underground waterfall both are touristy but fun stops if time permits. Back in town, Chattanooga has a growing food scene and is known for its craft breweries. For a local bite, try a Chattanooga classic: a MoonPie and an RC Cola the marshmallow-chocolate MoonPie was invented here in 1917 and is still made in Chattanooga. If you have kids, the Creative Discovery Museum is a great hands-on stop. Two to three hours in Chattanooga (or stay overnight if you can) will set a nice tone for your mountain journey.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee/North Carolina): The Smokies are the grand centerpiece of this trip. Straddling the TN–NC border, Great Smoky Mountains NP is America’s most visited national park, with over 12 million visitors in 2024. As you approach, you’ll notice the signature “smoky” haze hanging over the blue ridges (caused by natural water vapor from the dense forests). One iconic drive is Newfound Gap Road (US-441), which cuts through the park from Gatlinburg, TN to Cherokee, NC over the mountains. Along this road you can stop at Newfound Gap (elevation ~5,046 ft) on the state line there’s a scenic overlook and the spot where President F.D. Roosevelt dedicated the park in 1940. A side road leads 7 miles up to Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the Smokies at 6,643 ft (also the highest point in Tennessee). At Clingmans Dome, a steep half-mile paved path takes you to a 45-ft tall observation tower on clear days you can see 100 miles and into seven states from the top! (The views are spectacular, but bring a jacket; it’s often much cooler up there due to elevation.) If you enjoy hiking, the park has hundreds of miles of trails. Even a short nature walk is rewarding consider the Laurel Falls Trail (2.6 miles round-trip to a beautiful 80-ft waterfall) or Grotto Falls (where you can actually walk behind the cascade). Wildlife spotting is a highlight in the Smokies: keep an eye out for black bears (never approach them; observe from a distance), white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and in the lower fields, maybe elk. In fact, near the Oconaluftee Visitor Center (on the NC side by Cherokee), a herd of elk often grazes in the evenings dawn and dusk are best for sightings. The park also preserves historic mountain culture you can explore old log cabins, mills, and churches in places like Cades Cove or the Mountain Farm Museum at Oconaluftee. The Smokies have no entry fee (one of the few free national parks), but note as of 2023 they require a small parking tag (~$5/day) if you park longer than 15 minutes. Allocate at least a full day (preferably two) to drive and explore the park’s highlights. Even a leisurely drive with scenic pullouts soaking in endless layers of blue ridges is pure medicine for the soul.
Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge, TN: On the Tennessee side, these twin towns cater to millions of park visitors with a mix of attractions. Gatlinburg sits right at the park entrance a walkable mountain town with a kitschy, fun vibe. You’ll find mountain souvenir shops, fudge and taffy stores, and attractions like the SkyBridge (a long pedestrian suspension bridge with glass panels) and Ober Gatlinburg (an aerial tram leading to a small amusement area and winter ski park). You can sample free moonshine at a distillery (the legal kind!) or visit the Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg. A few miles north is Pigeon Forge, famous as the home of Dollywood Dolly Parton’s theme park filled with roller coasters and Appalachian music and crafts. Pigeon Forge’s main strip is lined with dinner theaters, mini-golf, and go-karts a bit like a country-fried Las Vegas. Depending on your interests, you can embrace or skip these touristy diversions. Even if you bypass the commercial stuff, the area is still great for family-friendly fun and serves as a convenient base with plenty of hotels and cabins for rent. In the evenings, consider a classic Tennessee dinner of pulled pork BBQ or flaky catfish with hushpuppies. For a sweet treat, try some fresh-made apple pie or funnel cake from a local bakery. One tip: traffic in Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge can be very heavy in summer and fall weekends using the park’s bypass roads or staying in lodging within walking distance of downtown can save you some headaches.
North Georgia Mountains (Alternate Loop): If you prefer a shorter trip without going as far as the Smokies, consider exploring the North Georgia mountains and looping back. On the drive up I-75 or on the way back down, you could detour through towns like Blue Ridge, GA or Ellijay, GA in the southern Appalachians. Blue Ridge has a quaint downtown with antique shops and a scenic railway, while Ellijay is famous for its apple orchards (fall apple picking and festivals). These communities have a slower pace and beautiful rolling mountain scenery. Closer to Atlanta, the town of Dahlonega, GA (site of a 19th-century gold rush) offers a charming square and even local wineries. While not as towering as the Smokies, the North Georgia mountains provide lovely vistas, hiking to waterfalls (e.g. Amicalola Falls), and that cozy mountain town feel. This could be an alternative route back from the Smokies or a weekend trip on its own.

Tips:

Mountain Driving: Be prepared for winding roads as you get into the hills. If you take the Ocoee Scenic Byway (US-74) or other backroads, the curves can be tight take your time and enjoy the scenery. When descending steep grades in the park or mountain highways, shift to a lower gear to avoid overheating your brakes (you’ll see truckers do this). The roads inside Great Smoky Mountains NP are well-paved but can be narrow with sheer drop-offs in places; obey posted speed limits and use pull-offs to let faster cars pass if needed. In winter (and occasionally early spring), some mountain roads can close for snow/ice always check park updates if traveling in colder months. Weather can change quickly in the mountains; a sunny day in the valley could mean fog or an afternoon storm on the peaks. Keep an eye out for wildlife crossing the roads, especially at dawn/dusk deer and elk don’t understand traffic laws!
Avoiding Crowds: The Smokies see heavy visitation, so plan around peak times if possible. Early morning is the best time to enter the park you’ll find quieter trails and better chances to spot wildlife (plus the soft light filtering through the trees is magical). Popular spots like Clingmans Dome parking or Cades Cove loop can fill up late in the day, so go early or late. If you’re visiting in October (peak fall foliage season), expect large crowds especially on weekends, as the autumn colors in the Smokies are legendary. In summer, weekends and holidays likewise bring traffic weekdays are calmer. Even when it’s busy, you can usually find less crowded trails by avoiding the famous ones; the park is huge. The Sugarlands Visitor Center (Gatlinburg side) or Oconaluftee Visitor Center (Cherokee side) are great first stops for maps and advice from rangers on that day’s best hikes or wildlife spots.
Lodging: For the Smokies portion, consider staying overnight in or near the park to maximize your time. Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge have plentiful hotels, cabins, and motels at various price points. If you prefer more peace, look at Townsend, TN (called the “Quiet Side of the Smokies”) or Bryson City, NC smaller gateways to the park. Camping is also an option at park campgrounds like Elkmont or Smokemont (reservations recommended in summer). In Chattanooga, an overnight stay would let you enjoy the riverfront nightlife (the downtown is safe and lively) and perhaps catch a sunset from Lookout Mountain.
Packing & Gear: Even in summer, mountain weather can be cooler at higher elevations bring a light jacket or sweatshirt for nights and for Clingmans Dome (it can be 10–20°F cooler up top). Comfortable hiking shoes or sneakers are a must if you plan to hit the trails. Carry water when hiking (don’t underestimate even short hikes in humid weather). Insect repellent is wise for wooded trails to ward off ticks and mosquitoes. And have rain gear handy a compact poncho or umbrella because mountain storms can surprise you. If you plan on enjoying river activities (like whitewater rafting on the Ocoee or tubing in the Little River), pack quick-dry clothes or swimsuits.
Attractions & Tickets: If you’re interested in Dollywood or any big attractions (like the Incline Railway, Rock City, etc.), look into tickets in advance or combo passes, which might save money. Dollywood, for example, can be very busy in summer and around Christmas; purchasing tickets online and arriving at opening can help avoid lines. In Chattanooga, the Tennessee Aquarium doesn’t usually require advance purchase, but check hours (it’s typically open daily). For free activities like hiking and scenic drives, no tickets needed just your park parking pass in the Smokies (available on-site or online). If you plan to do a popular hike like Alum Cave Trail or Laurel Falls, try to go early in the day for parking.
Wildlife Safety: The Smokies are home to over 1,500 black bears. Chances are you might see one from a distance (especially if driving through Cades Cove at dusk). This is a treat, but do not approach or feed bears for any reason it’s dangerous for you and the bear (park rangers strictly enforce this). Keep a safe distance (at least 50 yards). If camping or picnicking, use bear-proof trash cans and never leave food out. The same goes for elk (they can be aggressive in mating season) admire from afar. For hiking, consider carrying bear spray if you’re going deep into backcountry, though most busy trails are safe and bear encounters are very rare. More commonly, you’ll see cute smaller critters like squirrels, chipmunks, or maybe a salamander near streams (the Smokies are known as the “Salamander Capital of the World” for all their species). Always drive the park roads at or below speed limit, especially at night, to avoid hitting wildlife.