Unveiling Gatlinburg’s Natural Wonders: Discover the Best Views in Town

Gatlinburg, Tennessee is nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains and is known for its stunning natural beauty. With so many scenic views to explore, it can be hard to know where to start. Here are some of the best ways to experience the stunning views of Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains:

Lookout Points

If you’re looking to take in some breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg has several lookout points that offer stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Here are some of the best lookout points to visit:

Clingmans Dome

Located at an elevation of 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and offers stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. To reach the lookout point, visitors must hike a steep half-mile trail to the observation tower.

Newfound Gap

Newfound Gap is another popular lookout point that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The lookout point is located at an elevation of 5,046 feet and is accessible by car via the Newfound Gap Road.

Morton Overlook

Morton Overlook is a lesser-known lookout point that offers stunning views of the valley below. Located off the Newfound Gap Road, the overlook features a short trail that leads to a rock outcropping with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook

Located on the Gatlinburg Bypass, the Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook offers stunning views of the city of Gatlinburg and the surrounding mountains. The overlook features a large parking area and several picnic tables where you can enjoy a meal while taking in the view.

Hiking Trails

If you want to get up close and personal with the stunning natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains, there are plenty of hiking trails to explore. Here are some of the best hiking trails in the area:

Chimney Tops Trail

The Chimney Tops Trail is a steep and strenuous 2.5-mile hike that offers stunning views of the Chimney Tops rock formations. The trail is rated as difficult, but the views from the top are well worth the effort.

Alum Cave Trail

The Alum Cave Trail is a moderate 5-mile round-trip hike that offers stunning views of Mount LeConte and Alum Cave Bluffs. The trail passes through a beautiful forest and along a rocky stream before reaching the top, where hikers can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Rainbow Falls Trail

The Rainbow Falls Trail is a moderate to difficult 5.4-mile round-trip hike that offers stunning views of Rainbow Falls and Mount LeConte. The trail is known for its beautiful scenery, including old-growth forests and rocky streams, and is a popular spot for birdwatching.

Activities

If you’re looking for more adventure, there are plenty of exciting activities to enjoy in Gatlinburg as well.

Gatlinburg SkyLift

Take a scenic chairlift ride up to the top of Crockett Mountain for breathtaking views of Gatlinburg and the surrounding mountains. At the top, you can also explore the SkyDeck observation area and the SkyCenter building, which features a bar, gift shop, and restrooms.

SkyBridge

The SkyBridge is the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America, spanning 680 feet across and offering stunning views of the Smoky Mountains and valley below. The bridge is part of the SkyLift Park, so you can easily combine the two activities for a full day of fun.

Space Needle Observation Tower

Standing at 407 feet tall, the Space Needle Observation Tower offers 360-degree views of the Smoky Mountains and Gatlinburg. Take the glass elevator to the top and enjoy the view from the observation deck, or grab a bite to eat at the Space Needle Restaurant.

Alpine Coasters

Thrill-seekers won’t want to miss a ride on one of Gatlinburg’s alpine coasters, which are gravity-driven rides that take you through twists, turns, and drops. There are several companies in town that offer these rides, including the Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster and the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster.

For more information on alpine coasters and other activities in Gatlinburg, check out my review on the alpine coasters in Gatlinburg and surrounding areas.

Ober Gatlinburg

Ober Gatlinburg is a mountain-top amusement park and ski resort that offers a variety of activities for visitors. In the winter, you can hit the slopes for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing, while in the summer, you can enjoy activities such as the alpine slide, chairlift rides, and wildlife encounters.

To learn more about Ober Gatlinburg and other attractions in town, read my review/guide here.

Accommodations with Views

Gatlinburg offers a range of accommodations that allow visitors to enjoy the stunning scenery of the Smoky Mountains. If you’re looking for a more secluded and private getaway, consider staying in a cabin with mountain views. There are many options for Gatlinburg cabins with mountain views, which offer unbeatable views of the surrounding valleys and peaks. Many of these cabins feature large decks or balconies where you can relax and take in the scenery.

If you prefer to stay in town, many hotels offer balconies with scenic views of the mountains and valleys. Some of the top hotels in Gatlinburg with mountain views include The Park Vista – a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, which features a scenic overlook on the 16th floor, and the Hilton Garden Inn Gatlinburg, which offers balcony rooms with stunning views of the Great Smoky Mountains.

Staying in a cabin or hotel with mountain views allows you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains. Whether you’re sipping your morning coffee on the balcony or winding down after a day of exploring, the views from your accommodations are sure to take your breath away.