10 Best Road Trips to Take in Tennessee
Home to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee hosts some of the best natural sceneries in the country. With rolling hills, lush valleys, and pristine rivers cutting through limestone gorges, the Volunteer State presents awe-inspiring vistas around every bend. Beyond the beauty, Tennessee also boasts a rich cultural heritage with facets on display in cities and towns across its diverse mid-South landscape. From the rolling farmlands of the west to the Appalachian foothills of the east, scenic byways weave through widely varied terrain and ecosystems.
Driving along these picturesque routes is an excellent way to take in the state's spellbinding outdoors, discover hidden natural gems, and explore Tennessee's cute little towns off the beaten path. Whether traveling alone, with a spouse, or with friends, these are some of the best road trips to take in Tennessee.
Great River Road
The Great River Bridge spans the Mississippi River in Burlington, Iowa.
This National Scenic Byway and designated All-American Road runs along the Mississippi River, stretching 3,000 miles through ten American states. The Tennessee segment spans 185 miles on the state's western coast, cutting through five counties. Driving down this landmark route is a surreal journey that will expose you to rare American history, beautiful culture, and unmatched natural beauty. Numerous points of interest along the way beckons road trippers to pause for unforgettable experiences. These include Reelfoot Lake State Park, where you can explore a natural wonder bustling with biodiversity and historical background.
The longest stop would be Memphis, which highlights the trip with a treasure trove of attractions. Notable mentions include Mud Island River Park, the South Main Art District, and the National Civil Rights Museum, providing a wholesome tourist experience.
Tennessee River Trail
Paris Landing Marina on Kentucky Lake in Tennessee.
Explore unique gems along the highway while driving along Tennessee's longest byway. Spanning 440 miles along the scenic banks of the Tennessee River, the route passes through various quaint towns like Paris, Waverly, and Linden, taking road triggers on a roller coaster of historical, cultural, and natural experiences. Highlights abound as you explore this countryside road, which features a glimpse into Civil War heritage at Shiloh National Military Park and Fort Donelson National Battlefield.
Stopping in Paris will not only impress you with the town's replica of the Eiffel Tower but also expose you to a lovely natural oasis at Paris Landing State Park. Finally, you can take the opportunity to learn about one of the state's most celebrated music acts, Loretta Lynn's Ranch, with a tour of her sprawling plantation home.
Ocoee Scenic Byway
Ocoee River flows through Ocoee Gorge.
The Ocoee Scenic Byway is a double-lane route in Tennessee's southeast corner that exposes you to outdoor recreation opportunities, historical adventures, and sublime natural beauty. Thrusting road-trippers into the depths of the Cherokee National Forest and along the historic path of Highway 64, it is an unforgettable experience for anyone behind the wheel. Some of the highlights to look forward to include admiring the dramatic rocky bluffs of the Ocoee River Gorge and taking on the choppy waters of the Ocoee River at the Ocoee Whitewater Center.
Travelers should consider hiking along the Benton MacKaye Trail to savor the beauty of Tennessee's backcountry. Several overlooks dotting the byway deliver picturesque panoramas of the Cumberland Mountains, Tennessee Valley, and the mountains of Georgia.
Great Smoky Mountains Byway
Sunset at Newfound Gap in the Great Smoky Mountains.
Get a front-seat experience of Tennessee's crowning jewel as you drive through this historic byway, stretching 200 miles along the Great Smoky Mountains foothills. Terrific adventures await as you work your way through the mountains, rivers, villages, and small towns on the fringes of Tennessee. The route also thrusts you into the history and culture of the state and America at large at the various historic downtowns. Top attractions range from the International Storytelling Center in Jonesborough and the National Campground, which offers a taste of Civil War heritage.
The journey's highlight has to be a stop at America's most visited national park, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, to experience what draws millions from around the country. The Park offers gorgeous natural scenery and boundless recreational opportunities.
Newfound Gap Road
Sunset view from Newfound Gap Road in the Smoky Mountains, Tennessee, as you drive back from Clingman's Dome to Gatlinburg.
The Newfound Gap Road exposes drivers to 31 miles of stunning mountain landscapes along the lowest drivable pass around the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The route begins in Gatlinburg at the Sugarlands Visitor Center, winding up the mountains before culminating in Cherokee, North Carolina. It cuts through a lush network of woodlands, comprising cove hardwoods and pine-oak, akin to the gorgeous forest scenery of New England. Numerous points of interest guarantee a wholesome experience, including the Oconaluftee Visitor Center and Smokemont Campground.
Road trippers can stop at several vantage points on the route to take in the unprecedented sights, such as the Web Overlook at the 17th mile. Given the high altitude of the Newfound Gap Road, tourists should pack a light jacket to be comfortable during the journey.
Sequatchie Valley National Scenic Byway
Scenic view of Sequatchie Valley, Tennessee.
This scenic byway treats travelers to a 70-mile journey through a rolling valley punctuated by exquisite alpine vistas. The road links several delightful destinations with vibrant downtown regions and opportunities for wild outdoor adventures and delectable dining experiences. Passing through four counties, there is no shortage of points of interest to anticipate on this exciting journey. You can stop at Jasper to revel in the little town's attractions, ranging from the Marion National History Museum to the Little Cedar Mountain Trail Small Wild Area.
Other gems to check out include Chimney Park Natural Area, featuring 33 acres of geological wonders with picturesque trails to take in the scenes. Additionally, the Sequatchie Cave State Natural Area brings you to the entrance of the Sequatchie Cave with glimpses of endangered aquatic species.
Norris Freeway
Scenic view of Norris Dam in Tennessee.
Designated as a National Scenic Byway, the Norris Freeway is a short yet exciting route that is among the best road trips to take in Tennessee. It extends 21 miles from Rocky Top through Norris to Halls in Knoxville, opening the door to interesting American innovations. The highway straddles the Norris Dam and Clinch River, notable areas of interest with endless opportunities for outdoor adventurers. Meanwhile, the historic downtowns of the towns on the route are home to unique cultural and heritage gems to explore. The main highlights range from Norris Dam, an innovation masterpiece that managed to Powell and Clinch River watershed.
Norris Dam State Park harbors curious historic sites on the National Register of Historic Places. Finally, you can't miss the Museum of Appalachia, a living history museum from the perspective of a pioneer mountain village.
Natchez Trace Parkway
Double Arch Bridge on the Natchez Trace Parkway near Franklin, TN.
Enjoy an immersive journey through 10 millennia of history along this 444-mile scenic drive through three states. The road extends between Nashville and Natchez, Mississippi, roughly following the historic Old Natchez Trace. This landmark route was created and used by Native Americans, slave traders, European settlers, and even soldiers to explore the vast territory. Besides the scenic drive, tourists can access lovely hiking, biking, and equestrian trails along the parkway. Outdoor adventures abound, including a hike on the Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail.
Multiple campgrounds on the Natchez Trace Parkway allow you to pause your journey and enjoy the many attractions before resuming the journey. The Meriwether Lewis Campground is one spot you can stop for the ultimate outdoor experience.
Walton Road Historic Byway
Obed Wild and Scenic River.
Rich historical heritage and sublime natural beauty intertwine along this 120-mile journey through the picturesque wilderness of the Volunteer State, exposing adventurers to unique pioneer history. The road spans the Tennessee Valley floor, climbing to the alluring Cumberland Plateau and through Cumberland, Roane, Smith, and Putnam counties. The Walton Road Historic Byway is a historic route pioneers took to the western frontier. It presents an authentic Tennessee experience worth being a part of, with stops at remarkable points of interest along the way.
Top highlights to stop at and explore include Fort Southwest Point, an original pioneer-era site listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Meanwhile, the Obed Wild and Scenic River provides a leeway to discover a rich nature space with opportunities for hikers, campers, anglers, and picnickers.
Cherohala Skyway
Cherohala Skyway in the fall.
The Cherohala Skyway stretched 43 miles between Tennessee and North Carolina, starting at Tellico Plains and ending at Robbinsville. It cuts through the Cherokee and Nantahala national forests, two words merged to make up the byway's name. The double-lane road presents fifteen picturesque overlooks, exposing you to the awe-inspiring natural scenery synonymous with the region. Conveniently, there is little network reception, allowing you to check out of civilization and take in the scenery without interruptions. You can take advantage of scenic trailheads, peaceful picnic spaces, and secluded camping sites to revel in the backcountry setting at notable stops along the way.
The journey takes about 2 hours, with the Tennessee portion of the byway extending about 25 miles. Road trippers can stop by the Cherohala Skyway Visitor Center in Tellico Plains to grab brochures and maps for a comfortable experience along the route.
Embrace Tennessee’s Scenic and Cultural Treasures
Whether seeking natural wonders, musical influences, or unique regional flavors, adventurous travelers can immerse themselves in Tennessee's rich tapestry by exploring its top road trips. From the Great Smoky Mountains to Memphis' blues trails and everywhere in between, each journey presents more beauty and culture to uncover. As the scenic byways wind on, they will continue transporting visitors past and future through the landscapes and history that define Tennessee. The best road trips to take in Tennessee highlighted above invite lifelong memories in America's heartland.
