Why Foothills Parkway Is Worth the Drive
Foothills Parkway is a National Scenic Byway located along the northern boundary of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Designed to offer panoramic views of the Smokies without the crowds or physical demands of hiking, it’s one of the best-kept secrets for visitors looking to experience the region’s landscape from the comfort of a vehicle.
Originally authorized by Congress in 1944, the Parkway was intended to stretch approximately 72 miles from Chilhowee Lake in the west to I-40 near Cosby in the east. However, due to complex terrain and funding issues, the road remains incomplete. To date, about 38.6 miles have been developed across multiple sections. The most popular and accessible segments include:
The western section from U.S. 129 at Chilhowee Lake to U.S. 321 near Walland
The central “Missing Link” section from Walland to Wears Valley, completed in 2018
The eastern segment from Cosby to I-40
These sections are open year-round (weather permitting) and do not require park entry fees. They are designed to offer smooth, winding routes with multiple pull-offs and scenic overlooks.
Foothills Parkway is especially popular during fall, when the changing leaves transform the landscape into a blanket of color, and in spring, when wildflowers line the road. In contrast to roads like Newfound Gap or Clingmans Dome Road, the Parkway is often less crowded, offering a quieter, more relaxing way to take in the Smoky Mountains.
Whether you’re planning a quick day drive, a picnic at an overlook, or photography during golden hour, Foothills Parkway is an easy add-on to any Smokies itinerary. There’s no hiking required, no admission fees, and plenty of places to safely stop and take in the view.
Where Is Foothills Parkway Located?
Foothills Parkway lies along the northern edge of Great Smoky Mountains National Park in East Tennessee, mainly serving Sevier and Blount counties. Though originally planned as a 72‑mile corridor from Chilhowee Lake (U.S. 129) to Interstate 40 near Cosby, only about 38–39 miles have been completed and opened to vehicles so far.
Western Section (Chilhowee to Wears Valley)
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Western Section: U.S. 129 to Wears Valley
Length: Approx. 33 miles
Route: Begins near Chilhowee Lake off U.S. 129 (also known as the Tail of the Dragon) and extends to Wears Valley, TN.
Western Start Point Address: Look Rock Observation Tower Parking, 7796 TN-336, Maryville, TN 37803
Wears Valley End Point Address: Foothills Parkway Spur Entrance, 7260 E Wears Valley Rd, Townsend, TN 37882
Key Feature: This section includes the “Missing Link”, completed in 2018, which made the 33-mile stretch continuous.
Eastern Section: Cosby to Interstate 40
Length: 5.6 miles
Route: Runs from U.S. 321 in Cosby to I‑40 Exit 443, offering views of Mount Cammerer and the Pigeon River Gorge.
Start Address (Cosby Entrance): Foothills Parkway East, 1639 Foothills Parkway E, Cosby, TN 37722
End Address (I‑40 Access): Foothills Parkway/I‑40 Exit 443, Hartford, TN 37753
Note: This segment is not connected to the western portion.
The Missing Link (Walland to Wears Valley)
Length: 1.6 miles
Significance: This final portion of the western section had been delayed for decades due to steep cliffs and environmental hurdles. It opened in November 2018, connecting the segments between Walland and Wears Valley.
Location: Falls between Look Rock Overlook (7796 TN‑336, Maryville, TN) and E Wears Valley Rd entrance (7260 E Wears Valley Rd, Townsend, TN 37882)
Nearby Towns & Access Points
| Town | Location Notes | Approx. Address / Access Point |
|---|---|---|
| Townsend, TN | Closest to Wears Valley entrance. Known as a peaceful “Quiet Side of the Smokies.” | 7906 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN 37882 |
| Wears Valley, TN | Central access to Parkway’s western section | 7260 E Wears Valley Rd, Townsend, TN 37882 |
| Walland, TN | Mid-point along western section | Foothills Pkwy entrance at Old Walland Hwy, Walland, TN 37886 |
| Cosby, TN | Gateway to the eastern section | 1639 Foothills Parkway E, Cosby, TN 37722 |
| Chilhowee / Look Rock | Western trailhead for the Parkway | Look Rock Tower Trail, 7796 TN-336, Maryville, TN 37803 |
| Hartford, TN | Eastern endpoint, near I‑40 Exit 443 | Exit 443 Foothills Parkway Connector, Hartford, TN 37753 |
What Makes Foothills Parkway Special?
What sets Foothills Parkway apart from other scenic routes in the Smokies is its combination of panoramic mountain views, minimal traffic, and peaceful driveable access points. Unlike the often-crowded Newfound Gap Road or the steep, winding route to Clingmans Dome, this road offers a calmer, easier experience with just as much visual payoff.
360-Degree Mountain Views
On clear days, you can see layers of the Smoky Mountains, the Tennessee Valley, and even into North Carolina from various overlooks. These expansive views stretch across ridgelines, valleys, and forested foothills, offering the kind of depth and scale that make for jaw-dropping photos and unforgettable drives.
Scenic Overlooks & Pull-Offs (With Coordinates & Highlights)
Here are some of the most popular stops along the Western Section (U.S. 129 to Wears Valley):
| Overlook Name | GPS Coordinates | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Look Rock Overlook | 35.628333, -83.978611 | Paved observation trail + views of Mount LeConte and Clingmans Dome |
| Look Rock Tower Trail | 7796 TN-336, Maryville, TN 37803 | Half-mile paved trail to a 360° viewing platform |
| Chilhowee Mountain Overlook | 35.614103, -83.975812 | Valley and lake views over Chilhowee Lake |
| Walland Gap Overlook | 35.6893, -83.8227 | View of the Walland Valley and rolling hills below |
| Wears Valley Overlook (near terminus) | 35.693505, -83.672441 | Expansive views of Wears Valley and the Smoky Mountains ridge line |
Ideal for Photography, Picnics, and Relaxation
Many visitors say Foothills Parkway is one of the most photogenic spots in the Smokies, especially at sunrise and sunset. The overlooks are spaced out and rarely crowded, making it easy to:
Set up a camera tripod
Have a peaceful roadside picnic
Enjoy a coffee with a view
If you’re looking for a less rushed, more meditative drive, this road offers time and space to slow down and enjoy.
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Less Traffic Than Newfound Gap Road or Clingmans Dome
Both Newfound Gap Road (U.S. 441) and the Clingmans Dome access road are prone to heavy seasonal traffic, particularly in October and during summer breaks. Foothills Parkway sees far fewer visitors, making it one of the quietest scenic routes in the Smokies.
This makes it especially ideal for:
Families with young children who want to stop and explore safely
Visitors with mobility limitations who want to enjoy scenic views without hiking
Locals and return visitors seeking something more low-key than the top tourist areas
Peak Seasons: Fall and Spring
Foothills Parkway is most popular during two specific times:
Fall Foliage Season (Late October to Early November):
Watch the landscape transform into a patchwork of orange, red, and yellow. Because it’s a ridgeline road, you get multi-elevation foliage views in a single drive.Spring Wildflower Bloom (April to early May):
Expect bursts of pink dogwood, trillium, and mountain laurel, especially near Look Rock and the Cosby section. Cooler temperatures at elevation make it a refreshing springtime trip.
Best Stops and Scenic Overlooks on the Foothills Parkway
One of the best parts of driving the Foothills Parkway is the chance to stop at several scenic pull-offs and enjoy unobstructed views of the Smokies. Whether you’re looking to stretch your legs, take photos, or enjoy a picnic, these spots make the experience even better. Below are the top stops worth planning for, including rest areas, short hikes, and coordinates for easy navigation.
Location: 7796 TN-336, Maryville, TN 37803
GPS: 35.628333, -83.978611
Amenities: Restrooms, picnic tables, parking
Why It’s Special:
This is the most developed stop on the parkway. A paved half-mile trail leads to Look Rock Tower, an observation platform with 360-degree views stretching as far as Clingmans Dome, Mount LeConte, and the Tennessee Valley.
The overlook at the base also offers wide mountain views and is great for photos or a rest break.
The Missing Link Bridges (Wears Valley to Walland)
Location: Parkway section between US-321 (Walland) and US-321 (Wears Valley)
GPS: Approx. 35.673018, -83.748345
Why It’s Special:
This section was dubbed “The Missing Link” until it was completed in 2018. It includes nine bridges and elevated parkway spans that feel like you’re driving through the sky. The engineering alone is worth the trip, but the views here are arguably some of the most dramatic on the entire drive.
Great Smoky Mountains Overlook
GPS: 35.670864, -83.728198
Why It’s Special:
A wide-angle view of the Smoky Mountains ridgeline from this overlook is a standout moment. You’ll see Mount LeConte, Clingmans Dome, and multiple rolling peaks. It’s particularly stunning at sunrise or when fog hugs the valleys below — the very image that gives the Smokies their name.
Bote Mountain View
GPS: 35.642025, -83.876893
Why It’s Special:
This pull-off gives you a clear view of Bote Mountain, one of the most recognizable peaks in the western Smokies. It’s a lesser-known stop with plenty of space to park and reflect, and it’s usually quieter than some of the larger overlooks.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Foothills Parkway?
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Foothills Parkway is open year-round, and each season brings its own highlights. While there’s no bad time to visit, your experience will vary depending on the time of year. Here’s what to expect during each season:
Fall (Late October to Early November)
Highlight: Peak fall foliage
Why Go: This is the most popular time to drive the parkway. The hills explode in shades of red, orange, and gold, creating picture-perfect views around every curve.
Tip: Weekends during peak foliage can get busy. Aim for early morning or weekday drives to avoid traffic.
Spring (April to Early May)
Highlight: Wildflowers and mild temperatures
Why Go: The Smokies are known for their rich biodiversity, and in spring, you’ll see everything from dogwoods and redbuds to blooming rhododendron.
Bonus: Fewer crowds than in fall and summer, and ideal temps for a peaceful drive or hike.
Summer (June to August)
Highlight: Lush greenery and long daylight hours
Why Go: The mountains are dense with vibrant green foliage, and the elevated roadway provides cooler temperatures than surrounding towns. Summer is perfect for sunset views, stargazing, or picnics at Look Rock.
Tip: Afternoon thunderstorms are common, so plan your trip for early in the day.
Winter (December to February)
Highlight: Snow-capped views (weather permitting)
Why Go: While some sections may close temporarily due to ice or snow, winter offers quiet solitude and the chance to see the Smokies with a fresh layer of snow.
Tip: Always check road conditions on the NPS road alerts page before heading out
Each season offers something unique on the Parkway, so the best time to visit really depends on what you’re hoping to see. Whether you’re chasing color, calm, or crisp mountain air, there’s a perfect season waiting for you.
Is Foothills Parkway Safe for All Vehicles?
Yes, Foothills Parkway is fully paved, well-maintained, and accessible to most passenger vehicles. Whether you’re driving a compact car, SUV, or motorcycle, the road conditions are designed to accommodate a wide range of visitors without the need for special equipment or high-clearance vehicles.
Paved and Easy to Navigate
The entire open stretch of Foothills Parkway is paved asphalt with well-marked lanes and guardrails along sharp curves.
Elevation gain is gradual, and the road is wide enough for comfortable two-way traffic.
No steep grades or unpaved sections make it beginner-friendly, even for less experienced drivers.
Safe for Most Vehicles
Approved Vehicles: Cars, SUVs, motorcycles, and vans are all safe to drive on the Parkway.
Not Allowed: Commercial trucks and large trailers are restricted to preserve safety and the scenic nature of the drive.
Motorcyclist-Friendly
The Parkway is a favorite among motorcycle riders thanks to its scenic curves, smooth pavement, and lighter traffic compared to roads like U.S. 441 through Newfound Gap.
Riders should still take caution on tighter turns or in wet conditions.
Closures for Weather or Maintenance
Winter: Sections may temporarily close due to snow or ice. Always check current road conditions through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park alerts page.
Maintenance: Occasional paving or bridge inspections may result in short-term closures or detours, especially in early spring or late fall.
Tips for a Smooth Drive
Keep your tank at least half full—there are no gas stations on the Parkway.
Restrooms are limited, so plan ahead.
Cell signal may drop in some areas, so download maps or directions before heading out.
Final Thoughts
Foothills Parkway offers one of the most relaxing and scenic drives in the Smoky Mountains. Whether you’re chasing fall colors, spring wildflowers, or just want a peaceful drive with panoramic views, this route delivers. With multiple overlooks, safe roads, and access points near popular towns like Townsend and Wears Valley, it’s easy to include Foothills Parkway in any Smokies itinerary.
Unlike busier roads like Newfound Gap or Clingmans Dome access, Foothills Parkway lets you experience the mountains without the crowds or heavy traffic. Bring a camera, pack a picnic, and give yourself time to stop and take it all in — this is one of those drives where the journey is the destination.
Where to Stay
If you’re planning a trip to Foothills Parkway and need a nearby place to stay, our tiny homes at Sojourn Lodging are just a short drive away. We’re located in Sevierville, near the base of the Smoky Mountains, making it easy to visit the caverns and still enjoy a quiet, comfortable place to unwind afterward.
Our stays are designed to be simple but elevated – think private decks, cozy sleeping spaces, kitchenettes, Wi-Fi, and streaming-ready TVs. Every unit has been thoughtfully laid out to give guests space to relax, reset, and reconnect with nature or each other. Whether you’re here for a solo trip, a weekend getaway, or a group retreat, we have options that fit your plans.
We offer:
- Pet-friendly units
- Self check-in and private entry
- On-site parking
- Tiny homes for couples, families, and group bookings
- Peaceful surroundings that still keep you close to all the action in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg
Want a closer look? Click here to explore our tiny homes or read more about what it’s like to stay at Sojourn.
