Epic 1-Day Motorcycle Ride Through the Smoky Mountains

Day 1: Scenic Mountain Ride

Gatlinburg, TN

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Fuel up with delicious, fluffy pancakes at the legendary Pancake Pantry, a favorite among both locals and visitors.
Located in the heart of Gatlinburg, you can easily walk from your lodging to enjoy breakfast.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Ride to Cades Cove

Hit the open road as you take the scenic drive towards Cades Cove, winding through the beautiful Smoky Mountain forest, with plenty of opportunities for photos along the way.
Take US-441 S to Laurel Creek Road; it's about a 30-minute ride.
Free, 30 minutes

10:15 AM

Explore Cades Cove Loop Road

Enjoy a leisurely ride around the 11-mile Cades Cove Loop Road, where you can encounter wildlife, historic homesteads, and unparalleled mountain views.
Stay on the loop road and drive at a leisurely pace to appreciate the sights.
Free, 2 hours

12:15 PM

Lunch at Cades Cove Campground Store

Grab a quick bite at the Campground Store, offering classic sandwiches, snacks, and cold beverages to recharge before more adventures.
Conveniently located within Cades Cove; simply park and walk over.
USD10, 30 minutes

1:00 PM

Ride to Clingmans Dome

Continue your ride to Clingmans Dome, taking in sweeping views as you ascend to the highest peak in the Smokies.
Follow Cades Cove Road to Newfound Gap Road (US-441); it's about a 45-minute ride.
Free, 45 minutes

1:45 PM

Hike to Clingmans Dome Observation Tower

Take a short hike to the top of Clingmans Dome for breathtaking panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains.
The hiking trail starts at the Clingmans Dome parking area, about a 30-minute hike uphill.
Free, 1 hour

2:45 PM

Return to Pigeon Forge

After enjoying the views at Clingmans Dome, take a leisurely ride back down the mountain to Pigeon Forge.
Take Newfound Gap Road (US-441) back down; the ride takes about 30 minutes.
Free, 30 minutes

3:15 PM

Visit The Island in Pigeon Forge

Enjoy this vibrant area filled with shopping, dining, and amusement rides, perfect for taking a break and stretching your legs.
Easy to navigate from the main road; plenty of signs directing you.
Free to enter; costs may vary for shopping/dining., 2 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at The Old Mill Restaurant

Savor a delicious farm-to-table dinner at The Old Mill, serving up hearty Southern fare that will satisfy your appetite after a day on the road.
Located in Pigeon Forge, it's a short ride from The Island.
USD25, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Scenic Ride Back to Gatlinburg

End your day with a peaceful ride back to Gatlinburg, reflecting on the stunning landscapes and experiences of the day.
Travel along US-441 N back to Gatlinburg; about a 30-minute ride.
Free, 30 minutes

7:30 PM

Evening Stroll in Gatlinburg

Take a leisurely walk through the charming streets of Gatlinburg, enjoying the night lights, local shops, and perhaps stopping for ice cream.
Easily walkable from your dinner location.
USD5 (optional for ice cream), 1 hour
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