9-Day Smoky Mountains Adventure Road Trip

Day 1: Arrival in Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg, TN

10:00AM

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Kick off your adventure with a hearty breakfast of their famous pancakes, topped with fresh fruit.
Located on the Parkway, easily accessible by foot if you’re staying nearby.
USD15, 1 hour

11:30AM

Explore the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

Take a scenic chairlift ride for stunning views of the Smoky Mountains.
Head to the SkyLift Park entrance; it's a short walk down the Parkway.
USD20, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Peddler Steakhouse

Enjoy a delicious steak lunch while overlooking the Little Pigeon River.
Located near the entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains; an easy drive.
USD25, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Visitor Center

Learn about the park's history and pick up a map for your upcoming adventures.
Located straight through Gatlinburg as you enter the National Park.
FREE, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Cherokee Grill

Dine at this rustic restaurant known for its steaks and fresh local dishes.
Just a short drive from the Visitor Center.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Nature in Cherokee

Cherokee, NC

8:00AM

Breakfast at Granny's Kitchen

Start your day with a traditional Southern breakfast in a warm atmosphere.
Located centrally in Cherokee.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Museum of the Cherokee Indian

Gain insight into the history and culture of the Cherokee people.
A short drive from the restaurant.
USD10, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway

Take in breathtaking views of the mountains while driving along this picturesque route.
Take US-441 N for a direct access to the Blue Ridge Parkway.
FREE, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Scenic Overlook

Pack a picnic or grab takeout to enjoy lunch with mountain views.
Choose any scenic overlook along the Parkway.
USD10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Oconaluftee Visitor Center

Explore hiking trails and learn more about the flora and fauna of the area.
Exit the Parkway and follow signs to the Visitor Center.
FREE, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Paul’s Family Restaurant

Enjoy classic American fare with a Southern twist in a friendly setting.
Located just off the main road in Cherokee.
USD20, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Adventure in Bryson City

Bryson City, NC

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Filling Station Diner

Savor a filling breakfast in a retro setting before a day of exploration.
Take US-441 N to Bryson City, diner is near the train depot.
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Whitewater Rafting on the Nantahala River

Get your adrenaline pumping with this thrilling experience on the river.
Meet at the rafting company in Bryson City for equipment and safety briefing.
USD60, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Bistro at the Bijou

Enjoy farm-to-table dishes in a charming atmosphere in town.
Just a short drive back to Bryson City center.
USD25, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Take a scenic train ride along the Nantahala Gorge for spectacular views.
Departing from downtown Bryson City.
USD40, 2.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at River's End Restaurant

End your day with fresh local fish and scenery along the river.
Located near the railroad station.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Nature's Beauty at Deep Creek

Deep Creek, NC

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Chocolate Shop

Indulge in a sweet start with homemade pastries and coffee.
Situated in Bryson City; a short drive away.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hiking at Deep Creek

Embark on a scenic hike with waterfalls along the trails.
Follow signs to Deep Creek from Bryson City.
FREE, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Tom Branch Falls Picnic Area

Enjoy lunch amidst nature after your morning hike.
Pack a picnic or prepare takeout before you head to Deep Creek.
USD10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Horseback Riding at Smokemont Stables

Discover the beauty of the park on horseback with guided rides.
Drive to Smokemont Stables for your reservation.
USD60, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Nanatahala Village Restaurant

Finish the day with a delicious farm-fresh dinner in a natural setting.
A short drive after horseback riding.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Exploring Cades Cove

Cades Cove, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cades Cove Campground Store

Simple but satisfying breakfast sandwiches to fuel your morning.
Located within the Cades Cove area.
USD8, 1 hour

9:30AM

Cades Cove Loop Road

Take a scenic drive through this historic area, spotting wildlife and historic buildings.
Begin at the entrance to the Loop Road.
FREE, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Cades Cove Picnic Area

Pack a picnic and enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountains.
Choose any available picnic area on the Loop Road.
USD10, 1 hour

1:30PM

Hiking at Abrams Falls

Take the 5-mile round trip hike to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the park.
Trailhead is located off the Cades Cove Loop.
FREE, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Last Catch Seafood Restaurant

After your hike, indulge in fresh seafood and stunning views.
A short drive out of Cades Cove.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Excitement in Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Old Mill Restaurant

Enjoy Southern cuisine with freshly ground grits and homemade biscuits.
Located in the Old Mill area in Pigeon Forge.
USD20, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit Dollywood

Spend the day enjoying rides, shows, and attractions at this famous theme park.
Take US-441 S directly to the park entrance.
USD90, 7 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Island

Dine at one of the many options within this entertainment complex, I recommend Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen.
Easy walking distance from Dollywood.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Climbing Clingmans Dome

Clingmans Dome, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mountaineer Pancake House

Get ready for the day with their oversized pancakes and freshly brewed coffee.
Located in Gatlinburg, perfect stop while en route.
USD15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Hike to Clingmans Dome

This challenging hike rewards with panoramic views from the highest point in the Smoky Mountains.
Follow the signs to Clingmans Dome parking area.
FREE, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Newfound Gap

Enjoy lunch with a view, possibly with a packed picnic from earlier.
Located near the peak, with several parking areas.
USD10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Clingmans Dome Observation Tower

Climb the steep path to the top of the tower for breathtaking 360-degree views.
Just a short walk from the parking area.
FREE, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at The Smoky Mountain Brewery

Relax with a craft beer and hearty American fare after a long hike.
On the way back to Gatlinburg.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Scenic Roaring Fork

Gatlinburg, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Wild Plum Tea Room

Enjoy a lovely breakfast teas, pastries, and seasonal dishes in a charming tea house.
Located close to the entrance of the Roaring Fork Motor Trail.
USD18, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

Experience stunning views and possible wildlife sightings along this scenic drive.
Begin at the entrance to the trail on Historic Nature Trail Road.
FREE, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Noah Ogle Place

Stop at the historic cabin and learn about the cultural history of the Smokies.
Next stop along the Roaring Fork Trail.
FREE, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Crystelle's Mountain Lodge

Savor homestyle meals with stunning views of the mountains.
On the way back from Roaring Fork.
USD20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Hiking at Grotto Falls

Explore this 3-mile hike leading to a beautiful waterfall where you can walk behind the falls.
Trailhead is accessed from the Roaring Fork Trail.
FREE, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Melting Pot

End your day with an interactive fondue dining experience surrounded by beautiful decor.
Back in downtown Gatlinburg, easy to spot.
USD45, 2 hours
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Day 9: Departure

Gatlinburg, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at Flapjack's Pancake Cabin

Start your final day with delicious pancakes and a cozy atmosphere.
Located on the main strip in Gatlinburg.
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Last-minute shopping in Gatlinburg

Pick up souvenirs or artisanal crafts before you head home.
Stroll through the various shops along the Parkway.
USD50, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Smoky Mountain Brewery

Enjoy one last meal in the heart of Gatlinburg as you reminisce about your adventures.
Conveniently located by shopping areas.
USD25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Departure

Head out with your heart full of memories and the beauty of the Smoky Mountains.
Drive back to your entry point or the nearest airport.
COSTDepends on Distance, Varies
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