Inspiration Point: A Breathtaking View of Nature's Masterpiece
Discover the breathtaking views at Inspiration Point along the Alum Cave Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains, a must-visit for every nature lover.
Inspiration Point is a stunning scenic spot located along the Alum Cave Trail in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. This mesmerizing viewpoint offers tourists unparalleled vistas of the Great Smoky Mountains, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike. The journey to this iconic location is as rewarding as the view itself, with beautiful trails and diverse wildlife to encounter along the way.
A brief summary to Inspiration Point
- Alum Cave Trail, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, 37738, US
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Start your hike early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as the hike can be strenuous.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots for better traction on the diverse trail surfaces.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure the best conditions for hiking.
- Consider visiting during the fall for stunning foliage or spring for vibrant wildflowers.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving to Inspiration Point, start by navigating your GPS to 'Alum Cave Trail, Gatlinburg, TN 37738'. Upon arrival in Gatlinburg, follow the signs for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You will drive along the main roads until you reach the trailhead for Alum Cave Trail. There is a parking area available, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Parking may cost around $5 to $15 per day, depending on the season and location.
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Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, take a shuttle service from Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Check local schedules for the nearest drop-off point to Alum Cave Trail. Once you arrive, you may have to walk approximately 1 to 2 miles to reach the trailhead. Be sure to check the shuttle service’s schedule for return trips, as they may not run frequently.
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Hiking
Once at the Alum Cave Trailhead, prepare for a hike of about 5 miles round trip to reach Inspiration Point. The trail is moderately strenuous, with some elevation gain. Ensure you have adequate hiking gear, water, and snacks. The trail is well-marked, and you will be rewarded with stunning views at Inspiration Point. It's advisable to start your hike early in the day to avoid the afternoon crowds and ensure you have enough daylight for your return.
Discover more about Inspiration Point
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Roaring Fork Interpretive Marker 1 Overlook
5.7 km
Experience the serene beauty and cultural history at Roaring Fork Interpretive Marker 1 Overlook in the Great Smoky Mountains.
Sugarlands Rock House
6.7 km
Experience the historical allure and natural beauty of Sugarlands Rock House in the Great Smoky Mountains – a must-visit landmark for every traveler.
Homer / Jim Bales Barn
6.8 km
Explore the historic Jim Bales Barn on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, a charming glimpse into the agricultural past of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Messer Cabin
6.9 km
Experience the allure of the 1800s at Messer Cabin, a historical treasure on Porters Creek Trail in Gatlinburg, surrounded by the stunning Great Smoky Mountains.
Alf Reagan House
7.8 km
Discover the rich history and scenic beauty of the Alf Reagan House on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
Clingmans Dome Trailhead
10.1 km
Discover the breathtaking vistas and diverse ecosystems at Clingmans Dome Trailhead, a must-visit destination in the Great Smoky Mountains.
Sugarlands Visitor Center
10.1 km
Explore the wonders of the Great Smoky Mountains at Sugarlands Visitor Center—your gateway to adventure and discovery.
Cliff Branch Falls
10.2 km
Explore the breathtaking Cliff Branch Falls in North Carolina, a natural wonder perfect for hiking, photography, and immersing in serene landscapes.
Smokies Life
10.3 km
Explore the Great Smoky Mountains with expert guidance at the Smokies Life Visitor Center in Gatlinburg, your essential starting point for adventure.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
10.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich cultural history of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Ghost and Haunt Tour of Gatlinburg
10.4 km
Discover the chilling tales and ghostly legends of Gatlinburg on a thrilling guided tour through the town's haunted history.
Salt & Pepper Shaker Museum
10.4 km
Explore the whimsical world of the Salt & Pepper Shaker Museum in Gatlinburg, where over 20,000 unique shakers bring joy and nostalgia for all ages.
Cataract Falls
10.5 km
Explore the captivating beauty of Cataract Falls in the Great Smoky Mountains, a serene escape offering breathtaking views and tranquil hikes.
World Famous Smokies Tattoo
10.5 km
Experience the artistry of the World Famous Smokies Tattoo, where your Smoky Mountain memories become timeless body art.
Ghost Walk of Gatlinburg
10.6 km
Explore the haunted history of Gatlinburg with the Ghost Walk, where chilling tales meet breathtaking scenery in a memorable night adventure.
Unmissable attractions to see
Arch Rock
0.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Arch Rock in the Great Smoky Mountains, a must-see natural wonder for all nature lovers.
Alum Cave Trail
0.7 km
Discover the scenic beauty and adventure of Alum Cave Trail in Tennessee's Great Smoky Mountains, a must-visit for nature lovers and hikers.
Mt Le Conte
2.1 km
Experience breathtaking views and serene hikes at Mount Le Conte, a stunning peak in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, Tennessee.
Ben Morton Overlook
2.8 km
Experience the stunning beauty of the Smoky Mountains at Ben Morton Overlook, a top scenic spot in Gatlinburg, TN, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Appalachian Trail to Indian Gap
3.2 km
Discover the stunning Appalachian Trail to Indian Gap in Gatlinburg, TN, where breathtaking views and unforgettable hiking experiences await.
Newfound Gap
3.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Newfound Gap, a stunning mountain pass in the Great Smoky Mountains, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Chimney Tops
3.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and thrilling trails of Chimney Tops in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a top destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Chimney Tops Trail
3.3 km
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Appalachian trail
3.4 km
Discover the natural beauty and adventure of the Appalachian Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains, a must-visit hiking destination for every nature lover.
Rainbow Falls
3.5 km
Explore the stunning Rainbow Falls in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a breathtaking natural wonder perfect for hikers and nature lovers.
Rainbow Falls Trail
3.7 km
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Grotto Falls
4.2 km
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Chimneys Picnic Area
4.3 km
Experience the tranquility of Chimneys Picnic Area in Gatlinburg, TN – a beautiful park perfect for picnics and nature exploration.
Chimney Tops Overlook
4.5 km
Experience the breathtaking views of Chimney Tops Overlook, a scenic gem in the Great Smoky Mountains, ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
Grotto Falls Parking
5.3 km
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Essential places to dine
Cliff Top Restaurant at Anakeesta
9.9 km
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E'terie
10.1 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at E'terie in Gatlinburg - where every meal is a celebration of local flavors and hospitality.
Crystelle Creek Restaurant
10.3 km
Experience culinary excellence at Crystelle Creek Restaurant in Gatlinburg - where delicious steak meets breathtaking mountain views.
Gatlinburg
10.4 km
Discover Gatlinburg: A charming mountain town famous for gourmet hamburgers and breathtaking views in the heart of Tennessee.
Three Jimmy's Good Time Eatery
10.4 km
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Hungry Bear BBQ
10.4 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Hungry Bear BBQ in Gatlinburg - where smoky flavors meet warm hospitality.
Mama's Chicken Kitchen
10.5 km
Discover Southern comfort at Mama's Chicken Kitchen in Gatlinburg—where every bite of fried chicken feels like home.
The Greenbrier Restaurant
10.6 km
Experience fine dining at The Greenbrier Restaurant in Gatlinburg - where exceptional steaks and an extensive wine selection await you.
Pizzeria of Gatlinburg
10.6 km
Discover the Pizzeria of Gatlinburg - where every pizza is crafted with love amidst the stunning backdrop of Tennessee's Smoky Mountains.
Smoky Mountain Brewery in Gatlinburg
10.6 km
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The Park Grill
10.6 km
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LandShark Bar & Grill
10.6 km
Experience vibrant American cuisine at LandShark Bar & Grill in Gatlinburg—where delicious flavors meet stunning mountain views.
Subway
10.7 km
Enjoy fresh sandwiches and salads at Subway in Gatlinburg – perfect for tourists seeking quick and healthy dining options.
Ole Red
10.7 km
Discover Ole Red in Gatlinburg: A vibrant restaurant blending delicious Southern cuisine with unforgettable live music experiences.
No Way Jose’s Mexican Cantina
10.7 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Rocky Flats Pottery & Soap
10.3 km
Discover the charm of handcrafted pottery and artisanal soaps at Rocky Flats Pottery & Soap in Gatlinburg, the perfect stop for unique souvenirs.
The Sock Shop
10.6 km
Discover a whimsical collection of unique socks at The Sock Shop in Gatlinburg, perfect for gifts or a cozy treat for yourself!
U Name It Gatlinburg
10.7 km
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The Village Shops
10.7 km
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Misty Mountain Soap Company
10.7 km
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Buckboard Too
10.7 km
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Life According To Jake
10.7 km
Explore Gatlinburg's charming gift shop, offering unique souvenirs, local crafts, and delightful treasures for every visitor.
The Honey Pot
10.7 km
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Ranger Bob's Trading Post
10.7 km
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Simply Savory Gifts & Gourmet
10.7 km
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Crusin The Past
10.7 km
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Mountain Mall
10.7 km
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The Trump Store Gatlinburg
10.7 km
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Gatlinburg Elegance
10.7 km
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The Smoky Mountain Mercantile
10.7 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bar At The Top Of The World
10.6 km
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Sugarland s
10.6 km
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Tower Bar at Anakeesta
10.6 km
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Daiquiri Shack & Grill Margaritaville
10.6 km
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Boudicca's Celtic Pub
10.7 km
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Gatlinburg Brewing Company
10.7 km
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Old smokey barrelhouse
10.7 km
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License to Chill Bar
10.8 km
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Shamrock Pub
10.8 km
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SHINE SHACK
10.8 km
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Dude's Daiquiris
10.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and refreshing flavors at Dude's Daiquiris, Gatlinburg's ultimate bar destination for tourists.
Salty Bear
10.9 km
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The Rampant Lion
12.2 km
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Funky Budha
18.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Funky Budha in Pigeon Forge, where delicious dining meets energetic music and a unique hookah experience.
Mr. Jerry's Sit-N-Sip Refreshments
19.3 km
Experience the joy of delicious snacks and refreshing drinks at Mr. Jerry's Sit-N-Sip, your perfect break in Dollywood theme park.
