Experience the Majestic Newfound Gap

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Newfound Gap, a stunning mountain pass in the Great Smoky Mountains, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.

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Newfound Gap

Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, Newfound Gap offers breathtaking vistas and a rich tapestry of natural beauty, making it a must-visit for any traveler. With its stunning panoramas, diverse wildlife, and access to numerous hiking trails, this mountain pass is a perfect spot for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Visitors can explore the surrounding area, taking in the fresh mountain air while soaking up the tranquility of this remarkable region.

A brief summary to Newfound Gap

Tennessee, US

Local tips

Arrive early in the morning to catch the sunrise over the mountains for a truly magical experience.
Bring layers of clothing, as temperatures can vary significantly at higher elevations.
Don't forget your camera! The views are photo-worthy at every turn.
Check local weather conditions before your visit, as fog can obscure views unexpectedly.
Consider visiting during the fall for spectacular autumn colors that transform the landscape.

Getting There

Walking

If you are in downtown Gatlinburg, start at the Gatlinburg Convention Center. Head south on Historic Nature Trail towards the Great Smoky Mountains National Park entrance. Walk about 1.5 miles until you reach the park entrance. Once you enter the park, continue on Newfound Gap Road which will lead you directly to Newfound Gap. The total walk is approximately 2 miles from the convention center.
Shuttle

Look for the Gatlinburg Trolley service at any trolley stop in downtown Gatlinburg. Take the Yellow Route that travels towards the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Ask the driver to drop you off at the Newfound Gap Trailhead. The trolley runs frequently, so you won't have to wait long. The total travel time is about 30 minutes depending on traffic.
Bicycle

If you prefer to bike, rent a bicycle from one of the rental shops in downtown Gatlinburg. Head southeast on East Parkway (US-321) towards the Great Smoky Mountains National Park entrance. Once you reach the entrance, continue along Newfound Gap Road. It's about 3 miles from downtown to the park entrance, and then another 8 miles to Newfound Gap, so be prepared for a longer ride.

Discover more about Newfound Gap

Newfound Gap, a stunning mountain pass situated in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, serves as a captivating intersection of nature and adventure. The elevation here reaches over 5,000 feet, providing visitors with panoramic views that are nothing short of spectacular. As one of the park's most iconic locations, Newfound Gap is not only a visual feast but also a historical landmark, as it was the site of the first automobile road built through the Smokies. The picturesque vistas seen from the overlook are an architect's dream, with rolling mountains and lush valleys stretching as far as the eye can see. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in the chance to spot black bears, deer, and a diverse array of bird species that inhabit the area. For those looking to stretch their legs, Newfound Gap is the starting point for several scenic hiking trails, including the popular Appalachian Trail, which beckons adventurers with its promise of exploration and connection to nature. As you traverse the well-marked paths, you will encounter an abundance of flora and fauna, each step revealing the vibrant life that flourishes in this protected ecosystem. The area is especially stunning during the fall when the foliage transforms into a vivid palette of reds, oranges, and yellows, drawing photographers and nature lovers alike. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely drive, embark on a challenging hike, or simply enjoy a picnic surrounded by awe-inspiring scenery, Newfound Gap provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The breathtaking views, rich wildlife, and the overall serenity of this mountain pass make it a must-visit destination for tourists eager to experience the natural beauty of Tennessee. With so much to offer, it is no wonder that Newfound Gap continues to enchant visitors year after year.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Messer Cabin

8.8 km

Explore the historic Messer Cabin in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, a serene and educational journey into 19th-century pioneer life amidst stunning mountain scenery.

Roaring Fork Interpretive Marker 1 Overlook

8.8 km

Experience the stunning views and rich history at Roaring Fork Interpretive Marker 1 Overlook in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Sugarlands Rock House

9.4 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

10.0 km

Explore the historic Jim Bales Barn, a beautiful representation of Appalachian culture amid the stunning scenery of the Smoky Mountains.

Alf Reagan House

11.0 km

Discover the Alf Reagan House, a historic gem in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, where rich heritage meets breathtaking natural beauty.

The Place of a Thousand Drips

12.3 km

Explore the enchanting Place of a Thousand Drips in Gatlinburg, TN, where cascading waterfalls and lush landscapes create a breathtaking natural experience.

Smokemont Baptist Church

12.3 km

Explore the historical Smokemont Baptist Church in the breathtaking Smoky Mountains, a serene landmark rich in cultural significance and natural beauty.

Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

12.8 km

Discover scenic beauty and rich history at Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and history buffs.

Sugarlands Visitor Center

13.1 km

Explore the wonders of Great Smoky Mountains at Sugarlands Visitor Center, where adventure begins and natural beauty awaits.

Astra Lumina

13.2 km

Discover the enchanting Astra Lumina in Gatlinburg, a mesmerizing outdoor light show that illuminates the night sky with artistic brilliance.

Treetop Skywalk at Anakeesta

13.2 km

Discover the breathtaking Treetop Skywalk at Anakeesta, an unforgettable journey through the treetops of the Smoky Mountains.

Smokies Life

13.3 km

Explore the Smokies Life Visitor Center in Gatlinburg, TN: Your gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park's wonders and adventures.

Cataract Falls

13.5 km

Experience the serene beauty of Cataract Falls in the Smoky Mountains, where nature's splendor meets tranquility.

Ghost and Haunt Tour of Gatlinburg

13.5 km

Discover the haunting tales and eerie history of Gatlinburg with the Ghost and Haunt Tour, an unforgettable evening in the heart of the Smoky Mountains.

John Ownby Cabin

13.6 km

Discover the John Ownby Cabin, a historic gem nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, showcasing Appalachian heritage and stunning nature.

Unmissable attractions to see

Appalachian Trail to Indian Gap

0.0 km

Discover the stunning Appalachian Trail to Indian Gap in Gatlinburg, TN, where breathtaking views and unforgettable hiking experiences await.

Appalachian trail

0.3 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.

Ben Morton Overlook

0.7 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.

Charles A Webb Overlook

3.1 km

Experience stunning panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains at the Charles A Webb Overlook, a must-visit scenic spot in Bryson City, North Carolina.

Inspiration Point

3.2 km

Discover the breathtaking views at Inspiration Point along the Alum Cave Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains, a must-visit for every nature lover.

Arch Rock

3.3 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

3.8 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

4.9 km

Experience breathtaking views and serene hikes at Mount Le Conte, a stunning peak in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, Tennessee.

Chimney Tops Trail

5.2 km

Explore the captivating Chimney Tops Trail in Great Smoky Mountains, where challenging hikes meet breathtaking views and vibrant wildlife.

Chimney Tops

5.2 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.

Charlies Bunion

5.7 km

Explore the breathtaking vistas of Charlies Bunion in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a must-visit peak for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Gap Overlook

6.2 km

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Gap Overlook, a prime vista point in Bryson City, NC, offering stunning views of the Smoky Mountains.

Chimneys Picnic Area

6.5 km

Experience the tranquility of Chimneys Picnic Area in Gatlinburg, TN – a beautiful park perfect for picnics and nature exploration.

Rainbow Falls

6.7 km

Explore the stunning Rainbow Falls in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a breathtaking natural wonder perfect for hikers and nature lovers.

Chimney Tops Overlook

6.8 km

Discover the breathtaking views and natural beauty of Chimney Tops Overlook in the Great Smoky Mountains, a must-visit destination for every traveler.

Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Calhoun's in Gatlinburg - where smoky flavors meet hearty portions amidst stunning mountain views.

Discover unique treasures that capture the charm of Gatlinburg at Gatlinburg Elegance, a boutique filled with local art and stylish finds.

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Unplugged Pub in Bryson City, where craft beers and live music create unforgettable experiences.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Experience the Majestic Newfound Gap

A brief summary to Newfound Gap

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Shuttle

Bicycle

Unlock the Best of Newfound Gap

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Newfound Gap

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Messer Cabin

Roaring Fork Interpretive Marker 1 Overlook

Sugarlands Rock House

Homer / Jim Bales Barn

Alf Reagan House

The Place of a Thousand Drips

Smokemont Baptist Church

Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

Sugarlands Visitor Center

Astra Lumina

Treetop Skywalk at Anakeesta

Smokies Life

Cataract Falls

Ghost and Haunt Tour of Gatlinburg

John Ownby Cabin

Unmissable attractions to see

Appalachian Trail to Indian Gap

Appalachian trail

Ben Morton Overlook

Charles A Webb Overlook

Inspiration Point

Arch Rock

Alum Cave Trail

Mt Le Conte

Chimney Tops Trail

Chimney Tops

Charlies Bunion

Gap Overlook

Chimneys Picnic Area

Rainbow Falls

Chimney Tops Overlook

Essential places to dine

Cliff Top Restaurant at Anakeesta

Crystelle Creek Restaurant

E'terie

Gatlinburg

Three Jimmy's Good Time Eatery

Mama's Chicken Kitchen

Hungry Bear BBQ

The Greenbrier Restaurant

Smoky Mountain Brewery in Gatlinburg

The Park Grill

Pizzeria of Gatlinburg

LandShark Bar & Grill

Best Italian Cafe & Pizzeria in Elks Plaza

Cherokee Grill and Steakhouse

Calhoun's in Gatlinburg

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Rocky Flats Pottery & Soap

Simply Savory Gifts & Gourmet

The Smoky Mountain Mercantile

The Sock Shop

U Name It Gatlinburg

The Village Shops

Misty Mountain Soap Company

Life According To Jake

Buckboard Too

The Honey Pot

Ranger Bob's Trading Post

Crusin The Past

Mountain Mall

Giftville

Gatlinburg Elegance

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

The Bar At The Top Of The World

Sugarland s

Tower Bar at Anakeesta