Newfound Gap: A Breathtaking Vista in the Heart of the Great Smoky Mountains
Experience the breathtaking views and rich biodiversity at Newfound Gap, a scenic spot in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Nestled within the majestic Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Newfound Gap offers visitors stunning panoramic views, rich biodiversity, and a chance to experience the natural beauty of North Carolina. As the lowest drivable pass through the Smokies, it serves as a gateway to adventure for tourists seeking scenic landscapes, hiking trails, and a glimpse of the area’s unique wildlife. Whether you are a nature lover, photographer, or simply seeking tranquility, Newfound Gap is a must-visit destination.
A brief summary to Newfound Gap
- Newfound Gap Parking Area, Bryson City, North Carolina, 28713, US
- +1865-436-1200
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best lighting conditions for photography.
- Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary significantly at higher elevations.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching and to get a closer view of the surrounding wildlife.
- Check for road conditions and potential closures, especially during winter months.
- Consider hiking the nearby trails, as they offer a fantastic way to explore the park's natural beauty.
Getting There
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Car
If you're already in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, head towards Newfound Gap via Newfound Gap Road (US-441). If you're coming from Gatlinburg, take US-441 North for approximately 15 miles. If you're coming from Cherokee, drive south on US-441 for about 10 miles. Follow the road signs for Newfound Gap. The parking area is located at the summit, where you can enjoy stunning views of the mountains.
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Public Transportation
Public transportation options are limited within the park. However, you can use the Smoky Mountain Transit system, which operates from nearby towns like Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. You may need to take a bus to the nearest stop and then catch a taxi or rideshare service to Newfound Gap. Make sure to check the bus schedules and routes ahead of time. The approximate taxi fare from Gatlinburg to Newfound Gap is around $30-$50, depending on traffic and time of day.
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Hiking
If you're staying within the park and prefer an adventurous route, consider hiking to Newfound Gap. The Alum Cave Trail is a popular option that starts from the Alum Cave Trailhead near Newfound Gap Road. This hike is approximately 5 miles one way and offers beautiful scenery along the way. Make sure to bring sufficient water, snacks, and a map of the trail.
Discover more about Newfound Gap
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Roaring Fork Interpretive Marker 1 Overlook
8.8 km
Experience the serene beauty and cultural history at Roaring Fork Interpretive Marker 1 Overlook in the Great Smoky Mountains.
Messer Cabin
8.9 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.
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 on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, a charming glimpse into the agricultural past of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Alf Reagan House
11.0 km
Discover the rich history and scenic beauty of the Alf Reagan House on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
The Place of a Thousand Drips
12.3 km
Discover the mesmerizing beauty of The Place of a Thousand Drips, a stunning waterfall in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Smokemont Baptist Church
12.4 km
Explore the historic Smokemont Baptist Church in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, a serene blend of nature and heritage.
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
12.8 km
Explore Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, where history meets stunning natural beauty in the heart of the Smoky Mountains.
Sugarlands Visitor Center
13.0 km
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Astra Lumina
13.2 km
Experience Astra Lumina in Gatlinburg, a magical journey through light and sound that captivates all ages in a stunning outdoor setting.
Treetop Skywalk at Anakeesta
13.2 km
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Smokies Life
13.2 km
Explore the Great Smoky Mountains with expert guidance at the Smokies Life Visitor Center in Gatlinburg, your essential starting point for adventure.
Cataract Falls
13.5 km
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Ghost and Haunt Tour of Gatlinburg
13.5 km
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John Ownby Cabin
13.6 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Appalachian Trail to Indian Gap
0.1 km
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Appalachian trail
0.4 km
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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
5.1 km
Explore the captivating Chimney Tops Trail in Great Smoky Mountains, where challenging hikes meet breathtaking views and vibrant wildlife.
Chimney Tops
5.1 km
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Charlies Bunion
5.8 km
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Gap Overlook
6.1 km
Explore Gap Overlook, a stunning vista point in Bryson City, NC, offering breathtaking views of the Great Smoky Mountains and tranquil nature experiences.
Chimneys Picnic Area
6.4 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
6.7 km
Experience the breathtaking views of Chimney Tops Overlook, a scenic gem in the Great Smoky Mountains, ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
Essential places to dine
Cliff Top Restaurant at Anakeesta
13.1 km
Experience unforgettable dining at Cliff Top Restaurant with stunning mountain views and delicious American cuisine in Gatlinburg.
E'terie
13.3 km
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Crystelle Creek Restaurant
13.3 km
Experience culinary excellence at Crystelle Creek Restaurant in Gatlinburg - where delicious steak meets breathtaking mountain views.
Gatlinburg
13.5 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
13.6 km
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Hungry Bear BBQ
13.6 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Hungry Bear BBQ in Gatlinburg - where smoky flavors meet warm hospitality.
Mama's Chicken Kitchen
13.6 km
Discover Southern comfort at Mama's Chicken Kitchen in Gatlinburg—where every bite of fried chicken feels like home.
Smoky Mountain Brewery in Gatlinburg
13.7 km
Discover handcrafted beers and delicious American cuisine at Smoky Mountain Brewery in Gatlinburg - a perfect blend for craft beer lovers.
The Greenbrier Restaurant
13.7 km
Experience fine dining at The Greenbrier Restaurant in Gatlinburg - where exceptional steaks and an extensive wine selection await you.
The Park Grill
13.8 km
Discover The Park Grill in Gatlinburg – where American flavors meet Southern hospitality amidst stunning mountain views.
Pizzeria of Gatlinburg
13.8 km
Discover the Pizzeria of Gatlinburg - where every pizza is crafted with love amidst the stunning backdrop of Tennessee's Smoky Mountains.
Best Italian Cafe & Pizzeria in Elks Plaza
13.8 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Best Italian Cafe & Pizzeria in Gatlinburg—where every meal feels like a trip to Italy.
Cherokee Grill and Steakhouse
13.8 km
Discover culinary excellence at Cherokee Grill and Steakhouse in Gatlinburg—where every steak tells a story amidst breathtaking mountain views.
Calhoun's in Gatlinburg
13.8 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Calhoun's in Gatlinburg - where smoky flavors meet hearty portions amidst stunning mountain views.
LandShark Bar & Grill
13.8 km
Experience vibrant American cuisine at LandShark Bar & Grill in Gatlinburg—where delicious flavors meet stunning mountain views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Rocky Flats Pottery & Soap
13.4 km
Discover the charm of handcrafted pottery and artisanal soaps at Rocky Flats Pottery & Soap in Gatlinburg, the perfect stop for unique souvenirs.
Simply Savory Gifts & Gourmet
13.8 km
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The Sock Shop
13.8 km
Discover a whimsical collection of unique socks at The Sock Shop in Gatlinburg, perfect for gifts or a cozy treat for yourself!
The Smoky Mountain Mercantile
13.8 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at The Smoky Mountain Mercantile, your one-stop shop for souvenirs in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
U Name It Gatlinburg
13.8 km
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The Village Shops
13.8 km
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Misty Mountain Soap Company
13.8 km
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Life According To Jake
13.9 km
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The Honey Pot
13.9 km
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Buckboard Too
13.9 km
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Ranger Bob's Trading Post
13.9 km
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Crusin The Past
13.9 km
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Mountain Mall
13.9 km
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Giftville
13.9 km
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Gatlinburg Elegance
13.9 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bar At The Top Of The World
13.8 km
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Sugarland s
13.8 km
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Tower Bar at Anakeesta
13.8 km
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Daiquiri Shack & Grill Margaritaville
13.8 km
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Boudicca's Celtic Pub
13.8 km
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Gatlinburg Brewing Company
13.9 km
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Old smokey barrelhouse
13.9 km
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License to Chill Bar
13.9 km
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Shamrock Pub
13.9 km
Enjoy a vibrant dining experience at Shamrock Pub in Gatlinburg, where great food, drinks, and friendly vibes await.
Dude's Daiquiris
14.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and refreshing flavors at Dude's Daiquiris, Gatlinburg's ultimate bar destination for tourists.
SHINE SHACK
14.0 km
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Salty Bear
14.0 km
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The Rampant Lion
15.2 km
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Native Brews Tap & Grill
16.4 km
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Unplugged Pub
20.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Unplugged Pub in Bryson City, where craft beers and live music create unforgettable experiences.
