High Points Driving Tour

Overview

Sightseeing in the “high elevations” of the Great Smoky Mountains can be an experience that won’t soon be forgotten. We travel past the Appalachian Trail and traverse the Crest of the Smokies as we take in the sights above 5000 ft. You will gain facts of the area from your guide that will make these mountains come alive with Native American stories and geographical facts. We travel into the North Carolina side of the National Park to take in the vistas and learn about the impact logging had to the area. You will be amazed how the forest has reclaimed itself over the years. Our goal for this trip is to arrive at the Clingmans Dome parking area and gift shop. This is the highest point in the National Park at 6,643′. If the weather permits, we'll take an optional short walk through the spruce-fir forest and learn about this unique environment.

City: Gatlinburg

Wed 18 Feb

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $85.00

Make a reservation

Wed 18 Feb

Starting at $85.00

Make a reservation

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What's Included

Bottled water

Snacks

Additional Info

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

What To Expect

Newfound Gap Road

Newfound Gap Road is one of the most scenic drives in the southeast. We'll make the 13-mile long drive out of the Sugarlands Valley while we learn about the people, plants, animals, and history of the Great Smoky Mountains. Along the way we'll stop at several scenic overlooks for photos of the towering mountains and dark, shaded valleys.

Kuwohi

The highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this mountain provides sweeping views of as many as seven states. We'll walk among the spruce and fir trees and enjoy the cool mountain air as we learn about the place the Cherokee called Kuwahi.

Newfound Gap

Deep in the mountains at a height of more than 5,000 feet we'll stand on the state line while looking down the the Sugarland Valley to our north and the Oconaluftee Valley to the south. The famous 2,200 mile-long Appalachian Trail passes through this point next to the stone stage where President Franklin Roosevelt gave the Great Smoky Mountain National Park dedication.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Traveler Photos

Reviews (73)

rachelsQ8798VK

May 2023

Very informative and laid back. Traveled at your pace and was not rushed. You could tell that the Smokey Mountains was her playground and she LOVED and respected the area. It was a great tour!!! Good for ALL ages and abilities.

FanaticTripPlanner

May 2023

My spouse and I did the "Over the Top" tour which was private. Our tour guide Wendy was a very safe driver and we were happy to be able to enjoy all the scenery in a comfortable van without having to worry about navigating the windy roads. The tour involved several stops along the way to see some historical buildings, the visitor center, the Tennessee/NC state line, and the magnificent vista at the highest elevation. Our guide was very personable and provided great stories and information. Highly recommend.

Response from Host

May 2023

So glad you enjoyed the trip and Wendy. She is great

angelavO7258FH

Oct 2022

If you want to experience the Smoky Mountains this is hands down the way to do it. While the roads are perfectly fine to drive yourself, this tour is so much better because you can watch and look the entire time while hearing all about the history. Clayton was our tour guide and he was phenomenal. He took us over to the NC side and we got to stop wherever we wanted for photos. Do the morning tour, felt like we had the place to ourselves because on the way back out there were cars lined up everywhere. Highly recommend this. We went in October and the colors and views were stunning. Do not hesitate - purchase this tour.

Response from Host

Nov 2022

Hello We had a great time with you guys We are glad you enjoyed your trip