The Under-The-Radar Scenic Drive In Tennessee That Showcases The Great Smoky Mountains
By Chris Dodge|Published November 08, 2023
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Chris Dodge
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My name is Chris Dodge and I live right here in the great state of Tennessee. My family and I are full adventurers filled with passion to see the amazing things our state has to offer. We are avid hikers and have explored many different places in Tennessee and beyond but we are always thankful to be living in such a glorious state.
One of my favorite things to do with my family is load up the car and take off on a road trip to discover new scenic areas. Adventuring is in our blood and if you are anything like us, then you, too, long for those scenic drives on lazy weekend afternoons. So allow me to guide you to an under-the-radar place with incredible views. Wears Valley, Tennessee, is the destination and trust me when I say it doesn’t disappoint.
You might not have heard of Wears Valley before because it is an unincorporated community that often falls under the umbrella of Pigeon Forge, Townsend, or Sevierville.
However, locals know and love Wears Valley; just hearing the name evokes imagery of rolling green hills, sprawling farmsteads, and, of course, the Great Smoky Mountains.
Route 321 runs parallel to our famous national park, so the Smokies are visible the entire trip, making for a stunning backdrop.
To extend your scenic drive, hop on the Foothills Parkway for gorgeous and sweeping mountain views within the Smoky Mountains.
A long-standing tradition in these mountains is, of course, the classic general store. The Mountain Brother’s General Store is a delightful spot where you can shop for unique gifts and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere with a beautiful backdrop.
A fun place for lunch I would recommend is Bigfoot Philly Cheesesteaks. Order the iconic Philadelphia staple or enjoy some good ole BBQ at this Sasquatch-themed eatery.
Stay in any of the tiny homes like this one called The Serenity. Taking a trip to this part of Tennessee is so beautiful, chances are you won’t want to leave -- so do yourself a favor and book lodging from the get-go.
Extend the awe-inspiring wonder the next day with a trip into the Smoky Mountains.
Cades Cove is a short drive away and offers phenomenal mist-covered mountains in the morning. During the quiet of the morning, the wildlife starts waking up and this is one of the best places to see black bears in Tennessee!
Have you traveled through Wears Valley before? It is tough to deny the beauty of the rolling farmlands with the Great Smoky Mountains as a backdrop. It is enough to make this mountain-dwelling adventurer’s heart swell.
Wears Valley, Tennessee, is well worth an adventure. Sip coffee at the relaxing general store, enjoy a unique stay in the mountains, and soak in the views of the Smokies with a dreamy trip to Wears Valley.
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