Talk about US car trips, and you’ll rarely hear the Foothills Parkway unless you see it on the lesser-known roads list. Being the third most underrated route worldwide, as reported on Forbes, Foothills Parkway will not be top of mind when picking routes to follow. But if you do, you’ll be surprised by the enchanting views it offers.
This 33-mile unknown route is separated from the Smokies (The Great Smoky Mountains National Park) on the Tennessee side by a few miles. It starts at Chilhowee Lake on Route 129 to route 321 in Wears Valley. When you get to Walland, there’s an incomplete part of the road running to Wears Valley. Locals call it the ‘Missing Link’. What you’ll see at every turn are hypnotizing vistas of the Smokies, forests, and rolling hills on the horizon. The paths hidden in the park give hiking experiences that last forever. Want to make your trip on this unpopular road that deserves a spot on the most scenic US routes list epic?
Your Car And Timing Matter
The goal of any road tripper is to have trouble-free, memorable moments. So, during the planning phase, pick a vehicle that everyone joining in the ride is comfortable inside. For instance, you could opt for minivans under $50k top-rated by previous users. These minivans have enough room for passengers and luggage, providing comfort. Plus, they are fuel-efficient and safe. Still in preparations, know when the best time for a Foothills Parkway car trip is. Of all seasons, choose fall to get photo shots of landscapes covered with a kaleidoscope of colors and foot explorations. But if you can’t go in fall, spring is another good time. Your travel should be any time between March and October, and plan for a 3-5 day tour.
Stop At All Overlooks
Every overlook here, allows you to marvel at Smoky Mountains’ exceptional beauty. Start at Look Rock Tower. Here you get a 360-degree panoramic sight that leaves you enchanted. Just make a commitment to walk on the two-mile trail through the forest up to the observation tower for spectacular sightings. After the hike, do a picnic with your loved ones at the picnic area located north of the parking area or camp for the night in the campground. Other overlooks you should stop at and savor in picturesque views are the Cumberland Plateau, Marylyn, Emerine Gap (the only overlook with views on both sides of the road), and Butterfly Hollow Overlook.
What if you want a laid-back but exciting tour? Head to Wears Valley and get active trying zip lining and riding the hawk sky lift. Or explore the Tuckaleechee Caverns that run under the Smoky Mountains to Townsend, and watch the cascading Laurel Falls. Also, plan a hike to Thunderhead Mountain through the Appalachian trails. Although you can’t hike The English Mountain, it’s worth visiting. Drive through Foothills Parkway East to witness changing lights that make space for stunning photo shoots.
Befriend Locals
You’ll drive via Blount, Sevier, and Cocke counties and pass by some towns; Maryville, Townsend, Cosby, and Gatlinburg. Don’t drive away without interacting with local artisans in these places. Discover unique handmade crafts, from jewelry to woodwork, pottery, and paintings. Don’t forget to sample local cuisines, including gravy and biscuits, the classic pecan pie, and fried chicken. Grabbing a local meal at a restaurant or buying art in a shop by the roadside is a great way to connect to a place and its people.
What a road tour on Foothills Parkway does is reveal picture-perfect views you have been missing out. Planning can’t be ignored, however, for a stress-free journey. Therefore, know which vehicle is suitable for driving and when to car trip on this route in East Tennessee. Also, stop at each overlook, talk with locals, buy unique art and crafts from locals, and enjoy local meals.
What say you?
Thoughts on the Foothills Parkway?
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