There is nothing quite like watching the sun come over the Smoky Mountains bright and early in the morning. If seeing a Smoky Mountain sunrise is on your bucket list, there are plenty of great places to catch a glimpse. When the weather is nice and the sky is clear, visitors to the area are in for a real treat.
Clingmans Dome
Clingman's Dome is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You can access this spot from Clingmans Dome Road off of Newfound Gap, but you'll need to hike a steep half-mile to make it to the observation tower. On a clear morning, visitors can see a spectacular view of the sunrise, with over 100 miles of visibility.
Clingmans Dome
Gatlinburg Overlook
One of the best views in Gatlinburg, The Gatlinburg Overlook provides a stunning vantage point of the city at the foothills of the LeConte massif. This overlook on the Gatlinburg parkway bypass faces the east, making it a great spot to watch the sunrise if you wake up early enough.
Gatlinburg Views
Newfound Gap
Newfound Gap is a great scenic overlook in the Smoky Mountains. A large parking area is available to visitors, making it easy to drive right up to a beautiful sunrise. This is a great option for people who have limited mobility, small children or even people who would just rather not hike.
Newfound Gap
The Jump Off
If you're good at waking up early and can handle hiking in the dark, the Jump Off might be the sunrise spot for you. This premier vantage point in the Smoky Mountains is accessible via a 3.3 mile hike from Newfound Gap with about 1000 feet in elevation gain. You'll get outstanding views of Charlie's Bunion, the Sawteeth, Mt. Guyot and other peaks over 6000 feet. Don't forget your headlamp!
The Jump Off
Foothills Parkway
A drive along the Foothills Parkway guarantees you some incredible views, made even better when you see them at sunrise. If you're looking to stop and take it all in, there are pull-offs along the way. A great way to find a view you like is to take the drive the day before and scope out a spot. Then, return the next day before sunrise and take your place to watch the Smokies light up.
Foothills Parkway
Mt. LeConte's Myrtle Point
The view from Myrtle Point on The Boulevard is truly unbelievable. While you'll have to take on this trek in the dark, when you arrive on top in time for the sunrise you will be impressed by the stunning views all around. If you plan far enough in advance, you may even be able to stay at LeConte Lodge and hike up the day prior to avoid any hiking in the dark.
Mount LeConte
Cabins With A Mountain View
The easiest way to see a Smoky Mountain sunrise is to stay in a cabin with a mountain view. Maximize the amount of sleep you get on your trip without sacrificing the experience of a Smoky Mountain sunrise. Grab a cup of coffee, then kick back and relax on your porch and wait until the sun comes up.
Cabins With A Mountain View
