Feature Story
The Smokies’ Most Scenic Summer Drives Are Back
Summer has officially arrived in the Smokies — and that means some of the park’s most scenic roads are finally open again.
From the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail to the rugged Parsons Branch Road and the stunning drive up to Kuwohi, these seasonal routes unlock parts of the Smokies many visitors never experience.
If you've been looking for a new adventure this summer, this is your guide to the roads worth exploring before they close again.
Sponsor Spotlight
BRINGING ART TO THE MASSES
The largest IPO in history is coming. Where will all that liquid money go?
SpaceX just filed for an IPO valued at up to $1.75 trillion. When that much capital becomes liquid all at once, where it goes next is the big question.
Meanwhile, spring art auctions in NY cleared $2.5 billion, with 15+ new artist records.
Prized, physical assets with fixed and scarce supply. When the ultra-wealthy get liquid, it’s one of the markets they reach for to diversify.
Masterworks lets you into that art market without needing the nine figures. Its members invest in shares of blue-chip artwork by artists like Banksy, Basquiat and Warhol.
The track record to-date?
$1.3B deployed across 500+ artworks
29 sales to date
Net annualized returns like 16.5%, 17.6%, and 17.8%, not including those unsold*
*Investing involves risk. Past performance is not indicative of future returns. See important disclosures at masterworks.com/cd.
Local Insights
A RICH HISTORY
REMEMBERING THE LOST ATTRACTIONS
Attractions can come and go in the blink of an eye. Explore some of the past attractions.
SPOTTING CELEBRITIES IN THE SMOKIES
Highlighting locations where you might see celebrities enjoying the Smoky Mountains.
FAMOUS MOVIES FILMED IN THE SMOKIES
The mountains have been home to a few forgettable movies and a handful of classics.
THE LAST FAMILY IN CADES COVE
Cades Cove is a national treasure with a rich history and a jewel of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Sponsor Spotlight
SAVE MONEY ON THE THINGS YOU BUY ONLINE - FOR FREE
We get asked all the time how to stretch a budget further without giving up the things you love. One of the easiest wins we've found is Capital One Shopping — a free browser extension that automatically finds and applies coupon codes at checkout, compares prices across retailers, and even sends you exclusive email bonus offers like "$25 back when you spend $75 at Ripley’s" or other brands you shop.
You don't have to do a thing. It runs quietly in the background and pops up the moment it finds a better deal for you. Over 30,000 stores are supported — Amazon, Target, Walmart, and thousands more. It takes about 30 seconds to install and costs absolutely nothing.
(Heads up: This is our personal referral link. If you sign up, we may receive a bonus, which helps us keep Smoky Mountain Insider running at no extra cost to you. This is a product we personally use and trust!)
Smoky Mountain Lodging
LOOKING FOR A PLACE TO STAY
There are great places to stay all around the Smoky Mountains, where you stay depends on what your interests are and how much you’re willing to spend. Simply select the city you’re interested in, and you’ll get a map showing available accommodations.
Adventure in the Smokies
RIDE THE RAPIDS ON THE NANTAHALA RIVER
Looking for a fun outdoor adventure during your Smoky Mountains trip? This fully guided whitewater rafting trip on the Nantahala River is perfect for beginners and families, with exciting rapids, beautiful mountain scenery, and experienced guides leading the way.
News & Events
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE SMOKIES
⚠️ Insider Alert: Road Closures June 8 and 9th
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park will close sections of Little River Road between Townsend Wye and Elkmont for essential road maintenance from 7 a.m. to noon on June 8th and 9th. Detours via Wears Valley Road will be in place. Visitors should plan for increased travel times.
😎 SEASONAL FUN IN THE SMOKIES
The mountains come alive in the Summer; there’s something for everyone who comes and visits.
Sevier County Days: Local residents can enjoy discounted entry to Dollywood and Splash Country for just $5 during Sevier County Days, benefiting community nonprofits through mid-June.
Popular Park Sites: Despite road maintenance, Elkmont, Metcalf Bottoms, and Cades Cove remain accessible with detours. Enjoy hiking, picnicking, and wildlife watching.
🐦🔥 GUARANTEED GOOD TIMES (Rain or Shine)
Upcoming events you won’t want to miss.
Anakeesta Grand Reopening Celebration: On June 11th, join the Making More Magic Grand Opening at Anakeesta in Gatlinburg, featuring the new Crystal Express Glass Gondola and the enchanting Firefly Experience. RSVP is required for the evening event, which starts at 7 p.m.
Outdoor Adventures: From thrilling rafting trips and mountain coasters to go-kart racing, Pigeon Forge offers plenty of summer fun for all ages.
Hidden Gems
BATTLING IT OUT
🥩 BATTLE OF GATLINBURG’S STEAKHOUSES
See which restaurant wins for flavor, atmosphere, and value.
🍗 PAULA DEEN’S vs MAMA’S FARMHOUSE
Two Southern staples go head-to-head for the best comfort food.
🍔 BLUE MOOSE CHALLENGES CALHOUN’S
Blue Moose, a new up-and-comer, takes on Calhoun’s - see who claims the crown.
🍳 A TRIPLE THREAT WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE
We compare The Cottage, Local Goat, and Puckett’s to see where your dining dollars should go.
Insider Secrets & Tips + Discounts
THOUGHTS FROM THE SMOKIES
SUMMER SAFETY
Summer brings increased visitor traffic; be cautious on roads, especially during the “100 Deadliest Days of Summer” for teen drivers. When camping in the backcountry, be prepared and watch out for ticks.
LOCAL TIPS
Traffic Alert: Expect single-lane closures on the Gatlinburg Spur starting June 4 for guardrail repairs. Plan accordingly and drive safely.
Vehicle Restrictions: Wear Cove: Motor homes, buses, vans longer than 25 feet, and passenger vehicles towing trailers are prohibited on Wear Cove Gap Road from the park boundary to Metcalf Bottoms Bridge during maintenance closures.
DISCOUNTS
Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort & Spa: Stay near the heart of the action and save on Hotels and Special Packages.
Rocky Top Mountain Coaster: Zip through Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains on a mountain coaster.
Ripley’s: Save up to $27 with the Ripley’s Gatlinburg Aquarium + 2 attractions combo!
Nantahala Outdoor Center: Pigeon River rafting in the Smokies
SkyLand Ranch: Experience mountain coasters, scenic views & live entertainment
Until next time,
Your Smoky Mountain Adventures Await
