The Cherohala Skyway connects Tennessee and North Carolina across 43 miles of mountain beauty — but many visitors don’t know where it begins, what’s along the way, or how to plan the drive properly.

From hidden lakes and scenic overlooks to winter driving tips and Tail of the Dragon confusion, here’s everything you need to know before you hit the road.

EXPLORE THE ROAD THAT FEELS LIKE THE TOP OF THE WORLD →

We’re often asked how we manage to travel so frequently and explore all the hidden corners of the US. One of our favorite travel tools is the Capital One Venture Card.

 It’s simple: every dollar we spend earns unlimited 2x miles that we can redeem for any travel expense — from cabin rentals in Wears Valley to flights into Knoxville. It’s the card we use daily to turn our regular spending into future travel adventures.

 If you’re planning your next trip, consider signing up. You can earn a 75,000-mile bonus (equal to $750 in travel) after meeting the initial spending goal. Plus a one-time $250 travel credit in the first year.

LEARN MORE & APPLY HERE →

^{(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!)}

There are great places to stay all around the Smoky Mountains, where you stay depends on what you’re interest 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.

Folks, if you're planning a trip to Dollywood soon, mark your calendars! While the park is currently in its off-season, the highly anticipated "I Will Always Love You Music Festival" is just around the corner, kicking off on March 13th. This means that if you're visiting between now and then, the main theme park will not be open for rides and shows.

Don't fret, though! This is a fantastic opportunity to explore some of the other incredible attractions the Smokies have to offer before the festival crowds arrive. Consider visiting Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg or one of the many fantastic indoor dinner shows in Pigeon Forge. You can still enjoy the beautiful scenery and charming towns, just remember that Dollywood's gates for the main park experience will open on March 13th.

As February winds down and we look towards March, the Smokies are slowly shaking off winter's chill, making it a wonderful time to enjoy the crisp air and early signs of spring.

Even if the weather is a bit unpredictable this time of year, there's always something fun happening indoors in the Smokies!

VIEW THE UPCOMING 2026 EVENTS →

Ripley's has eight attractions packed into Gatlinburg, and they're some of the best ways to spend a day in the Smokies. Walk through an underwater shark tunnel at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, explore 500+ bizarre artifacts at the Believe It or Not! Odditorium, race down the mountain on the Ripley's Mountain Coaster, or brave the Haunted Adventure if you dare.

Their combo pass bundles multiple attractions together at a great price — perfect for families or anyone who wants to make a full day of it.

SEE ALL RIPLEY’S GATLINBURG ATTRACTIONS →

While Cades Cove is a beloved destination year-round, visiting in late February offers a truly unique and tranquil experience that many miss. As winter begins to recede, the crowds are still minimal, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and historical charm without the usual bustle. The Cades Cove Loop Road is less congested, making for a much more relaxed drive, and you'll find it easier to pull over at the various historical cabins, churches, and grist mills.

The leafless trees provide unobstructed views of the rolling hills and the surrounding mountains, often revealing hidden structures or wildlife that are harder to spot when the foliage is dense.

Keep your eyes peeled for deer, wild turkeys, and even black bears, which sometimes emerge from their dens on warmer days. The crisp air and quiet atmosphere create a serene backdrop for photography, offering dramatic contrasts and a different perspective on this iconic area. Remember to dress in layers, as mountain weather can be unpredictable, and bring a thermos of hot coffee or cocoa to enjoy during your leisurely drive. It's truly a magical time to connect with the park's history and nature, away from the peak season crowds.

Until next time,

Your Smoky Mountain Adventures Await