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7 Best Views in the Smokies for Sunrise and Sunset Admirers 

Story Created by: Olivia Williams

Dashed Trail
Dashed Trail

Sunrise and sunset in the Smoky Mountains offer stunning views, with easy and challenging locations offering stunning vantage points for easy or challenging hikes.

Dashed Trail
Dashed Trail

Nature paints the sky with vibrant hues at sunrise and sunset. Discover the top 7 scenic spots that offer breathtaking views, perfect for those who cherish the beauty of dawn and dusk.

Little River Road

Small pullouts along Little River Road, between Laurel Falls and Sugarland Visitor Center, provide prime sunrise views over the Smoky Mountains. 

1

Oconaluftee Valley Overlook 

It is located half a mile from Newfound Gap, is the first overlook on the right-hand side of the Blue Ridge Parkway, perfect for observing Smoky Mountain sunrise.

2

Newfound Gap

Newfound Gap, near Morton Overlook outside Gatlinburg, offers stunning sunset and sunrise views. Park on the left side, with ample parking and restrooms.

3

Morton Overlook

It is located off Route 441, is a prime spot for Smoky Mountains sunsets. Arrive at least an hour early, especially on weekends or during peak seasons, as parking fills up fast.

4

Clingmans Dome 

Clingmans Dome, park's highest point, offers stunning sunrise and sunset views, with a half-mile trail leading to an observation tower with sunrise and sunset views.

5

Foothills Parkway

The Foothills Parkway near Townsend has west-facing overlooks, ideal for watching the sunset over the Cumberland Plateau in the Tennessee Valley.

6

Mt. LeConte 

Mt. LeConte offers stunning sunrise and sunset views, accessible by hiking the 5-mile Alum Cave Trail. Ideal for avid hikers comfortable with hiking in the dark.

7

Terrain Map

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