About this experience
Your trip begins at Sugarlands Visitor Center, where you’ll meet your naturalist guide from A Walk in the Woods. From there, we’ll travel up into Great Smoky Mountains, stopping along the way for sweeping mountain views, photo opportunities, and stories that bring the Smokies to life.
This guided driving tour includes several beautiful overlooks where you can take in the famous “sea of mountains,” learn about the natural and human history of the park, and visit the Rockefeller Memorial at Newfound Gap, located on the Tennessee and North Carolina border.
After enjoying the views from Newfound Gap, we’ll stretch our legs with a short walk on the famous Appalachian Trail. Depending on the day and group, your guide may also lead you on a gentle history walk near a clear mountain stream, and perhaps even taste a seasonal wild mountain treat.
Duration: 2.5 Hours | Difficulty: Easy | Ages: All
Meeting Location: Sugarlands Visitors Center or Downtown Gatlinburg
At a glance
- Duration: 2 hr 30 min
Plan your experience
Set aside 2 hr 30 min for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What is included
- Snacks
- All Fees and Taxes
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Professional naturalist guide
Not included
- Gratuity for your guide.
- Drinks are not provided. Please bring plenty of water.
- Rain Gear - We do have emergency ponchos on hand if needed.
- Private transportation
Itinerary and highlights
We will meet at the Sugarland's Visitor Center where you will have a chance to explore the Park museum and support the Park with your gift purchases at the book store. From there, we will travel up the mountain and learn the human and natural history of the Park before getting out and experiencing a slice of the famous AT. Your guide will regale you with stories of the Cherokee, the settlers, the Civil War history and the creation of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Stop and experience beautiful vistas, learn the medicinal and edible uses of wild plants, take your time as you soak in the beauty of these ancient mountains.
Departure and return location.
Newfound Gap Road has many scenic vistas and points of interest.
Meeting and pickup information
- At the Visitors Center, we meet at the flagpole. If we meet you at the Visitors Center, you will need a Parking Tag to leave your vehicle there. There are kiosks out front where you can get your tag. Day tags are $5 and Weekly tags are $15.
- If multiple groups sign up for this tour, we will be in touch before the date of your tour to give you a specific meeting time.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- A Walk in the Woods
Accessibility and practical details
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- A maximum of 14 people per booking
- Collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can be accommodated providing the passenger is accompanied by someone who can assist them board and disembark
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
- Please note that, while we do our best to follow the itinerary listed, we may need to pivot due to road closures or events outside of our control. We require a minimum of 2 people to operate this tour. We operate rain or shine.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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