Great Smoky Mountains National Park Blog by Richard Weisser of SmokyPhotos.com

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is accessible to even those with limited mobility. Part Two, The Newfound Gap Overlook!

The Oconaluftee Valley as seen from the Newfound GapIn part one of this series "Cades Cove is an accessible area easily toured by auto!" we explored the history and beauty of Cades Cove.

Now we'll travel from the coves to the highlands, for some of the best views in the park that can be seen from the car. The park features many overlooks in the high elevations, each one featuring its own special beauty. But some are more specual than others.

No trip to the park is complete without stopping at Newfound Gap. Sitting on the state line that divides Tennessee and North Carolina, there is a huge parking lot that can accommodate many vehicles.

It was at this very spot that President Franklin Delano Roosevelt dedicated the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on September 2, 1940 "for the permanent enjoyment of the people."

Dais where president Franklin Delano Roosevelt dedicated the Great Smoky Mountains National ParkThere are incredible views in every direction, looking down the Oconaluftee Valley towards the Plott Balsams of North Carolina or down the west prong of the Little Pigeon River towards the Sugarlands and Gatlinburg Tennessee.

In addition to the spectacular views, the Appalachian Trail crosses here as it continues along the state line on the highest crest of the Smoky Mountains. So you may encounter some intrepid hikers here that may have begun their journey at Springer Mountain Georgia or Mt. Katahdin Maine!

It's easy to get to Newfound Gap. Just take U.S. Hwy. 441 South from Gatlinburg TN or North from Cherokee N.C. As you approach the state line you will see the excellent signage and turnoffs to the parking area.

Newfound Gap is one of the highlights of any trip to the Smokies. Be sure to include a stop there on your next trip to the park!

The Tennessee side of Newfound Gap with a dusting of snow

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Comments

I've been catching up on my Richard Weisser reading, but I am only going to comment on this, your latest post.  I miss you my friend.  This is beautiful and I hope someday that we will both have the time for you to give me a tour of this beautiful area.  xxoo 

Posted by Susan Mangigian, West Chester PA Realtor RE/MAX Preferred, ABR (RE/MAX Preferred, West Chester, PA, RS152252A) 6 months ago

Richard, we could meet halfway on the Appalachian Trail, runs right through here, or next town over I should say. Anyway, close enough! 

What a wonderful series, and I am glad your friend asked you about the Park being accessible to those with limited mobility. Way to go!

Posted by Andrea Swiedler - REALTOR - Greater New Milford CT (Prudential Adams & Associates, REALTORS, New Milford CT) 6 months ago

Richard, Your photos are stunning.  What a beautiful place to visit, I love seeing the tour!

Posted by Carole Provenzale Owner, Feng Shui Long Island & New York (Feng Shui Long Island & New York City) 6 months ago

Very nice photo's... Love the view from Newfound Gap... Besides Roosevelt, hasn't this location showed up in a few movies?

Posted by René Fabre (ARFCO MEDIA - social media consulting) 6 months ago

Richard, I will definitely have to put this on my list of places to visit. Beautiful photos.

Posted by Rebecca Gaujot Lewisburg WV Realtor (Coldwell Banker Stuart & Watts Real Estate) 6 months ago

Susan...

I have been to this spot many, many times, and it never disappoints! Hope that all is well in West Chester! Thanks my friend.

Andrea...

I have limited experience on the AT, one day I would like to do a lot more of it! THX

Carole...

Thanks, it is a beautiful and accessible place!

Posted by Richard Weisser Coweta Fayette Real Estate 6 months ago

Thank you sir for adding to our trip.  I can say that you have a very good knowledge of the Smokies.

Posted by Don Rogers REALTOR®, GRI O'Fallon MO & St Charles County MO homes (RE/MAX Gold) 6 months ago

Richard...if I get down in your area, I will be looking for a guided trip.  Great pics!

Posted by William Feela Realtor 651-674-5999 No. Branch,MN (WHISPERING PINES REALTY) 6 months ago

Richard, the only way I could meet you half way on the AT is if I drove to the halfway mark and waited for you, LOL. I have walked about 2 miles of it as it winds by the Housatonic River here. Years ago it was something I really wanted to do. In my heart I would LOVE to walk part of it anyway, don't know if the rest of me would follow, LOL. 

Maybe it would make a good real estate boot camp??? 

Posted by Andrea Swiedler - REALTOR - Greater New Milford CT (Prudential Adams & Associates, REALTORS, New Milford CT) 6 months ago

Rene...

Hmmm ...not sure. I'll have to research this! THX

Rebecca...

It is beautiful! Thanks for the comment.

Don...

There is plent to see and do there! THX

Posted by Richard Weisser Coweta Fayette Real Estate 6 months ago

You're really going to have to quit with all these mountain posts, you're starting to make me miss those hills my friend.

Posted by JL Boney, III Columbia, SC Real Estate (Russell and Jeffcoat) 5 months ago

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