Little River Road Scenic Drive
An 18-mile scenic drive in the Smokies, featuring waterfalls, river access, and lush forest views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Little River Road Scenic Drive
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An 18-mile scenic drive in the Smokies, featuring waterfalls, river access, and lush forest views.
"Absolutely AMAZING! We had such a great day hanging out and playing in the river!
"🥾 Wear Water Shoes
Essential for safely enjoying the river and exploring cascades.
🚗 Parking Alternative
A good spot to wait for Cades Cove parking or if it's full.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Sinks
12 miles west of Sugarlands Visitor Center
A picturesque spot along the drive, perfect for waterfall views and a refreshing stop.

Little River Gorge Road
Follows the Little River
An 18-mile scenic route with numerous cascades, waterfalls, and natural attractions.

River Access Points
Various pull-offs along the road
Enjoy peaceful moments by the river, skipping rocks, or dipping your feet.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the River's Edge
Scenic Drive Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Water Shoes
Essential for safely enjoying the river and exploring cascades.
🚗 Parking Alternative
A good spot to wait for Cades Cove parking or if it's full.
🏞️ Plenty of Pull-Offs
Stop to observe multiple areas and enjoy the scenery.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Enjoy a picnic lunch by the car next to the river.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Water Shoes
Essential for safely enjoying the river and exploring cascades.
🚗 Parking Alternative
A good spot to wait for Cades Cove parking or if it's full.
🏞️ Plenty of Pull-Offs
Stop to observe multiple areas and enjoy the scenery.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Enjoy a picnic lunch by the car next to the river.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the peaceful river access and stunning natural scenery along Little River Road, calling it a hidden gem. Many appreciate the numerous pull-offs for easy exploration and relaxation. Some note that while beautiful, it can get crowded, and planning for food and amenities is essential.
"Absolutely- AMAZING"
Jennifer Konikoff
"We had such a great day hanging out and playing in the river! Skipping rocks, dipping our feet, checking under rocks - it was very peaceful."
Jessica Rowe
"The parking here is better than up the road at Laurel falls and can be a good place to spend some time while waiting for a parking spot to open up.
Bring water shoes"
Dan Sullivan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Little River Road is located within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It's an 18-mile drive that connects the Sugarlands Visitor Center area to Cades Cove.
Yes, Little River Road is a paved scenic drive, making it accessible for most vehicles and suitable for strollers.
While paved, Little River Road is a winding mountain road. Large RVs and trailers may find it challenging. Check park advisories for any restrictions.
The road is generally open year-round during daylight hours, but always check the National Park Service website for current closures or seasonal restrictions.
Cell service can be spotty to non-existent along much of Little River Road. Download offline maps and inform someone of your travel plans.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a parking tag is required to park anywhere within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, including along Little River Road. Purchase these online or at visitor centers.
There is no separate entrance fee for Little River Road itself, but you will need a valid Great Smoky Mountains National Park parking tag to park your vehicle.
Little River Road is typically open from sunrise to sunset. However, it can be closed due to weather conditions, especially in winter.
No, Little River Road is a public scenic drive and does not require timed entry tickets. Parking tags are the only requirement for parking.
Accessing the natural attractions like The Sinks or river areas along Little River Road is free with your park entry/parking tag.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Key stops include The Sinks for waterfalls, various river access points for relaxation, and numerous pull-offs for enjoying the forest and mountain scenery.
Yes, several trailheads are located along Little River Road, offering opportunities for various hiking levels.
You might spot white-tailed deer, black bears (from a safe distance!), various bird species, and other forest creatures.
Absolutely! The road offers stunning views of waterfalls, cascades, lush forests, and river scenes, making it a photographer's paradise.
Bring water shoes, comfortable walking shoes, water, snacks, a camera, and insect repellent. Layers of clothing are also recommended.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or food services directly on Little River Road. It's best to pack a picnic or eat before/after your drive in Gatlinburg or Townsend.
Many pull-offs offer scenic river views perfect for a picnic. Some designated picnic areas might also be available.
Limited concessions might be available at visitor centers or Cades Cove, but options are scarce. Packing your own food is highly recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
The Sinks waterfall, the flowing Little River, forest canopy, and various cascades offer incredible photo opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and golden hues.
For personal photography, no special permit is required. However, commercial photography or videography may require a permit.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto can capture wildlife. A tripod can be useful for waterfall shots in lower light.
While there aren't designated sunrise/sunset spots, many overlooks offer beautiful views as the sun moves across the sky.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring The Sinks and River Access
Beyond The Sinks, Little River Road is dotted with numerous pull-off areas that provide direct access to the Little River. These spots are perfect for a spontaneous picnic lunch or just a moment of quiet contemplation amidst the sounds of flowing water and rustling leaves. The accessibility of these river spots makes the drive incredibly engaging, allowing you to connect with the natural environment at your own pace.
The Scenic Drive Experience
Along the drive, you'll encounter many cascades and waterfalls, some easily visible from the road and others requiring a short walk. The numerous turn-offs are a key feature, inviting exploration of these natural attractions. These pull-offs are not just for viewing; they are opportunities to step out of the car, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and truly appreciate the scale and beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit