Newfound Gap Road, also known as US Highway 441, connects Cherokee, NC to  Gatlinburg, TN.  This 33 mile scenic drive takes you up and over the Great Smoky Mountains. There are ample turn outs and photography opportunities as you drive the Newfound Gap Road.

Traveling north along US 441/Newfound Gap Road reveals a plethora of winding roads and higher-elevation views of mountain layers. As you continue to climb to the higher elevations of the Park, where long range views of mountain ridges are plentiful. Most of these overlooks and parking areas will be on the left side.

Oconaluftee Valley Overlook provides stunning mountain landscape scenery. Photographers love this spot for sunrise photos. Continuing north on Newfound Gap Road is another gorgeous overlook with some history, and appropriately named Newfound Gap. The North Carolina/Tennessee border is located here, along with stunning views from the parking lot. A public restroom is adjacent to the parking lot.

Just past Newfound Gap, is Morton Overlook, a great spot for sunset views.

On the way down the mountain toward Gatlinburg, the winding road takes you through forested mountain sides and tunnels. Near Gatlinburg, be on the lookout for Little River Road, which provides access to Elkmont, Tremont, and Cades Cove.

To return to Cherokee and Bryson City, just take the same road back - US 441 S/Newfound Gap Road. When it's time to head back to Bryson City make sure to go slowly by the Oconaluftee Visitor Center to see the Elk that might be roaming in the Fields.