As a native East Tennessean, I’ve found few parts of the South that have my heart like the Appalachian Mountains. Nearby Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg might be famous for tourist destinations such as Dollywood and the Ripley’s attractions, but one of my favorite places is just beyond the back door of my childhood home in Walland, Tennessee.
About The Foothills Parkway
A stone’s throw from all the hustle and bustle, on the outskirts of Great Smoky Mountains National Park lies the Foothills Parkway, a quieter, uncrowded route that beckons with promises of tucked-away trails and grand vistas rivaling those on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The 33-mile-long road snakes across hills and valleys starting at U.S. 129 at Chilhowee Lake and emerging at U.S. 321 in Wears Valley.
From its turnoffs, you can see the farthest edges of the horizon in any direction with captivating panoramas that sweep across more familiar peaks of the national park. It’s the land of sky and trees with nothing to hinder your view. No matter which mile marker you drive to, the parkway provides something for everyone: Novice adventurers can experience the picture-worthy landscapes from within the comfort of their cars, while others might hike a trail from one of the pull offs, such as Look Rock.
Although it was initially approved for construction in 1944 as a 71-mile-long route, the first part to be completed was the westernmost section (17 miles of pavement between Walland and Chilhowee Lake) in 1966. Today, about half still remains unfinished. While there’s plenty of ground to cover, this original stretch is my favorite. Overlooking the valley where I grew up, the parkway was like an extended backyard—offering a place for hiking, canoeing, biking, exploring, and reflecting.
The Road That Raised Me
As a kid, I used to think of the road as a means to an end with pretty scenery along the way. My family would trailer canoes up and over the parkway to Abrams Creek for camping trips—often with Mom behind the wheel, my siblings and I in tow, and Dad on his bicycle ahead of us. Once I became old enough to drive, the winding route with its overlooks and expansive views took on a new meaning. Perched above all the noise of life below, this short escape from home, just far enough for a little extra fresh air and perspective, turned into my safe haven.
Now, whenever I go home for a visit, it’s become a special place to return to where I can conquer the hills on my bike, following in the footsteps of my dad, who passed away in 2016. While most visitors on two wheels come riding motorcycles, Dad was an avid cyclist and could often be found biking the parkway. He knew every curve of the asphalt, and I can still feel his presence at each bend—a long climb to the top, roll-ing hills across the ridge, and a descent toward the water.
My dad was a fervent outdoor enthusiast but was truly in his element when on his bike. Although I didn’t pick up cycling until after his death, his love for the sport inspired me, and I feel connected to him when riding the same roads.
Why Fall Is The Best Time To Visit
There’s beauty in all of the seasons here, but autumn is peppered with an abundance of vibrant colors. Trees are ripe with splendid hues of golden yellow, rusty and fiery reds, and burnt orange mixed in among the rich evergreens. In the early morning, sunlight dapples through the changing leaves, producing a soft, heavenly glow. The empty road allows the peaceful sounds of wind rustling through the trees to fill the air. Sitting on the grassy edge of one of the scenic pull offs feels like being everywhere and nowhere at the same time. All the cares of the world seem to momentarily disappear into the vast, unspoiled magnificence of God’s creation in front of me.
For A Little Extra Adventure
Take a short hike to stretch your legs. Between the entrances is Look Rock—the highest elevation point on the parkway at about 2,600 feet. For a panoramic view, take a short walk up the paved Look Rock Tower trail (0.8-mile round trip) to the observation platform…