How to drive to Newfound Gap in the Great Smoky Mountains?
Newfound Gap is a mountain pass at an elevation of 1.541m (5,055ft) above sea level, located on the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, in the USA.
Where is Newfound Gap?
The pass is located on the border of eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina, in the southeastern part of the country, set high in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park of the southern Appalachian Mountains. At 5,055ft above sea level, it’s said to be the lowest drivable pass through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Can you drive through Newfound Gap in the Great Smoky Mountains?
The scenic road to the summit is totally paved. It’s called Newfound Gap Road (US-441). Constructed in the 1930s, this route winds its way through cove hardwood, pine-oak, and northern hardwood forests. It's an architectural marvel with tunnels, stone bridges, and serpentine twists and turns.
How long is the road to Newfound Gap in the Great Smoky Mountains?
Stretching for 56.16km (34.9 miles), the road connects Gatlinburg, a quaint mountain town in eastern Tennessee, to Cherokee in western North Carolina.
Is Newfound Gap in the Great Smoky Mountains open?
Expect cold temperatures at the pass, even during summer. Although Newfound Gap experiences significant winter snowfall, the pass is typically open all year round but short-term closures are common in winter. On average, Newfound Gap sees snow on 19 days annually.
Is Newfound Gap in the Great Smoky Mountains worth it?
A trip to Newfound Gap is a memorable experience. The summit has the Rockefeller Memorial and provides ample parking. As you drive, there are many pull-offs and scenic overlooks to enjoy. This route offers a great opportunity to explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited national park in the USA.