High Points Driving Tour
Overview
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
Sightseeing in the “high elevations” of the Great Smoky Mountains can be an experience that won’t soon be forgotten. We travel past the Appalachian Trail and traverse the Crest of the Smokies as we take in the sights above 5000 ft. You will gain facts of the area from your guide that will make these mountains come alive with Native American stories and geographical facts. We travel into the North Carolina side of the National Park to take in the vistas and learn about the impact logging had to the area. You will be amazed how the forest has reclaimed itself over the years. Our goal for this trip is to arrive at the Clingmans Dome parking area and gift shop. This is the highest point in the National Park at 6,643′. If the weather permits, we'll take an optional short walk through the spruce-fir forest and learn about this unique environment.
Additional Info
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What To Expect
Newfound Gap Road
Newfound Gap Road is one of the most scenic drives in the southeast. We'll make the 13-mile long drive out of the Sugarlands Valley while we learn about the people, plants, animals, and history of the Great Smoky Mountains. Along the way we'll stop at several scenic overlooks for photos of the towering mountains and dark, shaded valleys.
Kuwohi
The highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this mountain provides sweeping views of as many as seven states. We'll walk among the spruce and fir trees and enjoy the cool mountain air as we learn about the place the Cherokee called Kuwahi.
What‘s Included
Bottled water
Snacks
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Options
High Points Driving Tour
Reviews
120 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
An informational and interesting introduction to the Smoky Mountains.
26TAM63,May 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We enjoyed our tour and we were lucky to have almost perfect weather. Our guide Jay, was very nice and knowledgeable about the area throughout the tour. We were disappointed that we only had 15 to 20 minutes at Clingman’s Dome/Kuwohi. The itinerary on Booking.com as well as TripAdvisor says the tour stops there for 60 minutes, so we expected to be able to hike the area or go to Clingman’s Dome. We did stop at Elkmont Ghost Town, which was interesting. After the tour, I went back to review the itinerary to see if I misread something, I had not. I’m giving a five star review because we did really enjoy the tour despite having incorrect information on the itinerary. My suggestion is you update your description to match the one on both Viator’s and the Smokey Mountain Guides websites.
Enjoying the views
Victoria L,May 8, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Very relaxing beautiful drive. Had scenic stops with great pictures taken. Our guide was very knowledgeable about the history and where the perfect views were. Very friendly.
Great overview
Dream26869940666,May 6, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our guide,Kyndel, was friendly,funny, and knowledgeable. She never rushed us. We loved her! We learned a lot about the flora and history of the area. Even though we had to cancel a guided hike the next day due to weather,she texted directions for a couple of short hikes we could fit in ourselves that same day. The only thing I would have liked was a couple more pull overs for views.
Smoky Mtn High Points Driving Tour
Jalkc222,May 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Very easy, educational way to see the peaks and travel through the Smokeys, nice easy ride and our guide was very knowledgeable.
Exactly that, High Points!
roberthV6015LS,May 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Lydia was great! Very knowledgeable
Excellent tour and guide
P2690GYrobertc,Apr 22, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The tour guide was very knowledgeable of the Smoky Mountains and an excellent guide.
Smokey Mountain High Points Tour
cindyrO3362GV,Nov 29, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Smokey Mountain High Points Tour Review We had such a wonderful experience on the Smokey Mountain High Points Tour! Wes was incredibly friendly and engaging with everyone in the group, making the day feel welcoming and fun. He shared not only fascinating history facts about each high point but also personal stories that brought the mountains to life in a unique way. His passion and knowledge made the tour both educational and memorable. We would highly recommend signing up for this tour—it’s the perfect blend of scenic beauty, history, and genuine connection.
Easy Peasey!
Joy J,Nov 25, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Kendil was so knowledgeable and has lived in the area most of her life and hiked all over the area even to the tops of many of the high points we saw on the tour. Told us about the history and the fire. We stood on the state line of Tennessee and North Carolina. Had time to read all the signs and see the place where Rockfellar and FDR dedicated the park in 1934. The 1.30pm tour on Sunday was not very crowded and had little traffic. It was a beautiful clear fall day and we could see for miles! My only regret was not having an extra hour to hike up Kuwohi, the highest point to view all seven states. Kendrick even dropped us off in town and gave us recommendations on where to eat for dinner and how to get back to the Visitor center on the FREE Gatlinburg Trolley. It was a wonderful trip!!!
Unable to fairly evaluate...
Robert A,Oct 29, 2025
- Review from Viator
3.00Unable to fairly evaluate this tour because it was cancelled due to unforeseen problems with the van's brakes.
Canceled our tour 2 hours notice.
Anita W,Oct 24, 2025
- Review from Viator
1.00They canceled our tour with a 2 hour notice. Waiting on a refund. Was really looking forward to it. They wanted us to go Sunday but we are leaving that fay.
From US$85.00
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Operated by Smoky Mountain Guides