Drive the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail in Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg9.6/10Hard
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Category

Natural Landmark

Typical Duration

2-4 hours

Difficulty

Hard

About This Landmark

Drive the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail in Gatlinburg

The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a scenic 6-mile loop located just outside Gatlinburg, offering visitors an unforgettable experience of the beautiful Smoky Mountains. This one-way gravel road provides an up-close view of lush forests, bubbling streams, and historical structures, making it unique among the area's many attractions. It's an ideal spot for those seeking to appreciate nature without hiking extensive trails.

Adventure Guide to Drive the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

  1. Grove Center Area
    The Grove Center serves as an excellent starting point for the trail. Here, you’ll find informative displays about the native flora and fauna of the area. The highlight is the Grove Center Loop, a short trail that showcases beautiful wildflowers and views of the creek, perfect for capturing memorable photos.

  2. Historic Elkmont
    As you continue along the trail, stop at Elkmont, a former logging community turned ghost town. Here, you can explore the remnants of early 20th-century buildings and learn about the area's history. Pay attention to the old cabins, uniquely blending in with the environment, providing insight into the life of early mountain settlers.

  3. Greenbriar Pinnacle
    Ending the drive, the Greenbriar Pinnacle offers breathtaking panoramic views. It’s especially stunning at sunrise and sunset, making it a fantastic spot for photography. Be sure to bring binoculars to spot the diverse local wildlife that inhabits the area.

Local Insights

The Roaring Fork trail is a part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is home to more than 19,000 documented species and potentially thousands more yet to be discovered. Enjoying this drive allows visitors to appreciate the park's biodiversity without straying too far from their vehicles.

Visitor Tips

  • Best Times to Visit: The trail is best experienced in spring and fall, with vibrant wildflowers and stunning foliage.
  • What to Bring: Binoculars for wildlife watching, a camera, and plenty of water.
  • Driving Directions: Starting from Gatlinburg, take the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail entrance approximately a 10-minute drive away, off the Cherokee Orchard Road.

Photo Gallery

Drive the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail in Gatlinburg - Gatlinburg

Drive the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail in Gatlinburg - Gatlinburg

Drive the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail in Gatlinburg - Gatlinburg
Drive the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail in Gatlinburg - Gatlinburg
Drive the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail in Gatlinburg - Gatlinburg
Drive the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail in Gatlinburg - Gatlinburg
Drive the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail in Gatlinburg - Gatlinburg

Drive the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail in Gatlinburg

Visitor Tips:
  • Best Times: Spring and Fall for cooler temperatures and amazing lighting.
  • What to Bring: Water, sunscreen, and a camera!

Reviews

Location

Drive the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail in Gatlinburg in Gatlinburg

Coordinates: 35.6785, -83.4814

Ratings

Overall

9.6/10User rating

Weather Considerations

Temperature

Varies by season, check forecast

Precipitation

Best to visit in dry conditions

Experience Level

Hard

Experience Needed: This natural landmark is recommended for those with significant outdoor experience. Best for experienced adventurers.