Skirting the northern boundary of the Great Smoky Mountains, the Foothills Parkway offers one of the most scenic and relaxing drives in the Eastern United States. Designed to provide panoramic views of mountain ridges and valleys without navigating heavy national park traffic, this scenic highway links Townsend, Tennessee, to sweeping vistas, peaceful picnic spots, and accessible hiking trails.
Distinct, completed segments ideal for half-day road trips.
Spanning roughly 15 miles, this central segment features the famous "Missing Link"—a 1.6-mile engineering marvel of elevated bridges and viaducts hugging the mountain slopes. It connects Townsend to Wears Valley with continuous mountain pullouts.
Stretching 17 miles along the crest of Chilhowee Mountain, this western section overlooks both the Great Smoky Mountains to the southeast and the vast Tennessee Valley to the northwest.
The parkway’s pullouts face both east and west, making it a favorite spot for catching early morning sunrises over Cades Cove ridges or vibrant sunsets over the valley floor.
The highest point on Chilhowee Mountain featuring a 360-degree observation platform.
A 0.8-mile round-trip out-and-back trail. Though fully paved, the path includes steady, moderate inclines as it climbs to the crest.
At the trail's end, a concrete ramp leads up to an open-air observation platform offering views up to 40 miles out on clear days. Visible landmarks include Clingmans Dome (Kuwohi), Mount LeConte, and Cades Cove.
The wide paved surface accommodates strollers and casual walkers who want big rewards for a short distance.
Key guidelines, parking tags, and access details.
Free to drive year-round; open 24/7 (weather permitting during winter snow)
Located near Milepost 7.1 across from the main Look Rock Overlook parking lot
An official NPS Parking Tag is required if you park your vehicle for longer than 15 minutes at Look Rock or overlook lots.
Restrooms, picnic tables with charcoal grills, and seasonal campground access are located at the nearby Look Rock Picnic Area.
Dogs are not permitted on the Look Rock Tower Trail (NPS rules prohibit pets on most park trails), but leashed dogs are allowed in paved overlook pullouts and picnic areas.
Make the most of your drive and hike.
The elevated tower platform is noticeably cooler and breezier than the valley in Townsend.
Driving south toward Chilhowee Lake brings you near US-129, a world-famous 11-mile winding stretch popular with sports car and motorcycle enthusiasts.