Foothills Parkway

Foothills Parkway is a scenic highway managed by the National Park Service in eastern Tennessee, designed to offer panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains and the Tennessee Valley. Conceived in the 1940s as part of a broader effort to improve access to the Smokies without disturbing its core wilderness, the Parkway remains a work in progress. Only certain segments have been completed, but those that are open provide some of the most breathtaking drives in the southeastern United States.

The most well-known segments include the Wears Valley to Walland stretch and the Cosby to I-40 portion. The section between Walland and Wears Valley—known as the “Missing Link”—was finally completed in 2018 after decades of delays due to funding and environmental concerns. This 16.5-mile route includes dramatic cliffside vistas, curving bridges, and numerous overlooks perfect for photography, picnicking, or simply soaking in the natural beauty.

Foothills Parkway is popular with motorists, motorcyclists, and bicyclists alike, especially in the fall when vibrant foliage paints the landscape. With its minimal traffic, sweeping curves, and elevated viewpoints, it offers a quieter, less congested alternative to US 441 through the Smokies. Whether you’re using it as a scenic detour or making it the centerpiece of a Tennessee mountain drive, Foothills Parkway delivers an unforgettable experience.