Smoky Mountain Guided Scenic High Van Tour

Gatlinburg , United States

Smoky Mountain Guided Scenic High Van Tour

Active

(14 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Leave the driving to us as we take you to the top of the Smoky Mountains to enjoy the sea of mountains. Your guide will stop along the way for several photo stops as you learn about the human and natural history of the Smokies. Please note that, while we do our best to follow the itinerary listed, we may need to pivot due to road closures or events outside of our control.

Available options

Smoky Mountain High Van tour

Pricing: Adults, children and seniors are welcome on this tour. Guests will need to provide their own car seats for young children. <br/>Pickup included

What's included

Snacks

All Fees and Taxes

Air-conditioned vehicle

Professional naturalist guide

Detailed itinerary

We will meet at the Sugarland's Visitor Center where you will have a chance to explore the Park museum and support the Park with your gift purchases at the book store. From there, we will travel up the mountain and learn the human and natural history of the Park before getting out and experiencing a slice of the famous AT. Your guide will regale you with stories of the Cherokee, the settlers, the Civil War history and the creation of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Stop and experience beautiful vistas, learn the medicinal and edible uses of wild plants, take your time as you soak in the beauty of these ancient mountains.

Departure and return location.

Newfound Gap Road has many scenic vistas and points of interest.

What's not included

Gratuity for your guide.

Drinks are not provided. Please bring plenty of water.

Rain Gear - We do have emergency ponchos on hand if needed.

Private transportation

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.3

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

10 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

A maximum of 14 people per booking

Collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can be accommodated providing the passenger is accompanied by someone who can assist them board and disembark

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Please note that, while we do our best to follow the itinerary listed, we may need to pivot due to road closures or events outside of our control. We require a minimum of 2 people to operate this tour. We operate rain or shine.

Meeting point

At the Visitors Center, we meet at the flagpole. If we meet you at the Visitors Center, you will need a Parking Tag to leave your vehicle there. There are kiosks out front where you can get your tag. Day tags are $5 and Weekly tags are $15.

Important notes

Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.

About Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a charming mountain city nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Known for its stunning natural beauty, family-friendly attractions, and rich Appalachian culture, it's a year-round destination offering outdoor adventures, scenic views, and a welcoming small-town atmosphere.

Top Attractions

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The most visited national park in the US, offering stunning mountain scenery, diverse wildlife, and numerous hiking trails.

Nature Half day to full day Free entry

Gatlinburg Space Needle

A 400-foot observation tower offering panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains and Gatlinburg.

Entertainment 1-2 hours Moderate

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

A popular aquarium featuring a wide variety of marine life, interactive exhibits, and a penguin habitat.

Entertainment 2-3 hours Moderate to Expensive

Ober Gatlinburg

A year-round amusement park and ski area offering activities like skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and an alpine coaster.

Entertainment Half day to full day Moderate to Expensive

Anakeesta

An outdoor adventure park with treetop trails, zip lines, and scenic views of the Smoky Mountains.

Adventure Half day to full day Moderate to Expensive

Must-Try Local Dishes

Fried Catfish

Crispy fried catfish, often served with hushpuppies and coleslaw

Main Course Not vegetarian or vegan

Biscuits and Gravy

Fluffy biscuits smothered in savory sausage gravy

Breakfast Can be made vegetarian with vegetable gravy

Mountain Trout

Freshly caught trout, often grilled or fried

Main Course Not vegetarian or vegan

Apple Stack Cake

A traditional Appalachian cake made with layers of spiced apples and cake

Dessert Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains Zip-lining at Anakeesta Mountain coaster rides Scenic drives through the Smokies Visiting spas and wellness centers Dining with a view Exploring the Arts and Crafts Community Visiting local museums

Best Time to Visit

June to August, October (fall foliage season)

Summer brings warm weather and outdoor activities, while fall offers stunning foliage and cooler temperatures. Crowds are highest during these times, especially in October.

18-30°C (summer), 5-20°C (fall) 64-86°F (summer), 41-68°F (fall)

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (ET) (GMT-5:00)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Gatlinburg is generally a safe destination, but visitors should take common precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious when using ATMs
• Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas

Getting there

By air

McGhee Tyson Airport • 45 miles (72 km) from Gatlinburg
Knoxville Airport • 50 miles (80 km) from Gatlinburg

By bus

Gatlinburg Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

A convenient and scenic way to get around town. Trolleys are frequent and easy to use.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community The Village

Day trips

Pigeon Forge

7 miles (11 km) • Half day to full day

A nearby town known for its entertainment attractions, shopping, and dining.

Cades Cove

16 miles (26 km) • Full day

A scenic valley in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with historic cabins and wildlife.

Cherokee National Forest

30 miles (48 km) • Full day

A vast forest offering hiking, camping, and scenic drives.

Festivals

Gatlinburg's Winter Magic • November to February Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair • August (annual event) Gatlinburg's Smoky Mountain Christmas • November to January

Pro tips

Visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park early in the morning to avoid crowds and see wildlife
Take the aerial tramway or scenic chairlift for stunning views of the mountains
Explore the Arts and Crafts Community for unique souvenirs and to support local artisans
Try local specialties like fried catfish, biscuits and gravy, and apple stack cake
Book accommodations and popular attractions well in advance, especially during peak seasons