For the most breathtaking sunsets and sunrises in the United States, all you have to do is hop in your car and take a drive to Cherokee. Located right in the heart of Western North Carolina, Cherokee is more then just a pretty place. Bordered by two national parks, Cherokee is one of the most beautiful places in the country. The section off the Blue Ridge Parkway near Cherokee is home to some of the most incredible scenic overlooks, requiring you to only step out of your car and take it all in. Here are 10 sublime and scenic views near Cherokee, North Carolina — you’ll definitely want to pull over for these!

1. Waterrock Knob Overlook
National Parks Service
Just 18 miles outside of Cherokee, Waterrock Knob Overlook is ranked as the 13th highest peak in the Eastern U.S. Here, you can take in some seriously spectacular views of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
2. Morton Overlook
Niemand für Polyphemus/Flickr
Named after Ben Morton, a civic leader and conservationist who worked to preserve the park, Morton Overlook has some exquisite beauty, and is a favorite spot for photographers. Locals know it to be the best sunset spot in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Halfway between Cherokee and Gatlinburg, TN, you’ll want to see the view in person (although this photo is just gorgeous too).
3. Clingman's Dome
Lane Rushing / Rushing Images
As the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Clingman's Dome offers over 100 miles of expanded views. Climb to the top of the 45-foot observation tower to take it all in. Please note, this area is open seasonally, so check the park website before you go.
4. Oconaluftee Overlook
Aimee Vernon/Google Local
If you love a good sunrise, head to Oconaluftee Overlook, located just outside of Cherokee. Bring a hot morning cup of coffee and a cozy blanket to watch the drama unfold as the rising sun cascades through the mountain range.
5. Cherohala Skyway
Dzmitry (Dima) Parul/Flickr
The Cherohala Skyway is a 43-mile National Scenic Byway that proves that the best things in life are worth the wait. The Cherohala Skyway was completed in the fall of 1996, after 34+ years of planning and construction... and a price tag of $100,000,000. It's North Carolina’s most expensive scenic highway, but boy, is it beautiful. With winding roads dipping through gorgeous views and spanning through parts of the 640,000-acre Cherokee National Forest, Cherohala will take your Sunday drive to the next level.

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6. Carlos Campbell Overlook
B/Google Local
This breathtaking overlook is right outside of Gatlinburg, TN, off of Newfound Gap Road in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. At just under 6600 feet in elevation, you'll get a dramatic view of Mt. LeConte from Carlos Campbell Overlook.
7. Mile High Overlook / Heintooga Vista
Mark Schambach/Google Local
Heintooga Ridge Road was originally an old rail line up Balsam Mountain for lumber. At 5,250 feet, the Mile High Overlook on Heintooga Ridge Road displays breathtaking panoramic views of the eastern side of the Smoky Mountains.
8. Big Bald Mountain
James Hart/AllTrails
As the highest peak of the Bald Mountain Range (it stands at 5,516 feet tall), Big Bald Mountain is something you must experience in person. The Appalachian Trail runs parallel to the crest of the range, providing million-dollar views of both North Carolina and Tennessee.
9. Cades Cove
Matt Shifler / Fine Art America
For hundreds of years, the Cherokee Indians used Cades Cove as a frequent hunting destination. Today, the 11-mile, one-way loop not only has beautiful mountain views, is also home to an abundance of North Carolina wildlife -- including bears! Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife; sightings are not rare in the area.
10. Looking Glass Rock
Wikipedia
Located in the Pisgah National Forest, this giant rock of Whiteside granite soars into the clouds at an impressive 3,969 feet. When rainwater freezes on its surface, it reflects the sun like a mirror, hence its name. Looking Glass Rock is a beautiful sight to see, and truly one of North Carolina's most spectacular natural wonders.

Did you know about these scenic views near Cherokee, North Carolina? Are you ready to gas up the car and go explore? After checking out Cherokee, you’ll definitely want to visit these 11 scenic routes in North Carolina. Happy traveling!

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More to Explore

Scenic Views Near Cherokee North Carolina

Sarah | February 08, 2021

What's the most scenic road trip in North Carolina?

With its mountains and coastlines, North Carolina is full of scenic road trips. These 11 amazing drives in North Carolina will not only dip you through daring mountains or uncharted coastal plains, but you can also conveniently hop out of your car at anytime to explore hiking trails, state parks, pre-colonial history, and natural wonders. Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most iconic scenic road trips in the state; it spans 469 miles, and the stretch through North Carolina weaves you through breathtaking scenery, vibrant small towns, and hidden waterfalls. There are also some magnificent overlooks -- so if you're scared of heights... don't look down!

Does North Carolina have any natural wonders?

Yes! In addition to the Carolina Smokies, North Carolina has several natural wonders that will leave you awestruck. One of our favorites is Shadow Bear. Twice a year, in autumn and spring, the shadow of the bear takes form over Whiteside Mountain. This incredible, natural phenomenon is visible at US 64 at Rhodes Big View Overlook, and it's truly a sight to behold!

What are some fun things to do in the Carolina Smoky Mountains?

These scenic views near Cherokee, North Carolina aren't the only thing drawing visitors to the area. The Smoky Mountains have an allure that attracts millions each year to see the views, explore the mountains, and experience peak mountain living. One of the funnest ways to experience the Carolina Smoky Mountains is by train. The Nantahala Gorge Excursion is a 4.5-hour ride that travels along the Nantahala River, into the gorge and back. It's a fun way to experience the Smokies! There are a variety of rides offered by the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad.

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Featured Addresses
Waterrock Knob, North Carolina 28779, USA
US-441, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA
Clingmans Dome, North Carolina 28713, USA
Oconaluftee River Overlook, Blue Ridge Pkwy, Cherokee, NC 28719, USA
Cherohala Skyway, United States
Carlos Campbell Overlook, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA
Heintooga Ridge Rd, North Carolina, USA
Big Bald, Tennessee 37650, USA
Cades Cove, Tennessee, USA
Looking Glass Rock, North Carolina 28712, USA