Stand In 2 States And Hike The At From Newfound Gap In North Carolina

Gorgeous mountain views abound in North Carolina. Throughout the Blue Ridge Mountains as well as the Great Smoky Mountains, a breathtaking vista is found around nearly every turn. And while millions and millions of tourists visit from out of state, North Carolinians get the undying pleasure of living the dream right here among some of the most beautiful views in the world.

One of the most photographed of those views is found within the lowest gap within Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

WerksMedia / iStock / Getty Images Plus Collection via Getty Images

Newfound Gap, officially labeled merely a parking area within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is so much more than just a place to get out and stretch your legs.

Google Local/Andy Quinn

From here, you’ll have a front row seat high above the sea of mountains and a perfect perch to snap your own photos.

Google Local/Greg Muncy

In fact, several perches are found here. The parking area has a monument, the Rockefeller Memorial, which doubles as an overlook.

Google Local/Tom Brinkman

To the right of the memorial, visitors can take a hike on the Appalachian Trail. If you’ve ever wanted to see what this colossal trail is like, then here’s your chance!

Wikimedia/Blinutne

And while you’re at it, go ahead and plant your feet in two states at one time.

KatieDobies / iStock / Getty Images Plus Collection via Getty Images

Any visit to the Smokies without stopping at Newfound Gap Parking Area just wouldn’t be complete.

Dean Taplin / 500px Prime Collection via Getty Images

The drive up to the attraction also affords many places to stop and enjoy the views. You’ll climb nearly 3,000 feet in the ascent to the Newfound Gap Parking Area and when you’ve arrived, you’ll be so glad you took the time to check it out!

Wikimedia Commons/Chris Light

The parking area is found right on the border of North Carolina and Tennessee. It’s 19 miles from Cherokee and 29 miles from Bryson City.

Google Maps

Learn more about Newfound Gap from this link on the official website of the National Park Service. Note, that during winter snowstorms, the road to Newfound Gap may be closed. The link just mentioned will have road closures, if any, posted at the top.