Didn't realize Skyline drive was in the National park. Cost us $20 just to drive through. We didn't find the scenery exceptionally stunning as everything was shrouded in either smoke or potentially smog. It was excessive even if you took into account the smoky mountains. Rather disappointing deviation from our route. I had heard so many great reviews, I guess it all depends on the day.
The place is tacky and a tourist trap, but worth a stop and a wander around. Did a huge detour to visit, glad we did, but would not do it again. Another one off the list of roadside attractions.
Toured in August 23. Lovely peaceful if quite busy drive through lush semi tropical one way loop. Saw our only black bear for the 6 week trip. He was checking out some houses in a hollow. Stopped and went down to put my hand in the running stream. Water was cold even at the end of summer. I think the Cades Cove drive is just as nice, longer and not as busy. Hard to believe that you are not far from busy Gatlinburg, when you are driving through pure quiet on the trail
Arrived on the Missouri side to find piles of dirt and construction equipment blocking access to the bridge. Was unable to find anywhere to stop, so only managed to see the bridge and the bend, but not walk over it. Disappointed, we were looking forward to walking the length of the bridge.
Spent an hour or two driving and walking around town taking photos of the various murals. Went to the museum for a map. The sign said it was open but the lights were off. When we entered the foyer, the museum was open but in darkness. Didn't enter, just left and continued wandering around town trying to find as many murals as possible. The murals are very well done and well worth the stop.
Took the tour. It is admirable that these people have saved these majestic animals from less than ideal conditions, although the ones on view are still in smallish enclosures. I understand that due to being declawed etc, letting them roam is not always feasible. The tour was very informative and I have learnt some big cat facts that will stay with me. It was an enjoyable hour or two from our trip and I still find it hard to understand why people think that they can keep an apex predator as a house pet. At least there are groups like this one that are willing to step up and pick up as many broken or discarded animals as they can.
Stopped and snapped a couple of photos. Checked another off my roadside attractions list. Only good for a 10 minute stop to stretch your legs and enjoy the sunshine afetr being locked in the car for hours.
Trekked around until we ended up on the road out the front and snapped a picture. Went back and stayed at a basic motel about two miles away. Lucille's diner was between the two. Went there for dinner and had the best meal we had eaten on the trip so far, then went back for breakfast the next day. It carries the vibe of the gas station and lots of route 66 merchandise. I would recommend a picture at the gas station, but a meal at Lucille's is a must
Was met by the guard burros on the road into town. Very much a tourist trap, but relatively cute and interesting anyway. The Burros/donkeys seem to rule the town, standing on the sidewalk with us lowly humans having to step onto the road to get around them. Bought a pair of infant cowboy boots for our new grandson, then made the slow trek back out via semi maintained narrow roads to get back on our trip. I wouldn't go out of my way to go back, but it was an hour out of the car and interesting if not a bit repetitive once you had been into 3 or 4 stores.
Got in very late (2 am) happily our room was still waiting for us. Very nice room on the 1st floor. Went for breakfast later that morning, quite a good selection although very busy(standing room only) Would recommend as it was a reasonable rate for a nice room with a decent breakfast thrown in.