Hiking your way through the Smoky Mountains is an excellent way to experience all the region offers. There are few things as peaceful and majestic as walking through a forest, and the Smoky Mountains offer some of the best hiking in the country. One of the most popular trails in the Smokies is the Newfound Gap Trail, which offers stunning views of the mountains and valleys below.
So, what exactly is the Newfound Gap?
The Newfound Gap is a low point or pass through the Great Smoky Mountains, located on the Tennessee-North Carolina border. It is the point where the Appalachian Trail crosses over from Tennessee into North Carolina. The Newfound Gap is also the starting point for several other popular trails, including the Clingman Dome Trail and the Chimney Tops Trail.
The Newfound Gap Road (U.S. 441) runs through the Newfound Gap and is the only road that crosses the Great Smoky Mountains National Park from north to south. This road offers some of the most breathtaking views in the park and is a popular destination for visitors.
Whether you’re hiking the Appalachian Trail or just taking a scenic drive, be sure to stop at the Newfound Gap and take in the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains!
Location History
The Newfound Gap is a mountain pass located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park between the states of North Carolina and Tennessee. It is situated at an elevation of 5,046 feet (1,536 meters) and is traversed by U.S. Highway 441.
Native American tribes used the Newfound Gap as a crossroads for centuries before the arrival of European settlers in the area. The Newfound Gap is best known as the site of the official dedication of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in 1940. U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt, accompanied by John D. Rockefeller, Jr., drove through the Gap to reach the dedication ceremony.
Chimney Tops Picnic Area
Near the Newfound Gap is the Chimney Tops Picnic Area, a popular spot for picnicking and hiking. Families and friends can enjoy stunning views of the Smokies while spending time together in this beautiful setting. The Chimney Tops Picnic Area is located just off the Newfound Gap Road and is easily accessible for visitors. There are a variety of picnic tables and grills available.
Mingus Mill
Mingus Mill is a historic gristmill located just north of the Newfound Gap. The mill was built in 1886 and is one of the best-preserved grist mills in the Great Smoky Mountains. Today, the mill is open to the public and offers demonstrations of how flour was once ground by water power.
This is an excellent educational stop for families and history buffs alike. Visitors can learn about the mill’s history and see how it operated in the past. The Mingus Mill is located on the Newfound Gap Road, just a short distance from the Gap itself.
Parking
There is a large parking area at the Newfound Gap, as well as several smaller pull-offs along Newfound Gap Road. Whether you’re just passing through or spending a day exploring the Smokies, be sure to take advantage of the free parking at Newfound Gap.
Directions From Oak Haven Resort
The Newfound Gap is located approximately 34 miles (54.7 kilometers) from the luxury cabins at Oak Haven Resort. To get there, take the Newfound Gap Road (U.S. 441) south towards Gatlinburg, Tennessee. The drive takes about an hour in good weather and traffic conditions.
Please note that the Newfound Gap Road is a winding mountain road with steep drop-offs. It is recommended for experienced drivers only. Be sure to take plenty of breaks on the drive, and enjoy the stunning views!
Once you reach the Newfound Gap, there are several pull-offs where you can park your car and explore the area on foot. Remember to bring a map, as cell phone service is spotty in the mountains.
The Newfound Gap is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers alike. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a scenic drive in the beauty Smokies, be sure to add the Newfound Gap to your list while staying at Oak Haven Resort. Book your stay today!
