The Roaring Fork Motor Trail is always nice, but can get crowded in the afternoon. Don't forget to check the corners of the park for some nice hidden gems - Big Creek, Deep Creek, and the southern Foothills Parkway. You might find some nice Mountain Laurels at the Chimneys trailhead at the bridge over the Little Pigeon river. Also, ask around and see if the azaleas have bloomed yet at Andrews Bald, a short hike from Clingman's dome.
Cades Cove is always good...get there early, around sunrise, for fog and wildlife. It gets crowded pretty early. I shot sunset (or tried to) from Clingman's Dome not long ago, but the haze was just too thick. Keep an eye on the weather report. The water levels were WAY down...not sure if there has been much rain in the past week or so, but the streams may not be up to par. Have fun!
Discussion
3 repliesJohn
Here are some suggestion in no particular order. . .
1) Roaring Fork streams and trees
2) Foothills parkway between Townsend and Maryville for sunrise
3) Sunset from Morton's Overlook
4) Climb the Chimneys and shoot the vistas from up there
5) Wildflowers, trees, horses and cabins in Cades Cove
6) Big Creek up to Mouse Creek Falls
7) Sunset from Clingman's Dome parking lot