Smoky Mountain Alert: Newfound Gap Road Rehabilitation Starting July 14
There’s something magical about driving through the winding roads of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The mist hanging between the trees, the occasional wildlife sighting, and those breathtaking overlooks that make you pull over just to soak in the view. As someone who’s spent years exploring these mountains, I’ve driven Newfound Gap Road countless times, and it holds a special place in my heart.
But even the most beautiful roads need maintenance sometimes!
Important Roadwork Coming to Newfound Gap Road
Starting July 14, Great Smoky Mountains National Park will begin a rehabilitation project on a 7-mile section of Newfound Gap Road on the North Carolina side. This essential work will cover the stretch from milepost 20.90 to 27.90 and includes repaving six primary parking areas along this section.
For those of us who frequent the park, this means planning ahead for potential delays, but it also means we’ll eventually enjoy smoother drives and improved parking facilities in one of the most visited sections of the park.
What Visitors Should Expect
If you’re planning a trip to the Smokies during the rehabilitation period, here’s what you need to know:
- Work begins July 14, 2023
- The project covers 7 miles of roadway (milepost 20.90 to 27.90)
- Six parking areas will be repaved
- Visitors should anticipate temporary closures and delays
I’ve experienced road work in the park before, and while it can temporarily impact your visit, the National Park Service typically does an excellent job of maintaining traffic flow and minimizing disruptions as much as possible.
Why This Roadwork Matters
Newfound Gap Road isn’t just any road—it’s one of the primary routes through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, connecting Tennessee and North Carolina. This particular stretch on the North Carolina side includes access to some of the most popular hiking trails and scenic overlooks in the park.
As someone who has watched the park grow in popularity over the years, I can tell you that maintaining these roads isn’t just about convenience—it’s essential for safety and preservation. With over 12 million visitors annually, the park’s infrastructure faces tremendous wear and tear.
| Project Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Road Section | 7 miles (milepost 20.90 to 27.90) |
| Location | North Carolina side of park |
| Start Date | July 14, 2023 |
| Additional Work | Repaving six parking areas |
Tips for Visitors During Construction
If you’re planning a visit to the Smokies while this work is underway, here are some suggestions from a long-time visitor:
- Plan for extra travel time – Add 30-45 minutes to your expected travel time through this area.
- Consider alternative routes – If possible, explore other areas of the park during this period.
- Visit early or late in the day – Construction crews often take breaks during peak tourist hours.
- Check for updates – Visit the official park website or call the visitor center for the latest information.
I’ve found that early morning drives through the park are not only less likely to be affected by construction delays but also offer better wildlife viewing opportunities and that special morning light that photographers dream about.
The Silver Lining
While construction might seem like an inconvenience, there’s a wonderful silver lining here. These improvements ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy safe travel through one of America’s most beloved national parks. Plus, smoother roads make for a more enjoyable driving experience through those curvy mountain passes!
Having visited the Smokies through various improvement projects over the years, I can assure you that the temporary inconvenience is well worth the long-term benefits. And sometimes, construction detours lead to discovering hidden gems in the park you might have otherwise missed.
Looking Forward
Once completed, this section of Newfound Gap Road will offer visitors improved driving conditions and better parking options at some of the most popular stops along the route. These enhancements will help manage the increasing number of visitors while protecting the natural environment we all cherish.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Smoky Mountain regular like me, these improvements will ultimately enhance your experience in this magical place where Tennessee meets North Carolina along the spine of the Appalachians.
Plan Your Visit Accordingly
If you’re heading to the Smokies this summer, don’t let this roadwork deter you—just plan accordingly. The mountains are still calling, the waterfalls are still flowing, and the wildlife doesn’t mind a little road construction. The magic of the Smokies remains, even as the park continues to improve for future visitors.
I’ll be there myself, patience in hand, ready to enjoy another beautiful season in my favorite mountains. Maybe I’ll see you on the trail!