Planning a family trip to the Smoky Mountains and want to capture those special moments? We’ve got you covered! In “Best Places For Family Photos In The Smoky Mountains,” you’ll discover the top picturesque spots perfect for snapping timeless family photos. From the cascading waterfalls at Laurel Falls to the breathtaking views from Clingmans Dome, this guide will take you on a journey through scenic locales that offer stunning backdrops for your cherished memories.

Best Places For Family Photos In The Smoky Mountains

Have you ever wondered where to capture the perfect family photo in the Smoky Mountains? With its breathtaking vistas and lush landscapes, this region offers countless picturesque spots that make for stunning backdrops. Whether you’re looking for a grand scenic overlook or a quaint, rustic setting, the Smoky Mountains have it all. Let’s dive into the best places for family photos in this magnificent area!

Cades Cove

Cades Cove is one of the most visited areas in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park – and for good reason. This broad, verdant valley surrounded by mountains is known for its stunning scenic views, abundant wildlife, and rich history.

Why Cades Cove?

The picturesque loop road that meanders through Cades Cove offers numerous pull-offs where you can take in the beauty of the cove and snap some photos. Whether you’re looking for rolling fields, historic cabins, or grazing wildlife, Cades Cove doesn’t disappoint.

Best Photo Spots in Cades Cove

John Oliver Cabin: The oldest log home in the cove, surrounded by lush meadows and towering trees.
Cable Mill: A classic old mill with an adjacent barn that offers a glimpse into 19th-century life.
Cades Cove Overlook: Located along the loop road, this spot offers sweeping views of the valley below.

Tips for Cades Cove Photos

Visit early in the morning or just before sunset to capture the golden hours.
Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive scenery.
Be patient and respectful of wildlife; a chance encounter with deer or black bears can make for a captivating photo.

Clingmans Dome

At 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Smoky Mountains, providing unparalleled panoramic views. It’s a must-visit for families looking to take unforgettable photos.

Why Clingmans Dome?

From the observation tower at the top, you can see up to 100 miles on a clear day. The dome offers a unique perspective where you feel like you’re on top of the world, which makes for dramatic and awe-inspiring photos.

Best Photo Spots at Clingmans Dome

Observation Tower: Offers the most sweeping views, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Clingmans Dome Trailhead: The trail itself is surrounded by lush spruce-fir forests, ideal for more intimate, nature-immersed shots.

Tips for Clingmans Dome Photos

Dress in layers; temperatures can be much cooler at the top.
Use a tripod for steady shots, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Include family members in the foreground to add depth and scale to your photos.

Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail offers a blend of rushing streams, old-growth forest, and well-preserved historic buildings. This is a great trail for nature-loving families who want a mix of both natural and man-made beauty.

Why Roaring Fork?

The trail is a loop road that offers a scenic drive through dense forests and past cascading streams and wildlife. The journey is as beautiful as the destination, offering multiple spots for varied photo opportunities.

Best Photo Spots on Roaring Fork

The Place of a Thousand Drips: A small but picturesque waterfall that becomes a magical spot after heavy rain.
Ephraim Bales Cabin: Offers a peek into the past surrounded by lush greenery.
Rainbow Falls Trailhead: Start your journey here for an adventurous photo opportunity with a beautiful waterfall background.

Tips for Roaring Fork Photos

The trail is narrow, so be prepared for a leisurely drive with frequent stops.
Early morning light filters through the trees beautifully here, making for enchanted forest scenes.
Bring a protective case for your camera gear; the trail is close to many streams and waterfalls, which can get misty.

Newfound Gap Road

Stretching from Gatlinburg, TN, to Cherokee, NC, Newfound Gap Road is one of the most scenic drives in the Smoky Mountains. This major thoroughfare through the park offers multiple lookouts and trails, making it a photographer’s paradise.

Why Newfound Gap Road?

Newfound Gap Road is notable for its elevation change, offering diverse ecosystems and varied scenery. From vibrant wildflowers in spring to colorful foliage in fall, every season offers unique photographic opportunities.

Best Photo Spots on Newfound Gap Road

Newfound Gap Overlook: Offers magnificent views of both Tennessee and North Carolina.
Morton Overlook: A favorite spot for spectacular sunset photos.
Clifftop at Mount LeConte: Reachable via the Alum Cave Trail, the summit offers expansive views of the surrounding mountains.

Tips for Newfound Gap Road Photos

Weather can change rapidly, so always check the forecast before you set out.
Sunrise and sunset are prime times for photography due to the soft lighting.
Don’t rush; take time to explore the numerous overlooks and trails along the way.

Laurel Falls Trail

Laurel Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, thanks to its relatively easy hike and breathtaking scenery.

Why Laurel Falls?

The 80-foot cascading waterfall is a stunning backdrop for family photos. The trail leading to the falls is paved, making it accessible for families with children and providing a smooth path for easy hiking and photography.

Best Photo Spots on Laurel Falls Trail

Lower Section of the Falls: Offers a close-up view of the water tumbling over the rocks.
Upper Section of the Falls: Provides a wider view that captures the entire waterfall.
Scenic Spots Along the Trail: The trail itself offers numerous beautiful spots with dense forest and small streams.

Tips for Laurel Falls Photos

Visit early or on weekdays to avoid the crowds.
Wear comfortable shoes as the trail can be slippery near the falls.
Bring a neutral density filter to capture the silky smooth motion of the waterfall.

Andrews Bald

Andrews Bald offers one of the best picnic spots in the Smokies with breathtaking views. It’s an open meadow atop the highest bald in the Smoky Mountains that offers wide-open spaces ideal for family photos.

Why Andrews Bald?

The combination of open meadow, wildflowers (in season), and mountain views makes Andrews Bald a prime spot for photography. It’s particularly impressive when the flame azaleas and rhododendrons are in bloom.

Best Photo Spots at Andrews Bald

Meadows: With wide-open grassy areas, perfect for capturing candid family moments.
Trail to Andrews Bald: The Forney Ridge Trail offers several picturesque vistas along the way.

Tips for Andrews Bald Photos

A wide-angle lens will help you capture the expansive landscape.
Mid-day can be harsh for lighting; consider visiting during morning or late afternoon for softer light.
Pack a picnic and make it a day trip; the hike is about 3.5 miles round trip.

Grotto Falls

Known for its unique feature of allowing you to walk behind the waterfall, Grotto Falls is perfect for a more interactive photo session. The family hike to get there is manageable and adds an element of adventure.

Why Grotto Falls?

Grotto Falls provides a unique photo opportunity with the ability to capture family members standing behind the falling water, adding a dynamic element to your family photos.

Best Photo Spots at Grotto Falls

Behind the Falls: Capturing the falls from behind creates a mystical frame around your family.
Stream Below the Falls: Offers additional angles and perspectives of the picturesque setting.
On the Way to the Falls: The Trillium Gap Trail is scenic and offers many photo-worthy spots.

Tips for Grotto Falls Photos

Be cautious and mindful of slippery rocks.
Use a waterproof cover for your camera gear.
Cooler morning light can offer some excellent photo opportunities without the harsh shadows of midday.

Cataloochee Valley

Cataloochee Valley is a lesser-known gem that’s rich in history and natural beauty. It’s an excellent spot for families searching for a quieter location with stunning scenery and historic structures.

Why Cataloochee Valley?

From historic buildings to fields frequently visited by elk, Cataloochee Valley offers a serene setting away from the park’s more trafficked areas. The valley is particularly beautiful in the early morning or late afternoon when wildlife is most active.

Best Photo Spots in Cataloochee Valley

Palmer Chapel: This historic chapel offers a quaint and charming backdrop.
Elk Meadows: Capture these majestic creatures in the open fields.
Cataloochee Creek: Offers rustic bridge shots and peaceful water scenes.

Tips for Cataloochee Valley Photos

Pack a telephoto lens to capture wildlife from a safe distance.
Visit at dawn or dusk when the light is soft and wildlife is more active.
Use a tripod to stabilize your camera for low-light conditions.

Chimney Tops

Chimney Tops offers some of the best panoramic views in the park.

Why Chimney Tops?

The climb is a bit challenging, but the views from the top are well worth the effort. The dramatic rock formations and expansive vistas make it a memorable location for family photos.

Best Photo Spots at Chimney Tops

Summit: Offers panoramic views that extend for miles.
Viewpoints Along the Trail: Several stops along the trail offer amazing views that can be used for various photo angles.

Tips for Chimney Tops Photos

Start your hike early to avoid crowds and to catch the early morning light.
Be cautious on the steep and rocky sections; safety comes first.
Bring plenty of water and snacks; you’ll need it after the climb!

Abrams Falls

Located in the heart of Cades Cove, Abrams Falls is another fantastic spot for family photos. The hike is moderately strenuous but well worth the effort for the stunning waterfall at the end.

Why Abrams Falls?

The 20-foot waterfall isn’t the tallest but the volume of water rushing over the rocks is impressive and makes a great backdrop for family photos. The scenic hike to the falls also offers numerous photo opportunities along the way.

Best Photo Spots at Abrams Falls

Base of the Falls: Capturing the powerful flow of the water.
Along Abrams Creek: Offers serene, flowing water shots.
Trail to the Falls: The scenic journey offers many beautiful spots for family portraits.

Tips for Abrams Falls Photos

Start early to avoid the crowds, especially during peak seasons.
Be cautious around the water; it can be slippery.
Pack a tripod for capturing waterfall shots with long exposures.

Conclusion

The Smoky Mountains offer an array of stunning locations for family photos, each with its unique charm and beauty. From the panoramic peaks of Clingmans Dome to the serene meadows of Andrews Bald and the historically rich Cataloochee Valley, there’s something for every family’s taste and style. Make sure to plan ahead, dress appropriately, and bring the right gear to capture these memorable moments. Happy photographing!

Families who venture into the Smokies for their photo sessions find more than just great pictures; they discover a place full of wonder, adventure, and stories waiting to be told. So grab your camera and gather your loved ones – the Smoky Mountains are calling!