The 7 Most Breathtaking Scenic Overlooks in the South
The South is full of jaw-dropping landscapes — and you don't always need a long hike to enjoy them. From the misty heights of the Smoky Mountains to sweeping valleys and waterfalls, these scenic overlooks in the South offer unforgettable views with minimal effort.
Clingmans Dome
Location: Great Smoky Mountains, TN/NC
Great Smoky Mountains, TN/NC Highlight: This is the highest point in the Smokies at 6,643 feet with a paved 0.5-mile trail to a stone observation tower offering 360 degrees of mountain views.
This is the highest point in the Smokies at 6,643 feet with a paved 0.5-mile trail to a stone observation tower offering 360 degrees of mountain views. Tips: The trail is steep but paved; bring layers as it's cooler at elevation. The visitor center has restrooms.
The trail is steep but paved; bring layers as it's cooler at elevation. The visitor center has restrooms. Closest city: About 45 minutes from Gatlinburg, TN
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Lookout Mountain
Location: Chattanooga, TN
Chattanooga, TN Highlight: The mountain features scenic overlooks, including Rock City's famous 'See Seven States' viewpoint and gardens.
The mountain features scenic overlooks, including Rock City's famous 'See Seven States' viewpoint and gardens. Tips: Parking is available near Rock City, and a ticket is required for Rock City attractions, but some overlooks are free. The best time to visit is sunset.
Parking is available near Rock City, and a ticket is required for Rock City attractions, but some overlooks are free. The best time to visit is sunset. Closest city: 15 minutes from downtown Chattanooga
Chimney Rock
Location: Chimney Rock State Park, NC
Chimney Rock State Park, NC Highlight: Take an elevator or short hike to a dramatic overlook 315 feet above Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure.
Take an elevator or short hike to a dramatic overlook 315 feet above Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure. Tips: The elevator has an admission fee of $17, and trails are available for hiking. Spend some time exploring the nearby restaurants and shops in Lake Lure.
The elevator has an admission fee of $17, and trails are available for hiking. Spend some time exploring the nearby restaurants and shops in Lake Lure. Closest city: About 40 minutes from Asheville, NC
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Grandfather Mountain
Location: Linville, NC
Linville, NC Highlight: Step foot on a mile-high swinging bridge with spectacular Blue Ridge Mountain views and walk the boardwalk trails at the summit.
Step foot on a mile-high swinging bridge with spectacular Blue Ridge Mountain views and walk the boardwalk trails at the summit. Tips: There is an entry fee required (approximately $20). The weather can change quickly, so be sure to check the conditions before visiting.
There is an entry fee required (approximately $20). The weather can change quickly, so be sure to check the conditions before visiting. Closest city: Roughly 45 minutes from Boone, NC
Skyline Drive
Location: Shenandoah National Park, VA
Shenandoah National Park, VA Highlight: This 105-mile scenic drive features 75+ overlooks showing the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Valley.
This 105-mile scenic drive features 75+ overlooks showing the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Valley. Tips: The park's entrance fee is $30 per vehicle for seven days. The best times to visit are when you can see fall foliage or spring blooms. Facilities and picnic spots are available at many overlooks.
The park's entrance fee is $30 per vehicle for seven days. The best times to visit are when you can see fall foliage or spring blooms. Facilities and picnic spots are available at many overlooks. Closest city: About an hour and a half from Washington, D.C.
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Caesars Head State Park
Location: Greenville County, SC
Greenville County, SC Highlight: This easily reached overlook has paved paths that overlook Raven Cliff Falls and panoramic mountain views.
This easily reached overlook has paved paths that overlook Raven Cliff Falls and panoramic mountain views. Tips: There is no entrance fee. The nearby visitor center has info and restrooms. Visit the overlook for sunrise or sunset photos.
There is no entrance fee. The nearby visitor center has info and restrooms. Visit the overlook for sunrise or sunset photos. Closest city: Approximately 45 minutes from Greenville, SC
Mount Magazine
Location: Paris, AR
Paris, AR Highlight: At 2,753 feet, this is the highest peak in Arkansas. Overlooks are accessible by car and offer valley and river views.
At 2,753 feet, this is the highest peak in Arkansas. Overlooks are accessible by car and offer valley and river views. Tips: The state park offers cabins, camping, and picnic areas. The weather can be cool and windy at the summit.
The state park offers cabins, camping, and picnic areas. The weather can be cool and windy at the summit. Closest city: Around an hour and a half from Fort Smith, AR
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Happy exploring!
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About the Author Kate Feinberg
Kate Feinberg is StyleBlueprint's Associate Editor & Sponsored Content Specialist, based in Nashville. Kate is a plant-based foodie, avid runner, and fantasy reader.
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