Rockefeller Memorial
A historic overlook on Newfound Gap Road offering stunning mountain vistas and access to the Appalachian Trail.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer views, fewer crowds
Rockefeller Memorial
Best Time
Clearer views, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic overlook on Newfound Gap Road offering stunning mountain vistas and access to the Appalachian Trail.
"Lovely stop with great views, perfect for stretching your legs and enjoying the scenery."
🚗 Parking Pass Info
Parking passes are $5/day or $15/week. Grab yours to enjoy the views! :ticket:
🥾 Trail Ready
Bring hiking boots, poles, and a backpack for exploring nearby trails. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Newfound Gap Overlook
Newfound Gap
Panoramic mountain views and a historic landmark marking the NC/TN state line.
Appalachian Trail Access
Newfound Gap
Step onto the iconic Appalachian Trail right from the overlook for a short hike.
Rockefeller Memorial Stone
Newfound Gap
A historic stone structure offering a glimpse into the area's past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Views
Parking and Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Pass Info
Parking passes are $5/day or $15/week. Grab yours to enjoy the views! :ticket:
🥾 Trail Ready
Bring hiking boots, poles, and a backpack for exploring nearby trails. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Scenery
Best light for photos is early morning or late afternoon. :camerawithflash:
🗺️ Check Road Status
Newfound Gap Road can have temporary closures. Check before you go! :world_map:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Pass Info
Parking passes are $5/day or $15/week. Grab yours to enjoy the views! :ticket:
🥾 Trail Ready
Bring hiking boots, poles, and a backpack for exploring nearby trails. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Scenery
Best light for photos is early morning or late afternoon. :camerawithflash:
🗺️ Check Road Status
Newfound Gap Road can have temporary closures. Check before you go! :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Rockefeller Memorial for its breathtaking mountain views and its peaceful atmosphere. It's described as a lovely, worthwhile stop for stretching legs and enjoying the scenery. Some note that while it's a small stop, the trails and views make it a great addition to any trip.
"Great view from over the mountains! Plenty of parking spots and peaceful place."
iman hammoudeh
"Lovely stop with great views"
Somebody Person
"Beautiful views from here. Nice place to stop and stretch your legs."
JorGen Reviews
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Rockefeller Memorial is located at Newfound Gap, a scenic overlook along Newfound Gap Road (US-441) which runs between Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and Cherokee, North Carolina. You can access it by car. Be aware that Newfound Gap Road can experience temporary closures, especially on the Tennessee side for repairs.
No, Newfound Gap Road can have temporary closures for maintenance or weather. It's advisable to check the latest road conditions before your visit, particularly if you're traveling during off-peak seasons.
Public transportation options are very limited in this mountainous region. The most common way to visit is by private vehicle.
From Gatlinburg, TN, it's approximately a 30-45 minute drive. From Cherokee, NC, it's also about a 30-45 minute drive, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Yes, Newfound Gap Road itself is a highly scenic drive, part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The Blue Ridge Parkway is also accessible nearby, offering more stunning vistas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to visit the Rockefeller Memorial at Newfound Gap. However, you will need a parking pass to park your vehicle in the designated areas.
Parking passes are available for $5 for the day or $15 for the week. These can be purchased on-site.
Newfound Gap is an outdoor overlook and is generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. The surrounding park roads have their own hours, typically dawn to dusk.
Parking spots are on a first-come, first-served basis. Arriving early, especially on weekends or during peak season, is recommended.
Accessing the Appalachian Trail from Newfound Gap is free. The parking pass covers your vehicle's presence in the lot.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attractions are the stunning mountain views from the overlook, the historic Rockefeller Memorial stone, and access to the Appalachian Trail for short hikes. It's a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.
Yes, there are restrooms available at the Newfound Gap overlook for visitors.
The overlook area is generally accessible, with paved pathways. However, some of the trails branching off may be more challenging.
While not guaranteed, you might spot various wildlife in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, such as deer or birds. It's important to maintain a safe distance and never feed wild animals.
Picnicking is permitted in designated areas. It's a beautiful spot to enjoy a meal with a view, but remember to pack out all your trash.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings often offer misty, serene views, while late afternoons provide warm, golden light. The changing seasons also offer unique photographic opportunities.
You can capture sweeping panoramic mountain vistas, the historic Rockefeller Memorial stone, and the iconic Appalachian Trail marker. The state line marker is also a popular photo spot.
Drone usage is restricted within national parks. It's best to check the specific regulations for Great Smoky Mountains National Park before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions or long exposures.
Yes, photography is generally allowed at Rockefeller Memorial Chapel in Chicago, but always be respectful of ongoing services or events.,
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack snacks and drinks, as amenities are limited. The inexpensive parking pass makes it an affordable stop. While there aren't specific playgrounds, the open space and the novelty of standing on a state line can be exciting for younger visitors. Ensure everyone has comfortable shoes for any short walks or exploring the base of the memorial.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Day-trippers can easily incorporate this stop into their itinerary. The short duration of a visit – often just 30 minutes to an hour – makes it ideal for maximizing your time exploring other attractions in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge. Just be mindful of potential traffic and parking availability, especially during peak hours.
🚶 Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
Bring your hiking boots and be prepared for varying terrain. The elevation at Newfound Gap means the air can be cooler, so dressing in layers is recommended. It's a fantastic spot to connect with nature and experience the wild beauty of the Smokies firsthand.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Rockefeller Memorial: A Historic Landmark
Standing at 5,046 feet above sea level, Newfound Gap is the lowest drivable pass in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It's also a significant point on the Appalachian Trail, allowing hikers to access this legendary footpath directly from the overlook. The memorial serves as a central point for visitors to pause, reflect on the history of the park, and appreciate the incredible natural beauty surrounding them.
Many visitors find the memorial to be a peaceful spot to reflect. The surrounding area offers opportunities for short walks and enjoying the mountain air. It's a place where history, nature, and human endeavor converge, making it a memorable stop for anyone traveling through the Smokies.
Capturing the Majesty: Photography at Newfound Gap
Beyond the grand landscapes, the Rockefeller Memorial stone itself provides a historical element to your shots. The marker for the North Carolina and Tennessee state line is another popular subject, allowing visitors to literally stand with one foot in each state. For those interested in hiking, the Appalachian Trail offers numerous opportunities for more intimate nature photography, from forest paths to distant peaks.
When planning your photo session, consider bringing a wide-angle lens to encompass the vastness of the scenery. A tripod can be invaluable for capturing sharp images during the golden hours or if you plan on experimenting with long exposures to smooth out any water features or clouds. Remember to also capture the details – the texture of the memorial stone, the signage, and the expressions of fellow visitors enjoying the view.
Rockefeller Memorial Chapel: A Chicago Icon
A unique feature of the Rockefeller Memorial Chapel is its 72-bell carillon. This impressive instrument is played regularly, offering recitals that can be heard throughout the campus. Visitors can even request songs to be played during these recitals, adding a personal touch to the experience. The chapel has a rich history, having hosted numerous concerts, ceremonies, and events, including welcoming new students with a bagpipe procession.,
, The chapel is not only a place of worship and academic ceremony but also a significant cultural and historical site in Chicago. Its enduring beauty and the resonant sounds of its carillon make it a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts and those interested in the history of the University of Chicago.,
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