Foothills Parkway Look Rock
Experience breathtaking 360-degree mountain vistas from the Look Rock Observation Tower, accessible via the scenic Foothills Parkway.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful views
Foothills Parkway Look Rock
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience breathtaking 360-degree mountain vistas from the Look Rock Observation Tower, accessible via the scenic Foothills Parkway.
"The view is worth the climb!"
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The 0.5-mile trail to the tower is paved but has steep inclines. :athletic_shoe:
Arrive Early for Parking
Parking lots can fill up, especially during peak times. Arrive early for the best spots. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Look Rock Observation Tower
Foothills Parkway
Spectacular 360-degree panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains. A must-see for any visitor.
Foothills Parkway Scenic Drive
Foothills Parkway
An 18-mile scenic route with numerous pull-offs offering breathtaking mountain vistas.
Natural Observation Ledge
Near Look Rock Tower
A natural rock outcropping providing impressive views, often less crowded than the tower.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Avoid Crowds
Accessibility and Trail Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The 0.5-mile trail to the tower is paved but has steep inclines. :athletic_shoe:
Arrive Early for Parking
Parking lots can fill up, especially during peak times. Arrive early for the best spots. :car:
Bring Water and Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized on your hike. No concessions available on site. :water_wave:
Check Weather Forecast
Mountain weather can change rapidly. Be prepared for sun, rain, or cooler temperatures. :cloudwithrain:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The 0.5-mile trail to the tower is paved but has steep inclines. :athletic_shoe:
Arrive Early for Parking
Parking lots can fill up, especially during peak times. Arrive early for the best spots. :car:
Bring Water and Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized on your hike. No concessions available on site. :water_wave:
Check Weather Forecast
Mountain weather can change rapidly. Be prepared for sun, rain, or cooler temperatures. :cloudwithrain:
Enjoy the Scenic Drive
The Foothills Parkway itself is a destination. Stop at pull-offs for more views. :road:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking 360-degree views from the Look Rock Observation Tower, calling the climb well worth the effort. The paved, moderate 0.5-mile hike is accessible for many, though some note its steepness. The scenic Foothills Parkway drive leading to the overlook is also a major highlight.
"Beautiful views from Looking Rock platform. Park in the parking lot and look for the crosswalk that takes you to the opposite side of the road. The path up the hill is paved the entire way. It has some steep parts but if you take your time and rest if you need to you should be fine. Takes an average of 10 to 15 minutes to reach the platform and then another 2 or 3 minutes to the viewing area atop the platform. The view is worth the climb."
Tim Bullard
"Such a beautiful lookout point! The hike is very moderate, though it is pretty steep for the first 10 minutes or so. A large group of us hiked this in under an hour (with a few stops for pictures and to take in the view) with the majority of us being non-hikers. Would recommend for those who want to see a beautiful view!"
Danielle Rosselli
"Quick hike with a nice view. It is a decent hill to get up there from the parking lot. The access road to the east is definitely an easier walk, but probably twice the distance from that lot"
Michael C
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Look Rock is located off the Foothills Parkway, approximately 18 minutes from Maryville, TN.
The Foothills Parkway is generally open year-round, but it's always a good idea to check for any temporary closures due to weather or maintenance before your visit. The parkway is known for its stunning mountain scenery.
Yes, Look Rock is situated within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park area, accessible via the Foothills Parkway. The parking lot is located just before the 0.5-mile trail to the overlook.
From Maryville, take the Foothills Parkway towards the park. Look Rock is a well-marked destination along this scenic route. Many visitors use GPS, but the parkway is easy to navigate.
No, there is no public transportation directly to Look Rock. A personal vehicle is required to access the Foothills Parkway and the Look Rock parking area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee or ticket required to visit Look Rock or drive the Foothills Parkway. It's a free public access area.
Look Rock is accessible during daylight hours. The Foothills Parkway is generally open from dawn until dusk. Always check for any specific park advisories.
Parking at the Look Rock observation tower lot is free of charge.
While the Foothills Parkway is generally accessible during daylight hours, it's recommended to visit Look Rock before sunset for safety and the best viewing experience. Some visitors enjoy sunset hikes.
No reservations are needed for visiting Look Rock or driving the Foothills Parkway. It's a first-come, first-served access point.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The hike from the parking lot to the Look Rock Observation Tower is a paved, moderate 0.5-mile trail.
The trail is paved but has steep sections, especially in the first 10 minutes. While considered moderate, it's manageable for most people, including families.
You'll experience spectacular 360-degree panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Restroom facilities are typically available at the Look Rock parking area, though it's always wise to confirm their operational status.
Pets are generally not allowed on trails within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, including the trail to Look Rock Tower. Check park regulations for specific details.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, just after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for photography.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain vistas. A tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions during sunrise or sunset.
The observation tower itself provides a central vantage point. The natural observation ledge also offers unique perspectives.
Drone usage is restricted within national parks. Check the official Great Smoky Mountains National Park website for current drone regulations before flying.
Find a clear spot on the observation tower or ledge, set up your camera with a wide lens, and be patient as the light changes. Many visitors find it a perfect spot for sunset photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
The short hike to the tower makes it an ideal stop for a quick but incredibly rewarding experience. You can easily incorporate Look Rock into a day trip from nearby towns like Maryville.📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
+2 The Foothills Parkway provides a stunning scenic drive with numerous pull-offs for capturing unique shots of the landscape. Nature lovers will appreciate the expansive views and the opportunity to connect with the grandeur of the Great Smoky Mountains.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Foothills Parkway Experience
Many visitors treat the Parkway itself as a destination, stopping frequently to soak in the scenery.Look Rock is one of the Parkway's most prominent features, situated at its highest point. The drive to Look Rock is part of the overall experience, with the road often hugging the contours of the land, revealing new breathtaking views around every bend. The Parkway is particularly beautiful in the fall when the foliage transforms the landscape into a riot of color.
While the Parkway is a destination in itself, it also serves as a gateway to various trailheads and overlooks. Look Rock Observation Tower is the crown jewel, but don't overlook the smaller pull-offs that offer unique perspectives and photo opportunities. The road is well-maintained and offers a smooth driving experience, making it enjoyable for all types of vehicles.
Hiking to Look Rock Observation Tower
While the distance is short, the trail is characterized by a moderate incline, with some steeper sections, particularly in the initial part of the hike.As you ascend, the trees gradually thin out, offering glimpses of the surrounding landscape. The observation tower itself is a sturdy structure designed to provide unobstructed, 360-degree views. From the top, you are treated to a sweeping panorama of the Great Smoky Mountains, a truly awe-inspiring sight.
The natural observation ledge nearby also offers a slightly different, yet equally impressive, perspective. Many visitors describe the view as being 'on top of the world'.This hike is a popular choice for those seeking a rewarding view without an extensive trek. It's a great option for families, couples, and even solo travelers looking for a quick dose of mountain grandeur. The combination of the scenic drive on the Foothills Parkway and the relatively easy hike makes Look Rock a highly recommended stop.
+1Capturing the Views: Photography at Look Rock
+1 The changing light can dramatically alter the mood of the landscape, from soft morning hues to the fiery glow of dusk.Many visitors find the Foothills Parkway itself to be a photographic subject, with its winding roads and dramatic mountain backdrops.
The natural observation ledge near the tower also presents unique angles for capturing the vastness of the Smokies. For those interested in astrophotography, clear nights away from city lights can offer stunning starry skies over the mountains, though planning for safety and light conditions is crucial.When visiting, consider bringing a tripod for sharper images in lower light conditions and a polarizing filter to enhance the colors of the sky and foliage.
The sheer scale of the views means that even simple smartphone photos can turn out remarkably well, capturing the essence of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit