Foothills Parkway is one of the most stunning and easy-to-reach routes in the Smokies. If you're all about those stunning views without the hassle, Foothills is your go-to! Picture yourself exchanging vows surrounded by some epic scenery. This location allows you to hold a little ceremony with one of the most beautiful views of the Smoky Mountains.

Why Foothills Parkway?

There are so many reasons why you should choose Foothills for your Tennessee Elopement. Foothills Parkway is not just a location; it's a mood, and it's perfect for couples who want to say "heck yes" to a wedding surrounded by nature's beauty.

Here are few of them:

Foothills is a drivable location with incredible views, where you can hold a little ceremony and you can include some of your loved ones (not more than 10 people). Perfect for mini elopements within 2-4 hours.

Close to Townsend and Gatlinburg, you can rent a cozy cabin to stay and get ready close to the Foothills.
Foothills can offer beauty every season of the year. Blooming color in spring, greenery in summer, the colorful fall or the serene winter.
There is more than one overlook to choose to hold your ceremony.
Close to Cades Cove, allowing you to include another location to your elopement day.

Foothills Considerations

Foothills Parkway East :

The Foothills Parkway East travels from Cosby to I-40, Exit #443. This section of roadway provides beautiful scenic views of the park and surrounding communities. Various overlooks and terrain provide idyllic places with stunning mountain views. Applications must list the specific overlook. Overlooks are numbered from 1 to 4, beginning at the west end, i.e. the overlook closest to Hwy 321 is #1; the one closest to I-40 is #4.

Restrictions: Maximum 4 wedding ceremonies per day

Foothills Parkway West:

The Foothills Parkway West travels from Wears Valley to Hwy 129. This section of roadway provides beautiful scenic views of the park and surrounding communities.Various overlooks and terrain provide idyllic places with stunning mountain views.

Applications must list the specific overlook as follows:

Walland to Hwy 129: Indicate the mile marker for the specific overlook for event.
Wears Valley (mile marker 17) to Walland (mile marker 31): To identify the requested overlook, indicate the mile marker numbers on each side of the overlook.

Restrictions: Maximum 4 wedding ceremonies per day - Not ceremonies at the Bridges

How to Elope at Foothills Parkway?

To ensure your Elopement at the Foothills you will need to get a special permit. Make sure to get at least one month before your elopement day. How this is a popular location the time to process your permit can get a little bit longer.

Check availability and make a tentative reservation by emailing your request to
GRSM_special_use_permits@nps.gov prior to submitting an application.
$50 non-refundable application fee required for all special use permits regardless of approval outcome.
$150 non-refundable cost recovery permit fee for permits when application is submitted less than 14 days from event date. Application Fee ($50) plus Cost Recovery Permit Fee ($100)
Fill out the permit application here

Best Time to Visit Foothills

The best time to visit the Foothills Parkway can depend on your preferences and the experiences you're seeking. Every season has their own beauty. Here are some considerations for different times of the year:

Summer (Late May to Early September):

Summer offers warmer temperatures, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities like hiking or picnicking along the parkway.
The views are beautiful, clear skies and the sunsets are amazing. This is one of the busiest season.

Fall (Late September to Early November):

Fall is the most popular time to visit the Foothills Parkway. The foliage transforms into vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a stunning landscape.
The cooler temperatures make it comfortable for outdoor activities, and the fall colors add a magical touch to the scenic drive.

Winter (Late December to Early March):

Winter can be a quieter time to visit, and if you enjoy snow-covered landscapes, the Foothills Parkway can be enchanting after a snowfall.
Keep in mind that winter temperatures can be chilly, and some facilities or services may be limited during this season.

Where should I stay that is close to the Foothills Parkway?

Finding the perfect place to stay near Foothills Parkway can add a wonderful touch to your experience. The nearest towns are **Townsend** and **Wears Valley**. You can find tons of cabin options and other activities in both towns.

Locations Near Foothills Parkway

If you're considering a second location for an elopement after a ceremony at the Foothills Parkway, you have several beautiful options in and around the Great Smoky Mountains region. Here are a few nearby locations to make your experience even better:

Cades Cove (30 min)

If you want a touch of history and serene beauty, Cades Cove is your jam. The loop road offers diverse backdrops, from old cabins to open meadows, making it ideal for a varied photoshoot after your Foothills Parkway ceremony.

Abrams Falls Trailhead (30 min)

Abrams Falls is like a hidden gem in the woods. The short hike adds a sense of adventure, and the waterfall provides a natural and intimate setting for a post-ceremony photoshoot.

Greenbrier Area (30-40 min)

Greenbrier is a nature lover's dream with its riverside setting. It's great for couples who want to extend their celebration surrounded by lush greenery, perhaps with a picnic by the water.

Look Rock Observation Tower (30 min)

For couples who dig panoramic views without too much hustle, Look Rock is a winner. The observation tower offers a unique perspective, creating a serene and elevated atmosphere for additional ceremony moments or photos.

Clingmans Dome (Approx. 1 hour)

If you're up for a scenic drive, Clingmans Dome is worth the journey. As the highest point in the Smoky Mountains, it offers breathtaking 360-degree views. The observation tower at the summit provides a stunning backdrop for additional elopement moments.

Sample Foothills Elopement Timeline

Here's a sample 8-hour elopement timeline that includes the ceremony at Foothills Parkway and adds a second location:

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM: Begin the day by getting ready. This includes hair and makeup, dressing up, and any final preparations. Consider a light breakfast to kickstart the day.
9:00 AM - 9:30 AM: Travel to the chosen ceremony location on Foothills Parkway.
9:30 AM - 10:00 AM: Have a first look, capture some pre-ceremony photos, and enjoy a private moment with your partner.
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Exchange vows and celebrate your love against the stunning backdrop of Foothills Parkway.
10:30 AM - 12:00 PM: Pop champagne and celebrate with a post-ceremony picnic or a light lunch at Foothills Parkway.
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Head to the second location or the chosen adventure activity. Consider locations like Cades Cove or a waterfall hike.
1:00 PM - 3:30 PM: Spend time at the second location or do a hiking adventure. Capture unique and adventurous moments together.
3:30 PM - 6:00 PM: Get back to the cabin. Enjoy a relaxing and romantic dinner. End of coverage.

Foothills Parkway