Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Great Smoky Mountains
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September 2026
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Adults
Age 13 and over
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Age 12 and under
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
4.7/5
Based on 132 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Great Smoky Mountains worth booking?
Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Great Smoky Mountains is a 8-hour experience in Gatlinburg, United States, from $20 per person. It scores 77 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.7/5 rating across 132 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 77 / 100
- Rating
- 4.7/5 (132)
- Duration
- 8 hours
- From
- $20 per person
Don't miss a thing as GuideAlong's Great Smoky Mountains Audio Driving Tour takes you on an incredible journey through the most visited US national park. Along the way you'll be guided to all of the park's famous highli
What you get
About this experience
Don't miss a thing as GuideAlong's Great Smoky Mountains Audio Driving Tour takes you on an incredible journey through the most visited US national park. Along the way you'll be guided to all of the park's famous highlights as well as lessor known gems including the lowest drivable pass, historic Cades Cove buildings and the park's highest point. Download discover more on your Smokies road trip with fascinating behind-the-scenes stories, local tips and directions that plays automatically along the drive. With GyPSy Guide you have the freedom to explore offline at your own pace so you can spend more time at places that interest you, bypass any that don’t. ✅ Stories, tips and directions play automatically based on your location ✅ Travel at your own pace ✅ Tours work offline using GPS, no cell service or WiFi needed ✅ Suggested itineraries & tips for half, full or multi day use ✅ Buy once, use forever! No expiry, includes free updates ✅ Like having a tour guide along for the drive
What's included
Included
- Support: Toll free phone, chat and email
- Easy To Use: Pre-download and tour offline
- Trip Planners: In-app, web and PDF
- Location Based: Stories, tips & directions that autoplay
- Buy once, use forever! No expiry, includes free updates
- GuideAlong (GyPSy Guide) Audio Tour: 180 Points
- Includes an app based self-guided experience, so you do not need any in-person guide.
- Flexible Routes: Suggested itineraries or create your own
Not included
- Entry Fees, National Park Passes, Reservations
What you'll see and do
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
As the audio guides play commentary based on your gps location, you can create your own itinerary along the tour route to match your interests and schedule. Or you can use our trip planners for our suggestions on half, full or multi day itineraries. Some of the many highlights are listed below;
480 minutes here · Admission not included
Cades Cove
The 11-mile loop drive around Cades Cove is the culmination of all the fantastic things about the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and one of the Park's must-do areas. This fertile valley is surrounded by beautiful Smoky peaks, and its idyllic setting and conditions attracted the earliest of European settlers to the region - a place where the Cherokee enjoyed fruitful hunting and foraging. As you tour the loop, we have the opportunity to visit historic cabins, churches, mills and barns. Always keep an eye out for black bears, deer and wild turkeys, which are frequently seen.
120 minutes here
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
Driving the Roaring Fork short, one way 6-mile loop drive, is a surprisingly enjoyable way to spend a couple of hours right from Gatlinburg. You quickly leave the bustle of town and find ourselves in the peaceful forest and streams of the Roaring Fork Drive. Along the way you'll see picturesque cabins and buildings from the days before the National Park. Some of the Park's best waterfalls are available on short hikes from the road, including Rainbow and Grotto Falls, or the Trillium Gap Trail. Or directly accessible from the car, Noah "Bud" Ogles cabin, and Place of a Thousand Drips. Pack a lunch and enjoy at one the picnic spots along the way, there are no services along the road. Trailers, RVs and buses are prohibited on Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.
120 minutes here
Grotto Falls Trail
There is a good selection of moderately distanced hikes throughout the national park, and many of them visit attractive waterfalls. It's difficult to declare an absolute best one to choose, but a favorite is the Grotto Falls hike which departs from the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail The 2.6 mile loop trail is not particularly difficult and most hikers will complete it in under 2 hours, with generous time for stops along the way. The falls themselves are pretty, though not massive, but one of the fun things about this hike is that the trail actually passes behind the waterfall.
120 minutes here
Mingus Mill
Dating back to 1886, the Mingus Mill served about 200 local families by grinding corn and grains into grits and flour. Learn about the novel (for its time) engineering behind the powering of the mill. Today, the restored building and the square penstocks that direct water make for great photos and you can often see the mill in action from Spring until the Fall.
30 minutes here
Newfound Gap
Explorers are always looking for the low points in mountains for easier passable routes. And so when Swiss geographer Guyot found an improved pass, it was given the label Newfound Gap. Because there are several different ecosystems descending through the valley, you find a unique mix of trees including hardwood, pine-oak and spruce that contribute to a stunning fall foliage. And it's the perfect spot to see the blue "smoke" trails that the Smokies are so famous for. The haze is actually moisture released by this vegetation absorbing the sky's blue color. This was the site of the dedication of the National Park, and a memorial acknowledging the vital $5M contribution the Rockefeller family made towards the creation of the Park.
20 minutes here
Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg, TN, is the most popular base for accessing the National Park. Located on the doorstop of the National Park, the town features just about every type of paid attraction, entertainment, dining and adventure operators. Or try some of the local moonshine at one of the distilleries. And there are no less than 3 chairlifts and tramways to get you to elevated views above the town.
240 minutes here
Kuwohi
Clingmans Dome (Kuwochi) is the tallest peak in the Park and on a perfect day, we can see 7 states from the top. At the junction of Newfound Gap Road and the Clingmans Dome (Kuwochi) access road, we will often see the famous smoky-effect rising from below. After reaching the car park, a paved trail climbs steadily leading to the observation tower. Although the trail is paved, it can be quite steep in places, so wheelchairs are not advised. The trail is 1.2 miles with an elevation of 331 feet. Sitting at over 6,500 feet, you'll see many walkers stopped along the trail trying to catch breath.
60 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Gatlinburg
From Townsend, use Townsend Entrance Rd to join the route toward Cades Cove or Sugarlands Visitor Center and Newfound Gap Rd. Search your email for “Download Audio Tour,” then preview the route in the app.
Meeting point
Gatlinburg
From Cherokee, follow Hwy 441 North into the park. If arriving from the Blue Ridge Parkway, turn right at the Hwy 441 junction. Search your email for “Download Audio Tour,” then preview the route in the app.
Meeting point
Gatlinburg
From Pigeon Forge, commentary begins on the Gatlinburg Bypass after the scenic viewpoint if you are bypassing Gatlinburg. Search your email for “Download Audio Tour,” then preview the route in the app.
Meeting point
Gatlinburg
Includes an app-based self-guided experience, so there is no need to meet an in-person guide. From Gatlinburg, follow Hwy 441 South into the park. Search your email for “Download Audio Tour,” then preview the route in the app.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
From Townsend, use Townsend Entrance Rd to join the route toward Cades Cove or Sugarlands Visitor Center and Newfound Gap Rd. Search your email for “Download Audio Tour,” then preview the route in the app.
Ends at
From Cherokee, follow Hwy 441 North into the park. If arriving from the Blue Ridge Parkway, turn right at the Hwy 441 junction. Search your email for “Download Audio Tour,” then preview the route in the app.
Ends at
From Pigeon Forge, commentary begins on the Gatlinburg Bypass after the scenic viewpoint if you are bypassing Gatlinburg. Search your email for “Download Audio Tour,” then preview the route in the app.
Ends at
Includes an app-based self-guided experience, so there is no need to meet an in-person guide. From Gatlinburg, follow Hwy 441 South into the park. Search your email for “Download Audio Tour,” then preview the route in the app.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- GuideAlong (GyPSy Guide)
Know before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- How to Access: After booking you’ll receive an email and text with instructions (search “Download Audio Tour”). Click the link in the email/text to sign in with your preferred Apple or Google account and redeem your voucher code ahead of time.
- Download The GuideAlong App: Download the free app over WiFi or cellular data and sign in with the same Apple or Google account.
- Download The Tour: Download the tour in the GuideAlong app under 'My Tours' over WiFi or cellular data.
- Start The Tour: Open the tour in the GuideAlong app to preview the start locations, tour route and trip planner, or start the tour.
- Location-Based Stories: Audio commentary plays automatically as you drive using your phone’s GPS chip. Wherever you are and whichever direction you’re going, you’ll hear the best stories and tips.
- Flexible Travel Date: Tours are a one-time purchase with no expiry or date/time limit. If your plans change to a different day, there’s no need to change your travel date.
- Tour at Your Leisure: With GuideAlong, you control the pace. Start, stop, and resume the tour any day, anytime, adapting it to your schedule.
- Driving Tours: Group Savings: One purchase covers everyone in the vehicle, making it a cost-effective way to explore.
- Works Offline: No internet or cell service is required once the audio tour is downloaded to your phone, so you can relax and tour offline.
- Bring A Charger: Pack a USB/C car charger for charging and easy sound connectivity, and make sure your device is fully charged.
- Technical Support: The GuideAlong support team is available daily by toll-free phone, online chat, and email.
- US441/Newfound Gap Road is currently closed on the Tennessee side between Sugarlands and Newfound Gap due to a landslide. However, the road remains open on the North Carolina side between Cherokee and Newfound Gap. For more details, please visit the NPS website.
- The app’s audio will play through your car’s Apple CarPlay and Android Auto display, while the app’s map will display on your phone. You can connect your phone to the car via Bluetooth to listen to the commentary through the car stereo.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 131 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
5 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Value for money
2 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Traveler reviews
131 verified traveler reviews for Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Great Smoky Mountains. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Tour is helpful, giving...
Tour is helpful, giving details about various stops along the way - detailed driving instructions, length and difficulty of hikes.
Response from the operator: Hi Faye, thank you for taking our Great Smoky Mountains audio tour. We’re glad the tour was helpful and that the stop details, driving directions, and hike information made planning your visit easier. Thank you for sharing your experience. We hope to join you on the road again soon!
via Viator
Worth the money!
Perfect! Loved how the app just knew where you were and played. No need to search. It does use lots of battery so be sure to bring a charging cord. Great information and sights we would have never known to visit.
Response from the operator: Hi there, thanks for taking our Great Smoky Mountains audio tour. We’re so glad the app played automatically based on your location and helped you discover sights you may not have found otherwise. Thank you for sharing your experience and the helpful reminder to bring a charging cord, since GPS can use extra battery on longer drives. We hope to join you on the road again soon!
via Viator
Your Personal Tour Guide
This is our 3rd Guide Along tour. All have been as a tour of a national park. It is a great way to learn about the sights. Good information on location of parking, rest rooms, available amenities in nearby towns, etc. The GPS tracks your location. Accommodates your travel time. We are fans!
Response from the operator: Hi there, thanks for taking our Great Smoky Mountains audio tour. We’re so glad GuideAlong has become a go-to companion for your national park trips and that the GPS guidance, parking details, restroom notes, nearby amenities, and stories helped along the way. We’re happy to have you as fans. We hope to join you on the road again soon!
via Tripadvisor
Very informative
The tour guide spoke very clearly and was very informative. The tour took us step by step to different stops and hikes.
Response from the operator: Hi Carly, thanks for taking our Great Smoky Mountains audio tour. We’re so glad the clear narration, step-by-step guidance, and stop-and-hike suggestions helped make your visit easy to follow and informative. We hope to join you on the road again soon!
via Viator
Works great👍
Works great and learn some things about the Smoky Mountains we had not heard before. Will use again.
Response from the operator: Hi Fred, thanks for taking our Great Smoky Mountains audio tour. We’re so glad it worked well and helped you learn new things about the Smokies. Thank you for sharing your experience. We’d be happy to join you on more trips in the future. We hope to hit the road with you again soon!
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 8 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 46
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Why this scores 77
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Great Smoky Mountains: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Gatlinburg.
How much does Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Great Smoky Mountains cost?
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Prices start at $20 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Gatlinburg usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Great Smoky Mountains take?
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Plan for about 8 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Gatlinburg is not rushed.
Is Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Great Smoky Mountains worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 77 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.7/5 across 132 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Gatlinburg, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Great Smoky Mountains?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Great Smoky Mountains suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 8-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Great Smoky Mountains?
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Around 46 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Gatlinburg can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Gatlinburg and add a light layer if any part of the 8-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Great Smoky Mountains start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Gatlinburg within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Gatlinburg?
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Gatlinburg is the front door to Great Smoky Mountains National Park: guided hikes to waterfalls, Cades Cove wildlife loops, ziplines, whitewater rafting on the Pigeon River and moonshine tastings in town. Trailhead transport is the main logistics question. On Outty we rank every Gatlinburg experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include The Ultimate Wine, Shine & Bourbon Experience, The "Classic" National Park Tour, Mountaintop Zipline 2-Hours Activity. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Gatlinburg?
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April to June and October for autumn colour. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Gatlinburg?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
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