If you’re planning to elope in the Smoky Mountains, you’re probably looking for something different than a traditional wedding venue. You want natural beauty, adventure, maybe a little solitude. The good news? The Smoky Mountains offer endless Smoky Mountain elopement locations, from national park overlooks to riverside ceremonies to hidden waterfalls.

As a Tennessee elopement photographer, I’ve worked in the Smokies and know what makes these locations special. In this guide, I’ll share some of the best Smoky Mountain elopement locations for couples who want something intimate, adventurous, and rooted in nature.

What Makes Smoky Mountain Elopement Locations Unique

Eloping in the Smoky Mountains means not being confined to a traditional venue or timeline. Instead, you can hike to your ceremony spot, get married at sunrise on a mountain overlook, or exchange vows next to a waterfall. The landscape is the backdrop, and you get to choose how you experience it.

Additionally, these locations work well for couples who want something adventurous but don’t want to plan a massive destination elopement. The Smokies are accessible, beautiful, and offer locations for every comfort level, from easy roadside overlooks to more challenging hikes.

Top Smoky Mountain Elopement Locations

Cades Cove

Cades Cove is one of the most iconic spots in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It’s a wide valley surrounded by mountains, with historic buildings, open fields, and incredible wildlife. There are a handful of overlooks (LeQuire Cemetery Overlook and Wildlife Overlook make popular ceremony spots), or choose a more secluded area along the loop road.

What to know: The National Park Service requires a special-use permit for weddings at Cades Cove. The loop road can get crowded, especially in peak season, so sunrise or late afternoon is the best bet for fewer people.

Best for: Couples who want epic mountain views, open landscapes, and a classic Smoky Mountain feel

Foothills Parkway

Foothills Parkway offers panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains without requiring any hiking. Multiple overlooks along the parkway give stunning mountain vistas, and you can literally pull off the road and get married with the mountains as your backdrop.

What to know: You can easily access this spot (roadside overlooks don’t require permits), but it can be windy. Weather on the mountain changes quickly, so have a backup plan.

Best for: Couples who want incredible views without a hike, older family members attending, or anyone who values accessibility

Greenbrier

Greenbrier is just outside Gatlinburg and offers both forest and riverside elopement locations. You can get married next to the Little Pigeon River, surrounded by towering trees and the sound of water, or choose a wooded spot deeper in the area.

What to know: Easy to access with minimal walking on dirt paths. Greenbrier is versatile. You get both water and woods in one location.

Best for: Couples who want a mix of forest and river, and intimate woodland vibes

Clingmans Dome

Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Smoky Mountains, offering 360-degree views from the observation tower. It’s dramatic, sweeping, and feels like you’re on top of the world.

What to know: Getting to the observation tower requires a half-mile uphill walk (paved but steep). Weather can be unpredictable at this elevation. The National Park Service requires permits for ceremonies here.

Best for: Adventurous couples who want epic, panoramic views and don’t mind a short hike

Elkmont

Elkmont is a quieter, more secluded area with rustic buildings, woods, and access to the Little River. It feels tucked away and intimate, perfect for couples who want something off the beaten path.

What to know: This spot sees less crowds than Cades Cove or Clingmans Dome. You’ll find easy access with minimal walking. The National Park Service requires permits here.

Best for: Couples who want a hidden gem feel, rustic vibes, and fewer crowds

Newfound Gap

Newfound Gap sits on the Tennessee-North Carolina border and offers stunning mountain views in every direction. It’s one of the most accessible overlooks in the park. You can drive right to it and get married with the Smokies surrounding you.

What to know: This is a very accessible roadside overlook, but it’s also very popular with tourists. Go early morning or late afternoon for fewer people. The National Park Service requires permits here.

Best for: Couples who want accessibility + incredible views, or those who want to straddle two states for their ceremony

Planning Your Smoky Mountain Elopement

If you’re eloping in the Smoky Mountains, here’s what you need to know:

Permits: Most locations within Great Smoky Mountains National Park require a special-use permit for weddings. However, the permit process is straightforward, but you need to apply in advance. On the other hand, some locations outside the park (like certain areas of Foothills Parkway) don’t require permits.

Timing: Sunrise and late afternoon give you the best light for photos and fewer crowds. Midday can be harsh light and peak tourist time.

Weather: Mountain weather changes quickly. Therefore, have a backup plan, bring layers, and be flexible.

Accessibility: Some locations require hiking, others are roadside. Choose based on your comfort level and whether you’re bringing guests.

What to wear: Wear what feels like you. For example, hiking boots with a wedding dress? Go for it. Something more formal? That works too. Just make sure you’re comfortable for the terrain.

Why Elope in the Smoky Mountains

The Smoky Mountains are one of the best elopement destinations in the Southeast. First, you get natural beauty. Second, accessibility (it’s drivable from most of the South). Third, endless location options. And finally, the freedom to create a day that feels completely yours.

Whether you’re planning a Smoky Mountain elopement or considering a traditional Smoky Mountain wedding at a venue, the area offers incredible options for every type of celebration.

If you’re getting married in the Smoky Mountains and want a photographer who knows the area, understands how to work with mountain light, and shoots in a documentary style, I’d love to work with you. Ultimately, your elopement should feel authentic, adventurous, and true to who you are.

Planning your Smoky Mountain elopement? Get in touch here.