To get to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park most all of the tourists arrive through Gatlinburg, Tennessee or Cherokee, North Carolina.  Each side of the park has its own unique characteristics, and it is quite feasible to become overwhelmed by the beauty of one view and lose all sense of time. I find it very fascinating how each side has its own special look and flavor. The Newfound Gap Road gives you access to numerous of the definitive settings of the Smokies like Balsom Point, Laurel Falls, and Cades Cove.  The Oconaluftee Valley Overlook is the ideal location for picture takers that are wanting to capture a stunning Smoky Mountain sunrise shot.