Scheduling a Photography Session Along Foothills Parkway

There are many reasons for wanting to schedule a photography session along Foothills Parkway in East Tennessee. This picturesque stretch of road offers some of the most breathtaking, unobstructed views of the Great Smoky Mountains, where rolling peaks fade into layers of misty blue, creating a dreamlike backdrop. Whether bathed in the golden hues of sunrise, the rich warmth of autumn foliage, or the soft glow of twilight, every turn along the Parkway presents a stunning scene worthy of a postcard. The scenic drive itself is perfect for a romantic date night, winding through serene forests and offering numerous overlooks to pause and soak in the grandeur of nature. The entire 72-mile corridor is administered by Great Smoky Mountains National Park, though only three segments totaling 22.5 miles are completed and open to the public.

My favorite spots along the Parkway to take photos are located about 45 south of downtown Knoxville, Tennessee. 

I recommend grabbing a drink at Vienna Coffee House in downtown Maryville before meeting up with your photographer (aka me). You can check out their menu and lookup their address by visiting their website. I would also suggest using the restroom while you’re there so that you are comfortable during your photography session. There’s no where to stop once you leave the downtown Maryville area. 

If you’d rather grab dinner after your session, and you’re into good Italian food, I’d recommend going to Bella. On their website, it says, “Bella is a place for first dates, old friends and families to come together.” This is another local food spot in downtown Maryville.

I tend to have my clients meet me at the Look Rock Overlook parking lot. Look Rock is the highest point along the parkway, raising to 2,652 ft. The views all around at the observation tower are incredible.The parking area for the Look Rock Trail along the Foothills Parkway delivers its own impressive views, but they’re just the beginning. If you cross the Parkway on the designated crosswalk you’ll see the trailhead. The total round-trip distance of the Look Rock Trail is just a little under a mile, and it’s paved the whole way. The path gains some elevation (a bit less than 200 feet) but it’s not a bad hike for those that are interested.

During our time together, we’ll stop at several scenic pull-offs to capture stunning photos—trust me, your gallery will be absolutely breathtaking. It will look as if you hiked miles to reach a mountain’s summit, yet without any of the effort. In just an hour to an hour and a half, we’ll create a beautiful collection of images that perfectly showcase the magic of Foothills Parkway and your love for one another.

If you would like to schedule your Foothills Parkway Session, please fill out the contact form on my website. I look forward to capturing the memories you’ll create!