Need tips for the road trip to the Smokies/Appalachians (TN, NC, VA, PA, WV)

[AlexBRu]

Hi everyone!

We are planning a socially-distanced-human-avoiding-CDC-acceptable road trip last week of May to see the nature and enjoy the outdoors of the Smokies/Appalachians. No plans to visit restaurants, museums, or anything of that kind. Just the two of us in a car.

With that being said, I drafted a plan on Google Maps for 8-9 days of driving/hiking (where possible).

Any recommendations what to see on the way?

Any point in stopping at Knoxville / Charlotte / Raleigh / Durham / Pittsburg end of May assuming that everything is going to be closed, besides just walking in the city? Or should we just stick with mountain roads and cabins? If so, what are some of the scenic spots along the route?

Not stopping in Cincinnati, Louisville, Nashville, Chattanooga, Washington D.C., Philadelphia - been there a few years ago.

Thank you!

Where would you recommend to stop and what to see on the way?

[Rachel_HootyHoo]

I go to the Smoky Mountains (Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge) every fall for a work conference & sometimes ride motorcycles through the park. However, according to Google, it says the Smoky Mountain National Park is closed right now, which is a huge bummer because it is absolutely gorgeous. I’d recommend driving through the National Park if open (Rt. 441) , definitely visit Cades Cove to see some black bears and driving the Blue Ridge Trail is nice, takes you through the Cherokee Reservation. If the park is closed and you have time, the Tail of the Dragons route goes partly around the National Park too. (https://tailofthedragonmaps.com/smoky-mountain-loop/)

As for KY, Lexington and Bardsville are nice, if the grounds are not also closed, Makers Mark has a beautiful distillery you can walk around, among others along the Bourbon Trail.

Have fun and stay safe and well!