The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From Bastrop, Texas to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Embarking on a road trip can be one of the most exciting adventures you can have. There are so many sights to see and experiences to be had that it can be hard to know where to begin. Whether you're an experienced road tripper or a first-timer, driving from Bastrop, Texas to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee is a journey that is sure to satisfy your wanderlust. Along the way, you'll encounter breathtaking scenery, charming towns, and unique attractions that are not to be missed.

So, rev up your engine, pack your bags, and hit the open road. Here are the top places to see when driving from Bastrop, Texas to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.

1. Ozark National Forest - Arkansas

Begin your journey through nature's pristine beauty by visiting the Ozark National Forest in Arkansas. As you drive through this 1.2 million-acre forest, be prepared to be awed by its rugged terrain, lush forests, and spectacular scenery. The park is home to some of the largest and oldest trees in the world, including the 400-year-old bald cypress trees that line the Buffalo National River. Take some time to hike or bike through the many trails the Ozark National Forest has to offer. You'll see stunning waterfalls, deep valleys, and some of the most picturesque views imaginable.

2. Gateway Arch - St. Louis, Missouri

No trip to the Midwest is complete without visiting the iconic Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri. This 630-foot-tall stainless steel monument is the tallest man-made monument in the western hemisphere. Take a trip up to the top for fantastic views of the Mississippi River and the city skyline. The Gateway Arch also houses a museum that tells the story of St. Louis' role as the gateway to the west.

3. Mammoth Cave National Park - Kentucky

Mammoth Cave National Park is home to the world's longest cave system, with over 400 miles of underground passages. The park offers several different cave tours that range from easy to strenuous. You can explore huge rooms filled with intricate rock formations, crawl through small passageways, and learn about the geology and history of the caves. Above ground, there are over 70 miles of hiking trails, ample opportunities for fishing, and scenic paddling on the Green and Nolin Rivers.

4. The Great Smoky Mountains - Tennessee

As you approach Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, prepare to be wowed by the Great Smoky Mountains. This iconic mountain range straddles the border between Tennessee and North Carolina and is home to stunning vistas, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. Take a scenic drive through the park's many winding roads, hike one of the numerous trails, or simply enjoy a picnic and take in the views. Be sure to visit during the fall, when the leaves change to vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red.

5. Dolly Parton's Stampede - Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

No trip to Pigeon Forge is complete without a visit to Dolly Parton's Stampede. This entertaining and family-friendly dinner show features horseback riding stunts, live music, and a delicious four-course meal. Be prepared to cheer for your favorite riders and be dazzled by the show's pyrotechnics. It's no wonder this show has been a Smoky Mountain tradition for over 30 years.

Conclusion

From the stunning mountains of Tennessee to the rugged wilderness of Arkansas, the journey from Bastrop, Texas to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee has something for everyone. So load up your car, buckle up, and hit the open road. With beautiful scenery and unique attractions around every turn, this road trip is sure to be one you'll never forget.