Parson Bald Overlook

Parson Bald Overlook sits right at the junction where US-129 hands off to the Foothills Parkway — the first pull-off after the Chilhowee entrance. The view faces directly into the southern ridge of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with Parson Bald centered in the frame and Gregory Bald to its left. The open, grassy bald character of both peaks means the view stays unobstructed in a way that forested ridgelines rarely allow.

Parking here accommodates motorcycles alongside personal vehicles and RVs, so it rarely feels cramped at the edges. One practical note: a parking tag is required to park anywhere along the Foothills Parkway for more than 15 minutes, and there are no trash cans at the parking areas throughout the parkway — pack out whatever you bring in. From this pull-off, the Parkway continues northeast toward Walland through 16 total parking areas and 14 scenic overlooks, with views alternating between the Smokies to the east and the valley towns of Maryville and Alcoa to the west — a solid reason to keep riding rather than turning around.