Smoky Mountain Wedding Location

Planning your wedding in the stunning Smoky Mountains? Whether you’re envisioning a mountain-top ceremony or an intimate riverside exchange, these Smoky Mountain wedding location offer unforgettable scenery and unique atmospheres. I personally have photographed at each of these locations as a Gatlinburg photographer, and love them all for their unique charm.

couple eloping to Gatlinburg at the foothills parkways with the bride holding her arms around the groom and smiling at him with the smokies in the distance — Foothills Parkway

LeQuire Overlook

One of the most iconic views in the park, LeQuire Overlook in Cades Cove is known for its peaceful atmosphere and wide-open fields surrounded by mountain peaks. With a single tree standing tall against the sky, this spot is as simple as it is breathtaking. It’s easily accessible with parking nearby, and its location on the Cades Cove Loop makes it popular for couples seeking a quiet, natural setting for an intimate ceremony.

What makes LeQuire Overlook so special is the way it captures the spirit of the Smokies. Untamed yet serene, wild yet gentle. Wildlife like deer, wild turkeys, and black bears often roam the area, adding a sense of wonder and unpredictability. Sunset ceremonies here are especially beautiful as the fading light brushes golden hues across the meadow. For couples who want a ceremony that feels grounded in natural beauty, LeQuire delivers.

elopement ceremony at cades cove with couple holding hands and listening to their gatlinburg wedding officiant — Ceremony at Cades Cove, near LeQuire Overlook

Spence Cabin in Elkmont

Tucked in the historic Elkmont district, Spence Cabin is one of the most romantic and charming Smoky Mountain wedding locations. This restored pink cottage sits beside the Little River and offers a mix of cozy indoor spaces and peaceful outdoor patios. The sound of the river and the soft rustling of leaves create a quiet, intimate setting for small ceremonies and elopements.

The cabin itself dates back to the 1920s and retains much of its original charm, making it perfect for vintage or woodland-themed weddings. Inside, large windows let in dappled sunlight, while the stone terrace outside is perfect for a riverside ceremony. Couples love that Spence Cabin offers both comfort and natural surroundings—it’s a beautiful blend of Smoky Mountain history and elegance.

Spence Cabin at Elkmont with couple eloping to Gatlinburg and dancing on the trail in front of the pink cabin — Spence Cabin Wedding Venue

Greenbrier Riverside

If you’re drawn to forested riverbanks and soft, natural light, Greenbrier Riverside might be your perfect Smoky Mountain wedding location. Located just a short drive from Gatlinburg, this lush and less-traveled area features the Little Pigeon River flowing through moss-covered rocks, shaded by towering trees. It’s particularly popular in spring and summer when the forest is full of green life.

This location offers a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path feel, which is ideal for couples who want privacy and a deep connection to the natural world. It’s also a favorite among photographers due to the soft, filtered light and vibrant backdrops. If you want a ceremony that feels like it’s happening in a hidden forest sanctuary, Greenbrier Riverside delivers that sense of intimacy and discovery.

Greenbrier elopement in the Smoky Mountains during the fall with bride and groom standing on a large river rock and kissing — Greenbrier Elopement in the fall

Foothills Parkway Overlook

For panoramic mountain views that stretch for miles, Foothills Parkway Overlook is a must! This scenic drive runs along a ridge offering unobstructed views of the Great Smoky Mountains, especially during sunrise and sunset. Ceremonies here are incredibly dramatic, with sweeping ridgelines, layers of blue mist, and a sky that seems to go on forever.

The overlook’s simplicity is part of its charm. There’s no structure, just you, your partner, and the endless view. This location is also relatively easy to access with paved pull-offs and parking nearby, making it ideal for couples eloping or hosting a small ceremony without a formal venue. It’s perfect for adventurous souls who want their vows to echo over the mountaintops.

sunset elopement in the Smoky Mountains with couple eloping to Gatlinburg at the Foothills and kissing as they stand on the road with the smoky mountains in the distance — Foothills Parkway at sunset

Rivers & Waterfalls

For couples who feel most at home near water, riverside weddings along the Little Pigeon River or Cades Cove’s winding creeks offer a peaceful, grounding energy. These locations, in addition to many other waterfalls in the park, feature large river rocks, quiet pools, and forested edges. Ideal for barefoot ceremonies, handfastings, or deeply personal vows whispered above rushing water.

The sound of the river becomes your ceremony soundtrack, and the cool shade of surrounding trees creates a cocoon-like space where the outside world melts away. These spots are ideal for couples who value simplicity and nature over tradition and structure. Add a few wildflowers or minimal décor, and you’ll have an effortlessly beautiful setting for your vows.

waterfall elopement in the Smoky Mountains with a bride and groom leaning to kiss one another as they elope to gatlinburg — Waterfall in the Smoky Mountains

Planning & Permit Tips

Each of these sites within Great Smoky Mountains National Park requires a special use permit for weddings. Ceremonies must be held at approved locations and follow park guidelines to preserve the natural environment. Group sizes are generally limited to 20–25 people, and it's important to plan well in advance to secure your preferred date and time.

Working with a local planner or photographer familiar with the permitting process (hi, that’s me!) can make things much smoother. Some locations (like Foothills Parkway) are less formal, while others (like Spence Cabin) require a reservation through the park’s facilities office. Be sure to also consider parking, accessibility, and seasonal weather when choosing your location.

romantic wedding photo in the Smoky Mountains with groom dipping his bride and kissing her in front of a large floral arrangement with a river is the distance at spence cabin — Patio near Spence Cabin next to the river

Your Smoky Mountain Wedding Location

These Smoky Mountain wedding locations serve as breathtaking backdrops for the next step in your love story. Whether you’re drawn to mountain peaks, forested riversides, or curated venue elegance, your ceremony in the Smokies promises to be unforgettable. Ready to start planning? I’d be thrilled to guide you through choosing the perfect location and capturing the magic of your mountain-day.

cataract falls elopement with couple holding hands as they elope to gatlinburg — Gatlinburg elopement at Cataract Falls in the Smokies