Next Stop: The Smoky Mountains — Our First Big Jeep Adventure!

Exploring Trails, History, and Community in One of America's Most Breathtaking Destinations

Hey Jeep fam!

We’ve got some exciting news to share — Frame the Fun Adventures is hitting the road for our first official trail trip, and we’re headed somewhere legendary: the Great Smoky Mountains! 🌄🚙

As we get ready to pack up and roll out, we wanted to give you a little sneak peek into what’s ahead, why the Smoky Mountains are such an incredible destination for Jeep enthusiasts, and some of the key spots we’re planning to check out.

So, What’s So Special About the Smoky Mountains?

Nestled on the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, the Great Smoky Mountains are part of the larger Appalachian Mountain range. The name “Smoky” comes from the natural fog that often hangs over the range’s forested peaks. This fog is created by the vegetation exhaling moisture — and when sunlight hits it, it creates that mystical, bluish "smoke" effect. It’s dreamy, magical, and 100% photo-worthy.

This region isn’t just one of the most visited national parks in the country — it’s also a Jeep lover’s paradise, with scenic roads, rugged trails, and peaceful backcountry drives that blend beauty, history, and exploration.

Why Jeepers Love the Smokies

Whether you're looking for mild, scenic loops or more rugged back roads, the Smoky Mountains offer a variety of driving experiences perfect for off-road enthusiasts. The area is filled with mountain passes, forest service roads, creek crossings, and picturesque overlooks that make every drive an experience — not just a commute.

Plus, the mountain terrain challenges your skills while rewarding you with some of the most unforgettable views in the country. You’ll go from winding valley roads to high-elevation ridges with sweeping vistas — all in a day’s drive.

For us, this is the perfect launchpad for our Jeep journey — and yes, Aaron is itching to get those tires muddy.

A Must-See: Cades Cove

One place we’re especially excited to visit is Cades Cove — one of the most iconic and scenic spots in the Smoky Mountains.

Cades Cove is a broad, lush valley surrounded by towering mountains, and it’s home to an 11-mile one-way loop road that’s perfect for taking in the scenery at your own pace. It’s not a hardcore off-road trail, but it is a magical drive with plenty of places to pull off, explore old churches and pioneer cabins, and spot wildlife like black bears, deer, wild turkeys, and more.

It’s the kind of peaceful, slow roll through history and nature that makes you appreciate every moment behind the wheel. And for those of us just getting started with our Jeep badge journey, it’s a perfect place to ease into exploration while soaking up the views (and taking a million photos).

Jeep Week in Gatlinburg, TN — Mark Your Calendar!

Another reason we’re so hyped about this region? Gatlinburg, located just outside the national park, hosts an annual event every Jeep fan should know about: Smoky Mountain Jeep Invasion.

Every year, thousands of Jeep owners roll into town for a weeklong celebration of all things Jeep. From off-road trail rides to gear vendors, show-and-shines, and epic meetups, Jeep Invasion is one giant community gathering where you can connect, explore, and geek out over your favorite 4x4s. Whether you come to show off your rig, get inspired, or just ride some beautiful Tennessee trails with fellow enthusiasts, it’s a can’t-miss event for any Jeeper.

While we won’t be there for the official Jeep Invasion just yet, we’re already eyeing it for next year 👀.

Follow Along!

We’re just getting started, and this trip to the Smokies is a major milestone in the Frame the Fun Adventures story. We’ll be sharing our experience — from trail highlights and scenic stops to campground life and Jeep talk — on this blog and our YouTube channel, so make sure to follow along!

📍Got any favorite Jeep trails or spots in the Smoky Mountains we should check out? Drop a comment or send us a message — we’d love your recommendations.

Let’s do this. The mountains are calling — and we’re rolling out to answer.See you on the trail!