For the first time in its nearly 60 years in business, Pink Jeep Tours is heading east, expanding its unique tours from the desert Southwest to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee. It’s the first addition under the ownership of Herschend Enterprises, which acquired Pink Jeep Tours in 2018.
“The expansion offers a number of guided tour options in the most visited national park in the United States,” says Group Sales Manager Leslie McLean.
The newest four excursions depart from Pigeon Forge aboard—what else—the company’s signature pink, state-of-the-art vehicles that range from rugged to luxurious.
“Groups will learn of the history, geology, flora, and fauna from a Pink Jeep Tours certified interpretive guide,” McLean says.
Here’s a closer look at the company’s journeys in the Smokies:
Newfound Gap
The gap offers views for miles up the 3,000-foot peak, no matter the season. This adventure takes riders through an ecosystem that shifts as if you were driving from Georgia to Maine, McLean says.
Foothills Parkway
“Groups will experience some of the most incredible views in the nation along Foothills Parkway, and they’ll also learn the story of the decades-long project,” McLean says. Riders can see the Smoky Mountains’ highest points on this route.
Oconaluftee Farm
This excursion includes a stop at an outdoor museum featuring a collection of 19th-century buildings, including a farmhouse, barn, apple house, and blacksmith shop. With a rolling stream nearby, the setting is perfect for photos—and there’s a chance to see some wildlife.
Roaring Fork
“The tour of Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail takes guests to places where tour buses can’t go,” McLean says. Guides discuss life on the American frontier as old log cabins and mills come into view, as well as rushing waterfalls.
The company offers group rates. For more information, reach out to McLean or go to pinkjeep.com.
Top photo by Pink Jeep Tours
Support for Courier articles provided by:
Cheekwood Estate & Gardens
Graceland & Guest House at Graceland
