Born as a consolation prize for losing the Blue Ridge Parkway to Virginia and North Carolina, the Foothills Parkway exists, but in segments. One of the first sections completed was I-40 to Cosby, which divides the Smokies from the ridge and valley region of East Tennessee.
This 5.6-mile portion of the Parkway was completed in 1968 and provides a break for travelers on the way through the Pigeon River Gorge or having just passed through. Surprisingly, the route is not crowded and the overlooks provide excellent views.
My photo was taken from the second overlook facing English Mountain in Tennessee. As autumn leaves pass their peak in higher elevations, the Foothills Parkway is abundant with color into November.
Many of the HoneyBadgerImages are on display at Instagram.com/honeybadgerimages