Spend any time at all in the mountains of Western North Carolina and it will soon become obvious there are places that cater specifically to visitors… but that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy them too! Case in point: a roadside observation tower with a view that is self-proclaimed to be the most photographed in the whole of the Smoky Mountains. That view is pretty spectacular…

Ask anyone who's stopped at Soco Craft and also climbed the equivalent of nine stories to the top of the tower, and you'll get pretty much the same answer.
Google Maps/Larry Reed
The views from the top are heavenly — and virtually no one ever complains about the hurt the stairs puts on their legs.
TripAdvisor/bfebrown
The nine-story observation tower dishes up 360 degree views of the valley floor below...
TripAdvisor/Hotrod_Hammer
TripAdvisor/gidgetgoesny17

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... and miles upon miles of everyone's favorite Smoky Mountains.
Google Maps/Tuba
There's only one prerequisite to climbing the tower, and that's passing through the gift shop (and paying the reasonable fee of 50 cents per person to make the climb.) When you've finished gawking at the view, head back down and grab some keepsakes. The gift shop carries everything from delicious treats to locally-made crafts and more.
Google Maps/Gidget Snyder
If someone in your group can't quite fathom climbing the tower, there's a viewing platform next to the store with viewfinders. See? Everyone can enjoy THIS Smoky Mountain view!
Google Maps/Chris Lassiter
Have you passed this roadside attraction by when visiting Maggie Valley? Or did you stop and climb to the top of the Soco Tower? We'd love to know, either way!
Google Maps/Tuba

Want to know where to find it? Soco Crafts and Tower is located at 6638 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751.

For another iconic must-visit place in Maggie Valley, plan a meal at this restaurant with a million dollar view!

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