It’s been a while since I’ve lived in the area (moving back to W. Knoxville this summer though!), but my recollection is Clingmans will be extremely busy in the summer - that said, as Scottie noted, out of Maryville you get the less touristy side of the park and can access it via Walland/Townsend and also ride Foothills Parkway to your hearts desire.

Edit: appears Morelock responded right before me- listen to him.