The Great Smoky Mountains are a sight to behold, but autumn in this part of the country is indescribable. When the leaves start to turn from green to yellow to orange and the weather starts cooling off, there’s no better place to be. But where should you go in the national park during this time of the year? Here are some of the best places to visit in the Smoky Mountains in fall:
Mount LeConte
Mount LeConte is one of the most iconic mountain peaks in the Smokies, and there are several trails that lead to the summit, including the Boulevard Trail, which passes over High Top, the true summit of Mount LeConte, as well as:
- Alum Cave Trail: the shortest and steepest hike
- Trillium Gap: the trail used by llamas to bring supplies to LeConte Lodge
- Bullhead Trail: closed Monday - Thursday each week for rehabilitation
No matter which route you take, be sure to plan for plenty of time to reach the summit and enjoy the fall foliage and mountain views before heading back. Pack plenty of water and snacks, as well as a light jacket. Temperatures in higher elevations can sometimes be up to 10 degrees cooler!
Kuwohi Observation Tower
The Smoky Mountains in October is peak time for viewing the breathtaking fall colors, and if you want a short hike with the best views, the 1-mile roundtrip hike to the Kuwohi Observation Tower is the one for you! In fact, it’s higher than Mt. LeConte and is the highest point in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The parking lot at Kuwohi is also the access point for the Andrews Bald trailhead. This moderate hike leads to a beautiful meadow overlooking the mountains that’s perfect for a picnic!
Abrams Falls
Cades Cove is the most popular area in Great Smoky Mountains National Park for good reason! The fall season is perfect for a drive or bike ride around the 11-mile loop road, as well as capturing glimpses of bears, turkey, deer, and other wildlife. Since traffic can be heavy along the road, especially on weekends, we suggest exploring the area by hiking to Abrams Falls! This trail features stunning forest views of the fall foliage, and you’ll be rewarded at the end with an impressive waterfall. Curious about other trails? Read more about the best autumn hikes in the Smokies!
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
Would you rather take a scenic drive instead of a hike? If you want to know where to go in the Smoky Mountains in fall, you should explore the Roaring Fork Motor Trail! This is a 5.5-mile loop road located right outside of downtown Gatlinburg is easy to access, and there are several historic spots and roadside waterfalls to admire, like Place of a Thousand Drips or Noah “Bud” Ogle Cabin. You’ll love looking at the colorful trees as you drive by, and if you want to get out and stretch your legs, a few trailheads can be found along the route, including the trail to Rainbow Falls!
More Places to Visit in the Smoky Mountains During Fall
You’ll definitely want to check out some of the best fall things to do at attractions in Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg during your autumn vacation! Downtown Gatlinburg is decked out in seasonal fall decor, and mountaintop adventure parks put on incredible fall festivals, such as the Bear-varian Fall Festival at Anakeesta! In Pigeon Forge, Dollywood’s Harvest Festival brings thousands of pumpkins, delicious food, and the tourist-favorite, Great Pumpkin Luminights! SkyLand Ranch in Sevierville is another attraction with special fall events, including a Ghost Town and trick or treating for children 12 and under on select nights.
Are you ready to experience the Smoky Mountains in fall? Learn more about why autumn is the best time to stay at one of our Great Smoky Mountains vacation rentals!
