One of the biggest draws of an autumn trip to the Smoky Mountains is the symphony of colors that emerges across the landscape! A blaze of oranges, reds, and yellows create one-of-a-kind sights that you have to see for yourself to believe. While the beauty is in every direction you look, some spots stand out more than others for their ability to put the mind at ease with their scenic calmness. Here are 5 of the top places to see fall foliage in the Smokies:
1. Kuwohi
Look down on all the stunning fall foliage in the Smokies from Kuwohi, the highest point in the entire state of Tennessee! Standing 6,643 feet above sea level, the Kuwohi Observation Tower offers panoramic views that extend miles and miles into the distance. You’ll notice rolling ridges and deep valleys full of vibrant color for as far as the eyes can see. To reach the observation tower, you’ll take the Kuwohi Trail, a steep but paved pathway that is about a mile in length roundtrip.
2. Cades Cove
One of the unquestioned best places to see fall foliage in the Smokies is Cades Cove. This scenic area of Great Smoky Mountains National Park is ablaze with autumn magic that feels like a warm hug on a chilly fall day! Cades Cove is a valley surrounded by mountains and full of historic cabins and other sites that make it one of the most popular places in the national park. In addition to all the stunning colors, you’re likely to spot some active wildlife when you visit Cades Cove.
3. Newfound Gap Road & Morton Overlook
Newfound Gap Road is one of the best scenic drives in the Smoky Mountains to enjoy during autumn! As you navigate the twists and turns of this road, you’ll pass through spectacular foliage that seems to change by the mile. Along Newfound Gap Road, you’ll find Morton Overlook, a must for stopping and soaking up the fall foliage in the Smokies. At about 4,800 feet of elevation, this westward facing overlook is especially stunning during sunrises and sunsets.
4. Gatlinburg SkyPark
One of the most popular attractions in town also features some of the best views of fall foliage in the Smokies. Gatlinburg SkyPark blends unforgettable views with adventure for an experience you’ll never forget. The Gatlinburg SkyLift is a scenic chairlift that takes guests from downtown to the top of Crockett Mountain where the attraction awaits. Once there, walk across North America’s longest pedestrian cable bridge that spans over a valley and is full of autumn colors.
5. One of Our Smokies Cabins
Finally, one of the best spots to see fall foliage in the Smokies is from the warmth and comfort of one of our Smokies cabins! Start your mornings off with a hot cup of coffee and views of the colorful leaves from your cabin’s porch or deck. Our cabins are nestled in the woods, surrounded by color and the peace and quiet you look for on vacation. Our cabins feature all sorts of amenities like hot tubs and fireplaces perfect for fall as well as game rooms, theater rooms, and so much more.
See Fall Foliage in the Smokies Up Close
We hope you’ll check out some of these places to see fall foliage in the Smokies on your next trip! Want to get even closer to the magic? Learn about some autumn hikes in the Smokies that put you right in the middle of all the unforgettable fall foliages in the Smokies!
