Smoky Mountains in the Fall: The Complete Travel Guide

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the top nature areas in the United States. While the area is appealing year-round, thousands of visitors flock to the region every autumn as 500,000 acres of foliage erupt into a symphony of orange, yellow, and red hues.

If you’re planning a trip to the Smoky Mountains in the fall, you’re well on your way to an outstanding vacation. That said, you need to know the best activities and peak foliage times to make the most of your trip. In this guide, we’ll cover everything there is to know about the Smokies during the fall season.

When Is the Best Time To See Fall Colors in the Smoky Mountains? 

The best time to see fall colors in the Smoky Mountains is from mid- to late October. While you’ll have an unforgettable experience no matter when you visit the Smokies, autumn is particularly special because its fall foliage offers a welcome break from the summer humidity. 

Cooler temperatures at higher elevations trigger color changes earlier. In late September through mid October, higher elevations in the Smokies show faint fall colors with soft golds and russets, while lower areas remain green.

Mid to late October features bold maroons and vivid tangerines at mid-elevations. Lower elevations follow suit from late October to early November, with glowing golds, striking scarlets, and bright browns.

• Late October to Early November: From late October through the beginning of November, the trees at lower elevations are painted with autumn colors resembling golden yellows, vibrant reds, and rich oranges, which light up the landscape.
• Late September to Mid-October: Beginning in September, get to higher ground to see the early colors of the autumn season in beautiful shades of gold and warm browns.
• Mid to Late October: Explore the mid-level areas towards the end of October to witness a mix of prominent colors like bold reds, bright oranges, and deep yellows covering the hills.

Smoky Mountains in September

• September brings in the first wave of fall colors in the higher elevations of the park.
• Average temperature: 
  • Low Elevation: 55°F – 65°F
  • High Elevation: 47°F – 60°F 

As August comes to a close, the cooler mountain air begins to sweep through the region, paving the way for the first glimpses of fall transformation. Birch, maple, cherry, and other species of trees start their initial changes in the park’s higher elevations, such as Clingman’s dome. During this time, trees in lower elevations are not yet ready to start changing color — it will typically be a few weeks before that happens.

• Benefits of visiting in September: Mild temperatures and fewer crowds
• Drawbacks of visiting in September: Limited colors in mid and lower-elevation areas and fewer fall festival and event activities

The best places to drive to see Smoky Mountains fall foliage are:

• Newfound Gap Road: Traversing from Gatlinburg to Cherokee, the Newfound Gap Road rides along high altitudes for early fall foliage viewing. 
• Clingmans Dome Road: Clingmans Dome Road takes visitors to the highest peak in the Smokies, where they can witness the first signs of the Smoky Mountains’ fall colors. 
• Little River Road: This gently winding scenic drive follows the Little River, offering beautiful views of the fall foliage and several opportunities for short hikes and picnics.

The best places to hike to see Smoky Mountains fall foliage are:

• Chimney Tops: Be prepared to climb during this short hike. Spanning just over three miles, Chimney Tops offers rewarding views of high elevation in the Smokies. 
• Mt. Cammerer: Enjoy 360-degree views from a historic fire lookout tower. Be prepared for high elevation gain and a challenging hike to see the earliest autumn leaves.
• Andrews Bald: This hike starts from the Clingmans Dome parking area and takes you to one of the park’s highest ridges, offering sweeping views of the early fall colors at higher elevations.

Smoky Mountains in October

• October brings intense and beautiful scenery as trees throughout the park reach their peak fall color.
• Average temperature: 
  • Low Elevation: 43°F – 73°F
  • High Elevation: 38°F – 53°F 

At the start of the month, the leaves look similar to September — just a few changing trees in the higher elevations while the foliage is predominantly green below. However, as the mountain air becomes colder, a beautiful cascading effect engulfs the region, and trees begin to turn colors at lower elevations. By mid to late October, most of the region becomes engulfed in fall hues. Dogwood, walnut, hickory, and more have all changed colors at lower elevations, and the scenery is perfect for hikes, sightseeing, and other outdoor activities. Whether you come for a family vacation or a honeymoon getaway, you’ll see breathtaking views.

• Benefits of visiting in October: Peak colors, more wildlife, and a higher concentration of fall festivals and events
• Drawbacks of visiting in October: Crowded trails and higher costs

The best places to drive to see Smoky Mountains fall foliage are:

• Cades Cove Loop Road: This one-way loop features some of the best views of the Smoky Mountains in the fall, with wildlife sightings and historic architecture.
• Rich Mountain Road: Rich Mountain Road is a lesser-known alternative to the Cades Cove Loop. This gravel road provides a quieter way to view the fall colors during peak season. 
• Greenbrier Road: This scenic drive starts east of Gatlinburg and spans directly into the heart of the Smoky Mountains, with fall colors framing the river beds along the way.

The best places to hike to see Smoky Mountains fall foliage are:

• Alum Cave: This popular trail offers biodiversity and unforgettable panoramic views for fall in the mountains.
• Porters Creek: Porters Creek is a gentle trek that takes you through a historic settlement and showcases stunning fall scenery, with its peak colors changing in October. 
• Jakes Creek: This less-traveled trail offers a peaceful hike through dense forests. In October, the changing colors of the leaves provide a colorful backdrop.

Smoky Mountains in November

• November marks the end of the fall season in the Smokies, but there are still opportunities to enjoy the colors in the early parts of the month.
• Average temperature: 
  • Low Elevation: 33°F – 61°F
  • High Elevation: 28°F – 42°F 

As the mountain air gets cooler still, colors in the higher elevations of the park begin to fade and fall. However, trees in the middle to lower elevations still proudly show off their colors — species such as dogwood, sumac, and spicebush. This means the start of November is perfect for sightseeing in lower-elevation areas such as Gatlinburg. The fall colors typically end around the first week of the month. However, visitors can still experience the scenery at lower elevations up to mid or late November if the weather cooperates.

• Benefits of visiting in November: Fewer crowds than peak season and more sprawling views as trees start to thin out
• Drawbacks of visiting in November: Shorter days and unpredictable weather

The best places to drive to see Smoky Mountains fall foliage are:

• Foothills Parkway East: This section of the Foothills Parkway runs between Walland and Wears Valley and has sweeping views of the Smokies’ changing landscape. The views are clear in November, with lingering fall colors and a transition to winter scenery.
• Blue Ridge Parkway: Stretching along the North Carolina side of the Smoky Mountains, this byway highlights a mix of late fall colors transitioning into early winter.
• Cherohala Skyway: The Cherohala Skyway stretches between Tellico Plains, Tennessee, and Robbinsville, North Carolina, and offers an opportunity to see late fall colors.

The best places to hike to see Smoky Mountains fall foliage are:

• Abrams Falls: This trail leads to Abrams Falls, passing through charming fall forest scenery and offering a rewarding view of the falls at the end.
• Middle Prong: The Middle Prong trail presents a beautiful mix of lingering fall colors and early winter elements, providing a calming and colorful autumn adventure.
• Grotto Falls: This moderate hike leads to a waterfall with a path behind its cascading falls. You’ll find fading fall colors against the contrast of the waterfall and cooler temperatures.

Fall Temperatures in the Smokies

There’s a variation of temperatures between elevations in the Smoky Mountains in the fall. In Gatlinburg and lower elevations, the autumn warmth lingers with September highs of 83ºF, while November brings a crisp fall chill with lows down to 33ºF. 

At Clingmans Dome and higher elevations, fall temperatures turn brisk. September ranges from 47ºF to 60ºF, and November ushers in cooler weather, with temperatures dropping between 28ºF and 42ºF.

Gatlinburg, TN (Low Elevation)

• September: 55ºF – 83ºF
• October: 43ºF – 73ºF
• November: 33ºF – 61ºF

Clingmans Dome (High Elevation)

• September: 47ºF – 60ºF
• October: 38ºF – 53ºF
• November: 28ºF – 42ºF

So, what is the best time to see fall colors in the Smoky Mountains? It depends on your preference — some prefer late September for quiet crowds at a lower price point, while others prefer October when the fall foliage colors are at their peak.

Source for all temperatures: National Park Service

Fall Activities

The Smoky Mountain scenery and temperate weather make it perfect for spending time outside. Here are a few of the most popular fall activities.

Hike in the Fall Colors

With over 800 miles of hiking trails throughout the park, the Smoky Mountains provide plenty of opportunities to spend time in the great outdoors. Visitors flock from all over the globe to explore the Tennessee and North Carolina wilderness — and fall is no exception.

Enjoy the foliage through several suitable trails, like:

• Clingman’s Dome: This trail takes explorers on a steep, mile-long adventure to the highest point of the park — perfect for sightseeing as soon as early September.
• Charlies Bunion: This trail spans eight miles and nearly 2,000 feet of elevation gain, letting visitors see the fall colors as early as late September. 
• Ramsey Cascades: One of the most challenging trails, this eight-mile path takes visitors to the tallest waterfall in the region. Its comparatively low elevation makes it a perfect late October to early November adventure.

Leisurely Soak in Scenic Fall Views

Hiking is a great way to explore and take in the scenery, but you may want to enjoy the wilderness in a more relaxing way. In that case, there are many leisurely activities and fall overlooks to get a bird’s eye view of the surrounding foliage without breaking a sweat.

Some of the most popular attractions include:

• Gatlinburg Skypark: Situated in the heart of Gatlinburg, visitors first take a chairlift up 1,800 feet to the top of Crockett Mountain. From there, explore the cable bridge, Tulip Tower, and the SkyDeck to see the area from every angle.
• Gatlinburg Space Needle: Take the glass elevator up over 400 feet to experience a 360-degree view of Gatlinburg and the surrounding Smoky Mountains.
• Great Smoky Mountain Wheel: Located in The Island — an amusement and shopping area in Pigeon Forge — this 200-foot tall Ferris wheel can take you above the treeline to marvel at the surrounding area.

Observe the Local Wildlife

Visitors can spot animals throughout the year in the Smokies, but an added dose of magic comes with sightseeing in the fall colors. Any trail, peak, or camping location can be a prime area for watching local creatures, but a few spots are better than others.

Here are a few of the top places for observing wildlife in the Smokies — make sure to bring your camera:

• Cataloochee: This valley is a perfect area to see elk, wild turkeys, deer, and other wildlife — not to mention one of the best locations to explore historic buildings from as early as the 19th century.
• Cades Cove: Like Cataloochee, Cades Cove is home to wildlife and many historical buildings. In this picturesque valley, you can spot deer, bears, coyotes, and more.
• Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail: This five-and-a-half-mile loop offers views of foliage, creeks, waterfalls, and more from the comfort of your vehicle. Look for bears, deer, and other wildlife on this leisurely trail.

Backpack Through the Park

There’s arguably no better way to get immersed in the wonders of the Smokies than by going backpacking. Fill your days taking in the foliage on one of the park’s many hiking trails, and spend your nights exchanging campfire stories and sleeping under the stars — remember, you will need a backpacking permit.

Some of the best backpacking trails and experiences in the Smokies are:

• Mount Cammerer/Mount Sterling loop: This 28-mile hiking trail offers a tremendous experience of the surrounding foliage and wildlife you would be hard-pressed to find elsewhere.
• Fall colors backpacking trip: This four-day, 22-mile guided backpacking excursion takes visitors past waterfalls, creeks, and breathtaking wildlife — all in the picturesque fall scenery.
• Appalachian Trail: Spanning over 2,000 miles and 14 states, this historic trail cuts right through the Smokies — take part in the popular 19-mile section between Davenport Gap and Max Patch Road.

Fish a Nearby Creek

Fall is a good time of the year to fish in the Smokies. While the water level is typically low — therefore, slower currents and a slightly harder time catching fish — the weather is perfect, and the mosquitos have almost completely disappeared. There are nearly 3,000 miles of creek to explore — but you will need a fishing permit.

A few of the best areas to fish in the area include:

• Herbert Holt Park: This Gatlinburg creek is child-friendly and handicap accessible, making it a great spot for a leisurely fishing outing.
• Hazel Creek: Residing in the North Carolina portion of the Smokies, this creek is a pristine fly fishing area and is considered one of the best trout fishing areas in the park.
• Abrams Creek: Found in the Cades Cove area, this creek is another of the best locations in the park for catching trout and smallmouth bass.

Ride a Mountain Bike

Mountain biking is a way to experience the beauty of the Smokies while exercising. It’s important to note that the park has no designated mountain bike routes, and bikes are prohibited on many hiking trails.

That said, a few locations in the park are worth bringing your bike for:

• Gatlinburg Trail: This two-mile trail in Gatlinburg is a destination for fall foliage with its relatively flat and easy excursion that runs alongside the Little Pigeon River.
• Cades Cove Loop: Spanning 11 miles, this one-way road is a popular biking area that is motor-vehicle-free on Wednesdays between May 3 and September 27.
• Oconaluftee River Trail: Near Cherokee, NC, this nearly two-mile trail is a slightly hilly excursion that follows the Oconaluftee River.

Take a Scenic Drive

A scenic drive in the Smoky Mountains during fall offers an effortless way to immerse yourself in autumn colors. Access overlooks, changing landscapes, and wildlife without the physical strain of hiking along one of these popular roads: 

• Newfound Gap Road: Undoubtedly one of the most popular drives in the Smoky Mountains during fall, Newfound Gap Road’s accessibility and scenic overlook make it a favorite for leaf peepers and photographers alike.
• Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail: This scenic one-way loop near Gatlinburg offers close-up forest views with opportunities for short hikes and picturesque photo spots.
• Heintooga Ridge Road/Balsam Mountain Road: Heintooga is for the particularly adventurous. Its unpaved roads take you through high-elevation forests, offering stunning fall colors and a lesser-traveled experience.

Attend Local Fall Festivals

One of the most beautiful aspects of the Smoky Mountains is the holiday cheer and festivals that visitors can find throughout the surrounding communities. Starting in September, there are endless fall activities in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.

Some of the most popular events include:

• Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival: Typically lasting from early September to early November, this Gatlinburg festival celebrates autumn with plentiful decorations and activities throughout the season.
• Oktoberfest: Every year, Ober Gatlinburg holds a multi-day celebration at the end of September, complete with German beer, food, and entertainment.
• Gatlinburg Craftsman Fair: This yearly celebration — voted one of the South’s most popular events by the Southeast Tourism Society — features endless stalls of artists, and demonstrations.
• Holiday lights: Christmas comes early in Gatlinburg, and starting November 10th, you can take a trolly to see the holiday lights and decorations around town.

Best Lodging When Visiting the Smoky Mountains in the Fall

You’ll be able to find the perfect lodging for your trip in any number of the communities around the park, such as Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.

Gatlinburg

If your destination is Gatlinburg, you’ll be able to find cabins, bed and breakfasts, and more that immerse visitors in the expansive wilderness of the Smokies.

At Elk Springs Resort, we offer cabins in Gatlinburg equipped with hot tubs, fireplaces, pools, and more to make your stay unforgettable. Try a creekside oasis for lodging next to prime fishing territory or a cabin with a view to take in the fall colors from the comfort of your deck. 

Pigeon Forge

We offer Pigeon Forge cabins that make you feel more in touch with the surrounding scenery. Try an estate within walking distance from the Great Smoky Mountain Ferris Wheel, or a secluded hideaway close to hiking trails. You can also sneak away to the Dollywood theme park for a day when staying in the area.

Elk Springs Resort Can Help You Experience Fall in the Smoky Mountains

A trip to the Great Smoky Mountains in the fall is an experience you’ll never forget. Hiking, fishing, and exploring the park are magical no matter the season — and even more so when surrounded by the awe-inspiring fall foliage. To make your trip perfect, select the right lodging for your needs.

At Elk Springs Resort, we have picturesque Smoky Mountain cabins for couples, groups, and solo travelers looking to experience the autumn colors during an unforgettable trip.