When you visit the Smoky Mountains in the fall, you’ll be surrounded by one of the most stunning displays that nature puts on each year — the changing of the leaves! The Smoky Mountains fall foliage is a gorgeous sight that attracts visitors from all over to witness this incredible display of color. If you’re looking for some of the best places to see the Smoky Mountains fall foliage, you’re in luck! We’ve put together this list of our favorite spots to see the sights when you visit the Smoky Mountains this fall.
1. Cades Cove
One of the most popular places to see the Smoky Mountains fall foliage is at Cades Cove! This area has hiking trails, wildlife, scenic spots, and more, making it a perfect spot to see the fall colors. Take a drive along the 11-mile Cades Cove Loop Road and take advantage of the convenient pull-offs and parking areas that allow visitors to explore this area at their own pace. Plus, keep your eyes peeled as you look at the fall foliage — you might just spot a bear or two!
2. Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
If you’d like the opportunity to see the Smoky Mountains fall foliage while enjoying the comfort of your vehicle, Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a perfect option! This 5.5-mile loop road offers views of old-growth forests, historic cabins, mountain streams, and more. These sights are made all the more beautiful by the red, orange, and yellow hues of the Smoky Mountains fall foliage that will surround you as you drive through the area. Like most other driving paths in the Smokies, there are several areas located along the road where visitors can stop and hike, stretch, or take a photo together.
3. Newfound Gap Road
Another great spot to see the Smoky Mountains fall foliage from your vehicle is by driving along Newfound Gap Road. At an elevation of 5,056 feet, it is the lowest drivable pass through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It also winds through a variety of forests, allowing you to see a wide range of trees and colors during your drive. And of course, there are plenty of scenic overlooks available along the way for visitors to pull off and take in the views, or snap a photo!
4. Clingmans Dome
As the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park at 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome is another ideal spot to see the Smoky Mountains fall foliage. The Observation Tower offers expansive views of the surrounding mountains, while the hiking trail leading to Clingmans Dome also presents opportunities for stunning sights. Whether you want to drive or hike to this spot, it’s one of the best places to see the fall colors here in the Smokies!
When you visit some of these amazing places to see the Smoky Mountains fall foliage, you’re in for stunning sights and unforgettable memories. So what are you waiting for? Browse our selection of cabins in the Smoky Mountains today and start planning your next fall getaway!
