The Smoky Mountains Color Change is something everyone should be able to view in person. As the summer officially winds down and the temperatures begin to drop you will see a vast change of color throughout the park. Viewing the color change is as easy as a car ride through the Smokies. A car ride through the park allows you to cover much ground and elevations. For those who wish to get out and enjoy the color change, there are plenty of options. You can easily go for a bike ride, hike trails and visit the many destinations through the park.
Great Places To See The Fall Color Change
Alum Cave Trail – One of the most popular hiking trails in the Smokies. An amazing path through colorful forests, that leads to a cave. Follow the path and take in the surroundings.
Cades Cove- A path made for exploring. You can take your car through the 11 mile loop and get out and admire the wonderful scenery.
Clingmans Dome – Clingmans Dome is the highest point in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. A beautiful view for as far as the eye can see.
Oconaluftee River Trail- For those who like to travel alongside a river, this is for you. A pet friendly path with river and trees await you. Make sure to pack a lunch and plan to spend some time.
Why Do Smoky Mountain Leaves Change Their Color?
Many consider Fall the best time to visit the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Wonderful colors throughout the park draw crowds from all over the world. The views are something everyone should be able to experience in person.
The color change in leaves tends to happen faster in the mountains. This is due to many factors including, Temperature, light, altitude, and water supply.
The science behind color change in leaves. First, chlorophyll breaks down, then the green color disappears. Yellow and orange colors begin to show and fall leaves are there for all to see. The colors are due to the mixing of varying amounts of the chlorophyll residue and other pigments in the leaf during the season we call fall.
If you are planning a vacation to The Smoky Mountains we invite you to stay with us at The Highland Manor Inn. Easy access to the entrance for the park, Maryville, Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, our hotel is a perfect home base for your trip.
Make sure to check out the 2021 Fall Foliage Map
The fall foilage map tool is meant to help travelers better time their trips to have the best opportunity of catching peak color each year.