The Smoky Mountains Fall Foilage is a wonderful time to visit and experience the color change. The fall colors displayed throughout the mountain range usually peak between mid-October and early November for lower mountain levels. The amazing color change includes the sugar maple, scarlet oak, sweetgum and red maple among others. The amazing show of colors throughout the mountain ranges of North Carolina and Tennessee will give you plenty to explore.
There are so many options to experience the color change at different levels. Take a scenic drive through Clingmans Dome Road or the Foothills Parkway to take in the change of colors from high elevation.
Visiting the Smoky Mountains and want to know the best times for all levels?
Peak fall colors usually during these timeframes:
Mountain tops: near late September to early October
Foothills: mid-to-late October
Tennessee Valley: late October to beginning of November
These are not exact but will help you plan and navigate the area for optimal viewing.
Smoky Mountains Fall Foilage Color Change
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.
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.
Take a Drive and Experience The Fall Foilage
A great way to enjoy the color change is a drive through Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. The 5.5-mile-long, one-way, loop road is always a great drive and a special way to view the change during the season.
Some of the things you will see there are rushing mountain streams, colorful forest, and well-preserved log cabins and buildings.
Along your travels you will encounter the trailhead for Grotto Falls. A very popular waterfall in the park.
Make sure to get out and experience the wet weather” waterfall known as the Place of a Thousand Drips.
Smoky Mountains Fall Foilage Must Visits
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.
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.
Take a Fall Train Ride and Enjoy The Smoky Mountains Fall Foilage
If driving through the Smoky Mountains isn’t your thing, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad offers scenic tours by train for all ages. In addition, The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad offers a variety of excursions so you can see the wonderful Smoky Mountains by train. 53 miles of track, 2 tunnels and 25 bridges is sure to keep your eyes busy.
Visit SkyLift Park In Gatlinburg
The SkyLift Park located in Gatlinburg is a must for your Smoky Mountains Fall Events list. Take in some of the best views and scenery in Gatlinburg while you travel the sky lift. As if the lift wasn’t enough they have added the spectacular new Gatlinburg SkyBridge. The skybridge is the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America. A must for those who love to snap a few selfies and family photos. Add this to your list of to do’s for your Smokies Vacation.
Looking for the best hotel for your fall vacation in the Smoky Mountains? Stay with us at the Highland Manor Inn Hotel in Townsend. Booking your hotel room early is also a good idea. Rooms at the Highland Manor Inn provide all the comforts of home with lovely views of the Smoky Mountains.
Remember the fall colors of the Great Smoky Mountains lower levels usually peak between mid October and early November. To see the amazing show that nature displays, plan your vacation during this timeframe. Enjoy the change of color in the diverse species of trees populating the park, sugar maples, scarlet oaks, red maples, hickories, and so many more.
In addition, the higher you travel in the mountains the earlier the trees change color. It is a wonderful time of the year to visit and take in the beauty of the Smokies.
People from all over the world travel to see the Smoky Mountains Fall Foilage. If you want quick access to the Park without the crowds, Townsend is where you want vacation.
The Highland Manor Inn has been the choice hotel for so many guests and families. We make it easy to book online or by phone. We look forward to seeing you during this beautiful time of year.
Call Now to Book: (865) 448-2211