Peak Fall Foliage Smoky Mountains 2020
Introduction
The Smoky Mountains in the fall are a sight to behold. The leaves of the trees turn from green to a variety of warm hues including red, orange, and yellow, creating a beautiful and picturesque landscape. The Peak Fall Foliage season in the Smoky Mountains usually occurs from late September to early November. This travel guide will provide you with a comprehensive list of attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-see attraction in the area. The park offers over 500,000 acres of land, including over 800 miles of hiking trails, scenic drives, and stunning views of the fall foliage. If you’re lucky, you may even spot some wildlife such as black bears, elk, and deer.
Clingmans Dome
Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The observation tower at the top provides 360-degree views of the surrounding area, making it a popular spot for viewing the fall foliage.
Hidden Gems
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a scenic drive that takes you through the forest and past several historic buildings. The trail is particularly beautiful during the fall when the leaves are changing colors.
Cades Cove
Cades Cove is a valley in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park that is known for its stunning scenery and wildlife. The area has several hiking trails, including the Abrams Falls Trail, which leads to a beautiful waterfall.
Food Scene
Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant
The Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant is known for its Southern-style cuisine and homemade apple butter. They also have an on-site country store where you can purchase jams, jellies, and other homemade goodies.
The Peddler Steakhouse
The Peddler Steakhouse is a popular spot for steak and seafood. The restaurant overlooks a river and has a cozy, rustic atmosphere.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Free Attractions
There are several free attractions in the area, including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Gatlinburg Trail. The Gatlinburg Trail is a two-mile round trip hike that takes you through the forest and along the river.
Cheap Eats
There are several restaurants in the area that offer affordable meals, including the Pancake Pantry and the Smoky Mountain Brewery.
Outdoor Adventures
Zip-lining
The Smoky Mountains are home to several zip-lining companies, including Legacy Mountain Zip Lines and Wahoo Ziplines. Zip-lining is a thrilling way to see the fall foliage from above.
Hiking
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has over 800 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to strenuous. The fall is a great time to go hiking, as the weather is cooler and the fall foliage is at its peak.
Family-Friendly Activities
Ober Gatlinburg
Ober Gatlinburg is a ski resort that offers a variety of activities, including ice skating, skiing, and a mountain coaster. They also have a wildlife encounter where you can see bears, raccoons, and other animals up close.
Dollywood
Dollywood is a theme park owned by Dolly Parton. The park has over 40 rides and attractions, including roller coasters, water rides, and shows.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Forbidden Caverns
Forbidden Caverns is a limestone cave system that is open to the public for tours. The cave has several beautiful formations and underground waterfalls.
Greenbrier
Greenbrier is a secluded area of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park that is known for its peacefulness and beauty. The area has several hiking trails and picnic areas.
Natural Wonders
Chimney Tops
Chimney Tops is a popular hiking trail that leads to a rocky outcropping with stunning views of the surrounding area. The trail is particularly beautiful during the fall when the leaves are changing colors.
Alum Cave Trail
The Alum Cave Trail is a five-mile round trip hike that takes you through the forest and past several beautiful landmarks, including Arch Rock and Inspiration Point.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Smoky Mountain Brewery
The Smoky Mountain Brewery is a popular spot for drinks and live music. The brewery has a cozy atmosphere and a variety of beers on tap.
The Peddler Steakhouse Lounge
The Peddler Steakhouse Lounge is a great spot for a nightcap. The lounge overlooks a river and has a cozy, rustic atmosphere.
Local Markets
Gatlinburg Farmers Market
The Gatlinburg Farmers Market is open on Saturdays from May to October. The market features local produce, baked goods, and crafts.
Ole Smoky Moonshine
Ole Smoky Moonshine is a moonshine distillery that offers free tastings. They also have a gift shop where you can purchase moonshine and other souvenirs.
Beaches and Mountains
Douglas Lake
Douglas Lake is a great spot for swimming, fishing, and boating. The lake is surrounded by mountains and has several picnic areas.
Clingmans Dome
Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The observation tower at the top provides 360-degree views of the surrounding area, including the mountains.
Cultural Immersion
The Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum
The Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum is a quirky museum that features over 20,000 salt and pepper shakers from all over the world. The museum also has a gift shop where you can purchase salt and pepper shakers.
Cherokee Indian Reservation
The Cherokee Indian Reservation is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the Cherokee people. The reservation has several museums and cultural centers.
Art and Music Scene
Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community
The Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community is a group of over 100 artists and craftsmen who create and sell their wares. The community has several shops and studios where you can watch the artists at work.
Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre
The Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre is a small theater that specializes in comedy and music. The theater has been in operation since 1977 and has a loyal following.
Walking Tours
Gatlinburg Historic Walking Tour
The Gatlinburg Historic Walking Tour takes you through the history of Gatlinburg, including several historic buildings and landmarks.
Pigeon Forge Parkway
The Pigeon Forge Parkway is a scenic drive that takes you through the heart of Pigeon Forge. The Parkway has several shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Architectural Marvels
The Old Mill
The Old Mill is a historic grist mill that is still in operation today. The mill is powered by a water wheel and produces several products, including grits and cornmeal.
The Gatlinburg Space Needle
The Gatlinburg Space Needle is a 407-foot observation tower that provides stunning views of the surrounding area. The tower also has a 360-degree observation deck and a glass elevator.
Historical Sites
Cades Cove Historic District
The Cades Cove Historic District is a well-preserved settlement that dates back to the 1800s. The district has several historic buildings, including a grist mill and a church.
The Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum
The Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum is a museum that focuses on the history of the logging industry in the area. The museum has several exhibits and artifacts.
Biking Routes
Cades Cove Loop Road
The Cades Cove Loop Road is an 11-mile scenic drive that is closed to cars on Wednesday and Saturday mornings. The road is open to bikers and provides stunning views of the fall foliage.