Don’t miss out on the opportunity to witness the breathtaking fall foliage while taking a scenic drive in the Smoky Mountains. Here are the top 10 places to see vibrant fall foilage color in Tennessee’s Smoky Mountains.
1. Cades Cove
Enjoy the beautiful fall colors as you cruise down 11 miles of the Cades Cove Loop.
2. Foothills Parkway
The scenic 71-mile Foothills Parkway, located at the base of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offers panoramic views of the mountains and vibrant fall foliage.
3. Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic route that links Shenandoah National Park to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, spanning an impressive 469 miles from Rockfish Gap, VA to Cherokee, NC. Take a drive along this picturesque road to witness the breathtaking beauty of vibrant autumn colors.
4. Roaring Fork Motor Trail
Take a scenic drive along the Roaring Fork Motor Trail loop road, spanning a little over 5 miles, and be captivated by the stunning display of vibrant autumn hues.
5. Newfound Gap
Covering a stretch of around 30 miles, Newfound Gap Road connects Gatlinburg, TN to Cherokee, NC. As you drive along this beautiful route, make sure to stop by the overlook point, where you can admire the breathtaking gorge below.
6. Clingmans Dome
Clingmans Dome, the tallest point in the Smoky Mountains, can be reached via a 7-mile side road. You can drive most of the way up and then take a half-mile hike to the observation tower to enjoy the beautiful fall foliage.
7. Little River Road
Another view of the vibrant fall foilage awaits you along 18 miles of the winding curves of Little River Road.
8. Rich Mountain Road
Rich Mountain Road is an 8 mile road north of Cades Cove that provides beatiful views of the changing trees.
9. Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
During autumn, this area along the Cumberland Plateau becomes a picturesque sight with its 125,000 acres of land. Exploring the hiking trails allows you to experience the vibrant colors of fall.
10. Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg is a charming mountain village that offers a wide range of entertainment options. One of the highlights is the SkyLift, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America. From the bridge, you can enjoy breathtaking views of both Gatlinburg and the Smokies all at once.
Witness nature’s breathtaking transformation as the majestic peaks of Newfound Gap and Clingmans Dome proudly unveil their vibrant autumnal hues before any other location.
