The time for fall colors in the Smokies is almost here. The rain and cooler weather is sure to bring out some beautiful colors. Now where do you go to get the best views of the fall colors. Keep on reading to find some great viewing spots in the Smokies.
Foothills Parkway
The Foothills Parkway is an easy and beautiful drive. The new expansion just opened last year and let me tell you, the views are phenomenal in the fall. Just drive the 33 miles from Chilhowee to Wears Valley for a fun day. There are even a few places to stop for a short hike if you want to stretch your legs a little.
Clingman’s Dome
Want a little exercise with your view? Take a short hike up to the tallest mountain in Tennessee. The panoramic views are worth the drive and hike.
Gatlinburg
There is so much to see and do in Gatlinburg. Take the ski lift to Ober Gatlinburg for some fantastic views. Or drive the Gatlinburg bypass to get a great fall view of Mount LeConte. Basically anywhere you go in Gatlinburg you will be surrounded by fall colors.
Cades Cove
It goes without saying that Cades Cove needs to go on this list. Just come equipped with patience for this drive, especially if you go on the weekends. The line to drive through the loop is long and slow, but worth it. But for the love of all that is good and holy, LEAVE THE BEARS ALONE. This is not a petting zoo people! Stay in your car and enjoy the views. *hopping off my soapbox*
Blue Ridge Parkway
Take a drive over to North Carolina and hop on the Blue Ridge Parkway. This is by far one of my favorite drives. With numerous outlooks and hiking trails this is a drive you will want to take your time on. You could even spend a day or 2 exploring the beauty of the Blue Ridge Parkway and spend an evening at the Pisgah Inn.
Where is your favorite place to find the fall colors of the Smokies? If I missed a good spot let me know and I’ll add it to my list!
Wow! Those places sound amazing! I hope to get to travel there sometime! Fall colors are just some of my favorites that I could look at all day.
I love fall colors! These places sound amazing and I would love to visit them!
Love the places you suggested. I live in Charlotte, so all of these places are driving distance and would make for a great weekend getaway.
I have to confess, I haven’t seen fall foliage in the Smokies before. My favorite place overall, though, is in the Berkshires, where I went to college.
You’re not the first to mention Blue Ridge Parkway. A family member who travels often told me about the sights. Beautiful shots, too.
Gatlinburg is my absolute favorite. I’ve never seen a more beautiful sight than near there. Just breathtaking views to be had there.
My husband and I have been thinking about taking a scenic drive upstate NY to see the fall foliage. Thanks for sharing.
I definitely have to put these on my visit list. Sounds amazing in the Fall.
I love fall colors. These places sound amazing thanks for sharing.
I’ve never been to the Smokies but I love fall colors. I hope to hit the PA grand canyon this fall. I can’t wait to see it.