Bright fall colors throughout the Smoky Mountains

September 13, 2019

7 of the Best Places to See the Fall Colors in the Smoky Mountains

It’s that time of year again where we’re waiting for the leaves to start changing colors! Seeing the colorful changes in the mountains is something you definitely don’t want to miss out on! Here are 7 of the best places to see the fall colors in the Smoky Mountains:

1. Newfound Gap Road

newfound gap road in the fall

If you want to enjoy a leisurely drive while seeing all the fall colors in the Smoky Mountains, you should ride on Newfound Gap Road. It is the lowest drivable pass in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park at an elevation of 5,046 feet. Along with incredible views of the mountains, you’ll get to see the start of the color changes and all of the colors during October into November!

2. Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook

One of the best places to see the fall colors in the Smoky Mountains is at the Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook . It’s located on the Gatlinburg Bypass, which is between the Gatlinburg Spur and the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. There’s a small sign pointing to the overlook from both directions so you can easily find it. You’ll want a picture here for sure!

3. Clingmans Dome

fall view from clingmans dome in the smoky mountains

Clingmans Dome is the highest point of elevation in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The path to the observation tower is paved, but it is steep. When you’re at the top of the tower, you’ll be able to look over a huge portion of the mountain range. During the fall, you’ll see every color from red to yellow. The colors are brilliant and bright, and you probably won’t believe your eyes because of how beautiful it is!

4. One of the Hiking Trails

Want to really get into nature and see the fall colors? You should go on one of the hiking trails with a panoramic view! There are plenty of hiking trails to choose from where you’ll be able to see the fall colors in the Smoky Mountains. Andrews Bald has great views of the mountains, but the best place to see the variety of fall colors would be any of the hiking trails to Mt. LeConte. You can get there from Bullhead Trail, Alum Cave, Trillium Gap Trail, Rainbow Falls, or Boulevard Trail. Plus, no matter what trail you decide to hike, you’ll see colorful leaves as you walk through the woods.

5. Anakeesta

anakeesta in gatlinburg

You don’t have to drive or hike to see the fall colors in the Smoky Mountains. You can always find a great attraction with an incredible view of the mountains to get a glimpse of the red, orange, and yellow leaves! Anakeesta in Gatlinburg has sweeping views of the mountains. You’ll be able to look out and start the see the leaves changing in September and early October, while in October and November you can see the full color change! Plus, there are a ton of fun things you can do, such as zipline, ride a mountain coaster, walk through the Vista Gardens, or shop around in Firefly Village!

6. Gatlinburg SkyPark

Want a view of the fall colors you won’t be able to see from anywhere else? You need to ride to the top of Crockett Mountain to the Gatlinburg SkyPark ! The views from this attraction are unique, not to mention incredible! You’ll ride the chair lift to the SkyDeck, where you can gaze into the distance at the fall colors. Walk across the SkyBridge and the glass panels for even more views at the other observation deck! And you can grab a bite to eat and check out the gift shop on the SkyDeck too!

7. Gatlinburg Space Needle

Photo of the Gatlinburg Space Needle taken from the Parkway.

The Gatlinburg Space Needle is another place where you can see the colorful leaves in the fall. Ride to the top of the observation tower, which is 400 feet tall, in a glass elevator. Once you’re at the top, you can walk around for a 360-degree view of downtown Gatlinburg and the surrounding mountains. There are plaques in the Space Needle providing guests with information about the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This attraction is a great way to see the fall colors!

You have a variety of different ways you can see the fall colors in the Smoky Mountains! We know you want to do more than admire the beautiful fall colors. When you book a cabin with us, you’ll get free tickets and discounts through the Freedom Fun Pass. Check it out to start planning your trip today!