Smoky Mountains in the Fall

Today, I’m sharing vacation tips on the Smoky Mountains in the fall.  The mountain ranges usually start their fall foliage display in mid-September.  The crowds are gone and you can find great prices on lodging. The weather is cool enough to hike and roam around town to enjoy displays, grab a bite to eat and snap a few pictures.  So, start planning a week or week-end get away with family and or friends. 

Smoky Mountains in the Fall

Cades Cove

The highest elevation of the Smoky Mountains can be found in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.  The Smoky Mountain National Park is the most visited park in the US.  It rises to an elevation of 6,643 feet. When the foliage is in full peak and decked out in yellow, browns, reds and oranges it is truly a sight to see.  Fall is a good time to time to see black bear and their cubs, deer, wild turkeys and more.  Be sure to stop by the historic churches and cabins along the Cades Cove Road too. 

If you want to see a few elk, check out Cataloochee Valley.  You can see elk roaming freely in the morning or late afternoon.  It’s a perfect opportunity to capture a few photos while inhaling the crisp, fall air.  Check out other places to see beautiful foliage and wildlife below.  

Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is at it’s peak in October.  The Blue Ridge Parkway starts in the Shenandoah National Park in Virginia and ends at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina.  Mid-October is the perfect time to hit the parkway.  

Smoky Mountains in the fall Harvest Festivals  

The Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival is a five week festival that includes Oktoberfest.  You can find farmer’s markets, country and bluegrass concerts, hayrides, and corn mazes.   

In addition to Oktoberfest, you can find lots of fall themed foods in the towns of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg.  Check out the apple fritters, apple pancakes, pumpkin spice funnel cakes and hot apple cider.