Embrace the best season in the Smoky Mountains by adding our picks for the best
Make Your Fall Vacation Happen Your Way
Thanks to different elevations and plenty of untouched nature, the Gatlinburg area is home to some of the country's best examples of fall foliage.
Even better, the cooler temps let you play nonstop without overheating, ensuring everyone enjoys nothing less than pure fun while trying
Explore Nature's Splendor
Without question, the best way to fall adventures is to stay surrounded by nature. To make that happen, consider adding these options to your travel plans:
Roaring Fork Motor Trail
For those who want to see nature's beauty and watch all the changing colors in the leaves without needing to hike, the Roaring Fork Motor Trail is a top option. The trail is on the edge of downtown and offers a visual feast for the eyes. Along the trail, you'll see:
- Waterfalls
- Cascades
- Local Wildlife
- Different Color Leaves
- Local Wildlife
Hop in the car and let the road take you away from the pressures of everyday life into a whole new world for a perfect Smoky Mountain experience in the fall.
Hit the Hiking Trails
Do you prefer a closer look at nature's beauty? Head to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and hit the dozens of hiking trails to see everything firsthand. Whether seeing a waterfall or reaching the top of the mountain, you and the others are in for incredible scenery that will have you taking several pictures.
Note: To remain safe while exploring the trails, make sure to pack maps, bottled water, and extra gear. GPS isn't always reliable deep in the park.
Biking in Cades Cove
For those who like more activity with their nature, biking in Cades Cove is the perfect solution. The 11-mile loop covers a lot of ground and is packed with stunning examples of the local wildlife and historic buildings.
If you're not up for the entire 11 miles, you can cut the loop short using Sparks Lane or Hyatt Lane. The best part is the loop road is closed to motor vehicles through September, making this option incredibly safe for you and your guests.
Extreme Biking
Take your fun to more extreme heights by mountain biking at Ober Mountain. Here, you'll enjoy downhill mountain biking on professionally designed trails. While navigating the course, look around and bask in the gorgeous scenery surrounding you. You can bring your own bike or rent one upon arrival.
Ziplining
One of the best ways to see colors in the fall while having a blast is by ziplining. Zipline companies are available throughout the Smoky Mountains, including Gatlinburg. No matter where you try this exciting activity, you'll see incredible views and get your heart pounding in excitement.
You can experience the best of both worlds by trying the Dueling Ziplines at Anakeesta, where you can enjoy the rest of the fun Anakeesta offers after soaring through the sky.
Golfing
While less known than other attractions and activities, Gatlinburg is a haven for golf lovers, thanks to several golf courses. If a low-key day in the crisp air appeals to you, grab your clubs and hit the links. Our favorite courses are:
- Bent Creek Golf Course
- Sevierville Golf Club
- Gatlinburg Municipal Golf Course
All three courses offer gorgeous landscaping and views of the Smoky Mountains, allowing you to have fun in a mountain paradise.
Celebrate at Top Attractions
With the fall season comes new celebrations and ways to have fun at top area attractions. As such, you'll want to set aside time to hit the best options before returning home.
Boo Bash at Gatlinburg SkyPark
Gatlinburg SkyPark is known for its panoramic views, no matter the season. However, you can see the best of fall while enjoying
- Face Painting
- Balloon Artists
- Live Music
- Games
- and More!
Add a bit more thrill to the occasion by crossing the SkyBridge after the sun goes down for a fun and spooky experience.
Bear-Varian Fall Festival at Anakeesta
Anakeesta offers plenty to enjoy, but if you're already in town, it would be a shame to miss the Bear-Varian Fall Festival. During the festival, there will be family-friendly activities, decorations, drink specials, pumpkin carvings, and everything else you can do at this major attraction.
Ober's Fall Festival
Head to Ober Mountain and join the fun at their fall festival. During the event, there will be plenty of music, food, and fun for the whole family. Whether seeing the view from the Aerial Tramway or navigating the hay maze, you'll have a good time living it up during your fall vacation.
Shops and Restaurants
Various shops and restaurants also get into the season, so it's worth checking out the latest events and activities to make a regular outing memorable. The best part is that Gatlinburg is pedestrian-friendly, letting you check things out at your own pace. We recommend swinging through Village Shoppes and looking for food/drink specials to maximize your efforts.
Embrace Your Spooky Side
Are you planning a trip in the latter half of the Autumn season? You'll want to embrace your spooky side and explore the lore and scares present throughout the Gatlinburg area.
Try a Ghost Tour
If you like thrills and scares, a ghost tour is right up your alley. During the tour, you'll learn about the history of Gatlinburg while feeling the thrill of ghosts and haunts. One way or another, you'll see Gatlinburg in a whole new light before going home.
Visit a Haunted Attraction
Some attractions in Gatlinburg really embrace the Halloween spirit, and options like Ripley's Haunted Adventure are no exception. Throughout October, visitors can experience Ripley's Fright Nights for an extra scary good time.
Another fun option is the Mysterious Mansion, which offers a self-guided tour through a three-story mansion featuring ghosts and gruesome guests. If scares are your thing, you will have options during your mid-autumn getaway with loved ones.
Create the Perfect Gatlinburg Vacation
Without question, the best way to experience a Gatlinburg vacation is in one of our
If you like being under the stars, our cabins with a fire pit are an excellent option. No matter how you choose your cabin, you'll be in the perfect spot to enjoy
