hiker crossing footbridge over mountain stream

Your Guide to the Perfect Fall in the Smoky Mountains

Autumn in the Smoky Mountains
August 30, 2023

The Smoky Mountains are very beautiful throughout the year, but this is especially true during fall, when stunning red, yellow, and orange leaves can be seen everywhere you look. The trees and landscape in the surrounding area are absolutely gorgeous. There really isn’t a more serene and scenic place to visit! Because the Smokies are so beautiful during this time of year, the fall is a great time to take a trip to the mountains and stay in our Pigeon Forge hotel. It is the perfect environment in which to relax, fully enjoy oneself, and escape the stress of everyday life. Here is your guide to the perfect fall in the Smoky Mountains:

Outdoor Fall Activities

fall drive

The best part of going to the Smoky Mountains in fall is spending time in the great outdoors! Many people who stay in the area have easy access to go horseback riding, fishing, hiking, or golfing. Whatever your favorite outdoor activity is, we guarantee you’ll find it in the Smoky Mountains! When you stay at our Pigeon Forge hotel, you’ll be within a short drive from the most visited national park in the country, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With over 800 miles of hiking trails, you’ll be able to spend your entire vacation in the mountains if you choose. Some trails we recommend include Chimney Tops, Alum Cave, and Andrews Bald.

Best Places to See Fall Colors in the Smoky Mountains

While the entire Smoky Mountain area will be lit up with bright Autumn colors during the fall, there are a few spots where the views are unmatched. If you find yourself in downtown Gatlinburg, visit the Gatlinburg SkyPark or Ober Mountain to take in some gorgeous views of the leaves and mountains! When you’re in Pigeon Forge the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel offers beautiful views of the mountains and Pigeon Forge strip as well. If you’re looking for something a little out of town head to Cades Cove to drive around the 11-mile loop. The views and wildlife sightings here make the area famous! Or, drive the Foothills Parkway for unmatched mountain views!

Fall Events in Pigeon Forge

dollywood

During fall in the Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge celebrates by decorating the town in festive fall decor and hosting tons of fun fall events. The most anticipated event may be Dollywood's Harvest Festival, which takes places from late September until the end of October. You won’t want to miss this event if you’re spending a few days in Pigeon Forge. From seasonal shows to fall treats and the Great Pumpkin LumiNights, Dollywood puts on the fall event to beat in the Smokies!

Where to Stay During Fall

The best place to stay in the Smoky Mountains in fall is right here at our Pigeon Forge Hotel. We have a wide variety of great amenities and very affordable packages and offers. Our hotel in Pigeon Forge has outstanding accommodations and customer service and is conveniently located near many exciting and entertaining attractions, including Dollywood, the Titanic Museum and Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud. We also have exciting fall activities at our hotel, like pumpkin painting!

Now that you know more about fall in the Smoky Mountains, you can begin planning your fall getaway to our Pigeon Forge hotel. Browse through our rooms and find the one that best fits your needs. We look forward to seeing you!