Fall Activities in the Great Smoky Mountains

The fall season awakens the spirit and sparks the desire to get outside, breathe in the crisp air, and take in all the gorgeous amber, orange, yellow, and scarlet foliage bursting forth. If you want to experience all of the beauty and fun that the fall season offers, there is no better place to do it than in the Great Smoky Mountains and the Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville communities that sit in the foothills of this geological landmark.

Top Things to Do

Whether you are looking for adventure or relaxation, there is something for everyone during autumn in the Smoky Mountains. Some of the most popular fall activities include:

Outdoor Adventures

The cooler weather in this area during the fall makes it ideal for outdoor physical activities. With more than 800 miles of trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, there is no shortage of hiking opportunities where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. In addition to hiking, you can also enjoy other exhilarating activities, including guided horseback rides, zip lining, fly fishing, ATV riding, or water activities, like boating, on our beautiful rivers and lakes.

Exploring the Foliage

If you want to marvel at the picturesque fall foliage and wildlife in the Smoky Mountains, all you have to do is hop in your car! There are many roads and overlooks that are perfect for admiring the jaw-dropping fall colors from the comfort of your own car, including the scenic drive through Cades Cove, the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Morton Overlook, Look Rock on the Foothills Parkway, Newfound Gap Road, and Clingmans Dome, just to name a few.

Fall Festivals

The fall ushers in a wave of fun and exciting festivals to Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and the Smoky Mountains area. In particular, there is the Dollywood Harvest Festival in October, where you can experience live music, crafts-making demonstrations, and much more. Locals and tourists also enjoy the Fall Harvest at the Island in Pigeon Forge, where you’ll find bluegrass music, fall-themed décor, and beautiful views from the 200-foot-tall Great Smoky Mountain Wheel. And for guests with a true appreciation for art and craftsmanship, Robert Tino’s Smoky Mountain Homecoming is the perfect way to celebrate Fall in the Smokies.

Oak Haven Resort & Spa

If you want to experience all of the fall activities in the Smoky Mountains, there is no better place to stay than Oak Haven Resort & Spa. Located near Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, our custom luxury log cabin rentals are beautiful and offer scenic views, a bevy of amenities, and all of the creature comforts of home. Our cabins provide the perfect getaway for individuals, couples, and families of all sizes, so give us a call and get your getaway planned today!