Every season of the year is a great time to visit Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains. However, with fall comes extra beauty, cooler weather and a bit of magic in the air. This is one of the most popular seasons to visit the Smokies, and for good reason. To help you plan the perfect fall getaway, we’ve created a guide to our favorite things to do during this season. Below are 4 things to do in Gatlinburg in the fall.
1. Take a Scenic Drive
During your stay with us at our Gatlinburg hotel in the fall you will find that you’re just a short distance from top scenic drives in the state of Tennessee. Taking a drive over the mountain on Newfound Gap Road and up to Clingmans Dome is always a treat. The Foothills Parkway is an excellent drive to combine with a day in Cades Cove. Packing a picnic and driving up Little River Road is also an excellent want to spend an afternoon. If you want to get off the pavement and put a little gravel in your tread, head out to Greenbrier, another destination that takes you along the river and includes a picnic area. You’ll love taking in the views of the Smoky Mountain fall foliage from the comfort of your car.
2. Hike the Trails
Great Smoky Mountain National Park trails are some of the most diverse trails in Southern Appalachia. With close to 900 miles of trails to choose from, you’ll find that there is a trail for every fitness level and interest. Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail is a wide and paved trail that is handicap accessible, a hike up to Rocky Top is a more strenuous trek but an iconic spot to experience in the park, and there are countless trails in between each of those two experiences. Visit our friends at the NOC Gatlinburg for any hiking gear that you may need, trail and weather conditions, or to take advantage of their rental gear offers. Some of the most popular hiking trails to enjoy in the fall are Alum Cave, Gregory Bald, and Abrams Falls!
3. Attend a Fall Event
During the fall months in Gatlinburg and the Smokies you’ll find plenty of events to attend and fun to participate in. Enjoy Dollywood’s Harvest Festival, Ober Mountain’s Fall Festival, Anakeesta’s Bear-varian Fall Festival, or the Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair! There’s so much fun to be had in Gatlinburg in the fall.
4. Stay at Our Downtown Gatlinburg Hotel
Last but certainly not least on our list of things to do in Gatlinburg in the fall is simply just to stay with us at Bearskin Lodge on the River. A stay at our will place you in downtown Gatlinburg as well as just steps away from our beautiful Great Smoky Mountains National Park. During your time with us you can expect a truly authentic Smoky Mountain experience that is filled with southern hospitality and comfort. Our great amenities and numerous room options give you the feeling of being at a home away from home and we take great pride in making all of our guests feel like family. Take a look at our selection of Gatlinburg hotel rooms available this fall, and start planning the perfect fall vacation in the Smoky Mountains!
