Smoky Mountain Foliage Map 2020
Are you planning a trip to the Smoky Mountains this fall? Don’t miss out on the breathtaking foliage that transforms the landscape into a kaleidoscope of colors. To make your trip unforgettable, we have created a comprehensive travel guide that covers everything from top attractions to hidden gems, food scene to budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures to historical landmarks, and much more.
Top Attractions
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the highlight of any trip to the area. The park offers an abundance of scenic drives, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Clingmans Dome, the highest peak in the park, offers stunning panoramic views of the mountains.
Another must-see attraction is the Gatlinburg SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America. The bridge offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and is a popular spot for photos.
Hidden Gems
If you want to escape the crowds and experience the Smoky Mountains like a local, check out some of the hidden gems in the area. The Greenbrier area of the national park offers secluded hiking trails and stunning waterfalls. The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is another hidden gem that offers a scenic drive through the mountains.
Food Scene
The Smoky Mountains are known for their Southern cuisine, and there are plenty of restaurants in the area that serve up delicious dishes. Don’t miss out on the barbecue at Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que or the fried chicken at Mama’s Farmhouse.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re traveling on a budget, there are plenty of ways to save money in the Smoky Mountains. Consider staying in a cabin or campground instead of a hotel. Many of the hiking trails and scenic drives in the national park are free, and there are plenty of free attractions in the area, like the Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community.
Outdoor Adventures
The Smoky Mountains are a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking and biking to whitewater rafting and zip lining, there are plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy. The Cades Cove Loop Road is a popular spot for biking, and the Pigeon River offers exciting whitewater rafting adventures.
Historical Landmarks
The Smoky Mountains are rich in history, and there are plenty of historical landmarks in the area. The Old Mill in Pigeon Forge is a working grist mill that dates back to the 1800s. The Oconaluftee Indian Village is a living history museum that showcases Cherokee culture.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Smoky Mountains are a great destination for families. Dollywood, the theme park owned by Dolly Parton, offers rides, shows, and attractions for all ages. The Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is another family-friendly attraction that offers up-close encounters with marine life.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you want to get off the beaten path and experience the Smoky Mountains like a local, consider visiting some of the lesser-known attractions in the area. The Forbidden Caverns offer a unique underground adventure, and the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster is a thrilling ride through the mountains.
Natural Wonders
The Smoky Mountains are home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in the world. The Chimney Tops Trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and the Laurel Falls Trail leads to a picturesque waterfall. The synchronous fireflies that light up the forests in the area are another natural wonder that shouldn’t be missed.
Vibrant Nightlife
If you’re looking for nightlife in the Smoky Mountains, there are plenty of options. The Gatlinburg Strip offers a variety of bars and clubs, and the Pigeon Forge Parkway has plenty of entertainment options, like the Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Show.
Local Markets
The Smoky Mountains are home to a variety of local markets where you can shop for unique gifts and souvenirs. The Gatlinburg Farmers Market offers fresh produce and handmade crafts, and the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community is the largest group of independent artisans in the country.
Beaches and Mountains
The Smoky Mountains are a great destination for both mountain and beach lovers. The nearby town of Pigeon Forge offers a variety of activities, like go-karting and mini-golf, while the nearby town of Sevierville has its own waterpark, Wilderness at the Smokies.
Cultural Immersion
If you want to immerse yourself in the local culture, there are plenty of opportunities in the Smoky Mountains. The Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales festival in Gatlinburg celebrates the music and storytelling traditions of the area, and the annual Smoky Mountain Scottish Festival and Games in Maryville showcases Scottish culture.
Art and Music Scene
The Smoky Mountains have a rich art and music scene. The Gatlinburg Fine Arts Festival showcases the work of local and regional artists, and the Smoky Mountain Songwriters Festival in Gatlinburg celebrates the art of songwriting.
Walking Tours
The Smoky Mountains are a great destination for walking tours. The Gatlinburg Heritage Trail is a self-guided tour that takes you through the town’s history, and the Little River Trail in the national park offers a scenic walk along the river.
Architectural Marvels
The Smoky Mountains are home to a variety of architectural marvels. The Biltmore Estate in nearby Asheville, North Carolina, is a stunning example of French Renaissance architecture, and the historic, Art Deco-style Tennessee Theatre in Knoxville is a must-see for theater lovers.
Historical Sites
The Smoky Mountains are rich in history, and there are plenty of historical sites in the area. The Tuckaleechee Caverns were used as a hideout by Cherokee Indians during the Trail of Tears, and the Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum in Townsend showcases the area’s logging history.
Biking Routes
The Smoky Mountains are a great destination for biking. The Townsend Bike Trail is a scenic route that follows the Little River, and the Oconaluftee River Trail in the national park offers a leisurely ride along the river.
Wellness Retreats
The Smoky Mountains are a great destination for wellness retreats. The Blackberry Farm in nearby Walland offers luxury accommodations and farm-to-table dining, and the Shangri-La Ranch in nearby Rutledge offers yoga, meditation, and massage.
Adventure Sports
The Smoky Mountains offer plenty of adventure sports for thrill-seekers. The Navitat Canopy Adventures in nearby Asheville, North Carolina, offers zip lining adventures through the trees, and the Smoky Mountain Outdoors whitewater rafting company in Hartford offers exciting rafting trips down the Pigeon River.
With so much to see and do in the Smoky Mountains, you’re sure to have an unforgettable trip. Use this guide to plan your itinerary and make the most of your time in this beautiful part of the country.