fall colors in the Smokies in downtown Gatlinburg
October 10, 2024

No matter when you come to the Smoky Mountain area, you're in for some beautiful outdoor scenery. The fall months turn the green leaves into fiery bright shades. You have to take a good look at them during your stay at our Gatlinburg luxury cabins. Let us tell you how! Here is a list of 3 places in Gatlinburg where you can see fall colors in the Smokies:

1. Gatlinburg Space Needle

The top of the Gatlinburg Space Needle has an observation deck. Visitors can see beautiful views as they get to it because they ride a glass elevator up 400 feet. Once there, you can take advantage of the viewfinders to get a better look at the mountains and trees beyond the city. The observation deck also has an educational experience that allows visitors to learn more about the area. While you're here, you can play some games and win tickets at Arcadia. This is the largest arcade in Gatlinburg, and it is located on the bottom floor of the Gatlinburg Space Needle.

2. Gatlinburg SkyPark

SkyBridge at gatlinburg skypark

Another place you can go in Gatlinburg to see fall colors in the Smokies is to the Gatlinburg SkyPark. As the name suggests, it is an attraction that sits high above the ground. Visitors have to take the SkyLift in order to get to it. The park is home to the Gatlinburg SkyBridge. It is 1,800 feet above sea level and 700 feet long. The length makes it the longest pedestrian cable bridge in North America. Go out onto the bridge or to one of the 2 ends to admire the scenery. The trees with their orange, red, and yellow leaves may look like they are on fire in the distance. If you're feeling particularly brave, walk to the halfway point of the bridge and stand on the glass. Take a look at the scenery below and see just how high up you really are.

3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Going for a hike is a great way to see the fall colors in the area up close. While the 850 miles of hiking trails offer plenty of options, there are some trails that really show off the fall foliage. One of them is Gregory Bald. This is an 11.3-mile hike that takes 6 hours to complete, so it is best suited for experienced hikers. When going on a fall hike, be sure to dress warmly and start your hike early in the morning. The sun sets earlier, so you don’t want to run out of daylight. If you don’t want to go for a hike, you can still see the fall colors when you go on a scenic drive. A popular route open year-round is Cades Cove Loop Road. Whatever you decide to do, keep in mind that you’ll need a parking pass if you stay in the park for longer than 15 minutes.

Now you know where to see fall colors in the Smokies in Gatlinburg! Start planning your vacation now. Browse our luxury cabins in Gatlinburg to find the perfect one!