smoky mountains

5 Fun Ways to See the Smoky Mountains Fall Foliage

smoky mountain fall foliage
September 4, 2023

If you love the fall season and are eager to see the breathtaking Smoky Mountains fall foliage, we’ve put together a list of 5 fun ways to see the sights! Whether you are looking for a relaxing weekend of lounging in a Smoky Mountain cabin or you’re ready for a weekend of adventure, the Smokies have tons of fun waiting for you! Here are 5 fun ways to see the fall foliage in the Smoky Mountains:

1. Go for a Hike

Abrams Falls during fall

One of the best ways to take in the Smoky Mountains fall foliage is by walking amongst it! The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to more than 800 miles of trails and plenty of opportunities for hikers to take in breathtaking views. It’s also great weather to be outside exploring! If you’re hoping to see both fall colors and a waterfall, we recommend hiking to Abrams Falls. If you’re hoping for sweeping views of the fall foliage, Alum Cave is a great trail! Other popular fall hikes include Gregory Bald, Laurel Falls, and Little River Trail. No matter which trail you choose, you’re in for a treat!

2. A Cabin Retreat with Your Loved One

Another wonderful way to soak in the beauty of the Smoky Mountains fall foliage is to take a weekend trip with your significant other to a cozy cabin in the woods. Our 1 bedroom Smoky Mountain cabins are the perfect place to relax, unwind and spend some much needed alone time with your loved one. For a great start to the day, wake up and watch the sunrise peek over the mountains from the privacy of your cabin’s deck. Spend all day shopping and exploring with your significant other, and spend the evening sipping on your favorite drink while soaking in your cabin’s secluded hot tub. A fall retreat to the Smokies is just what you and your special someone have been needing!

3. Cades Cove

Enjoying a bike along Cades Cove Loop Road on vehicle-free Wednesdays

For an all day excursion, Cades Cove is a great way to experience mountain life to the fullest. There are many ways to take in the Smoky Mountains fall foliage from Cades Cove, including hiking or biking the trails, walking around old churches and cabins and driving the 11 mile loop. The driving loop is a good way to see animals, such as deer, bears, mountain cats and many types of birds, from the comfort of your car. If you like to camp, pack a tent and some essentials and plan to stay the night in the Cove!

4. Zipline Tour

For a special and very unique view of the Smoky Mountains fall foliage, strap on a harness and fly above the brightly colored trees on a Smoky Mountain zipline adventure! At 300 feet above the ground and spanning almost 5 miles of lines, this zipline tour is one of the best in the Smokies. Your whole family will love getting bird’s eye views of the fall foliage!

5. Family Vacation

cabin surrounded by fall leaves

Out of all the fabulous ways to experience the Smoky Mountains fall foliage, one of the most rewarding is to spend a weekend at a Smoky Mountain cabin with the people you love the most. Treating your kids and your spouse to a few days in the mountains is a great way to unwind from the stress of everyday life, and it’s also a fun way to bond and connect. Your kids will enjoy helping build a fire in the outdoor fire pit, and you will all love gathering in the theater room to laugh through a few of your favorite movies. Your kids will love it so much that they’ll be begging you to book another weekend in our cabins!

No matter how you choose to enjoy the Smoky Mountain fall foliage, our Smoky Mountain cabins are the best place to call home during your trip! Book your stay today!