If you’re a fan of fall foliage, you can’t beat the Smoky Mountains! Few places offer the impressive variety of autum colors you can see in this region. At Alpine Chalet Rentals, you can choose among many Great Smoky Mountain vacation rentals that will allow you to experience the true grandeur of fall. Here are five tips for enjoying the fall colors when you visit us in the Smokies:
1. Choose a Cabin With Exceptional Views
While many of our cabins provide scenic views, some are especially outstanding in autumn. If you want to get a clear view of the mountains, choose a cabin such as Grand View One or Mtn. Magic on Blueberry Hill. If you prefer a more closed in, wooded view, we have plenty of cabins that offer this as well. Either way, you’ll have plenty of chances to appreciate the fall foliage as you relax on your deck or look out the window.
2. Take a Hike in the Woods
While you don’t actually have to leave your cabin to see all the glorious fall colors, it can also be nice to get outside and see the foliage up close. The Smoky Mountain region offers a variety of hiking trails, with everything from short, easy walks to challenging all-day hikes. You could, for example, hike 2.3 miles round trip to Laurel Falls, one of the area’s most scenic waterfalls. If you’re willing to devote more time to your hike, try Ace Gap, an 11 mile hike that will take you through some tranquil and exquisitely beautiful areas.
3. Catch Sunrise and Sunset
Sunrises and sunsets are two of the best times of day to enjoy exceptionally beautiful views of the fall colors in the Smoky Mountains. The sun illuminating the leaves will create some amazing colors that should not be missed. If you’re not typically an early riser, you may have to adjust your schedule to see the sunrise, but the views will make it worth the effort. Even if you sleep through daybreak, you’ll still have a chance to watch a gorgeous sunset. Clingmans Dome, the highest point in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is one of the best places to see either sunrise or sunset. Of course, the decks of our Great Smoky Mountain vacation rentals are also ideal for watching the day begin and end.
4. Go Ziplining in the Smokies
Ziplining is an exciting activity that has really caught on in recent years. Taking a canopy tour is a great way to see the Smoky Mountains throughout the year, but during autumn, it provides the opportunity to see the fall colors from a totally unique perspective. Ziplining lets you ride through the forest, giving you an exceptional view of the trees and mountains. You will see an incredible array of fall colors as you glide above some of the region’s most spectacular scenery at speeds of up to 40 miles per hour. To learn about Legacy Mountain Ziplines, one of the most popular courses in the Smokies, check out their official website: http://www.adventureziplinesofpigeonforge.com/
5. Take a Helicopter Tour
Riding over the Smoky Mountains in a helicopter provides the ultimate view of the fall colors. This is a fun and exciting way to cover lots of distance in a short time and get a bird’s-eye view of the region. Helicopter tours are truly unforgettable, and can can be enjoyed by individuals, couples, and groups. In addition to providing you with a breathtaking experience, a helicopter tour will allow you to take some amazing photos or videos too! If you’re interested in taking a helicopter ride over the Smokies, check out Scenic Helicopter Tours on their official website: http://www.scenichelicoptertours.com/
To start planning your fall vacation, check out our complete listing of Great Smoky Mountain vacation rentals!