10 Unique Ways to See Fall Colors in the Smoky Mountains
Updated: Aug 17
There are so many ways to enjoy fall colors and foliage in
these mountains!
Many have made their lists, but me, I have to be different.
Haha. Yep.
The 1st list of options below are absolutely wonderful and the traditional suggestions for seeing Autumn colors in the Smoky Mountains.
You cannot go wrong with any of those choices.
But I also want to throw out some extra ideas for those of you who may be looking for something unique, unusual, or off the beaten path.
The 2nd list is something different, things that you may not have thought of.
I'm here to inspire you!
So, You May Have Heard About These:
Great Smoky Mountain National Park Overlooks
Newfound Gap Road
Skybridge and SkyTrail in Gatlinburg
The view from the Space Needle, Gatlinburg
The Foothills Parkway
Cade's Cove
The Ober Mountain Aerial Tram
Gatlinburg Bypass Overlooks
Clingman's Dome in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
Any of the many hiking trails in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park
Here are Some Extra, Unique Ideas to Truly Enjoy Fall Colors
in Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge
1.) Ziplining
If you are thinking, "no way", you may want to know that all ziplines are NOT the same. Some are very beginner friendly! That's why my guide is pretty valuable.
Yes, I've been ziplining, and it is wonderful! And I'm kind of a chicken sometimes. So if I can do it, you can too. Professionals are there to help you every step of the way.
And the fall foliage and mountain views are 100% worth it!
2.) In a Helicopter
Helicopter Tours are one of THE best ways to see everything....and I mean everything!
Choose from a variety of flyovers.
There are several professional helicopter tour companies in Sevierville and Pigeon Forge. They are very popular so book early!
3.) Scenic Guided & Self Guided Tours in a Jeep, Slingshot
Did you know there are many guided riding on tours around our Smoky Mountains area? You might be surprised at what you find.
Take in the extreme beauty and serenity of a drive through a mountain forest, as you are safely guided by those who know the area best! Rather go on your own? Rent the vehicle, go where you want!
Really want to go into the back country where only the lucky ones have ever seen?
Go on an ATV or UTV and get off the main roads and out of traffic.
There are many high quality, scenic and fun tours in the area.
5.) Wears Valley (pretty much anywhere!)
The views just driving through the main road in Wears Valley are incredible. Visit an antique store, try some moonshine, have lunch and coffee and feel the peace and serenity of the area.
Mountain Brothers General Store in Wears Valley is a great stop.
Then take a scenic drive on the "Missing Link" via The Foothills Parkway, or stop by Elvira's or Paw Paw's for lunch.
6.) AnaVista Tower at Anakeesta
Go up to the highest point in Gatlinburg!
If you decide to visit Anakeesta (and I highly recommend you do), you will have access to this beautiful observation tower that overlooks Gatlinburg and the surrounding areas.
Not only will you be able to experience the fall foliage from the top, but you can enjoy stunning views and the most unique experiences everywhere at this mountaintop attraction.
7.) In An Airplane
Sky High Air Tours, in Sevierville will take you up in the airplane of your dreams! Aerial tours in an open cockpit biplane, with narration by a highly experienced pilot. Just imagine!!
Highly rated Activity on TripAdvisor.
Also located next to the Tennessee Museum of Aviation.
8.) On Horseback
There are many places to ride horses. The following are my most recommended! Beautiful backwoods scenery and highly rated, experienced professional tour guides.
There are many horse friendly trails in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park and surrounding area.
Twin Valley Horse Ranch, Walland
Cades Cove Riding Stables, Townsend
Deer Farm Riding Stables, Sevierville
Five Oaks Riding Stables, Sevierville
Sugarland Riding Stables, Gatlinburg
9.) On The Water
Need adventure?
Take a Lower Pigeon River Rafting Tour, Smoky Mountain Outdoors Rafting, accommodating beginners to experienced. Guides in every raft. (Meets in Hartford, TN)
Or rent a pontoon, jetskis, wakeboards, tubes, paddleboards, paddleboats, kayaks and more! By the hour or overnight for Douglas Lake at H20 Sports Pontoon Rentals has you covered. (check seasonal dates open)
10.) In a Hot Air Balloon
What's Up Ballooning can lift your spirits!
A fun, peaceful and unique experience like NO OTHER. "We ride at dawn" is their policy, because leaving early is what the owner and pilots say is best!
Float and meander above the lake and mountains with experienced professional balloon operators, and former FAA Aviation Safety Counselors.
11.) Ride Some Mountain Coasters
Try Rocky Top Mountain Coaster's Halloween Themed Coasts & Goblins Ride!
Riding a Mountain Coaster is NOT like a regular roller coaster. It is a more, scenic, personal experience....you are in control, because they all have hand braking, so if you need to slow down, it's all up to you and you only.
Also ride with a partner or child, just the 2 of you. (weight restrictions apply) See and feel the air, the trees, the scents of fall or spring. Any season is open, but Fall is probably one of the best and most scenic!
12.) Ride the River in a Jet Boat
Take an adventure in a jet boat to the Seven Islands! Professional guides, a bird sanctuary and all sorts of other wildlife on the scenic French Broad River!
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