Smoky Mountains 2020 Fall Foliage
Introduction
The Smoky Mountains in fall are a sight to behold. With the leaves changing colors and the crisp air, it’s the perfect time to plan a trip to this beautiful destination. In this travel guide, we will cover everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip to the Smoky Mountains for the 2020 fall foliage season.
Top Attractions
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most popular attraction in the area. With over 800 miles of hiking trails, it’s a great place to explore and take in the beautiful fall foliage. The park is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including black bears, elk, and deer.
Dollywood
Dollywood is a theme park owned by Dolly Parton and is a must-visit attraction in the area. With over 40 rides and attractions, it’s a great place to spend a day with the family. During the fall, the park is decorated with pumpkins and fall decorations, making it the perfect place to get into the autumn spirit.
Hidden Gems
Grotto Falls
Grotto Falls is a hidden gem in the Smoky Mountains. It’s a 2.6-mile round-trip hike that takes you to a beautiful waterfall. The trail is relatively easy, making it perfect for families with kids.
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a scenic drive that takes you through some of the most beautiful parts of the Smoky Mountains. Along the way, you’ll see waterfalls, historic buildings, and stunning views of the fall foliage.
Food Scene
The Smoky Mountains are known for their southern comfort food, and there are plenty of great restaurants in the area to try. Some of the must-visit restaurants include The Old Mill Restaurant, Pancake Pantry, and The Peddler Steakhouse.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Visiting the Smoky Mountains doesn’t have to break the bank. Some budget-friendly tips include camping instead of staying in a hotel, bringing your own food and drinks, and taking advantage of free attractions like the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Outdoor Adventures
The Smoky Mountains are the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the top outdoor adventures include hiking, fishing, kayaking, and zip-lining.
Family-Friendly Activities
There are plenty of family-friendly activities in the Smoky Mountains. Some of the top options include visiting Dollywood, exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and going on a horseback riding tour.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Forbidden Caverns
Forbidden Caverns is a unique attraction in the Smoky Mountains. It’s a guided tour of an underground cave system that features stunning rock formations and underground waterfalls.
Clingmans Dome
Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It’s a challenging hike to the top, but the views are worth it.
Natural Wonders
Cades Cove
Cades Cove is a beautiful valley in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It’s a great place to see wildlife and take in the fall foliage.
Chimney Tops
Chimney Tops is a popular hiking trail in the Smoky Mountains that takes you to the top of a mountain with stunning views of the surrounding area.
Vibrant Nightlife
While the Smoky Mountains may not be known for their nightlife, there are still plenty of options for those looking for a fun night out. Some of the top options include Moonshine tasting at Ole Smoky Moonshine, live music at the Smoky Mountain Brewery, and a night out at the Gatlinburg Space Needle.
Local Markets
The Smoky Mountains are home to plenty of local markets where you can find unique souvenirs and handmade crafts. Some of the top markets include the Gatlinburg Farmers Market, the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community, and the Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair.
Beaches and Mountains
The Smoky Mountains are known for their beautiful mountains, but there are also plenty of nearby beaches to explore. Some of the top options include Douglas Lake, Cherokee Lake, and Fontana Lake.
Cultural Immersion
The Smoky Mountains are steeped in Appalachian culture, and there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in it. Some of the top options include visiting the Museum of the Cherokee Indian, exploring the Appalachian Trail Museum, and attending a bluegrass music festival.
Art and Music Scene
The Smoky Mountains are home to a thriving art and music scene. Some of the top options include the Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair, the Smoky Mountain Songwriters Festival, and the Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts.
Walking Tours
Gatlinburg Ghost Tours
The Gatlinburg Ghost Tours are a fun way to explore the spooky side of the Smoky Mountains. The guided tour takes you through the town of Gatlinburg and shares the ghost stories and legends of the area.
Heritage Walk
The Heritage Walk is a self-guided walking tour of the historic buildings in Gatlinburg. Along the way, you’ll learn about the history of the town and the people who lived there.
Architectural Marvels
The Old Mill
The Old Mill is a historic grist mill in Pigeon Forge that has been in operation since 1830. It’s a beautiful example of Appalachian architecture and is a must-visit attraction in the area.
Cades Cove Church
Cades Cove Church is a historic church in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It’s a beautiful example of early Appalachian architecture and is a great place to take in the fall foliage.
Historical Sites
Little River Railroad Museum
The Little River Railroad Museum is a museum dedicated to the history of the Little River Railroad, which operated in the Smoky Mountains in the early 1900s. The museum features exhibits on the history of the railroad and the people who worked on it.
Alum Cave Trail
The Alum Cave Trail is a historic trail that was used by early settlers to access the natural resources of the area. Along the way, you’ll see historic buildings and artifacts that tell the story of the early settlers.
Biking Routes
The Smoky Mountains are home to some of the best biking routes in the country. Some of the top routes include the Cades Cove Loop Road, the Gatlinburg Trail, and the Little River Trail.
Wellness Retreats
The Smoky Mountains are the perfect destination for a wellness retreat. Some of the top options include yoga retreats, meditation retreats, and spa retreats.
Adventure Sports
The Smoky Mountains are home to plenty of adventure sports, including whitewater rafting, rock climbing, and zip-lining. Some of the top adventure sports companies in the area include Smoky Mountain Outdoors, Climbworks, and Legacy Mountain Zip Lines.
Conclusion
The Smoky Mountains in fall are a beautiful destination that offers something for everyone. From the stunning fall foliage to the outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. Use this travel guide to plan your perfect trip to the Smoky Mountains for the 2020 fall foliage season.