Making a trip through the Smoky Mountains to view fall colors is an annual tradition for many visitors. For many, it’s a vacation destination for an extended weekend or a time to explore for a longer period.
Historically, the peak color season in the East Tennessee region is usually the third week in October, but recently it has shifted closer to the first week of November.
Located just outside of Townsend, Tenn., Cades Cove in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a favorite destination for viewing fall colors. Not only is it the most visited part of the national park, it boasts a little bit of everything the nature explorer can want. From history to wildlife, horseback riding to hiking, there’s a lot to view from the Cove’s 11-mile Loop Road.
The loop, open to automobiles, bicycles and walkers every day, takes visitors on a historical tour of the early settlers to the area. Early morning and late afternoon/early evening are best for wildlife viewing.
Other places places to enjoy fall colors include Little River Road, Newfound Gap Road, Elkmont, Deep Creek, the Metcalf Bottoms trail, the Sutton Ridge overlook, the Kephart Prong trail, and the Juney Whank Falls loop trail.
Fall colors are more visible at the higher elevations above 4,000 feet from early to mid-October. The intensity of the fall colors is determined by the weather during that timeframe. The park’s most spectacular display includes such colorful trees as sugar maple, scarlet oak, sweetgum, red maple, and the hickories.
As a result, there is an increase in the number of sightseers during the last three weeks of October.
According to the Park website, there are signs that summer is beginning to fade with dogwood trees showing hints of the color they will develop as the season progresses.
Mountain accommodations can also be an interesting part of vacation fun in the Smokies. Whether looking for a family hotel, a mountain top cabin or a bed and breakfast, the nature visitor can find exactly what they are looking for on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies in Townsend.
For more information call 800-525-6834.