Local Travel

5 Places to See Fall Colors in East Tennessee

Looking for fall color in East Tennessee? From winding mountain roads to peaceful lake views, these five spots are worth exploring while the colors are here.

By East TN Views

5 Best Places to See Fall Colors in East Tennessee — a scenic East Tennessee view
5 Best Places to See Fall Colors in East Tennessee — a scenic East Tennessee view

Fall is starting to show up across East Tennessee, with pops of color along mountain roads and beautiful views throughout the Smokies. 🍂

There’s still time to get out and enjoy the season, whether you’re planning a scenic drive, a day trip, or a little fall getaway. Here are five spots worth adding to your list.

But don’t wait too long! The colors won’t last forever. 😉

Foothills Parkway 🍂

Winding roads, mountain views, and overlooks that make you want to pull over and stay awhile. As the fall colors start to show, the drive becomes even prettier, with layers of mountains stretching out in the distance.

Explore Foothills Parkway

Cades Cove 🪵

There’s something special about driving through Cades Cove in the fall, with mountains all around and colorful trees scattered across the valley. Take the loop slowly, keep an eye out for wildlife, and enjoy the scenery along the way.

Explore Cades Cove

Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail 🌿

A narrow, winding road through the forest, with historic cabins, rushing streams, and plenty of beautiful scenery along the way. It’s the kind of drive where you’ll want to slow down and take it all in.

Explore Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

Newfound Gap ⛰️

The road winds higher into the mountains, with beautiful views opening up along the way. As you gain elevation, the scenery changes, making the drive itself part of the experience. Be sure to stop at the overlooks when you can.

Explore Newfound Gap

Norris Dam State Park 💦

Fall doesn’t happen only in the Smokies! Just a little farther out, Norris Dam State Park offers beautiful lake views, wooded trails, and plenty of peaceful scenery to enjoy as fall settles in. It’s a great option for a relaxed day outdoors!

Explore Norris Dam State Park

A little fall reminder: 🍂

Fall color changes quickly, and the timing varies with elevation and weather. Even if you’re not seeing peak color everywhere, there’s still plenty of beauty to find along the way!

Fall doesn’t last forever, but there’s still time to make the most of it. Pick a spot, enjoy the views, and find a little autumn magic of your own. 🤎

Photos from the story

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