Everything You Need to Know About Autumn Colors in the Smokies

Each autumn season, visitors to Gatlinburg, TN are able to take in views of the brilliant fall colors. In early fall, leaves begin to change from green to various shades of red, yellow, and orange. This can make for an interesting mix of color, as these leaves provide dynamic contrast to a green background. If you’re hoping to spot some fall colors, start planning your Smoky Mountain vacation soon! Here is everything you need to know about Autumn colors in the Smokies:

When do the leaves start to change?

The leaves start to turn colors once summer weather starts to fade and temperatures start to cool down. When this happens, visitors can start to see the green turn into brighter reds, oranges and yellows. The leaves start to turn in the higher elevations first before trickling down to the lower elevations. We recommend making your way to the Smokies around October to see the best colors of the year. Occasionally, the leaves turn early in September. Check the Great Smoky Mountains National Park’s color report to see how the colors are predicted to look on your trip.

When is peak season?

As more leaves begin to turn color, they signal the beginning of peak viewing season. This is the time when nearly all leaves appear to be colorful and very little green is noticeable from cabin rentals in the Smoky Mountains. It’s hard to predict exactly when the Smoky Mountain fall foliage will be at its peak. Typically, peak season can be anywhere from mid October to early November. The colors tend to be the most vibrant when temperatures are around 70 in the day and in the 40s at night.

When leaves are slightly past peak, some of the trees have bare branches, giving greater visibility across the mountain range than previously possible.

Where is the Best Place to See the Smoky Mountain Fall Foliage?

If you’re hoping to spot the autumn colors in the Smokies this fall, you’re in luck! There are plenty of places where you can go to take in the scenery. Clingmans Dome is the highest elevation in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, making it one of the first spots to see the leaves changing colors. You can always visit Smoky Mountain attractions like Anakeesta, the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel and the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park. Ober Gatlinburg even has special viewfinders so those who are colorblind can see the fall foliage!

Another great place to see the Smoky Mountain fall foliage is from a cabin rental.  Stony Brook cabin rentals make it easy to take advantage of the exquisite colors that are on display during the fall. Many cabins are in private wooded settings and offer sweeping views of the Smoky Mountains, making an autumn visit to the Gatlinburg ideal for those who enjoy the great outdoors.

We have cabins ranging in size from small cabins for couples to large cabins for groups. In addition to beautiful views, our cabins offer amenities like fireplaces, hot tubs, pool tables, full kitchens and more. Are you ready to start planning your Smoky Mountain fall vacation? Browse our selection of cabin rentals in the Smoky Mountains.