Smoky Mountains Peak Fall Colors 2020

Experience the Best of Smoky Mountains Peak Fall Colors 2020

The Smoky Mountains are a must-visit destination for nature lovers, foodies, adventurers, and history buffs. This guide will help you plan your trip to witness the peak fall colors in 2020. You will discover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.

Top Attractions

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the main attraction, boasting over 500,000 acres of natural beauty. The park has many hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic drives. The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile drive that showcases stunning mountain views and fall foliage. Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the park, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The Gatlinburg Skybridge is a popular attraction that features a glass-bottomed bridge and offers stunning views of the mountains.

Hidden Gems

The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a hidden gem that takes you on a scenic drive through the forest and past waterfalls. The Cataloochee Valley is another hidden gem that is home to a historic settlement and elk herds. The Foothills Parkway is a lesser-known alternative to the Blue Ridge Parkway, offering stunning mountain views with fewer crowds.

Food Scene

The Smoky Mountains have a diverse food scene that includes Southern comfort food, barbecue, seafood, and international cuisine. Some of the must-try restaurants include The Peddler Steakhouse, The Wild Plum Tea Room, and The Pancake Pantry. For a unique experience, try the Moonshine and Whiskey distillery tours.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Visiting during the weekdays and staying outside of the park can help you save money. Pack your own meals and snacks and bring reusable water bottles to save on food and drinks. Take advantage of free activities such as hiking and visiting the park’s visitor centers.

Outdoor Adventures

The Smoky Mountains offer many outdoor adventures such as hiking, camping, fishing, and horseback riding. The park also has several waterfalls that are accessible via hiking trails. For a thrilling adventure, try white-water rafting or zip-lining.

Family-Friendly Activities

The Smoky Mountains have many family-friendly activities such as visiting the Dollywood theme park, attending a dinner show, or visiting a petting zoo. You can also take a scenic drive through the park or go on a guided nature walk.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

The Smoky Mountains have many off-the-beaten-path experiences such as visiting the Cades Cove historic settlement, exploring the abandoned Elkmont Ghost Town, or taking a hike to the Ramsey Cascades.

Natural Wonders

The Smoky Mountains are home to many natural wonders such as Clingmans Dome, Chimney Tops, and Laurel Falls. You can also visit the Cataloochee Valley to see herds of elk roaming free.

Vibrant Nightlife

Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge have many bars, clubs, and live music venues that offer a vibrant nightlife. You can also take a moonshine or whiskey tour to experience the local spirits.

Local Markets

The Gatlinburg Farmers Market and the Sevierville Farmers Market are great places to find local produce, crafts, and souvenirs. You can also visit the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community to find unique handmade items.

Beaches and Mountains

The Smoky Mountains are not known for their beaches, but you can visit Douglas Lake or Cherokee Lake for some waterfront fun. The mountains offer many scenic drives and hiking trails that offer stunning views of the fall colors.

Cultural Immersion

The Smoky Mountains have a rich cultural history that includes Native Americans, early settlers, and moonshiners. You can learn about the region’s history by visiting the many museums and historic sites.

Art and Music Scene

The Smoky Mountains have a thriving art and music scene that includes galleries, museums, and live performances. The Dollywood theme park also hosts many live music events.

Walking Tours

You can take a walking tour of Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge to learn about the history and culture of the towns. You can also take a guided nature walk in the park to learn about the local flora and fauna.

Architectural Marvels

The Smoky Mountains are home to many historic buildings and architecture such as the Appalachian Clubhouse, the Noah “Bud” Ogle cabin, and the Mingus Mill. You can also visit the Biltmore Estate in nearby Asheville, North Carolina.

Historical Sites

The Smoky Mountains are steeped in history, with many historic sites such as the Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum, the Old Mill Square, and the Tuckaleechee Caverns.

Biking Routes

The Smoky Mountains have many scenic biking routes such as the Cades Cove Loop Road, the Foothills Parkway, and the Townsend Bike Trail. You can also rent bikes at several locations in the park.

Wellness Retreats

The Smoky Mountains offer many wellness retreats such as yoga retreats, spa retreats, and meditation retreats. You can also take a dip in the natural hot springs at the Hot Springs Resort and Spa.

With this comprehensive travel guide, you can plan the perfect trip to witness the peak fall colors in the Smoky Mountains in 2020. Whether you are a nature lover, foodie, adventurer, or history buff, the Smoky Mountains have something for everyone.