Fall in Love with the Smokies
As the crisp fall air settles in Sevier County, Tennessee, visitors to Music Road Resort can take advantage of the incredible fall foliage that blankets the region. There are numerous places throughout the area to enjoy the stunning colors of fall, but there are a few spots that stand out above the rest.
Newfound Gap Road
One of the best places to see the fall foliage is in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Visitors can take a scenic drive through the park, stopping at various overlooks to enjoy the breathtaking views. Ben Morton Overlook, Newfound Gap, and Clingmans Dome are each just off Newfound Gap Road. Each of these locations boasts magnificent panoramic views of the incredible fall foliage.
Tip! Once you get to Newfound Gap, stand in two places at once as you cross the North Carolina state line.
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
This motor nature trail is a hotspot for wildlife in the Great Smoky Mountains and historical markers that take you back to the 1800's. As you drive along this five-mile trail, the temperate rainforest of the Great Smoky Mountains will encase you as Mother Nature continually takes over what was once hers before the Settlers arrived in the area. There are multiple pull-offs throughout this trail that are fantastic for photo ops, and be sure to drive with your windows down to take in the sounds and smells you can only find here.
Tip! This trail ends at Ely's Mill, established in 1925 by the Ely family and is still run by their family today, where you can purchase handmade goods and use their clean facilities.
Cades Cove
This historic valley again offers some of the best views of the changing leaves in panoramic form from the base of the mountains. As you drive the Cades Cove loop, look for various wildlife that call this peaceful valley home. Use the park-designated pull-offs to enjoy preserved historic areas like homesteads, churches with cemeteries, and an old mill.
Tip! Cades Cove is also an excellent location for a fall picnic and casual family photos!
The Foothills Parkway
The Foothills Parkway is a 33-mile stretch of road that runs along the crest of the Smoky Mountains. Offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside with numerous pull-offs, this stretch of road has panoramic views of the Smokies from more than halfway up the mountains with views of the stunning valleys below. There are three entrances to the Foothills Parkway, which include Wears Valley, Townsend, and Maryville, each offering different things to do as you are getting on or off the Parkway.
Tip! Remember to get gas, dinner, and use the restroom before you get on the Parkway, as there are no stops during your 33-mile drive.
Little River Road
Little River Road runs through the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This stretch of road follows the Little Pigeon River from Sugarlands Visitor Center to Cades Cove. During this drive, you will pass Elkmont, a ghost town full of various history forms from the CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps), logging, and the lustrous vacation spot for many wealthy people. You will also pass Metcalf Bottoms and Little Greenbrier, The Sinks (an accidental cascade created by a dynamite blast during the logging era), and the Townsend Y ( a local swimming hole during the summer months).
Tip! This road is known for its spectacular fishing spots throughout fall. Whether you'd like to watch or participate, this area is perfect for both!
For those looking for a more active way to enjoy the fall colors, several hiking trails offer incredible views of the surrounding mountains. The Alum Cave Trail, which leads to the summit of Mount LeConte, offers stunning views of the surrounding foliage. The Chimney Tops Trail, which leads to a rocky summit with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, is also a must-see during the fall season.
No matter where you choose to go, the fall foliage in Sevier County is sure to leave you in awe. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and head to Music Road Resort for an unforgettable autumn getaway.