The brilliant fall foliage of the NC Smoky Mountains rivals the seasonal changing of leaves anywhere in the country. And because of our lofty elevations and lower rolling foothills, the leaf-looking season here in the Smokies lasts longer than in most places. Beginning mid-September and continuing through early November, the NC Smoky Mountains offer you plenty of weeks to plan your visit for optimal fall enjoyment. Also, check in on the events calendar to see which fall-flavored festivals you can catch while you’re spending time in our mountain towns. Local seasonal celebrations bring out the best of our region.
The Great Smokies have hundreds of miles of scenic beauty to explore and take in, whether you are seeing it from your vehicle window or on foot in the middle of it all. And there is no doubt that the most fun way to experience nature’s autumn showcase here is by hiking during the kaleidoscope of changing colors. So, where can you experience the Best of the Smoky Mountains Fall Foliage? Here are some fall favorites to put on your adventure list for the Great Smokies.
The Appalachian Trail: An Iconic Choice
Also known as the AT and considered the GrandDaddy of US Trails, the Appalachian Trail runs approximately 2,200 miles between Georgia and Maine. And visitors to Franklin, NC, in Macon County, NC, can experience some of the most beautiful parts of this iconic hiking-only trail less than 10 miles away.
Once on the trail, take a 4-mile round-trip hike to the Wesser Bald Fire Tower, a restored fire watch tower built in 1937 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Decommissioned in the 1940s due to wind and rain damage, this 3-story stone tower rises 53 feet into the air. It continues to offer visitors unparalleled 360-degree views of a different kind – the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows that carpet the numerous surrounding mountains in autumn.
Andrews Bald Hike: A Challenging Choice
Summiting a mountain bald for the first time is bewildering. But once you realize you are on the mountaintop, which just happens to be covered in wild grass, Rhododendron, and Mountain Laurel instead of ridges and Pines and Poplars, the scene settles in nicely. And what a fantastic view is in store for you!
Andrews Bald near Bryson City, NC, is a 1.8-mile trail that begins at the Kuwohi Observation Tower, formerly located at the Clingmans Dome parking lot. The rocky trail descends to Andrews Bald, the grassy area named for the cattle herder who brought livestock up there in the 1840s. The final section of the trail ascends through a forest of trees that generally peak in mid-to-late September. Look for Dogwoods, Maples, Sourwood, and Sumac as they all turn to a bright, flamboyant red.
Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest: A Larger-than-Life Choice
The Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest near Robbinsville, NC, named for one of this nation’s most prominent nature poets, features 3,800 square miles of rare old-growth forest. Encompassing one of the most significant contiguous growths of hardwood trees in the country, the trail is an easy 2-mile round-trip, figure-eight trail that leads you past the majestic Yellow Poplars (also known as Tulip Poplars), reaching an astounding 100 feet tall and 20 feet around. You’ll also see White Oak, Beech, Red Oak, and Basswood trees as they transition from their lush summer green to their blazing autumn colors. This forest is an experience of a lifetime, and autumn just makes it that much more magical.
Deep Creek Waterfall Hike: A Waterfall Seeker’s Choice
Just outside of Bryson City, NC, in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is the Deep Creek Campground and waterfall hiking area. Within a 2.4-mile loop, you will experience three different waterfalls. For waterfall seekers, it doesn’t get much better than this! Leaf peepers can spot American Beech and Birch trees flaunting their bright yellow and gold leaves along the way, as well as the orange and crimson leaves of the Sumac, Scarlet Oak, Hickory, and Mountain Maple trees.
After the hike, make your way to Bryson City for a culinary adventure and take some time to explore and get to know this sweet mountain town. And for an entirely seated view of the fall foliage in the Smoky Mountains, hop aboard a train for an excursion to the Nantahala Gorge or the Tuckasegee River with the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. Fall is a lovely time of year for this memorable way to experience the outdoors.
Deep Creek Photo Courtesy of Swain County TDA / Chamber of Commerce.[/caption]
Oconaluftee River Trail: The Family Friendly+ Choice
The Oconaluftee River Trail in Cherokee, NC, offers you and your crew the opportunity to combine your leaf-peeping with hands-on learning! Read about the fascinating history and culture of the Eastern Band of Cherokee People as you hike along this 3-mile round-trip path, all the while being treated to every vibrant fall hue in the surrounding foliage. The hike itself is considered easy enough for a stroller to navigate.
Along the way, you’ll be treated to views of the beautiful Oconaluftee River, wildflowers, diverse animal life, and lush mountain scenery as it nestles in for the upcoming winter months. The colorful Asters that live along the riverbank are proof that Mother Nature is putting on her best show.
If the family needs an indoor day but still needs to burn off some of that kid energy, the Ultra Star Multi-Tainment Center in Cherokee is the perfect solution. There’s bowling, gaming, an arcade, and all the snack bar foods we know and love.