With stunning fall colors and so many fun things to do, it’s no surprise fall in the Smoky Mountains is one of the most popular times of the year! The Smokies are home to a variety of tree species, creating spectacular displays of fall foliage all around! To help you make the most of your fall vacation, we’ve put together this guide with everything you need to know about Smoky Mountain fall colors:
Why Leaves Change Color in the Fall
In the spring and summer, leaves are green because of a pigment called chlorophyll. This green pigment absorbs light to help plants turn sunlight into food in a process called photosynthesis. In the fall, temperatures cool down and the days start to get shorter, which means trees can’t absorb as much sunlight. This slows photosynthesis and causes the chlorophyll in the leaves to deteriorate, allowing other pigments to become visible. Carotenoid pigments make the leaves turn yellow, and anthocyanins give leaves deep red and purple colors. In the Smoky Mountains, fall colors include various shades of reds, purples, oranges, yellows, and browns.
Best Time to See Smoky Mountain Fall Colors
Smoky Mountain fall colors first appear at higher elevations where temperatures are lowest. Elevations above 4,000 feet typically start seeing changing leaves in late September or early October, with fall foliage typically peaking around mid-October. Middle and lower elevations will show their most vibrant colors about a week or two later. Fall colors often stick around into early to mid-November.
Spotting Trees Based on Fall Leaves
Each deciduous tree species in the Smoky Mountains has its own unique shade in the fall. You can easily identify these trees based on their fall colors. Here are some of the most common varieties of trees in the Smokies and their fall colors:
- Dogwood: Deep Red
- Shining Sumac: Red
- Red Maple: Bright Scarlet or Orange
- Oak: Red, Brown, or Russet
- Sugar Maple: Orange-Red
- Hickory: Golden-Bronze
- Birch: Bright Yellow
- Sourwood: Bright Crimson or Purplish Red
- Tulip Poplar: Golden Yellow
- Black Maple: Glowing Yellow
Where to See Smoky Mountain Fall Colors
Smoky Mountain fall colors can be seen at the highest elevations first, so the best places to see changing leaves at the beginning of the season are spots like Kuwohi, Newfound Gap, and Mt. LeConte. As the season progresses, you can see breathtaking autumn scenery throughout the Smoky Mountains along scenic drives and hiking trails. However, you don’t have to travel into the mountains to experience the beauty of fall! You can see stunning Smoky Mountain fall colors right here in Pigeon Forge at places like Dollywood, The Island in Pigeon Forge, and our very own Pigeon Forge hotel!
Where to Stay This Fall in the Smoky Mountains
You don’t have to leave the comfort of your hotel room to experience breathtaking Smoky Mountain fall colors! The Inn on the River offers a peaceful riverside retreat in the heart of all the action, with comfortable rooms, amazing fall amenities, and gorgeous autumn views! Find out why you’ll love spending your fall vacation at our Pigeon Forge hotel and book your stay today!
