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The fall season brings along welcomed changes to the Smoky Mountains. While we’re sad to see summer go, the lower temperatures make enjoying the outdoors here even more enticing, along with the cascade of warm colors that engulf the landscape. Photo Credit: Marjorie Farrington
Some of the area’s most popular events also happen in the fall, including the Apple Harvest Festival in Waynesville and the Maggie Valley Fall Art and Craft Show, giving leaf-peepers one more reason to plan an adventure to the Smokies during the season. Also happening this fall: the annual Monarch migration through our mountains! Read on to learn how to make the most out of a fall trip to the Smokies!
FALL IN THE SMOKY MOUNTAINS
The fall season brings along welcomed changes to the Smoky Mountains. While we’re sad to see summer go, the lower temperatures make enjoying the outdoors here even more enticing, along with the cascade of warm colors that engulf the landscape. Some of the area’s most popular events also happen in the fall, including the Apple Harvest Festival in Waynesville and the Maggie Valley Fall Art and Craft Show, giving leaf-peepers one more reason to plan an adventure to the Smokies during the season. Also happening this fall: the annual Monarch migration through our mountains! Read on to learn how to make the most out of a fall trip to the Smokies!
Lake Junaluska
Located in the heart of Haywood County between Clyde, Waynesville, and Maggie Valley, Lake Junaluska offers amazing fall views courtesy of its surrounding mountains. Take in the beauty with a leisurely stroll around lake on a paved 2.6 mile trail that is also perfect for riding bikes, walking the dog or taking a jog. Other activities include fishing, recreational paddling, mini-golf and more.
Max Patch
Located just off of Interstate 40 West before you cross into Tennessee, Max Patch is another great option for 360 views, but this time in a more remote area. Max Patch is a 4,600 foot mountain bald that offers acres of wide-open clearings with amazing, unobstructed views of surrounding fall color. Several hikes can be accessed from here, including a popular section of the Appalachian Trail. Take Exit 7 at Harmon’s Den and turn right onto Cold Spring Rd. A six mile drive up a beautiful winding road will bring you to the Max Patch parking area. Park and enjoy!
Graveyard Fields
One of the most popular spots to view fall leaves on the Blue Ridge Parkway, Graveyard Fields offers plenty of opportunities to take in the beauty of the season. Rushing waterfalls and cool, clear streams are a favorite highlight along this moderate 3.2 mile hiking trail found at Milepost 418.8. The unique layout of the trail offers the feeling of being smack-dab in the middle of all the fall time beauty. Here’s a tip—go early or during the week because the parking area can often be crowded, but it’s well worth waiting for a parking spot.
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