Blue Ridge Parkway – Stunning Mountain Vistas (Blue Ridge Parkway, NC/VA):

Embark on a leaf-peeping journey along the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway, a scenic byway that traverses the North Carolina and Virginia border. This picturesque drive treats you to breathtaking panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains dressed in their vibrant fall foliage. With each twist and turn, you’ll be greeted by a new canvas of colors, making this roadway a leaf peeper’s paradise.

Cherohala Skyway – High-Elevation Color (Tellico Plains, TN, to Robbinsville, NC):

For those seeking high-elevation fall splendor, the Cherohala Skyway delivers. This winding mountain road takes leaf peepers through a sea of fiery hues as they ascend to higher elevations. The journey is punctuated by numerous overlooks that offer ideal photo opportunities to capture the vibrant autumn landscape.

Clingmans Dome – Panoramic Leaf Views (Great Smoky Mountains NP, NC/TN):

A visit to Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is a must during the fall season. Whether you choose to hike or drive to the observation tower, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping vistas of colorful foliage blanketing the landscape below. It’s the perfect spot to take in the autumn beauty of the Smokies from above.

Newfound Gap Road – Scenic Mountain Drive (Great Smoky Mountains NP, NC/TN):

For a more relaxed leaf-peeping experience, consider a picturesque drive along Newfound Gap Road. This winding roadway allows you to savor the fantastic views of fall foliage from the comfort of your car. As you wind your way through the Smoky Mountains, you’ll be treated to a symphony of colors that’s nothing short of breathtaking.

Cataloochee Valley – Elk and Foliage (Great Smoky Mountains NP, NC):

Combine the beauty of fall foliage with a unique wildlife encounter in Cataloochee Valley. Here, amidst the colorful leaves, you can observe a herd of elk, a captivating sight for leaf peepers and nature enthusiasts alike. This scenic valley offers a rare opportunity to appreciate the autumn splendor alongside these majestic creatures.

Foothills Parkway – Valley Views and Overlooks (Great Smoky Mountains NP, TN):

The Foothills Parkway offers leaf peepers a diverse range of viewpoints to soak in the fall foliage. As you drive along this scenic parkway, you’ll encounter various overlooks that provide different perspectives of the valley below. Whether you’re looking for close-ups of colorful leaves or sweeping vistas of the Smoky Mountains, this route has it all. Lower elevations along the parkway mean you can enjoy the foliage at its peak, making it a must-visit for capturing the essence of autumn.

Rich Mountain Road (Cades Cove) – Rustic Beauty and Colorful Trees (Great Smoky Mountains NP, TN):

For a serene autumn experience surrounded by a rustic backdrop, head to Rich Mountain Road in Cades Cove. This one-way loop road invites leaf peepers to drive or bike through a landscape adorned with vibrant leaves. The historic charm of the area, with its preserved cabins and homesteads, adds to the enchantment of your leaf-peeping adventure. It’s a journey back in time amidst the changing colors of fall.

Fontana Lake – Reflective Beauty on the Water (Bryson City, NC):

To witness fall foliage from a unique perspective, set sail on Fontana Lake. Whether you opt for a leisurely boat ride or paddle along in a kayak, you’ll be captivated by the reflection of autumn colors on the water’s surface. The serene beauty of the lake, surrounded by lush forests, makes for an idyllic leaf-peeping retreat. It’s a tranquil escape where you can embrace the essence of the season while surrounded by nature’s serene beauty.

Laurel Falls Trail – Waterfall and Foliage (Great Smoky Mountains NP, TN):

Combine the magic of a waterfall with the charm of fall foliage by hiking the Laurel Falls Trail. This popular trail leads to Laurel Falls, where colorful trees provide a stunning backdrop to a picturesque waterfall. The trail is relatively short and accessible, making it a great option for leaf peepers of all skill levels. Witness the fusion of water and vibrant leaves, creating a scene that’s sure to leave you in awe of nature’s artistry.

Cosby Nature Trail – Quiet Woodland Retreat (Great Smoky Mountains NP, TN):

For those seeking a peaceful woodland retreat amidst the vibrant colors of autumn, the Cosby Nature Trail beckons. This tranquil pathway guides you through a serene forested area where you can immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of fall foliage up close. The gentle rustle of leaves underfoot and the soft sunlight filtering through the trees make this trail a soothing escape for leaf peepers looking for a quieter, more contemplative experience.

Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest – Ancient Trees and Leaves (Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, NC):

Step into a living history book at the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, where you can walk among giant poplar trees, some over 400 years old. These ancient trees put on their own show during the fall season, showcasing their vibrant leaves in a setting that feels almost otherworldly. The forest is a sanctuary for leaf peepers seeking a deeper connection with nature and a profound appreciation for the timeless beauty of autumn.

Cades Cove Wildflower Meadow – Wildflowers and Foliage (Great Smoky Mountains NP, TN):

For a unique autumn spectacle, make your way to the Cades Cove Wildflower Meadow. Here, you’ll discover a delightful mix of colorful wildflowers and changing leaves, creating a tapestry of natural beauty. The combination of wildflowers and foliage in this meadow offers a visual treat for leaf peepers and photographers alike. It’s a serene and picturesque location that showcases the diversity of fall’s vibrant palette.

Indian Boundary Lake – Lakeside Foliage Retreat (Tellico Plains, TN):

Nestled by the shores of Indian Boundary Lake, leaf peepers can savor the beauty of fall colors while enjoying a lakeside retreat. Whether you choose to camp, fish, or simply relax by the water, you’ll be surrounded by the tranquil ambiance of autumn. The reflection of colorful leaves on the pristine lake surface adds to the charm of this lakeside foliage experience. It’s a perfect setting to unwind and embrace the serenity of the season.

Look Rock Tower – Sweeping Mountain Views (Great Smoky Mountains NP, TN):

For panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains adorned in their autumn best, embark on a hike to Look Rock Tower. This vantage point offers a breathtaking vista that captures the essence of fall. As you stand atop the tower, you’ll be treated to sweeping mountain views, with colorful leaves stretching as far as the eye can see. It’s a picturesque spot that truly encapsulates the beauty of the Smoky Mountains during the fall season.

Big Creek Trail – Creekside Foliage and Waterfall Views (Great Smoky Mountains NP, NC):

Combine the vibrant leaves with the soothing sound of rushing water by hiking along the Big Creek Trail. This trail takes you alongside Big Creek, where you’ll experience the colorful foliage along with the serenity of a creekside setting. The trail culminates with stunning waterfall views, adding to the enchantment of your leaf-peeping adventure. It’s a hike that engages all the senses, making it a must-visit location for those seeking a harmonious blend of nature’s autumn wonders.

Bonus Spot:  Little River Road – Riverside Foliage (Great Smoky Mountains NP, TN):

A drive along Little River Road offers leaf peepers a unique perspective on fall foliage. As you wind your way along this scenic route, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the vibrant autumn colors reflected along the banks of the Little River. The riverside foliage creates a captivating scene, with the water serving as a natural mirror for the changing leaves. It’s a peaceful and picturesque drive that allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty of fall from a different angle.