• The mountains’ varied elevations result in the Sevierville region enjoying an extended and vibrant leaf season. Brilliant colors first appear at higher altitudes (4,000 feet and above) in late September, peaking in early to mid-October. As autumn progresses, lower elevations come alive with color, too, with peak viewing from mid-October through early November.


• The Sevierville area is generally less crowded than neighboring towns like Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, making it a great choice to plan your fall foliage trip.


• Eight self-guided fall foliage tours enable visitors to take things at their own pace while enjoying peaceful nature escapes. These tours will take you through the most beautiful scenic drives in Sevierville including historic sites from the Revolutionary and Civil wars, farmland, country churches, quiet backroads, and covered bridges.

Kuwohi: Enjoy the best in fall color at Kuwohi (formerly known as Clingmans Dome) from late September through October. As the highest point in Tennessee, Kuwohi generally provides the first vibrant fall colors each season. Make sure to visit the observation tower for a spectacular 360-degree view of the tapestry of colors in the mountains that stretch out below you. Note that this area is congested in the fall, so expect crowds and limited parking. Pets are not allowed in this area.

Also consider other alternate hikes in the area:

• Look Rock Tower : 0.8 miles roundtrip, accessed between mile markers 14 and 15 on Foothills Parkway West


• Andrews Bald : 3.6 miles roundtrip


• Gregory Bald : 11.4 miles roundtrip, accessed via a trail off Cades Cove Loop Road.

Foothills Parkway: The 33-mile-long Foothills Parkway features winding roads and elevated overlooks for viewing the spectacular fall foliage of the Great Smoky Mountains and the Tennessee Valley. For the richest of the changing leaf color, visit here in mid to late October.

Newfound Gap Road: The Newfound Gap Road connects Sevierville to the heart of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and provides visitors with brilliantly colored mountain ridgelines and overlooks from mid-October through early November.

Douglas Lake: The peaceful setting and picturesque views make Douglas Lake a great spot to stop for a picnic lunch during your fall foliage driving tour. Visit the Douglas Dam Overlook for a unique vantage point of brilliant colors, lake reflections, and views of the surrounding mountains and Douglas Dam, the massive structure constructed in 1942 and 1943 to help provide energy for the World War II war effort.

Cades Cove: A highly popular spot in the Great Smoky Mountains is Cades Cove, one of the most historic areas featuring preserved pioneer homesteads, churches, the Cable Mill, mountain wildlife, and more. The 11-mile one-way loop allows visitors to wind through the scenic valley and hardwood forests where fall hues peak from mid to late October. If you’re lucky, you may catch a glimpse of wild turkeys, deer, or even the occasional black bear. Note: Cades Cove is just under two hours from Sevierville, so plan extra time for your outing there.

• Fall weather can vary greatly from morning into evening, with cooler temperatures in the higher elevations. Dress in layers and take a weather-resistant jacket, warm hat, and gloves just in case.


• Scenic drives in the Great Smoky Mountains offer multiple overlooks and viewing spots accessible via a trail walk or brief hike. Wear comfortable walking shoes or broken-in hiking boots to keep your feet happy.

• Winding mountain roads are busier than usual in October and November with leaf peepers flocking to the area to soak up the vibrant fall hues. Use caution and plan your time accordingly.


• Schedule your visit to Kuwohi to include watching the sunset. It’s a big draw for photographers and something you won’t want to miss.

• During your visit to view the Smoky Mountain’s brilliant fall foliage, make time to enjoy Sevierville’s seasonal community events and attractions held each September and October


• Booking a mountain cabin or condo instead of a hotel room in the city will add to the enjoyment of your leaf peeping pilgrimage. Imagine savoring breakfast and a cup of coffee from a rocking chair on the deck of a mountainside inn while watching the sunrise over the glorious fall landscapes.