11 Of The Most Beautiful Fall Destinations In Tennessee
Tennessee may have the rivers and mountains and rock formations to make a summertime beautiful, but there’s just something about the Volunteer State come the autumn. The hills light up in all shades of red, orange, and yellow. The weather loses its summer simmer and falls into a comfortable chill that stretches from the streets of Memphis to the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. If you’re looking for a vacation this year, then you may want to take a look at one of the best fall destinations in Tennessee. They’re stunning in their own way, and the photo opportunities are endless.
During these uncertain times, please keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket list to visit at a later date.
Cades Cove is an isolated, naturally lush valley that can be found in the Great Smoky Mountains. You can choose to hike the area amidst the expansive wildlife, or perhaps choose to take a horseback riding class at Cades Cove Riding Stables. The chilly weather makes it the perfect temperature to bundle up and enjoy the colors!
Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and it's also the highest in Tennessee. It stretches 6,643 feet towards the sky and can be easily accessed by a half-mile hike. The views are worth the radical elevation change!
The Great Smoky Mountains may seem all-inclusive, but we would be remiss if we didn't include it on our list. Hiking opportunities, campgrounds, tourist towns...there's a little something for everyone tucked away in the mountains and foothills.
A visit to Mount LeConte is not for the faint of heart! It's the third-highest peak in the Smokies, and it takes six to nine hours to hike to the top. At 6,360 feet in elevation, get ready for a solid trek.
The city of Chattanooga offers a perfect respite from the wilds of the world, especially come autumn. You can't miss the stunning fall foliage that drenches the city in color, and with hiking trails and camping opportunities nearby it's easy to make the trip your own.
Hike or camp the Tennessee River Valley to get up-close-and-personal with some of the prettiest colors in the state. Plus, you'll be far and away beyond any crowds.
The Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park is located near Memphis, Tennessee in Shelby County. It borders the Mississippi and its two lakes - Polar Tree Lake and Lake Piersol - provide a perfect backdrop for fall photos. We'd recommend coming early or late, to see the sun light up the water.
Newfound Gap is a mountain pass between the states of Tennessee and North Carolina and provides some of the most beautiful roadside views in the state. Come with a coffee in hand and eyes peeled. There's a whole lot of beauty along the historic pass!
Fall Creek Falls State Park is best if you're looking to experience fall foliage alongside some of the prettiest water features in the state of Tennessee. Hiking is required, but beauty is ensured.
Big South Fork is great for camping, hiking, and exploring with 125,000 acres of land that stretch across the Cumberland Plateau.
Radnor Lake is a popular hiking trail near Nashville, and we'd recommend it for Middle Tennessee city-slickers looking for an infusion of natural beauty.
Where will you be heading this fall? Make sure you leave your recommendations for your favorite fall destinations in Tennessee in the comments!
If you’re looking for a fun way to spice up your autumn vacation, maybe glamping is in the cards!
Address: Cades Cove, Tennessee 37882, USA
Address: Clingmans Dome Dr, Knoxville, TN 37922, USA
Address: Great Smoky Mountains, United States
Address: Mt. Leconte, Tennessee 37738, USA
Address: Chattanooga, TN, USA
Address: Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park, 910 Riddick Rd, Millington, TN 38053, USA
Address: Newfound Gap, Tennessee 37738, USA
Address: Fall Creek Falls, Tennessee 37367, USA
Address: Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, 4564 Leatherwood Rd, Oneida, TN 37841, USA
Address: Radnor Lake, Oak Hill, TN 37027, USA
