Your fall weekend getaway is here and planning things to do can be a challenge! With the hundreds of activities available, we’ve picked the top 9 things to do during the fall season! From scenic drives, fall festivals, shopping, and more there are so many things to do in The Smoky Mountains during the season!
Scenic Drive Through The Mountains 
When the temps start to drop, it’s always a good idea to snuggle up in the car with some heat and take a drive through the mountains. Whether it’s Cades Cove or Roaring Fork, the motor nature trails are always a great idea! You can count on seeing wildlife, beautiful views, and of course the changing of the leaves! These beautiful Smoky Mountains change from all shades of green to oranges, yellows, reds, and browns each fall. As for when the leaves will change all depends on the weather and it generally take a couple of weeks to complete. As for this year, researches expect the peak change in colors to be around the 3rd week in October. Learn more about the fall foliage report below!
Ziplining
Imagine swinging through the trees and seeing the Great Smoky Mountains from a birds eye view! Well, it’s all possible with the best ziplining in Pigeon Forge. Experience views from AdventureWorks Climb Zip Swing! Zipline 50 ft off the Smoky Mountain grounds! You’re sure to enjoy this scenic tour of the wildlife and nature of the Smoky Mountains. The course includes 2 levels, over 50 challenges, and 2 zip lines on each level. Each level includes a minimum of 25 challenges. The lower level ranges from approximately 14 ft to 22 ft off the ground. The upper level ranges from approximately 28 ft to over 50 ft off the ground!
Fall Festivals
Fall festivals are here and you don’t want to miss them. From Dollywood’s classic Harvest Festival to the not so spooky Great Pumpkin LumiNights, there’s so much to see. For a little more Pigeon Forge history, be sure to check out the annual Old Mill Heritage Day celebration. To find perfect homemade gifts, local crafts, and more be sure to visit the Rotary Club Craft Fair at Patriot Park. Check out all the Fall Festivals you and the family will love!
Cades Cove 
Cades Cove is one of the most visited areas in the beautiful Smoky Mountains. Not only are you surrounded by the stunning colorful mountains, but also, some of the unique historical buildings, churches, and cemeteries in the region. The history available throughout Cades Cove is incredible along with the many trails it holds. Try Abrams Falls or Laurel Falls for more opportunities to see the fall colors and other scenery like waterfalls and wildlife!
Anakeesta 
Take on the adventure at Anakeesta! Enjoy this outdoor family experience by immersing yourself in the beauty of the great outdoors. As you overlook downtown Gatlinburg on the scenic Chondola ride to the summit of Anakeesta Mountain, you’ll enter the magical Firefly Village! With their mountaintop restaurant, canopy trails, and shops, the family will see all the beautiful fall colors that paint the mountains!
This Fall, you can experience a Halloween event like no other! Enjoy Anakeesta’s Hallow Mountain event each weekend beginning September 13th- November 2nd! Learn more about Hallow Mountain here!
Sevierville’s History and Haunts
Every Saturday in October you’re sure to enjoy this town favorite event! From 5pm to 9 pm you can stroll the streets of downtown Sevierville for family- friendly frights and more fun all fall season long! Enjoy story tellers, costume contests, live music, games, and guided tours. Admission to this event is FREE with the exclusion of some extra activities. For a full schedule of each night, please visit their website.
Pink Jeep Tours 
Since 1960,Pink Jeep Tours have become known as “must-do” experiences. Whether you’re seeking an up-close look at wildlife or the best views of The Smoky Mountains, they have the perfect tours for you! Explore Newfound Gap, Roaring Fork Nature Trail, and so much more with this guided tour. You can always count on comfort and style when riding around the their full equipped jeeps. During fall you’re sure to see the beautiful colors of the trees while taking in the 360 dress scenic views! You’ll even learn some fun facts along the way!
Big Rock Dude Ranch At Ponderosa 
Whether you have kids or not, horseback riding through the mountains is the fall equivalent of riding on the beach! It makes for a romantic date or even family friendly activity. Also, you can see the mountains and everything they hold up close and personal while not having to trek on your feet! For the truly adventurous, Big Rock Dude Ranch can take you on a guided ATV ride through creeks and along mountain trails.
Tanger 
Some of the best shopping you’ll find in The Great Smoky Mountains is at Tanger Outlets in Sevierville. They even have so many of the nation’s most popular brands and designers all in one place. Even better, you can shop all of your favorites with amazing deals all year long!
