The mountains surrounding the picturesque city of Gatlinburg are showing off their fall colors. Fall is one of the most popular times to visit the Smokies and for good reason. As the leaves change from green to vibrant yellows, reds and oranges, it’s nearly impossible not feel at home in the beauty of the mountains. There is always something going on in and around Gatlinburg, but this is especially true in the fall.
Explore the Town
Upon driving into town, visitors first notice that the town is decked out in fall displays. Pumpkins, fodder shocks and chrysanthemums are on every corner to welcome you to autumn in the mountains. One of the most fun things to do is to walk down through town to experience the seasonal change. The crisp air calls to you to have a hot cup of coffee from one of the local coffee shops. Caramel apples, the essential fall treat, are also readily available at the many town candy stores.
Take a Hike
To truly experience autumn in Gatlinburg, you should take a hike or leisurely walk through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The park is filled with trails for nearly everyone, and the Sugarlands Visitor Center just outside town can help you find the ideal trail. You’re likely to see squirrels packing away their winter bounty. It’s also common to see whitetail deer and even a flock of wild turkeys.
Harvest Festival at Mountain Farm Museum
The Smoky Mountains Harvest Festival runs through the entire fall season. The festival includes demonstrations on local traditions like making lye soap, brewing apple cider and boiling sorghum molasses. Visitors will have the opportunity to sample some traditional mountain treats as well as hear the mountain style music the area is famous for.
Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair
The Craftsmen’s Fair is an annual event that draws many people to the area to experience traditional mountain arts and crafts. The event runs daily throughout most of the month of October. Local artisans and musicians will be on hand to provide visitors with an up close look and listen to their traditional mountain approach to art and music.
OktOBERfest
Visitors to Ober Gatlinburg in late September through early October can experience their OktOBERfest which is tied in with the Bavarian roots of the city. The festival includes traditional Bavarian style music and foods, along with costumes and fun events for all ages. The beer tent will offer different bier selections for the adults. The kids can try schnitzel, German pretzels and strudel.
Late Fall Events
Visiting later in the autumn season doesn’t mean missing out on the fun. In early November there is a Veteran’s Day celebration as well as a chili cook off on the downtown Parkway. Late November also welcomes the Thanksgiving Arts and Crafts Show which allows local artisans to exhibit their talents in quilt making, candle dipping and pottery. Visitors have plenty of local items to choose from as wonderful souvenirs.
Gatlinburg in the fall is mesmerizing and if you can tear yourself away from staring at the beautiful colors of the mountains, you’ll find plenty to do in and around the town.